Grumpy waiters? Check. Sawdust on the floor? But of course! Beef so tender you can use a butter knife on it? Well, thats why people are still coming to this iconic steakhouse set in a barren stretch of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Its still hard to beat a meal here, and that goes for everything from the beef to the lamb chops to the legendary creamed spinach. Two important notes: Credit cards arent accepted, so be sure to bring wads of cash. And youll need to reserve well in advance to get a table.

- Pauline Frommer