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NYC’s most iconic restaurants worth visiting at least once

Old-world steakhouses and iconic pizza joints are among the most famous restaurants in NYC.

New York City is home to some of the most lauded, iconic restaurants in the world. The best restaurants in NYC represent a rainbow of cuisines and approaches, with new restaurants popping up and generating buzz on a regular basis. We’re lucky like that: New Yorkers always have something new and exciting to try. But it’s the old favorites, those beloved spots that have stood the test of time, serving generations of fans, that have become known as the most famous restaurants in the city . 

These restaurants are classics, spots that everyone—both locals and visitors—should try at least once. They include steakhouses , delis and pizza joints (the best pizza in the U.S. in fact), all of them classically New York.

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Iconic restaurants in NYC

1.  Katz’s Delicatessen

• Restaurants
• Lower East Side
• price 2 of 4

This cavernous cafeteria is a repository of New York history, and its classic Jewish deli offerings are nonpareil. Start with a snappy, all-beef hot dog, then flag down a meat cutter and order a legendary sandwich. The brisket sings with horseradish, and the thick-cut pastrami stacked high between slices of rye is the stuff of dreams.

2.  Peter Luger

• Williamsburg
• price 4 of 4

Although a slew of Luger copycats have prospered in the last several years, none have captured the elusive charm of this beer-hall style eatery, with well-worn wooden floors and tables, and waiters in waistcoats and bow ties. Excess is the thing, like the huge porterhouse for two. Go for it all—it’s a singular New York experience that’s worth having. 

3.  Sylvia's

• Soul and southern American

This cherished Harlem mainstay has been serving some of the city’s best soul food for more than 60 years. Dishes like the  chitterlings and smothered chicken and waffles are truly memorable. Each side dish (there are nearly a dozen options) is worth trying, but the candied yams and collards are especially divine.

4.  Nathan's Famous

• Coney Island
• price 1 of 4

When the OG location of the famous frank joint reopened in the spring of 2013, it wasn’t  j ust the unofficial start to summer—it was the comeback of the year. The original subway tiles and iconic signage still shine, as do menu staples like crinkle-cut fries and thick-battered corn dogs.

5.  Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

• Midtown East

The 103-year-old Grand Central legend has been located inside the epic and gorgeous hub that shares its name since the terminal itself opened. Pan roasts and chowders still top tables beneath that iconic vaulted ceiling today. Reliably awe-inspiring platters of just-shucked oysters are available in up to a whopping three-dozen varieties to choose from at any given time. Grand Central Ouster bar is presently only open on weekdays.

6.  Nom Wah Tea Parlor

First opened at another location nearby in 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is still a New York City dim sum favorite today. Choose from oodles of options like roast pork buns, rice rolls and tons of dumplings, and plan your next visit for more before you walk out the door. 

7.  Keens Steakhouse

• Midtown West

Dating back to 1885, Keens' interior is adorned with the smoking pipes of long-ago guests like Babe Ruth, J.P. Morgan and Teddy Roosevelt. Beveled-glass doors, two working fireplaces and dark wood recall a time when “Diamond Jim” Brady piled his table with bushels of oysters, slabs of seared beef and troughs of ale. The present menu includes a thick mutton chop and steaks that hold their own against any in town.

8.  Tavern on the Green

• Central Park

For 75 years, the gilded dining room nestled inside Central Park was a New York hallmark, a scenic magnet for tourists, brides and megawatt diners (Grace Kelly, John Lennon) alike. When the razzle-dazzle cash cow went bankrupt and shuttered in 2010, big-name backers expressed interest in reviving the historic space. Instead, a pair of Philadelphia crêpe-makers won the bid. The pair revamped the landmark as an urban farmhouse decorated with wood-beam ceilings, leather-covered tables and multiple hearths. 

9.  Bamonte’s

You go to a fancy red-sauce purlieu like Bamonte’s for old-school strengths, not creativity. Start with superb clams casino, and move into entrées that include seafood fra diavolo, lamb and veal chops and shell steak from the grill.

10.  Junior’s Restaurant

The storied slice at Harry Rosen's 73-year-old Downtown Brooklyn mainstay has become synonymous with New York–style cheesecake itself. Made with humble Philadelphia cream cheese and a sponge cake base, round is lovingly mixed and baked by hand to this day.

11.  P.J. Clarke’s

This celebrated saloon is long in the tooth (139 years old), but occasional updates revitalize the old boy. The hamburger is still juicy customizable, with cheese, bacon, chili or béarnaise sauce.  The Maine Lobster cobb salad, with its succulent lobster meat over bright greens and lots of blue cheese, is a great steak alternative. 

12.  Minetta Tavern

• Greenwich Village

In Keith McNally’s Minetta Tavern, a 1930s West Village relic is reborn. Its lovingly restored dining room is as nostalgic as can be, and the food is as much of a draw as the scene.

13.  Rao’s

• East Harlem

To eat at Rao’s, a Southern Italian dining room that's operated in East Harlem since 1896, you’ll need a personal invite from one of the heavy hitters who “owns” a table. CEOs, actors, politicians, news personalities and neighborhood old-timers have a long-standing arrangement with legendary owner Frankie “No” Pellegrino, and that's what ensures a seat at one of the ten tables. 

14.  Lombardi’s

Gennario Lombardi opened his shop in Soho in 1905—the first pizzeria in the U.S. It’s hard to vouch for how the pizzas tasted a century ago, but there’s more elbow room now after a renovation, if not the charm of the old joint. Still, Lombardi’s continues to bake a hot contender for best pie.

15.  John’s Pizzeria

• West Village

The coal-fired brick oven at this reliable old-timer—a West Village staple since 1929—turns out a standard-bearing Margherita pie, thin of crust and light of sauce, with gooey grated mozzarella covering the surface. Only pies are available, no slices—a great opportunity for a feast.

