Unearth those Zubaz, kids, because the 8th annual Choice Eats feeding frenzy returns March 13th to put those diets back in the Drawer of Failed Resolutions where they belong. The calorie fest has been on the move in recent years, from the somewhat dour 69th Street Armory to the brightly-lit hoops of Basketball City; this year, they're moving yet again to the Metropolitan Pavilion on West 18th Street. It's a smaller venue than previous years, but that doesn't mean they won't pack it full of an absurd amount of food. What's in store? Step right this way...

The full lineup has yet to be fully revealed, but so far it looks like one of the best in recent years, from this blogger's perspective. Lots of newcomer restaurants have signed on to feed the masses, including spectacular tapas spot Huertas and Chinese fusion eatery Tuome—both of which made Gothamist's Best of 2015 roundup—and UWS Indian spot Awadh. Other early standouts include Bobwhite Lunch & Supper Counter, Max, Littleneck, Robicelli's and the Queens Kickshaw. Oh, and a veritable Amazon River of booze.

As with all of these packed out tasting events, it's good to go in with a game plan to maximize the munching and cut down on the inevitable struggle as the venue fills up. We've been over this territory before, but here's the basic gist:


  • Arrive early and be in the front of the line. (Baller version: get VIP tickets)

  • Hit up the super trendy spots first if you're into that kind of thing (anything with the word "lobster" in the name is going to go fast)

  • On the flip side, don't be distracted by "name" restaurants; some of the best bites we've had have been from a restaurant we hadn't heard of before. Keep an open mind and you'll be rewarded.

  • While it's tempting to make a beeline for the hooch, it's a better plan to load up on eats and then relax with a brewski or two (or three). You'll have made a nice base to enjoy all the alcohol and you won't be stuck trying to juggle a plate and a glass simultaneously.

Tickets for Choice Eats are on sale now with GA admission setting you back $65, early admission $85 and VIP going for $99.