Manganaro’s Hero Boy

October 15th 1985 was a crisp glorious fall evening and I had just appeared in my very first play in New York , Bobby Moresco’s “Half Deserted Streets.” Bobby would go on to win an Oscar for co-writing “Crash” and I am still in the streets of New York doing what I love best – eating! And that’s what Manganaro’s Hero boy is all about - New York history and memories.

This Ninth Ave institution has been serving up authentic Italian fare for over 60 years. I recently stopped back in to have the classic Chicken Parmigiana sandwich with hot peppers. The bread, which is what all great sandwiches have to start with, did not disappoint. The sesame seed roll was warm, perfectly flaky and soft. The chicken was loaded with perfectly melted fresh mozzarella, and the sauce, “Oh my God!“ I wanted to take a straw and drink it up. They throw in a tiny bag of freshly made kettle fried potatoe chips too.

I looked around the room and saw frat boys 10 years out of college, tourist from India and a laughing Gypsy family regaling each other in a language I had never heard. This is the New York that I love-history, food, laughter and a mixture of humanity sitting shoulder to shoulder enjoying some great food. Manganaro’s Hero Boy is the perfect place to bring out-of-towners who want to experience authentic New York - or your best friend after that brutal break-up. Serving up great food for over 50 years.

Classic Italian Heros: $8-$10
Vegetarian Heros: $8.50
Pasta: $8-$11

Manganaro’s Hero Boy
494 Ninth Avenue
Chelsea
(212) 947-7325
http://www.heroboy.com

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