Hello,

my girlfriend and I are spending a week in NYC in October around her birthday (33rd).

Does anyone have a suggestion for a nice place in Manhattan to have dinner at? Good food (doesn't have to be fancy), nice atmosphere, not too expensive (60$ max for two). We are not heavy drinkers, so most of it could be spent for food.
No fancy dress code please, as we're travelling light.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated! Thanks.

Does that $60 include a drink apiece, tax and tip, or is that just the cost of the food? Your answer will make a big difference in our recommendations.
Also, since there are literally thousands of restaurants in New York City, some idea on the type(s) of food you prefer would help!

Agree with Howard.

For Italian I Coppi in the village or Becco in Times Square.

Make it 80$ and include all food/tax/tip. Drinks go extra.

We like areas like
Greenwich Village
East Village
Chelsea
Upper West Side
Upper East Side
those kind of areas...

Foodwise we enjoy:
Italian
Thai
Sushi
Mexican

Does that narrow it down a little?

Maybe I should ask: Where would you take your girlfriend for a little birthday dinner for two?

You have to order very carefuly in many places on that budget. Personally, I would go to Chinatown but if that is not what you are after, you might try one of my favorite places, Casa Mono on Irving Place near Gramercy Park. It is very small and crowded but with wonderful food and a real NY kind of vibe. But it is not a "romantic" place in terms of soft lighting and pretty music..rather bustling. Does the atmosphere have to be "romantic?" Often the best food at low-medium prices is served in less than beautiful surroundings. A moderately priced Italian that I love is Paola on East 84th Street.

Snarky- I highly recommend Alta - it's a Spanish tapas place in the Village, on 10th between 5th & 6th. VERY romantic! I absolutely loved the lighting & decor, and the 2nd floor overlooked the 1st. The food was very good too. Between my BF and I we shared six small plates that I think averaged about $9 each. They have an extensive wine/drink list. Don't get the sangria though...it was the only downside to the place.

Candela is a bit funky but romantic and good food- new American.

Il Buco for Italian.

Spice Market for Thai.

Look at menus and reviews on menupages.com

Il Buco is a great place but may be too expensive..mains are in the high $20s-$30 and apps are all over $8. You would have to order very carefully to meet your budget. They have a web site so you can check menus and look at photos.
Ilbuco.com.

I'd suggest Chinatown's Peking Duck House on Mott St and get the Peking Duck for two. So YUMMY. The restaurant is nice as well and the service is very good. Best Peking Duck in town.

I second Peking Duck House!

There are numerous rest. in the east village that will fit your bill.On sixth street they have great Indian rest..Do a search here and try zagat.com along with menupages.com
Have Fun