The best places to eat and drink in Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan's new skyscrapers, re-landscaped parks and renovated waterfronts contribute to a dynamic panorama. With so much to see and do, the neighbourhood can make a person hungry. There are quite a few places in Lower Manhattan that are good for every size pocketbook and occasion. Manhattan's southern tip is steeped in colonial American history, no more so than at Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington said farewell to his troops. For an afternoon break, head to the cobblestoned Stone Street, a pedestrian walkway lined with eateries and drinking establishments. For dinner, get dressed up for Wall & Water, in the Andaz Wall Street hotel, serving stylish, market-to-table comfort food, or head across the island to Battery Park City for North End Grill—Danny Meyer's newest restaurant, helmed by chef Floyd Cardoz (Tabla). Further uptown, located a short jaunt from the seat of NYC's municipal government is City Hall (the restaurant), serving classic American cuisine in a restored 1863 cast-iron building.

Craving a steak? The baroquely beautiful Delmonico's, the polished MarkJoseph Steakhouse and Bobby Van's Steakhouse & Grill all fit the bill. If you're looking for a luxurious Italian experience, Cipriani Wall Street is the place to visit. BLT Bar & Grill at the W New York offers inventive New American dishes and an extensive bar menu. Les Halles Downtown, a lively French brasserie, is famous as the home base of chef-at-large Anthony Bourdain. It's also the go-to spot for satisfying, inexpensive steak frites and mussels. While Lower Manhattan is most active during the day, there's plenty of nightlife, so long as you know where to go. Vintry Wine & Whiskey is the classiest of watering holes, and on the opposite end of the spectrum, Meade's and Jeremy's Ale House both offer a convivial atmosphere in which to imbibe (as well as typical bar fare). Ulysses' Folk House, dedicated to James Joyce via myriad photos and an Irish-inflected menu, also keeps the party going until the wee hours.