For those visiting New York City, I highly recommend lunch or dinner at Gigino Trattoria, located at the southern part of Battery City (just next to the Holocaust Memorial) in Tribeca. The Italian restaurant, part of Hudson River Park, looks directly out onto the Hudson River and the Statue of Libery (as well as Ellis Island).

Gigino's is unique because of its impressive views, outdoor terrace, and fine food – some of the best Italian food I've had in the city. Prices are upper moderate, and very much worth the splurge.I ate the calamariata (calamari with pasta in a spicy tomato sauce). Outstanding.

On a sunny day, I recommend sitting on the outdoor patio, where you can watch the sunset over the Hudson. You'll hardly believe you're in New York . . . until your eye catches the Lady of Liberty in the distance.

Call for a reservation – or one can pop in easily during the week.