It’s been a while since I dedicated an entire newsletter to answering reader questions, which might lead you all to think that I don’t want them anymore. That is not the case at all!
So here’s a public service announcement: Please keep sending your pressing restaurant questions along. I read every single one, even if I can’t answer them all. Simply shoot an email to wheretoeat@nytimes.com. This week, I’m tackling seven questions from the “Where to Eat” inbox. Hopefully a few of them will spark joy or answer a question you didn’t know you even had.
Where to eat: French-style whole duck
For us old-timers who love the crisp roasted whole duck, French-style, with some sort of a delicious fruit-oriented sauce where should we look? I am a fan of Peking duck and many of the plentiful duck breasts available, but a really good roasted crispy, but juicy whole duck is hard to find. — Sandra J.
French-style roasted duck is such an old-school dining favorite that you have no choice but to get it at an old-school restaurant like Chez Napoleon on West 50th Street. Since 1960, the restaurant has specialized in classic French cooking, including roasted canard à l’orange with orange glaze and wild rice for $40. It’s a half duck, but no less delicious.
Where to eat: The best Caesar salad
Who makes the best, true, traditional (perhaps even table-side) Caesar salad in the city? — Bill S.
Let’s be honest: This being New York, the title is shared by more than one institution. For an old-school tableside version, try Pietro’s on East 43rd Street. If you like a classy kale Caesar, then drop by the Odeon downtown. My personal favorite is the bread crumb-dusted Caesar at the Fly in Bed-Stuy. Or you could take the advice of my friend Jill, who loves Caesar salads so much that she once had a Caesar-themed birthday party. Her favorite is at Bernie’s in Greenpoint.
Where to eat: On Arthur Avenue
Any suggestions for a special occasion spot on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx? — Gale C.
Easy peasy: You need to make a reservation at Mario’s of Arthur Avenue, the 105-year-old Neapolitan restaurant. This red-sauce spot touts itself as a “casual dining” restaurant, but tell that to the painted frescos and vaulted ceilings.
