5 places where time stands still

New York without Katz’s would not be New York. Stick to the classics: the overstuffed corned beef or pastrami sandwiches on rye. While you’re there, check out the original World War II sign: ‘Send a salami to your boy in the army’ and that iconic table where Harry met Sally.

No-frills East Village classic. The place advertises itself as old-school and rightly so. The red sauce that comes with the pasta is the real deal, reminding you either of grandma or of a summer in Italy long ago. Try the chicken Parmigiana. Update: vegan dishes also grace the menu. Cash only.

This is of course a German restaurant, where main courses are massive, pork Schnitzel, Sauerbraten, and all kinds of Wurst. The Tyrolean-style place was founded in 1972 by German immigrant John Lehner and is now run by his sons Hansund Werner. Zum Stammtisch translates to ‘at the table for regulars’.

Signor and Signora Marchi opened it in 1930, now their sons run the place. No sign on the outside of the brownstone, with its beautiful garden area, and no menu inside. People have been eating the same 5-course dinner here for 85 years – antipasti, lasagna, crisp fried fish, roast chicken and fruit dessert.

Occupied by neighborhood regulars and youngsters that have found the place word-of-mouth. The 81-year old owner is also the bartender who will greet you wearing a bright red tuxedo jacket. Great spot for lingering. Tapas are served at the bar with classic 1960s cocktails like the Side Car, Rob Roy, and Grasshopper.