1. 1. Prune

   54 E. 1st St., nr. First Ave.; 212-677-6221

   After masterminding one of New York’s best brunches, Gabrielle Hamilton expects to institute (and personally cook) lunch by the end of the month. She promises the inevitable burger, but also egg on a roll, a “sous chef” salad, and an old family favorite, marmalade and bacon on pumpernickel.

2. 2. Morimoto

   88 Tenth Ave., at 16th St.; 212-989-8883

   The Iron Chef does bento boxes, rice bowls, and Wagyu-cutlet sandwiches, all at celebrity-chef prices.

3. 3. Quality Meats

   57 W. 58th St., nr. Sixth Ave.; 212-371-7777

   A medley of customized chopped salads and gussied-up open-face sandwiches make for a steakhouse lunch that won’t do you in for the day.

4. 4. Craftsteak

   85 Tenth Ave., at 15th St.; 212-400-6699

   For true carnisseurs, Wagyu sliders, “Wagyu-bacon” BLTs, and Craftsteak burgers with ritzy add-ons like foie gras and truffle butter.

5. 5. Megu Midtown

   845 UN Plaza, at 47th St.; 212-964-7777

   The $29 bento box selections change daily, and might include anything from teriyaki chicken to miso cod.

Related:

• Archive: “Food Features”
• Articles by Robin Raisfeld | Rob Patronite
• Table of Contents: Sep 25, 2006 issue of New York | Subscribe!