<p>gomestar - are you a guy and single? My daughter will also be in the city. She’ll be living in a dorm sharing a kitchen. She is worried about food. She is a foodie, but is limited when it comes to cooking. She said on top of her list when it comes to husband material is ability to cook.
My husband is a borderline gourmet cook, so no mac and cheese at home. This past year, her dad has tried to show her to do some quick/easy recipes while she lived off campus. She doesn’t like to eat out much because of calories, and her dad likes her to eat organic food. Instead of ramen, she will buy fresh udon instead. </p>
<p>You will buy a monthly metro pass in NY. I think it’s $75/month. It’s fun to go down to Chinatown on weekends, but during the week it’s too time consuming.</p>
<p>I think shopping at Whole Food is a great idea. No matter how expensive it is, it’s still healthier and cheaper than eating out. Depending on what kind of work you’ll be doing, having lunch with colleagues is a great way for networking. My daughter probably will be eating at her desk most of the time, and people will order out or bring food in, which can be expensive($10-$15). I told her to bring her lunch (salad and chicken) few times a week, and tell people that she is on a diet. </p>
<p>Money can go fast in NYC if you don’t budget yourself - few drinks/ cab rides, and there goes your food money. Do a spreadsheet of your income and expenses. I think you are getting some great ideas on food. But I would say don’t skim on food, eat healthy and well. If you are short on food money, I would have a discussion with your parents to see if they could help out. I would want to make sure my daughter is eating well, but not to fund her partying in the city.</p>