Tables for One: Gray’s Papaya
In the “cheap and cheerful” category of Tables for One, you’re not a New Yorker (or New Yorkette) if you haven’t counted on Gray’s Papaya at the corner of 72nd & B’way at one time or another. The “Recession Special,” two hot dogs and a drink for $1.95 will get you through that pesky little rough patch after paying your taxes.
Some people’s rough patches are longer (and peskier) than others, so if you’re gonna use a Papaya on a regular basis, Gray’s is the one. So if you’ve seen reviews of Gray’s before, well, I’m here to tell you it’s still that good. The other Papayas (Papaya King downtown, etc.) just don’t measure up. Either the hot dogs don’t feel quite right, or the papaya drink tastes chemical-ly, like Hi-C. Gray’s Papaya papaya drink is the one you want. Plenty of beta carotene and digestive enzymes (so they say), a light, creamy froth on top, a bit like the froth on a good expresso.
There’s no table per se, but there are counters on all four sides. Most people don’t think to use the one right behind the hot dog grill, which consequently nearly always has free space. If you’re not shy, you’ll find a place. Otherwise, walk your hot dogs across town a couple blocks to Central Park and get a bench with a view on Strawberry Fields. Get yourself a Fudgesicle for dessert from the snack cart guy at the entrance. You’ll feel like a kid playing hookey again.
