Faking It: Gourmet Foods to Go
By Melanie Berliet, New York
Everyone knows that true New Yorkers cook less than they take out, but sometimes your body needs a break from MSG. That's when a gourmet dinner party is in order. The problem? You're not a "Top Chef" contestant or a Rachel Ray devotee. The solution? A trip to one of the many specialty markets around town. So long as they're sated, your friends shouldn't question your culinary prowess.
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Dean & DeLuca
560 Broadway, New York, NY
Your aim is believability, so pick up pre-grilled chicken breasts and creamy mashed potatoes, or go all the way with a vat of homemade soup and chicken cordon bleu. Just remember to ditch the black-and-white bags--the only telltale sign standing between you and your lie. -
Eli's Manhattan Warehouse
1411 3rd Ave, New York, NY
You pay out the nose for the ready-made food options at this Upper East Side gourmet haven, but the check-out lines show it’s well worth it. Design a fancy feast with pastrami and pickles, Asian-glazed salmon with sauteed spinach and a mousse cake to boot (though hopefully not literally). -
Whole Foods Market
10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY
This enormous warehouse of a grocery market is the mecca of the health conscious set. The good news? The catering department saves you from having to wander among the heart-healthy types. Have hors d'oeuvres like mixed satays and beef crostini delivered along with a main meal of bourbon-molasses-glazed spiral cut ham, and savor your guests' glee over your surprising culinary talent. -
Citarella
1313 3rd Ave, New York, NY
A variety of high-end nuts and dried fruits make for solid snacks during cocktail hour. When all boozed up, your guests won't notice that the tasty pasta sauce--like the pre-made bolognese or tomato marina--came out of a plastic container. -
Gourmet Garage
453 Broome St, New York, NY
One of the city's more prolific gourmet chains has a full spread of olives, cheeses and caviar, providing options for starters. Follow this with organic greens or crudites, and top it all off with a selection of sushi (and a line at the table about your favorite new investment: The sushi rolling set). -
Zabar's
245 W 80th St, New York, NY
This bi-level spot is more than a food shop; it's an institution. When hosting a brunch you can’t go wrong with the grocer’s bagels and whitefish--and your guests will be glad it was you who waited in the eternal line, instead of them. -
Russ & Daughters
179 E Houston St, New York, NY
Impress your guests with your impeccable taste when you present them with a full party platter from this homey gourmet store. The emphasis here is on the sea, and the fish--whether smoked, raw, or cooked--is fresh. You'll also find oceans of fresh-baked breads, salads starring egg, eggplant, or artichoke and many fine, stinky, imported and domestic cheeses.
