New Comer to Town

I am not sure if I am posting this in the right place BUT I will be visiting for the first time the middle of June. I am planning on doing the regular sightseeing stuff but need some help on places to eat. Looking for the places where locals eat and NOT the tournist traps.

We will also be taking in a basketball game at the Garden and need a place to eat either before or after the game (this is on a Friday night). Any ideals???

We are also looking for a hotel to stay at. It does not need to be close to Garden but looking for reasonable and clean place to stay.

Any help you can give would be appreciated.

TIA