Where To Eat On Memorial Day Weekend | Tasting Table NYC

No plans for the long weekend? Don't sulk just because everyone you know is off to the beach, or to friends' vacation houses in the countryside upstate or wherever it is they're all going (where are they all going?).

Instead, enjoy it. It's quiet in NYC. The weather is good. And it's kind of the perfect time to eat at those restaurants that are otherwise tough to get into. Five ideas to get you through the weekend:

① Emily in Clinton Hill

This tiny pizzeria run by Matt and Emily Hyland is a gem, and the pizzas are spectacular–try the one made with pickled chiles, honey and fresh mozzarella. And don't leave before trying a bowl of pasta.

② Ivan Ramen on the LES

You may actually find some room at Ivan Orkin's ramen-ya this weekend, and you don't even have to get there right at 5:30 p.m. Pay attention to some of the hot plates–chicken hearts and tofu Coney Island–and don't underestimate the canned sake. Bonus: The backyard is open.

③ Estela in Nolita

Ignacio Mattos draws a crowded dining room every night with good reason: The food at Estela is beautiful and straight up delicious. If the hour-long waits for tables have put you off, make a brunch reservation. It's worth it.

④ Marco's in Prospect Heights

This spot from the Franny's crew has quickly become one of our favorite places for a long, boozy weekend brunch. We especially love the rich, anchovy-filled grilled cheese sandwich that's not unlike a savory French toast. Look for new additions to the menu like the fried duck egg with grilled asparagus and the grilled fiddleheads with goat cheese and charred ramps.

⑤ Gato in Noho

Staycation meet Bobby Flaycation. Flay's new restaurant was impossible to get into for a while, remember? If you haven't had the chance to go, it could be worth the trip for all the delightful little Spanish-inflected tapas from the bar and a gin-and-sherry cocktail.