16.  The Odeon

The Odeon has been part of the downtown scene for so long that it’s hard to remember Tribeca without it. Diners can’t go wrong with its tried-and-true standards: French onion soup blanketed with bubbling Gruyère, crunchy fried calamari and steak au poivre with fries. 

Looking for more of the best food in NYC?

Check out the 100 best dishes and drinks in New York City

From genre-bending pasta to big-money cocktails, here’s our annual guide to the 100 best dishes and drinks in NYC

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The 32 Best Restaurants in New York City

By Devra Ferst and Emily Saladino

Ask a New Yorker, “So, what’s your favorite restaurant,” and be prepared for a long answer. In a city with some 25,000 places to get a meal, everyone has at least five front-runners to accommodate their various moods, neighborhoods, and price points—and three of those top picks may change the following week. It’s not indecisiveness so much as ambition. New York’s extraordinary restaurant culture spans everything from hushed fine dining temples, to raucous burger joints, to family-style noodle shops and much, much more. You can dine out every night of every week or month and still barely scratch the surface.

That’s why we created this collection of some of the most interesting and exciting restaurants in New York City. These are places we recommend to locals and out of towners alike, and for which we refresh our reservations apps to secure our own tables. By no means an exhaustive list of everywhere worth eating in New York, it’s a delicious roadmap to start plotting your course. Here, 32 of the best restaurants in New York City.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Dhamaka Arrow

Restaurateur Roni Mazumdar and chef/partner Chintan Pandya have taken the city’s dining scene by storm with an array of restaurants that celebrate India’s diverse cuisines. Their Michelin-starred West Village spot, Semma, is often rightfully in the spotlight, but Dhamaka is the cool older sibling that has their own thing going on. Pandya and his team’s cooking looks deep into regional Indian culinary traditions to share dishes like the restaurant’s acclaimed rabbit dish from Rajasthan, which is marinated in spiced yogurt, slow-cooked for hours, and must be ordered 48 hours in advance. There’s also garlicky Goan crab cooked with Amul butter and crushed black pepper, and garam masala-spiced Kashmiri lamb loin. Some dishes, like the exceptional goat neck dum biryani, which is served in a pot that’s sealed with a thin flatbread, are larger, so check in with your server about the number of items to order.

What started as a pop-up is now a hit English-leaning seafood restaurant for golden-brown fish and chips plus broiled oysters with green chartreuse hollandaise, elegant squid and scallion skewers, blowfish tails with chili butter, and a creative wine list and cocktail menu. Patricia Howard and Ed Szymanski's tight menu looks to his U.K. roots for inspiration with dishes like kedgeree rice with grilled monkfish, “proper English chips,” as the team calls them, and desserts like sticky toffee pudding, but the theme isn’t so overt that you feel you’re dining in the British countryside. There are also elegant raw scallops with preserved lemon and nardello peppers, and tuna tartare on toast that’s topped with bottarga. Tables at Dame are coveted, so while the restaurant can seat parties as large as six, if you can't snag a reservation then it’s best to plan an evening with just one dining companion, or dine by yourself at the bar that looks into the kitchen.

Duck down Macdougal Street on the western edge of SoHo and look for a small white square sign with artfully drawn Japanese characters and Raku spelled out in small Roman letters below. If you elect to dine inside, you’ll be greeted by a calming and transportive dining room and some of the city’s best udon. The lengthy menu at Raku can be a touch overwhelming for a first-time visitor, so first decide if you want your udon warm or cold, then concentrate your efforts on that section. Raku is one of those rare New York restaurants that’s impressive, transportive, consistently excellent—and (most importantly and surprisingly) easy to get a reservation at.

Teranga Arrow

Teranga is run by the acclaimed Senegal-born chef and cookbook author Pierre Thiam. Offering a culinary lens into Africa through African-grown ingredients and flavors that date to pre-colonization, the restaurant is as much a place to dine as it is an integral part of The Africa Center, a cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions and lectures and screens independent films. In addition to build-your-own bowls featuring Jollof rice, spiced chicken, and ginger-moringa dressings, the casual spot serves black-eyed pea stews and salads, roasted Moroccan salmon, and bottled bissap, limeade, and ginger juice. The name Teranga translates to "good hospitality" in Senegalese, and although this is a fast-casual spot, the team here is indeed warm and welcoming.

CNT Editors

Todd Plummer

Caitlin Morton

Lale Arikoglu

Buvette Arrow

You're back in that one Paris café you particularly loved, right down to the tiny tables and soft lighting. Your most important move is to order the anchovies on warm toast slicked with cold butter. After that go for hearty mains like cassoulet or one of the croque monsieurs, and maybe skip the buzzed-about chocolate mousse—we found it not worth the hype—in favor of a sweet, flaky tarte tatin. Also, while there is a full bar serving classic cocktails, most people come here for the wine, in part because chef-owner Jody Williams takes a lot of pride in her list. Go for rosé with friends over brunch or open a well-priced bottle of something from the Loire Valley to sip with charcuterie in the evening.

Head 10 blocks south of New York’s Koreatown (see an itinerary of the neighborhood here ), and you'll find Cote, a Korean steakhouse and one of the city’s best and buzziest restaurants. There’s no shortage of a la carte options, but the prix-fixe Butcher’s Feast is where diners should start. For $74 a person, you're treated to seasonal ban-chan, savory egg soufflé, two stews (including spicy kimchi stew), and the house selection of beef, including USDA Prime and Wagyu, cooked on the table with smokeless grills. The restaurant’s award-winning wine list features an impressive Champagne selection, and all by-the-glass pours come from Magnums, the large-format bottles that sommeliers say keeps wines younger and fresher.

