Ciao For Now, New York

The Miceli family has operated Ciao For Now for 13 years with a singular goal in mind—to serve fresh, market-to-table fare to the customers of its East Village Restaurant. The chefs kick off the cooking early, cracking organic eggs and pouring Hudson Valley milk, and continue into late afternoon whipping up indulgent treats such as truffle mac 'n' cheese.

Breakfast lovers can choose between Grandma Linda's buttermilk pancakes and organic egg wraps stuffed with bacon or sausage, or opt for the day's daily specials. Fresh-baked muffins and pastries stand alone as breakfast treats, or act as a sweet accompaniment for organic stir-brewed coffee or substantial eats such as free-range organic chicken tacos and quinoa stir fry with seasonal veggies at lunch. And the cafe goes out of its way to accommodate dietary issues with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. It also helps put conscientious eaters at ease, using free-range, grass-fed, and hormone-free meats whenever possible.