SnackTime With Jen— Tunafishing For Compliments, July 26th

Welcome to my newest feature, SnackTime With Jen. This midweek morsel is a small taste of something fun. Topics range from food (of course) to fashion, amusing little discoveries both locally and abroad, and a variety of interesting intel too tempting not to share. So let’s get snacking…

Grab a seat at one of the six busy Friedman’s locations across Manhattan and come hungry. There are actually two outposts of this family favorite in my neighborhood serving elevated diner fare and both of them are always packed. The must order item here is their classic Tuna Melt on toasty rye with tomato, aged white cheddar, a huge scoop of tuna salad, and a side of skin on salty fries. Their tuna is just so good! Maybe it’s the quality mayo or the shards of oniony shallot? The crunchy celery microbits or the allover soft texture? It’s hard to pinpoint the source of the specific deliciousness. Regardless, this sammie is griddled so the outsides on the to die for seeded rye stay firm while the tuna inside avoids swamping the crispy bread. And the sharpness of the cheese on both sides creates a taste of pure nostalgia.

The Tuna Melt at Friedman’s is just fishing for compliments. And I’ll admit that they certainly baited me! Friedman’s fare is definitely Jen’s Little Black Book-Worthy and I’m sure they will hook you as well.