Broker Tales’ 5 Best New Lower East Harlem (LEH) Restaurants of 2008’:

1. La Galette Café opened summer of 2008 on 177 East 100^th St (100^th between 3^rd and Lexington) and is a unique fusion of French and Senegalese food. They make a killer croque monsieur and some of the most flavorful lamb and red snapper dishes I have ever tasted. All dishes are served on a wooden board and the family staff is always very accommodating. You must try the Sorrel Juice – it’s absolutely delicious!

2. Joy Burger Bar opened in Spring of 2008 on 1567 Lexington Ave (corner of 100^th St.). This burger bar serves regular (beef), turkey and veggie burgers and offers a variety of special sauces (gotta try the spicy mayo sauce!). The motif is a 1950’s gas station and the employees all wear mechanic suits. Great place for a good burger and a beer, with nice outdoor space.

3. Moustache Pitza - coming soon to the corner of 102^nd and Lexington Avenue. They just placed the sign up in mid-September. Finally some middle-eastern food comes to SpaHa (aka LEH) with this place.

4. Giovanna’s Classic Diner opened in the Spring of 2008 at 1567 Lexington Ave, right next to Joy Burger Bar (Between 101^st St and 100^th St). If you know Nick’s on 96^th Street, the guy’s at Giovanna’s have pretty much the same menu. Italian Food comes to SpaHa with a new twist - dishes like broccoli rabe and Orecchiette.

5. Jimmy’s Classic Diner just opened during August 2008 on the northeast corner of 103^rd Street and Lexington Ave. This place isn’t really a great food joint but it is CHEAP and IT IS OPEN 24 HOURS. A classic Jersey-style Diner (not sure what that means but they have a fried egg for one buck) should be a great place for those budget-conscious college kids in the area. When you go there, be ready to repeat your order at least four times before you actually get your food. But you get what you pay for, and this place is CHEAP!