In our continuing search for quality eggs Benedict, we’re happy we added Word of Mouth to our list. The downtown eatery’s version ($10.99) starts with massive slabs of English muffin, topped with thin-sliced ham (instead of the standard Canadian bacon), real poached eggs and a thick, tart Hollandaise with a welcome kick from the paprika garnish. Get it with the house-cut home fries and you’ll be set till lunch, at least.

We've sung the praises of Piccolo's subs before, but we were reminded of their awesomeness when we ordered the Parma ($7) for lunch recently. It's a case of simplicity done right, with fresh, high-quality ingredients in a starring role--specificially prosciutto, tomato, mozzarella, basil and balsamic vinegar served on a crusty, fresh-baked roll. Along with an Old Brooklyn root beer, it made for the perfect meal. 

Killer lunch deal alert! Jpan offers a series of generously sized bentos from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. each weekday. Go for the pork katsu box ($11), which includes thin slices of pig meat dusted in panko bread crumbs and then fried, plus soup or salad, a California roll, a fried spring roll, two tender shrimp dumplings and serving of rice.

A shopping excursion in an outdoor mall coupled with lunchtime hunger dictated a stop at Jason’s Deli, a chain that offers sandwiches, salads and hot meals at reasonable prices. Our choice was a chicken panini, and it turned out to be a great one. Between hot-pressed, olive-oil basted French bread were layers of grilled, sliced chicken breast, organic spinach, provolone cheese, tomato and basil pesto. Everything melted together beautifully, and the whole thing was served with a side of ruffle potato chips for $7.69. What a winner.  

When we're in the mood for a flavorful, healthy dish, we go straight to Pho Cali for the lotus salad ($13.95), which features julienned strips of lotus root served with chilled, sliced pork and shrimp. Chopped peanuts and fresh Thai basil add sweetness and crunch, and a sweet chili dressing provides a pop of flavor. It's a favorite, especially when the temperatures start to rise.