A hidden treasure lies in the back of the Gotham Hotel on 46th street between 5th and Madison. That treasure is the new American restaurant (with Italian flare) Tenpenny. I stopped in for a bite last week, and it was great. The room isn't too big, but it's perfect for a date, dining alone, or anyone craving a great bite. Basically this restaurant is a downtown neighborhood restaurant in Midtown, and I highly recommend it!

Start with the complimentary pretzel roll then order a snack of pork belly croquettes ($6), with potato flake and hard cider sauce. It's a fabulous snack and terrific bite. I loved these guys!

A "snack" of crispy artichokes ($6), with lemon aioli will tickle your taste buds and make you smile.

Porchetta ravioli ($22), with Salvatore smoked ricotta, rapini, and a poached egg is absolutely fantastic! It's the type of pasta dish I fantasize about- dreams come true at Tenpenny.

If you end your meal with the chocolate cake that comes with malt gelato and honeycombs, you'll keep smiling like I did. It's a great ending to a great meal.

Luckily for me Tenpenny is right down the block from my apartment, making it the perfect neighborhood spot. But whatever neighborhood you live in, I recommend a stop into this little treasure.

Tenpenny
16 East 46th Street (in the Gotham Hotel-bet. 5th and Madison)
New York, NY 10017
212-490-8300
www.tenpennynyc.com