Energy Kitchen, West 17th Street

A simple, reliable place for fueling up on high-protein fare, Energy Kitchen (307 W. 17th St. 212-645-5200) is just off of 8th Avenue and doesn't offer much in the way of ambience, but it's a good option if you're looking for a quick burger, energy shake, hearty breakfast (try the five egg whites with bison burger), seared-tuna salad, protein muffin, or the like. Around the corner from Food Bar and Nooch, and popular with the toned gym boys who frequent David Barton Gym.