Cervo's Arrow

Cervo’s has been around since long before Dimes Square's new dining buzz, and it continues to be one of the area's best restaurants. The kitchen looks toward the coasts of the Iberian Peninsula—but the vivacious, tightly-packed space and the seasonal outdoor seating on Canal Street feels distinctly New York. The regularly changing menu always leans heavily into seafood and vegetables with lots of bright and briny touches like spicy mussels escabeche, butterhead lettuce salads tossed with anchovies and Roquefort, and little Manila clams cooked in vinho verde. While there are larger plate options like a fried skate wing and a lamb burger, the best meals at Cervo’s are the ones made up of many small plates you can leisurely work your way through. Like the food menu, the wine offerings are inspired by Spain and Portugal, with a number of orange bottles and other natural options. There’s also a vermouth service with seven vermouths on offer, and an excellent spritz.

Wildair Arrow

Peer into this narrow space, with tall stools, high tables and be forgiven for thinking, “All this excitement…for a wine bar?” It is, in a sense, but before visions of big bills and dreadful food dance in your head, know that Wildair’s menu is one of the best in a city with some of the best food in the world . Like a chart-topping album, several singles on this menu have their fans. There’s one man eating the little gem–pistachio salad and raving about it. A few stools down, a woman goes wild for clams with XO in an almond broth. And they'll bar the doors if you try to leave without trying the tartare.

Atoboy Arrow

Inspired by banchan , but far more voluptuous and filling, the refined food at this Korean eatery (not to be confused with LES food-free cocktail temple Attaboy ) is made by a hotshot, Michelin-starred chef. Think: Korean pear with calamansi,shrimp with white kimchi and buerre blanc, pork belly and cauliflower, or fried chicken with addictive peanut sauce. Desserts tend to be bright, floral eye-openers for the night ahead. Wine is the focus of the drink menu here, with a tightly curated list that leaves room for experimentation alongside the classic Californian and French numbers.

Che Li Arrow

With its elegant thatched-roof dining room, twinkling waterfalls, and sophisticated menu of dishes from China’s Jiangnan region, CheLi feels worlds away from the St. Marks madness teeming just beyond its front door. The atmosphere is festive—especially when larger groups of stylish locals or nostalgic expats fill the sleek, lantern-lit booths—but never too loud to not hear your dining companions. The expansive menu spans crowd-pleasers like pillowy, porky soup dumplings and stir-fried rice cakes as well as specialities like tender chicken or chilled crab cooked in Shaoxing wine. Plan to share everything you order with your dining companions, and don't be afraid to ask the polished servers for recommendations on portions, how to course your meal, or drinks pairings advice—the bar serves a short but thoughtfully curated list of beer and wine, plus sake, Chinese rice wine, teas, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Adda Indian Canteen Arrow

New York’s neighborhoods are dotted with Indian takeout spots that serve a rotation of standards like chicken tikka masala and saag paneer. Adda, in Long Island City, Queens is not part of this club. Run by Roni Mazumdar of Rahi and executive chef Chintan Pandya, Adda offers, as they say, “‘unapologetically’ authentic Indian food.” That includes the housemade paneer. There’s also junglee maas, or goat curry, and snacks that come with a fair warning on the menu: “highly addictive.”

Raoul's Arrow

At this old-school SoHo institution, the white tablecloths, pressed tin ceilings, and $58 steak au poivre belie a long history of button-pushing and rule-flouting. The top item? The burger au poivre, available only on the brunch menu. Burger hounds obsess over it and its drippy, creamy St.-André cheese topping. For desserts, the banana coconut bread pudding has its devotees. Come here when you’re curious about old, hard-living New York—when the SNL cast would roll out for dinner at 1 a.m., and people might end up dancing on the tables—and to see a slightly more sedate version today.

Don Angie Arrow

Italian-American food may seem a dime a dozen in New York City , but this is the sort of place you'll need to return to at least four or five times to eat everything on the menu you want to order. The husband-and-wife chefs, Scott Tacinelli and Angie Rito, have been cooking together for nearly a decade—before this they were at Quality Italian in midtown—and whip up an inventive menu of next-level Italian-American: Think a stuffed garlic flatbread starter, with cheese oozing out of every tear; a take on Chrysanthemum salad generous with grated Parmesan; and a garganelli giganti pasta, cooked in a salty, delicious guanciale and pecorino ragù that's basically the spaghetti and meatballs of your dreams. Drinks stand up, too: a Nonna's Little Nip, a blend of grapefruit, Campari, and prosecco, or a Pinky Ring, a swirl of rye, Carpano Antica, Galliano, and Campari, are just what you need to take the edge off.

Tatiana Arrow

Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s ode to New York City’s Black Caribbean cultures occupies a glass-walled space in Lincoln Center—diners dress up for the opportunity to share elegantly plated dishes in the mod, bustling dining room. It's one of Manhattan's most challenging reservations to secure, which, depending on your personal worldview, may in fact make tucking into the extraordinarily creative menu all the more satisfying. Portion sizes are large and there are too many good dishes to choose just one or two, so the best way to tackle the menu is to come with a group and share. Start the meal with crispy okra, Egusi dumplings, or elegant curried goat patties with mango chutney, then move onto mains like braised oxtails with rice and peas. If you have the appetite (and the bank account), it’s worth investing in the short rib pastrami suya, a glamorous reimagining of the delicatessen favorite made with Wagyu beef and served with velvety red cabbage.

