Staten Island sushi and East Harlem gyros, one trip

Avocado Sushi sits at 1310 Forest Ave in Staten Island, a compact counter where regulars line up for fresh rolls and dependable service. Reviewers point to menu variety, from classic maki to heartier cooked plates, and a comfortable room that works for a solo lunch or a small group. The 4.0 rating across 112 reviews reflects a place people return to rather than a one-time detour. Arrive hungry, order a mix, and let the kitchen show its range across raw and cooked options.

Across the water in East Harlem, BIG BACK Chicken and Gyro runs out of 2239 1st Avenue with a tight menu built around halal combo platters. The big back burger carries a signature sauce, and the chicken and waffles pull their own crowd on weekends. Portions land large and prices stay moderate, which keeps the line moving through lunch and late evening. Its 4.8 rating from 269 reviews marks one of the higher scoring casual counters in the neighborhood.

These two land on opposite ends of the map, one on Staten Island and one in Manhattan, and neither is a quick walk from the other. Pairing them turns a single craving into a full day across the water, with the Staten Island Ferry linking Forest Avenue to the East Harlem counter. Both clear a 4.0 rating and repay the extra transit time, a rare thing for casual spots this far apart. Plan the order, map both stops, and treat the ride as part of the meal.