🚕 Moonrise Bagels Brings Stuffed Creations to Greenwich Village

Good Morning NY!

Today, we’re serving up a mix of exciting NYC foodie news, from cult-favorite bagels landing in Greenwich Village to a Michelin-starred chef taking the reins at a celebrated fine dining spot.

We’ll spotlight iconic sandwiches getting a luxe makeover, and a new Vietnamese restaurant making its mark in the East Village.

There’s also a peek at what’s on the menu—and the courts—at this year’s U.S. Open.

Plus, we’ve got a fun giveaway and practical tips that go beyond just food.
Stick around for all the latest bites, sips, and experiences shaping New York City dining this week.

Giveaway Time: City Crawl’s New Merch Is Live

Our friends at City Crawl Adventures just launched their official merch line, and it's giving major summer-in-the-city energy.

City Crawl is already rocking their West Village Food Medley Crawl, a 2–4 hour self-guided adventure with 5 must-try eats and 15 iconic landmarks.

Now with a product line, think of crossbody bags for your crawl essentials and ice cream cone hats you didn’t know you needed.

🎁 We're giving a few away — want one? Here’s how to enter:

1. Follow @bestofnycbites + @citycrawladventures on Instagram

2. Tag 2 friends in the giveaway post

3. Comment “Done!”, tag 2 friends, and you're in.

Winners will get either the ice cream cone hat 🧢or the crossbody bag 🎒- your choice! Announcing the winner on Aug 26.

🛍️ Can’t wait? Shop now and use code NYCBITES10 for 10% off.

Moonrise Bagels Brings Its Famous Stuffed Creations to Greenwich Village

Moonrise Bagels, the Hudson Valley favorite known for its playful stuffed bagels, is officially coming to New York City this fall.

The bakery will open its first Manhattan storefront at 58 West Eighth Street, right in the heart of Greenwich Village.

These aren’t your average bagels — they’re loaded with full-on meals inside, from eggplant Parmesan and Buffalo chicken to pastrami and the classic bacon-egg-and-cheese.

Plant-based eaters won’t be left out, with vegan options like stuffed sausage bagels on the menu.

To round out the experience, the shop will also serve schmears for dipping and espresso drinks to pair with your bagel.

Moonrise Bagels was started in 2021 by husband-and-wife duo Jeremy and Ali Chetkof Rhodes and has already expanded across the Hudson Valley.

Now, New Yorkers can finally get a taste of the cult-favorite creations without leaving the city.

Saga Returns with Chef Charlie Mitchell at the Helm

Saga is set to reopen on September 1 with Michelin-starred chef Charlie Mitchell leading the way.

Mitchell takes over following the passing of founder Jamal James Kent, bringing a fresh vision while honoring the restaurant’s legacy.

The new $300 tasting menu will reflect his personal roots and inspirations, including dishes like grilled madai with farro, collard greens, and ham-hock consommé.

Guests can also look forward to elevated takes on nostalgic comfort foods, including beet tart with cranberry sauce and buttery yellow grits topped with hot sauce.

Unlike the previous shared plate format, the menu will now focus on individual, carefully curated courses.

The dining room is also being reimagined with new design touches, including brown carpeting, black-marble tables, and refined serviceware.

Mitchell’s ultimate goal is ambitious: to bring Saga into the highest echelon of New York dining and aim for three Michelin stars.

The French Dip Makes a Luxe Comeback in NYC

The French dip sandwich, a Los Angeles creation from 1908, is experiencing a major revival in New York City.

What was once a humble roast beef sandwich with jus has now been reimagined as a symbol of “accessible luxury.”

Leading the charge is Salt Hank, whose viral $28 French dip in Greenwich Village has become a daily sell-out thanks to prime rib, 12-hour caramelized onions, and horseradish-garlic aioli on a Frenchette demi-baguette.

Other notable versions include Anton’s sesame baguette take, Minetta Tavern’s classic roll, Midtown’s Fulton mashup with a smash burger, and Gui steakhouse’s koji-cured prime rib with yuzu horseradish cream.

Social media has fueled the hype, with mentions of French dips jumping 70% this summer.

Menus at upscale restaurants now feature the sandwich 25% more than they did just a few years ago.

New York’s French dip renaissance is officially here.

A Foodie’s Guide to the 2025 U.S. Open

The 2025 U.S. Open is serving up more than just world-class tennis this summer.

Fans heading to Flushing Meadows can also look forward to a stacked lineup of food, drinks, and shopping experiences.

The tournament is spotlighting some of New York’s best restaurants, from signature dishes to chef-driven pop-ups.

Food stands across the grounds will offer a mix of local favorites, global flavors, and refreshing seasonal treats.

Specialty cocktails and curated wine selections will elevate the experience for those who want to sip while they watch.

Beyond the food, unique retail offerings and limited-edition merchandise give visitors a chance to shop between matches.

Whether you’re a tennis die-hard or just there for the scene, this year’s U.S. Open is blending sport, style, and dining into one unforgettable event.

Moc Mac Brings Vietnamese Flavors to the East Village

A new Vietnamese restaurant, Moc Mac, is set to open at 77 Second Avenue in the East Village.

The restaurant recently filed paperwork with the community board, signaling that its launch is officially in motion.

The planned space will feature 12 tables accommodating up to 48 guests, along with a stand-up bar.

Operating hours are expected to be from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily, offering lunch and dinner service.

While the menu has not yet been revealed, Moc Mac’s team also runs High Lúa Vietnamese Kitchen in Brooklyn.

High Lúa has been serving classic dishes like pho, grilled pork, lemongrass chicken, and various banh mi since 2018.

No official opening date has been announced, but East Village diners can look forward to an exciting new addition to the neighborhood’s culinary scene.

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