Gage & Tollner Arrow

Gage & Tollner is more than 100 years old, but somehow manages to feel exactly like a Brooklyn restaurant of today should: inviting, thoughtful, and bustling—with a dose of history mixed in for good measure. It’s the type of restaurant that reminds guests why New York is a great city to dine in. The landmarked interior at Gage & Tollner is lined with mirrors and cherry wood arches and lit by brass chandeliers. It’s precisely the type of place to order a classic cocktail, like one of the seven martinis on offer or a Manhattan. The menu leans into steakhouse classics like New York strip steak and shrimp cocktail, but there are more modern touches here too like clams kimsino, made with bacon-kimchi butter, and crispy hen of the woods mushrooms with black garlic aioli and house Sriracha. No matter your dinner order, make sure you save room for the baked Alaska created by former pastry chef Caroline Schiff, who was named a Best New Chef by Food & Wine in 2022. Under a large singed meringue coat sits layers of fresh mint, dark chocolate, and amarena cherry ice cream and chocolate cookie crunch.

Le Bernardin Arrow

Long known as one of the best restaurants in New York City and the world, Le Bernardin has graced New Yorkers with its presence for decades. What you want to do here is go all in for superstar Eric Ripert's tasting menu. The fish that dominates his prix fixe is largely untouched, save for the best flourishes, so you put yourself in the very capable hands of his sauciers. And don’t skip dessert—not at a restaurant the New York Times has awarded four-stars consistently since it opened in 1986. The service is also what you'd expect from a restaurant of this reputation: Everyone is so attentive it can almost be daunting (in a good way, in a good way).

Lilia Arrow

This Williamsburg paean to pasta is in a former garage with exposed-beam wooden ceilings. Chef-owner Missy Robbins is one of New York’s finest pasta chefs. People come here for all sorts of carby stuff: rigatoni diavola, gnocchi, and ravioli. Start, though, with some cacio e pepe fritelle, gorgeous fried balls decked out with salty cheese and pepper, and move on to seafood, another Robbins strong suit. Maybe today’s the day for grilled clams flecked with Calabrian chilies? Cured sardines with capers? It’s all good. But, the absolute must-order dish is the mafaldini, a rippled noodle spiked with pink peppercorns. Reservations are hard to come by (you may need to book a month in advance) but snagging one is well worth the constant refreshes of Resy.

Cafe Kashkar Arrow

At the end of the B and Q subway lines sits Brighton Beach, one of the city’s most overlooked dining neighbors (its position at the very edge of the city is responsible for this unfortunate reality). When visitors do make it down here though, they can find their way to plates of perfect sour cherry vareniki at Varenichnaya, baklava shipped from Istanbul at Brighton Güllüoglu Baklava Cafe, and an endless array of prepared foods, including rich blintzes, at Brighton Bazaar. The first stop though should be Kashkar Café, serving Uzbeki-Uyghur food rich in cumin, lamb, beef, and noodles.

Los Tacos No. 1 Arrow

A reality check: New York City doesn't have the same taco culture as a city like Los Angeles or San Diego . That said, it's not without its standouts. The menu at Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market is short, but hits all the high points with a tight selection of tacos made on corn or flour tortillas laced with lard. There are also quesadillas and mulas filled with proteins like pollo asada and adobada, or marinated pork topped with a pineapple. Fresh chips, salsa, and guacamole round out a meal. The lack of seating makes Los Tacos No. 1 ideal for a snack or light meal while you’re exploring the area.

Sushi Nakazawa Arrow

Daisuke Nakazawa—the apprentice from Jiro Dreams of Sushi —created the menu here, and in an ideal world, you’re sitting right at his counter. The man must daydream in texture and temperature, because whether mackerel, smoked skipjack, or shrimp are on his menu, they are seasoned lightly, brought to a very precise warmth, and served to transcendent effect. Reservations open two weeks prior to seatings, so book in advance: People who have heard the four-star raves are here, whether they have sushi cravings and have their saved their pennies or just have money to burn.

Frenchette Arrow

Frenchette, from Keith McNally veterans Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson, isn’t quite a mirror of France; rather, it’s their take on what a French restaurant in New York City should be. Diners well acquainted with the French culinary canon will find many familiar friends on the menu here, including foie gras, poulet roti, and cote de boeuf, but the menu isn’t limited to these items. Nasr and Hanson have also worked in their own interpretive dishes such as smoked trout beignets with ranch’ette, apples, and spaetzle. There’s also an expansive natural wine list full of cult producers from France, Italy, and Spain, as well as Austria and Slovenia.

Lucali Arrow

Henry Street in Carroll Gardens Brooklyn is home to Italian families who have lived here for generations, the stroller set that moved in more recently, and Lucali, one of the city’s best pizzerias . Dining here takes patience and planning. Every afternoon a line forms outside of Lucali for “the list.” The restaurant starts taking names at 4p, after which you can head to nearby bars like Brooklyn Social or Bar Great Harry for a drink while you wait for them to call to say your table is ready.” It might be an hour, it might be three: Lucali is worth surrendering an evening for.

The Four Horsemen Arrow

A chirpy staff helps it feel cozy—as does the knowledge that James Murphy (of LCD Soundsystem) runs the joint. This is the sort of place, though, where you may consider inverting your drinking and dining budgets. Maybe you throw down 70 bucks for wine and 14 on butter beans in ham broth, deciding to listen to both sides of whatever album they're spinning, drink the whole bottle, and grab a slice of pizza later. The place is co-owned by four wine geeks and you see it all over the ludicrously long menu: There’s a whole page of orange wines, for example, and five pages devoted to Champagne. The list shifts pretty much day to day, and the staff will alert to you to what’s just in and what’s almost gone—a real oenophile’s dream.

Via Carota Arrow

Sparsely decorated yet warm and inviting, with plenty of wood and exposed brick, Via Carota is the kind of place where you might run into celebrities, but where you’ll feel totally comfortable sitting next to them in jeans and a T-shirt. But they don't take reservations here, so the flip side of all that cool is that waits at peak times can push three hours. The menu is full of supremely delicious creations from Rita Sodi and Jody Williams, who between them run Buvette in NYC and Paris , I Sodi a couple blocks away, and Bar Pisellino across the street. Even the relatively straightforward vegetable dishes, like the carrots with yogurt and pistachios, are remarkable in their fresh simplicity.

