How To Find A Healthy Lunch In Midtown NYC With Citi

Even though it seems like everyone works in Midtown, the NYC neighborhood can be disappointing when it comes to lunch options. There are the high-end restaurants for the expense account crowd and fast-food (or fast-casual) options as far as the eye can see. Want something a little fresher or lighter? Sure, you can pick up an apple or protein bar, but if you're going to make it through your 2 p.m. conference call, you need something a bit more substantial.

That's where Urbanspace comes in. Urbanspace reinvented the food hall concept with two permanent locations in Midtown (Urbanspace at 570 Lex and Urbanspace Vanderbilt) that focus on the best in street fare from NYC's top local vendors. Basically, you can't have a bad meal, and that's especially true when it comes to healthier fare.

To get you started on your lunch plans, here are a few vendors that specialize in local, sustainable, nutritious and delicious options. If that's not enough, you'll also get an exclusive bonus when you use your Citi card. It's just another way that Citi and Urbanspace are connecting local chefs with local communities.

Urbanspace at 570 Lex and Urbanspace Vanderbilt

It's all about fusion at Takumi Taco—Japanese and Mexican, to be precise. These cuisines have long been a great option for those seeking healthier fare, so when they're combined, it's twice as nice. Build your own bento by pairing two tacos (like the Chipotle Shrimp and Japanese Lentil) with a side (the charred corn salad is a very good choice).

Pro tip: Get a free chips and salsa with purchase of any meal when you use your Citi card.

Urbanspace at 570 Lex

Pronounced TAH-eem, this vegetarian stand specializes in falafel that's anything but basic. The classic Green Falafel comes packed with parsley, cilantro and mint, while the Harissa Falafel is a standout with its Tunisian spices. Want to try something new? Opt for the Cauliflower Shawarma.

Pro tip: When you buy any platter or pita, you'll get a free mint lemonade by using your Citi card.

Urbanspace Vanderbilt and Urbanspace at 570 Lex

It doesn't get any lighter, lunch-wise, than a fresh cold-pressed juice, smoothie or acai bowl from Liquiteria. One always-popular choice is the Big Green, a smoothie that's basically a salad. It's loaded with kale, spinach, avocado, strawberries, almond butter, vanilla almond milk and chocolate protein powder. 

Pro tip: Use your Citi card to get a free small shot with any juice or smoothie purchase.

Urbanspace Vanderbilt

If you haven't yet tried bing, the Northern Chinese street crepe that's used to create delicious sandwiches, there's no time like the present. The crepe starts with mung bean, rice and wheat flour, and is coated with scrambled egg and seasonings. Though you could easily go in a decadent direction with a filling of Peking duck, the Kimchi and Classic Vegetarian Bings make for great lighter fare.

Pro tip: A free side salad with the purchase of any bing (spicy Pickled Cucumber or Pickled Cabbage Salad only) is yours when you use your Citi card.

Urbanspace Vanderbilt

Whether your idea of healthy involves meat or not, you're covered at this authentic Mexican taco stand. Even the biggest meat lovers will enjoy La Palapa's Vegan Avocado Corn taco, a satisfying pairing of beans, avocado, corn and salsa.

Pro tip: Treat yourself to a free hibiscus slushie with any three-tacos purchase with your Citi card.