New York City went on pause in mid-March, and with that most of its thousands of restaurants, bakeries and bars were forced to shutter. While some businesses are able to offer take out, delivery, or are getting creative with their service models, it seems to also be the case that more and more people are preparing meals at home. If you are missing your favorite NYC eatery, you may find some comfort in a cookbook based on its food either to browse (and salivate over the photos) or to get inspired to try making one of their recipes at home.

New York City is constantly evolving and I am always reminded of that when I make updates to the list of NYC Restaurant Cookbooks that the Library has in the collection. Since we can't invite you through our physical doors right now to browse the cookbook selection, here are some that are available to borrow electronically on your computer, tablet or e-reader. Take a virtual walk around the map to find yourself a drink, a comforting meal, and maybe even dessert. A magical night out on the town, at home.

Each location on the map is linked to a digital copy of the cookbook from that locale that you can borrow from the Library.

Not tied to a specific restaurant, here are some other excellent NYC food cookbooks to peruse:

Interested in how you can help NYC restaurants? Eater.com has a guide on how to support them and their workers during the pandemic. Also, here is a list of community resources for individuals and families facing food insecurity who are able to leave home, as well as delivery options for the homebound, elderly, and people who are ill.

Don't forget to "return" your e-books when you're done—the sooner you return them, the sooner someone else can use them.