Ayada Arrow

When this 2008 institution from Elmhurst, Queens opened an outpost within Manhattan’s Chelsea Market, even more New Yorkers got access to its exceptional, home-style Thai cooking—while the locale isn't the most serene, the menu more than makes up for the always bustling, occasionally boisterous surroundings. By way of beverages, there's tart housemade lemonade in addition to frosty glasses of Thai iced coffees and teas. For food: papaya salad studded with savory dried shrimp, sticky rice, and Panang curry topped with crispy duck are among the most popular dishes, but the expansive menu also includes crunchy fried chive cakes, steaming plates of pad see ew, and helpings of crab meat fried rice.

Contento Arrow

The five partners at Contento are deeply committed to hospitality for all: Contento was given Bon Appetit’s prestigious Heads of the Table Award —for those working to make the food space more inclusive—for its wheelchair-accessible bar seating, menu QR codes to a spoken version of the menu for diners with low-vision, and a Wines of Impact list of offerings from Indigenous-, Black-owned, and mission-minded wineries. Executive chef Asia Shabazz, who grew up in East Harlem, serves dishes like classic ceviche, Peruvian barley with roasted mushrooms and winter truffles, arroz con pato with pickled fennel and onion, and roasted scallops with pumpkin stew and Peruvian corn. Whether you come to Contento for its accessibility, a thoughtful wine list, or Peruvian-inspired cooking, you’ll enjoy your evening. There’s space for everyone here.

Katz's Delicatessen Arrow

Tourist destinations in New York rarely make it into regular rotation with locals. Katz’s is an exception. What started as a deli called Iceland Brothers has been slicing exceptional pastrami, corned beef, and loaves of rye bread on the Lower East Side since 1888 (and made the famous “I'll have what she's having” cameo in When Harry Met Sally ). While the menu offers tuna fish, burgers, and even a cheesesteak, stick to the deli classics like pastrami, corned beef, and beef tongue sandwiches. Round out your order with a knish, a bowl of matzo ball soup, or cheese blintzes.

Sylvia's Restaurant Arrow

Framed photos of decades of notable diners including Barack Obama and Muhammed Ali line the deep red and exposed brick walls of this Harlem soul food institution. Opened by Sylvia Woods, a South Carolina-born cook and culinary entrepreneur, in 1962, the restaurant remains a family affair, owned and operated by generations of Woodses. The skilled kitchen turns out extraordinary takes on soul food classics. Try the expertly fried chicken, whose crackling skin encases achingly tender meat, plus a side of tangy collard greens and mac and cheese so velvety it hardly seems real. The pace and tenor of the service varies based on how thronged the dining room is on any given day—and it can get awfully busy—but the warm, knowledgeable staff handles it all with aplomb.

Superiority Burger Arrow

Housed in a vinyl-boothed former Ukranian diner, this cutting-edge vegetarian and occasionally vegan restaurant is a cult favorite for good reason. Brooks Headley, the former pastry chef at fine dining temple Del Posto, has created a fun, free-wheeling menu and quirky-cool atmosphere that brings everyone to the party. In addition to the rightfully famous signature veggie burger, which is topped with confit tomatoes and melted muenster, there’s an excellent collard greens sandwich and a comforting Sloppy Joe’s riff called Sloppy Dave, which features tender tofu and crispy frizzled onions. All are served unaccompanied, so round out your meal with sides like a twice-baked potato, burnt broccoli salad, or sweet-and-sour pink beets on a jalapeno cream cheese schmear. Desserts are similarly inventive. Try the griddled banana bread with coconut gelato or a malted date shake made with Bautista Family fruit from California’s Coachella Valley.

Le Rock Arrow

In 2022, when the owners of downtown’s perennially packed Frenchette restaurant opened Le Rock, it brought a much-needed jolt of energy to Midtown’s Rockefeller Center. Tables in Le Rock’s dining room remain among one of the hottest tickets in town, but the Art Deco-style bar posseses a buzzy scene all its own. The glittering space has the flattering sort of lighting that makes everyone look like they just got back from a week on St. Barths (many of the patrons likely did),and a 200-bottle wine list that skews French and natural. Creative cocktails like the strawberry-scented, sparkling rosé topped Chambery Spritz and a riff on the often overlooked Martini variation L'Alaska (dry gin, yellow Chartreuse) are perfect for happy hour people-watching (is that a Vogue editor, or just someone who looks like one?).

Keens Steakhouse Arrow

The only difficult choice to make when entering Keens is where to look first. Is it up, at the 90,000 pipes lining the ceiling? To the glass cases, where the most famous churchwardens—15-inch pipes—smoked by the likes of Babe Ruth and General MacArthur are stored? In the bar, are you mesmerized by the Miss Keen painting (a nude, lounging on her bear rug) right away, or are you too distracted by the New-York-ad-men-in-the-'50s vibe? This steakhouse, open since 1883, delivers something new to look at every time you go. Keens was originally called a chop house, in recognition of its famous mutton chop, and although that is good and musty and intense, most people are ordering steak. There’s the porterhouse for two or three, the chateaubriand, and the filet mignon—which is actually fabulous here. You want the béarnaise or au poivre sauce on the side, and the creamed spinach, which is less a vegetable than it is dessert.

Win Son Arrow

There’s a lot on the menu at Taiwanese Win Son, and little of it disappoints. Start with garlicky marinated cucumbers plus the clams and basil served with a scallion pancake. Then move onto fried eggplant with black vinegar; pan-griddled pork buns; tofu stir-fried with garlic chives and yunlin black beans; and sesame noodles made with black sesame, mushrooms, snow pea leaves, and peanuts. For dessert, there’s just one option: tian miantuan, a fried doughnut with vanilla ice cream and condensed milk.

