"When you need to escape the monotony of beige cubicles and pre-packaged salads, go to Late August in Midtown. Decorated in calming shades of blue, this Southern-leaning comfort spot is a midday retreat. Enjoy a plate of mole-covered smoked chicken wings as you soak up the sounds of Sade. You'll want to extend your lunch break by 30 minutes." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene