New York being the state of social eating has tons and tons of options for hole in the walls, pubs, restaurants and carts. And for good food and good drinks people in New York City will cram into any small space and wait for hours.
I still remember one of my first restaurant experiences in NYC – cold, wet and cramped. I was shocked to be sitting so close to the couple next to us. Our tables were barely inches apart! Which naturally became the norm of all food-outings-nyc. It becomes impossible not to overhear conversations, to discuss similar topics and to make awkward eye contact. 10 months later the proximity and invasion of personal space no longer phases me and I forget that I’m basically dining with my friend and random strangers… until someone brings it to my attention, when they lean over and grab the salt and pepper from our table because the waiter can’t get through. Ok. Great. And really how much space do you need to eat a bowl of ramen? 
Looks also become deceiving with restaurants – I’ve learned to never be scared to try a dodgy cantina because you will be surprised with the best tom yum soup made by man. What it comes down to in NYC is not the looks or the square footage, but about the aroma that will make your mouth water as you put your name down on the 2 hour wait list… and you never know, you might just walk out becoming friends with your table neighbor!
