Expensive and fancy is fun once in a while, but not always, so for everyday use, I've complied lists of places mostly on the inexpensive side, which are also of good quality. Affordable quality in NYC is all around, but often it's hidden amongst an overwhelming amount of mediocrity and junk. I'll narrow those choices, so you won't have to feel overwhelmed. My lists include exact streets and avenues, as well as subway directions to get there. If I'd had a zipped bag, it wouldn't have happened.
Taxicabs are expensive, so try using buses or the subway instead.
But if you do ride in a cab, even though it sounds corny, wear your seat belt. Although I've never been in an accident while riding in a cab, three of my friends have. It'll feel like it's over 100 degrees in there, while the car next to it with AC is cool and comfortable. - When walking, try to walk on the side of the avenue that's NOT alongside the bus lane. This side has less people crowding it, and also, you won' t have to breathe the smelly exhaust spewed out from every bus that passes by. However, I do have an interesting link worth checking out.