Any guidebook gives information on New York's famous eateries, such as the Rainbow Room and Russian Tea Room--both of which I've sampled, and which were divine. Listed here are some less touristy, more economical choices, and all reported to be friendly if you're a woman dining solo:

Garden Cafe, American Museum of Natural History-- casual, economical, open for lunch and dinner in a greenhouse setting, 212/769-5865.

India Pavilion--the Times review reads, "Inexpensive, consistently good." I haven't eaten here, but walking past, the aroma made me swoon. 240 West 56th Street, 212/489-0035.

Blues every night and low-priced, spicy Cajun cuisine bring New Yorkers to Orleans, 253 Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village, 212/929-2928.

To satisfy a pasta craving without spending much, Da Rosina is recommended. Specializes in homemade pasta, 342 West 46 Street, 212/977-7373.

Pipeline, in the restaurant complex of the World Financial Center, serves up a delectable salmon steak or rosemary chicken for under $15. Try to get there before noon for a window seat.

Robert Sietsema, restaurant reviewer for the Village Voice, has authored a book, Good & Cheap Ethnic Eats Under $10 ($9.95, phone 212/206-6000). Three of his recommendations are: El Pollo (Peruvian grilled chicken, 1746 First Avenue, 212/996-7810); Camellia (Korean buffet, 17 West 32nd Street, 212/290-2525); and Bimmy's (split pita sandwiches, 21 East 8th Street, 212/777-4141).

Zen Palate on Ninth Avenue may be mid-priced, but it's been named the best vegetarian restaurant in New York by several magazines, including Vogue. 212/582-1669.

Happy eating, journey women!

The coffeehouse rage has definitely invaded NY and Starbuck's leads the race, but thankfully, several longtime independents have survived. Eureka Joe at Fifth Avenue and 21st Street is popular with office workers, the Jonathan Morr Espresso Bar in SoHo is furnished in 1950's kitsch, and I can vouch for the overstuffed furniture and friendly environs at Big Cup in Chelsea.
Mary Mihaly, Journeywoman Magazine, Spring 1997

All food starting with "p" is comfort food...pasta, potato chips, pretzels, peanut butter, pastrami, pizza, pastry.
Sara Paretsky, Mystery Writer, Killing Orders, (1985)

Bread that must be sliced with an ax is bread that is too nourishing.
Fran Leibowitz, Metropolitain Life (1978)

Little snax means bigger slax.
Ruth Schenley, Hammer and Tongues, (1986)

(Source: The New Beacon Book of Quotations by Women - Rosalie Maggio)