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You'd probably never think to buy a baguette or brioche in an underground transit hub, but Hot & Crusty would like you to reconsider. As the only remaining company-owned branch of this citywide franchise, and the only location that bakes its chemical- and preservative-free breads on-site, this pit stop of a shop offers an impressively comprehensive array of options. (Who knew you could purchase four varieties of challah before catching your Amtrak train?) Sweet confections like pastries, cakes, and tarts are best skipped, and prepared sandwiches offer sustenance but few surprises. Instead, stick with what Hot & Crusty does best: flaky croissants and truly fresh bread. You'll never mistake Penn Station for the Paris Metro but a commuter could do far worse. — Kim Steckler