I've been working in Union Square now going on 10 years which has gained me some keen insight into eating on the cheap around these parts. Not known for its culinary prowess, this part of town still has some good eats—you just have to pick and choose, even within each restaurant.

1. For blustery days, my new favorite go-to soup is the organic chicken pho at Urban Picnic (a spot that I'd written off until I tried the pho). It's not quite Turtle Tower, but the the slices of chicken are tender, the broth is bold. (Not to mention there are plenty of brain-numbing, US Weekly-type magazines to read while you slurp.)