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37 Places You Must Eat in NYC with Mouth Wateringly Delicious Food!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Categories New York City

Honestly, I don’t know why I haven’t created this post on all of the places you must eat in NYC sooner!

After all, I am a 30+ year local who knows exactly where to go to save some cold, hard cash and eat like a real New Yorker.

In truth though, the delay is probably due to the fact that New York City is basically like the unofficial foodie capital of the world.

As a result, there are just so many beyond amazing places to eat in NYC that it can difficult to narrow the list down to something manageable and that you might actually want to read.

Thankfully though, you have a super handy, incredibly knowledgeable local like me to help you figure out exactly what the best food in New York is; foods that you absolutely need to eat during your 4 days in NYC .

This way, you can quickly and easily get your foodie to swerve on as you eat ALL the feels up in NYC. Yessiree, no lame food chain restaurants for you my friend!

Because on this list, you’ll find nothing but the best places to eat in NYC. That’s why, in this post, I’ll answer all of your most pressing questions about:

• Where you must eat in NYC
• What is the most famous food in New York?
• What food should I try in New York?
• Where do local New Yorkers eat?

And so much more! So, buckle up my foodie-minded friend because we’re about to swan dive right into this post about all of the places you must eat in NYC!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

⏰Looking for an amazing place to stay while in NYC but haven’t had the time to book your accommodation yet? Try Pod 39 . It is budget friendly and pretty luxurious for the price! ⏰

Where You Must Eat in NYC

Here is a shortlist of all the amazing places you must eat in NYC. These are total foodie meccas that you absolutely must stop by while you’re experiencing the eternal glory that is New York City.

• Katz Delicatesse n – Order a pastrami sandwich that lives up to ALL the hype
• Gray Papaya – You can’t leave without trying one of our signature dirty water dogs…I mean hot dogs.
• The Halal Guys – Cheap and delicious street food. I’d opt for the gyro or falafel myself.
• J.G, Melon – Get the cheeseburger. It will, no joke, change your life.
• Los Tacos No. 1 – Order an Al Pastor taco for me. It’s cheap and delish.
• Nom Wah Tea Parlor – Best dim sum in the city and you can find them in Chinatown.
• White Bear – This place is in Flushing, Queens (since all the best Chinese food is) and you 100% should get the Chinese-style dumplings.
• Sunny and Annie Deli – You can’t leave the city without ordering an iconic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich.
• Veselka – Get the pierogies but pretty much everything is good.
• LeVain Bakery – Get the chocolate chip cookies and thank me later.
• Magnolia Bakery – Get the Banana Bread Pudding for the win.
• Supermoon Bakery – Order a cruffin (a croissant muffin) so that you can die and go to foodie heaven.
• Milk Bar – Get the Crack Pie. It’s seriously good. Seriously. A lot of people also love the cereal and milk soft serve but I wasn’t a fan.
• Dough – Get the dulce de leche doughnut.
• Artichoke Basille’s Pizza – Their spinach artichoke pizza is basically like spinach artichoke dip on a slice of pizza. So absurdly good.
• Joe’s Pizza – THE place to go for an iconic slice of NYC-style pizza. They’re also huge and just $4 each.
• Lucali’s – If you feel like making the trek to Brooklyn then this is THE place to go for pizza. Just get a regular pie.
• Jongro BBQ – Classic Korean-style barbeque in Koreatown.
• Emilio’s Ballato – This is the place to go for next level delicious Italian food. Order classics like lasagna, baked clams, chicken Parm, baked ziti, and meatballs
• Clinton Street Baking Company – Get the blueberry pancakes. So damn good.
• Russ and Daughters – There’s really no place better for an iconic NY bagel with lox and cream cheese.
• Jacob’s Pickle’s – Go here for decadent Southern comfort food that is unlike any other. The chocolate chip pancakes are also epic with a capital “e”.
• The Smith – Stop by for brunch or get the mac and cheese and you will not regret it.
• Sunday in Brooklyn – One of my all time fave brunch spots in NYC. Head to Williamsburg and get a stack of pancakes with hazelnut butter. So flippin’ good.
• Little Collins – One of my favie fave Aussie-inspired coffee shops where you can get buttered banana bread or avo toast.

What is the Most Famous Food in New York?

Gosh, there are so many famous foods in New York that it’s hard to pick just one. However, I think some of the city’s most famous foods include pizza (go to Joe’s Pizza or Lucali’s (worth the trip to Brooklyn), bagels with lox and cream cheese (Russ and Daughters has epic bagels, as does Absolute Bagels), bacon egg and cheese (here we pronounce it as one word and you can get one at  Sunny and Annie Deli), hot dogs (Gray’s Papaya is the best), and cheesecake (Junior’s serves up a classic NY-style slice).

What Food Should I try in New York?

Umm…basically everything on this list of places you must eat in NYC. LOL. But in all seriousness, here are some of the best food in New York that you should 110% eat.

• Pastrami sandwich from Katz Deli
• Bagel with lox and cream cheese from Russ and Daughters
• Bacon egg and cheese from Sunny and Annie Deli
• Slice (of pizza) from Joe’s Pizza (you can also grab a $1 slice from just about anywhere in the city)
• Coffee from Little Collins or Abraço in the East Village
• Gray’s Papaya hot dog
• Falafel from Mamoun’s
• Entire pizza from Lucali’s
• Cheeseburger from J.G. Melon
• Junior’s cheesecake
• Black and white cookie from Zabar’s

Where do Local New Yorkers Eat?

