An Ode To Veselka, Iconic East Village Eatery

Sure, the all-night hours and somewhat eclectic fare have all the makings of your typical diner scene, but Veselka just seems a little higher up on the totem pole. You know the cultural comfort food is the real deal, so you can get a bit more adventurous with your order. The bustling atmosphere, wacky decor, and close-together tables make the place feel nostalgic, like some Beat Generation after-hours cafe (Allen Ginsberg, was, in fact, a regular). It's not all sleepy booths and sad cups of coffee - it's quite literally the opposite.

[Photo via @dima_chef_nyc]