Time and AI may determine if old-school journalism is dead, but one thing is indisputable: longtime CBS news anchor Walter Cronkite was dubbed the “most trusted man in America.”
Does his moniker translate to his food choices?
Apparently so, as a storied New York City restaurant is still going strong with rave reviews pouring in 82 years after its grand opening.
A fixture in America’s living rooms for nearly two decades, Cronkite reported on huge events such as the assassination of JFK, the Apollo moon landing, and deep dives into the Vietnam War—protests and all.
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But where did the man behind the desk go to indulge in his favorite meal once the cameras stopped rolling?
That answer is reportedly Patsy’s Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, where he once enjoyed a leisurely lunch with fellow journalist Nick Clooney, father of acclaimed actor George Clooney.
Patsy’s is a staple for locals and tourists alike craving a heavy dose of Italian fare—fried mozzarella, rigatoni, ravioli, wine, and of course, saving room for the “dessert of the day.”
Cronkite surely delighted himself with a taste of various apps and entrees during his multiple visits to Patsy’s, but his go-to was ensuring his meal was accompanied by Maker’s Mark bourbon after a long shift that required him to deliver news that wasn’t always positive.
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While the menu has certainly changed since 1944, Patsy’s remains a Manhattan destination for anyone looking to get a taste of old New York, sitting less than a block from Carnegie Hall and three blocks from Central Park.
Patsy’s has hundreds of 5-star Google reviews. One recent patron claimed, “If you want to experience Italian-American comfort food at its finest, Patsy’s Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan is an absolute must.”
Another diner said, “I come here every time I visit” and made sure he “popped into the upstairs to see where Frank Sinatra liked to sit” as Ol’ Blue Eyes himself was another famous regular here.
Walter Cronkite passed away in 2009 after an illustrious career in journalism.
This story was originally published by Parade on Sep 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the Celebs section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Dining and Cooking