Pretty much anywhere that isn’t Manhattan since it’s super touristy and the prices are insanely expensive even for NYC . Yeah, we pay enough for rent and are basically looking for good, cheap eats when we dine out in the city.

But, if you’re looking for some of the places you must eat in NYC where all the locals go, then check out any of the following:

• Joseph Leonard – Great West Village Cafe where you can stop by for brunch and get the fried chicken sandwich with fried country bacon and an order of Brussel Sprouts with siracha.
• Joe’s Pizza – Quick and easy place to grab a slice in NYC.
• Smorgasburg – A great place to go on the weekends to try a bunch of unique and super delish foods in NYC.
• Katz Deli – The pastrami sandwich is where it’s at.
• The Dead Rabbit – Great local watering hole where you can go for zucchini fritters, Bernicia Boy (aka an Irish Coffee), Byrrh Wine Daisy, and The Fugitive. Stop by on Sunday to hear live, traditional Irish music.
• Totto Ramen – Get the torched uni over rice as an appetizer and any of their ramens, although I LOVE the vegiie ramen.
• Wafles and Dinges – Get the “Wake Up Grumpy” which is a waffle with bacon, egg, and cheese.
• McSorley’s Old Ale House – Traditional Irish pub (the oldest in the city) that serves light and dark beer in small mugs.
• St. Anselm – A steakhouse that is way cheaper than Peter Luger’s. Get the butcher steak or the bourbon brined pork chops with a side of creamed spinach and truffle potatoes.
• Big Gay Ice Cream Shop – Go here for fun and quirky soft serve flavors like The Salty Pimp and American Globs.
• Cafe Mogador – Great Moroccan food in the East Village where you can go for an affordable brunch.
• Roberta’s – An awesome place in Bushwick for brick oven pizza. Ask for the “bee-sting” (think sweet and spicy) which is usually not actually on the menu.
• The Grey Dog – The vibe here is very homey and they also serve some delicious coffee. They also do a great brunch although the pork belly taco, four-cheese mac and cheese, and Baja fish tacos are all really top-notch.

37 Places You Must Eat in NYC

And now – insert drumroll here please – it’s time for my top picks for thirty-five places you must eat in NYC.

No really, trust me on this people. Eat at any one of these fun places to eat in NYC and you will not regret it.

I mean, not only is the food beyond delicious, but many of these places are super affordable too since we locals pay a lot of money in rent and don’t really have a ton of extra cash to spend $50+ per person for a single meal.

So, this list is mostly damn good, NYC  cheap eats that you’ll find scattered all across the city that never sleeps.

1. Katz Delicatessan

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, then you know all about Katz Delicatessan. It’s basically an insanely famous Jewish deli on the Lower East Side of Manhattan that serves up some of the best – and biggest – pastrami sandwiches in the world.

Yes, I dare you to disagree with me on this one because their sammies are the stuff that foodie dreams are made of. I mean, after all, this place is the oldest Jewish deli in NYC for a reason (FYI, it was first established in 1888).

Therefore, this is easily one of the places you MUST eat in NYC, particularly because this place really does live up to the hype.

Also, expect a line out the door (especially on the weekends) since this place serves up some of the best food in New York and the insanely long lines are indicative of that.

And just in case it wasn’t already obvious, you should be ordering their pastrami sandwich on rye.

Pro Tip: To order here you’ll first need to get a small ticket at the front door upon arrival and then the staff will guide you through the ordering process. And if you lose your ticket? Well, you’ll get a “fine” on your bill at the end of your order. So yeah, don’t do that.

Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 10:45 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.m

Price: $25.95 for this iconic sandwich.

How to Get There: Take the F train to 2nd Avenue station and walk to the deli from there.

2. Gray’s Papaya

Locally known as a dirty water dog, no trip to NYC would be complete with ordering a classic, New York hot dog.

And while you can get them from just about any vendor from around the city, there really is nothing quite like a hot dog from Gray’s Papaya.

Yup, this place is without a doubt one of the many places you must eat in NYC. I mean, it’s an epic, family-owned business that has been around since ye olde 1974.

This place is also so good that they now have two locations in Manhattan where you can get the Recession Special. It’s a whopping, thirty-five-year-old deal that includes two hot dogs and a medium tropical flavored drink (think papaya, coconut, pina colada, and banana) for just $6.45.

Yup, that’s a deal you really can’t beat. And for the ultimate NYC foodie experience, pair them with sauerkraut, mustard, and stewed onions.

Address: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023

Hours: Open Sunday through Wednesday from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm and Thursday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Price: $6.45 for two hot dogs and a medium drink.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 train to 72nd Street station and walk to Gray’s Papaya from there.

3. The Halal Guys

Another iconic NYC food vendor, The Halal Guys have become an integral part of the street food scene in mid-town Manhattan.

Yup, you’ll find exhausted, more-than-a-little impatient office workers popping down here during their lunch hour for some delicious chicken, gyros, and always delicious falafel platters.

And while they did have humble beginnings (they started 30+ years ago) as a little old food cart that sat at the corner of 53rd street and 6th avenue, this franchise has long since become a worldwide brand that now has locations in over one hundred different places across the globe.

Therefore, this really is one of those places you must eat in NYC. Just do yourself a solid and get their combo platter with some of their delicious white sauce that they are known for.

FYI, a combo platter here is super delish and comes with your choice of beef, chicken, or falafel gyros with rice, lettuce, and tomatoes – with your choice of toppings and white/hot sauce.

Address: 720 Amsterdam Ave,  New York, NY 1 0 0 2 5 10025

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 1:30 am.

Price : A combo platter will cost you $10.39.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 train to 96th street station and walk to The Halal Guys from there.

4. J.G. Melon

This iconic eatery on the Upper East Side has been around since 1972 and is known for its beyond juicy hamburgers (seriously though, they’re some of the best in the city), its delicious bloody marys, and their epic cottage fries.

