What to Eat and Drink at the U.S. Open
It’s late August, which means the U.S. Open is back. For those capable of shelling out the dough necessary to secure a seat at the final Grand Slam tournament of the year, the tournament is a showcase for both tennis and culinary ambition.
A Superior Slice If you’ve got some downtime or just want to eat something before a match, it’s worth an Uber ride to Masani Pizza in Forest Hills. The family-owned spot has all the classics plus a top-rate cacio e pepe slice. Get an Italian ice or an ube-pandan ice-cream sandwich made in collaboration with Supermoon Bakehouse on your way out.
Legendary Dumplings Flushing’s White Bear is one stop away on the 7 train. Its “No. 6” — slippery, plump wontons awash in spicy chile oil and crowned with a generous heap of pickled veggies — is famous for a reason. They’re also cheap: $10 for a dozen.
Two Very Different Takes on Tacos The menu at Tacos Don Jose 1 in Corona is tight and to the point: tacos al pastor and carnitas at just $4 and $4.50, respectively. Finish them off at the self-serve salsa station to the left of the register if you like a little heat. Or, if you’re feeling spendy, Enrique Olvera’s Cosme has taken over the Food Village space at the Open that had been home to Mojito. You can find his trademark duck carnitas.
The Most Viral Sandwich West Village favorite Salt Hank’s is as famous for its French dips as it is for the lines that once spilled from its front door on Bleecker Street. The shop was recently bought by Wonder, and if you want a preview of its future, try one of the dips at the Food Village.
Grab-and-Go Pitas French dips aren’t the only option for bread and beef: Miznon’s fast-casual pitas arrive at the tennis center this year. Expect roasted rib eye, chicken schnitzel, and hummus with falafel.
Simon Kim Expands Beyond Caviar Nuggets Simon Kim’s COQODAQ Golden Nuggets — finished off with a plop of caviar — have quickly become an Open staple. Now, the empire-building restaurateur is testing a new concept, KIMBOP, described as a dedicated stall offering — you guessed it — bulgogi gimbap. It’ll also have a roster of its own cocktails that will compete with the fabled Honey Deuce for viral supremacy.
