The Best Darn Lunch Bargain in New York

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Gramercy Tavern is a civilized spot. Lunch -- whether for business or pleasure -- may not require a Martini, but in the name of being civilized, a glass of wine is most certainly in order.

In this case, my lunchtime vino order was a bit of a surprise. A wine I'd never tried before. Roter Veltliner. A more full-bodied, kissing cousin of the popular Gruner Veltliner, it was the perfect sip and swirl to start off an important business luncheon.

Then, came the bargain -- an off-menu soup and sandwich option. Chilled Zucchini Soup with a drizzle of Curry Oil and a warm Ham Sandwich piled high with rosy pink slices, a handful of crisp greens and slathered with a homemade aioli dressing.

The kicker? The cost. Thirteen bucks.

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The real kicker? The picture above is only HALF of the Gramercy Tavern soup and sandwich portion. My lunch companion and I split the order.

That's right.

What can I say? I guess those Restaurant Week lunches are for suckers.