Pinsa Romana at TVB by Pax Romana Photo by Doug Schneider
Whether you’re hitting up the Galleria, The Westchester, or one of the countless local shops, here’s where to refuel mid-shopping binge.
As Westchester plows head-long into holiday season, many residents will be taking time out of their busy lives to go searching for that perfect present in the heart of the county. While White Plains has tons of great dining options, we realize you may be in that delicate place between “Savor is great but I need to get out of this mall,” and, “If I have to walk more than a couple blocks I’m going to collapse.”
If that sounds like you, read on for a few of our absolute favorite places to eat, all conveniently located within just a few minutes drive of The Westchester, Galleria, and other White Plains’ prime retail locations.
Italian
On the Italian front, Graziella’s and Serafina are definite go-tos. Graziella’s has been serving up impeccable dishes in White Plains for more than two decades now, while Serafina quickly secured a place in our hearts with their award-winning pizza and sublime bruschetta. TVB by Rax Romana is an especially warm welcome after a full day of consumerism, offering a full menu of rustic, house-made pastas and entrées as good as your nonna makes, partly because the kitchen’s making nonna’s recipes.
Nicky’s Pizzeria by Mistura and Iron Tomato are great options. Nicky’s specializes in gourmet, old-school slices, and even though “Iron Tomato” sounds like some modern Food Network contest, its classic brick over pizza is to die for. (It’s also a full deli and catering service, so load up on hot and cold sandwiches, salads, calzones, sushi, pasta, entrées, desserts, and after you pass out be sure to grab some take-out from their breakfast menu.)
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Asian Cuisine
If you’re feeling like something Asian-inspired in the White Plains restaurant scene, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is a delicious DIY option, while India Café is great for anyone looking to throw a little more spice into their culinary adventures. Little Drunken Chef’s new White Plains location also offers up great world cuisine, but with plenty of Indian influences to the flavor palette.
Noodle+ has classic Chinese dishes at an appealing price, as well as modern faves like soup dumplings and even Japanese ramen. Chen’s Poke is also a fabulous health-conscious option on the spectrum of White Plains restaurants, especially considering how much we’ve been eating over the last few weeks….
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Latin
In the mood for something a bit more South/Central/Latin American? When it comes to White Plains restaurants, Mitsura Peruvian Fine Cuisine is a big favorite, as is Don Coqui, both on Mamaroneck Ave. Over on Main Street, Karamba Restaurant offers classic café items like espresso, Americanos, and iced beverages alongside Cuban and Latin favorites like mofongo (filled and friend mashed plantains), empanadas, seafood paella, tacos, and tons more.
Classic & New American
While we’re on the subject of cafés, if you’re really just looking for a quick pick-me-up refresher between beaucoup buying binges, Hastings Tea & Coffee will perk you right up with a nice cappuccino, tea latté, or hibiscus squeeze and a few sweet pastries.
Ron Blacks and the nearby Brazen Fox both offer good options in pub-style and more upscale atmospheres, while Westchester Burger Co. offers some of the best burgers you’ll ever have (and more menu options but, hey, we know what you’re really there for). The White Plains outpost of Walter’s Hot Dogs is also right on Mamaroneck Ave., perfect for a couple doubles and curly fries and maybe a cowboy shake for a sugar boost. Lilly’s does great pizza, small plates, and seafood, while KEE Oyster House is another perfect choice if you’re in the mood for something from the sea — or if you need a quick protein/omega-3 boost before you head back out to the shops!