Family Meals in New York That Skip Your Oven
A family week with one oven has to borrow kitchens. Seven stops from Arthur Avenue to Bay Ridge, with a Roman pastry case, a deli counter and one long family table in between.
Monday 🥖 The market on Arthur Avenue
Mike's Deli inside the Arthur Avenue retail market, 4.5, is a Bronx institution with a counter and a queue — buy cheese, cured meat and bread in one stop and eat a sandwich standing — this is the meal that saves the first night of the week.
Tuesday 🥪 A counter on Williamsbridge
Xokotl Deli on Williamsbridge Road, 4.5, is a neighborhood sandwich counter with a short menu and no ceremony. Order the special, eat it there, and take the long walk back to the train — Nothing about it needs planning.
Wednesday 🍰 Roman pastry, Brooklyn address
Lele's Roman on Schermerhorn Street, 4.8, gives a family week one proper dessert stop between the heavier meals. Order two things and share both. The room is small; go before the after-dinner rush.
Thursday 🐟 A table on Fifth Avenue
El Rey del Pescado in Sunset Park, 4.8, is a seafood room where the plates are built for sharing and the room is loud enough for a family. Order the whole fish; it is the reason the place exists.
Friday 🍛 Coney Island Avenue, on purpose
Gosht Restaurant at 3215 Coney Island Avenue, 4.4, is far enough out that the trip is part of the evening. Order two mains and a bread, and ask what the table next to you is eating — the answer is usually better than the menu.
Saturday 🍽️ Bay Ridge, family style
Tanoreen on Third Avenue, 4.7, brings everything to the middle of the table, which is what a large family needs. Book for the real headcount and order one dish per two people. The leftovers travel well.
Sunday 🥗 The quiet finish
Dig Inn on Madison, 4.3, ends the week with grains and vegetables rather than another feast. Order a bowl, sit near the window, and let the week close without a reservation.
