We stayed at the Affinia Manhattan last Monday night (story coming on the hotel) and were constantly on-the-go, but here are a few places we found to pop in along the way:

Amadeus Pizza (408 8th Avenue): You’ll definitely find more cheese and toppings on this pizza than sauce, with a thin crust more on the doughy side ($2.50/slice). I ate two slices and felt content – it’s the part I love about thin-crust pizza. Pop in for a slice if you’re in the area and compare it to the other countless pizza options in the city.

Ben’s Deli (209 West 38th Street, between 7th and 8th): Pastrami is the name of the game here. It’s cooked and prepared perfectly – the overstuffed sandwich ($10.99) seems to dissolve as you eat, as if chewing is only an option. I think the photos below will do all the talking.

Tick Tock Diner (481 8th Avenue): A modern 24/7 diner located just north of Madison Square Garden, I enjoyed the classic feel of the place, very much an escape from the busy streets of the area. Food options go on forever – from beer to breakfast – and I had a lox omelette with capers and onions ($10.95).

I can’t say it was extremely enjoyable – it was absolutely packed with capers and came off way too salty – and the service was very slow and highly impersonal. Not a bad choice for a tourist on the run looking to keep it simple when ordering, but far from a local hangout or a place to get creative with your order.