So, this is a not-so-small hint that THIS is exactly what you should order here…verbatim.

Because real talk? The burgers here are basically a thin slice of perfection since they’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and served with pickles, red onions, and an assortment of sauces on the side.

There’s also an incredibly lovely, old-world charm to this place that is best-embodied through their enchanting., green and white table cloths, old-school jukebox, and refreshing outdoor cafe – making this one of the slightly fancier establishments on this list of the places you must eat in NYC.

Pro Tip: The decor isn’t the only thing old-world about this place. No really, just take a gander at their cash register. But seriously though, they are cash only so deffo come prepared with some dollar bills. They also do NOT accept reservations and have a “preppy” dress code.

Address: 1291 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021

Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 am to 3:00 am and on Sundays from 11:30 am to 1:00 am.

Price: A cheeseburger here is a reasonable $13.00.

How to Get There: Take the Q train to 72nd Street station or the 6 train to 77th Street station and walk to the. restaurant from there.

5. Los Tacos No. 1

Looking for a halfway decent taco in the veritable abyss that is the Mexican food scene in NYC? If so then mosey on over to Los Tacos No. 1.

Okay, truth be told the tacos at this place are way more than decent. They’re downright delicious, making this one of the VERY few places in the city where you can go for some really good Mexican cuisine.

Yeah, NYC is known for a lot of stuff but the Mexican food here is sorely lacking. Thankfully though, that is not the case at this hole-in-the-wall eatery with locations in Chelsea Market, Grand Central, Times Square, and Tribeca.

So, regardless of where you are in the city, you can still hit up this fast, super casual place and grab some of their made-to-order tacos.

And trust me, this place is legit since it was started by three friends who spent four months in Tijuana doing, “research” before they even opened this restaurant.

Also, expect a line out the proverbial door since their delicious, housemade tortillas are overflowing with carne asada (grilled steak), pollo asado (grilled chicken), adobado (marinated pork), and nopal (cactus).

There are also no chairs for sit-down dining, so grab your tacos to-go for a picnic in the park.

Address: 229 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036

Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and on Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Price: Tacos start at $4.25 each (FYI the steak and pork tacos are epic).

How to Get There: You can easily walk here from Times Square.

6. Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Originally opened as a tea parlor/bakery in 1920 that was known for its mooncakes, Nom Wah Tea Parlor has slowly evolved into an immortal, Chinatown eatery in NYC where you can get a decadently delicious dim sum of every variety.

So, do as the locals do and mosey on over during a Sunday afternoon so that you can enjoy a delicious brunch filled with dim sum, dims sum, and, oh yeah, more dim sum.

Just don’t expect to have the place all to yourself since locals know that is this one of the many places you must eat in NYC.

And while you’re here, try a variety of different small plates filled with Cantonese-style delicacies like dumplings, rice noodle rolls, pork buns, turnip cakes, and egg rolls with actual egg inside, just to name a few.

Yup, just a great place to come with your friends and sample a plethora of different dishes. They also, shockingly, accept reservations for parties of three or more on RESY.

So yeah, deffo book in advance if you can and order their shrimp and snow-pea-leaf dumplings, shrimp and pork shiu mai, egg rolls, and roast pork buns.

Also, as you probably already guessed, this is a super chill, incredibly informal place that is known for its food, not its service.

Address: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Price: Dim Sum starts at $5.25 per order.

How to Get There: Take the N/R/W/6 train to Canal Street station or the B/D train to Grand Street station and walk from there.

7. White Bear

Are you ready for some of the best Chinese food of your life? If so then run, don’t walk, to one of the many places you must eat in NYC.

It’s located in the Chinatown of Queens, aka Flushing, and is known as White Bear – a place that is known all across New York City for their next-level delicious dumplings.

You know, those glorious nuggets of dough that are filled with meat and veggies and then either fried or steamed to pure, foodie perfection.

And the Chinese-style dumplings here? Well, they are pretty rad since they are affordable, make great grab-and-go food, and are just super yummy to the extreme.

If you can, order a number 6, which is basically twelve pork/veggie wontons that are topped with chili oil. A very no-frills kind of dining experience that you won’t regret.

Address: 135-02 Roosevelt Ave, Queens, NY 11354

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: A number 6 will cost you $7.40.

How to Get There: Take the 7 train to the final stop (Main Street station) and walk to the restaurant from here.

8. Sunny and Annie’s Deli

Tucked away in Alphabet City, this low-key convenience store/deli is known for creating an epic version of one of NYC’s most immortal breakfast sandwiches…the bacon-egg-and-cheese (BEC for short).

And yes, we really do pronounce this all as one word. And, again, yes, you really are forbidden from leaving the tri-state area without ordering at least one of these amazing sammies.

Luckily for you though, you now know that Sunny and Annie’s Deli is one of the places you must eat in NYC for a classic, bacon egg and cheese.

Also, if you want to be like a REAL New Yorker, you should get it on a roll, not on a bagel like pictured above. #justsayin’

Pro Tip: There are no seats here so feel free to picnic it up in nearby Tompkins Square Park. They also serve a delicious BLT wrap which is a classic BLT that comes with avocado, cheddar, sprouts, and Russian dressing.

Address: 94 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009

Hours: Open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Price: $2.50 for a bacon egg and cheese on a roll.

How to Get There: Take the F train to Second Avenue station or the 6 train to Astor Place station and walk to the deli from there.

9. Kingston Tropical Bakery

The beauty about New York city is that you can find almost any cuisine that your heart desires. I’m serious! It is literally heaven for foodies. Kingston Tropical Brewery brings the Caribbean right to your city. In fact, it is the best place in the city for baked Caribbean goodies!

Once you walk to the street, the smell of the baked Jamaican goodies will just lead you the rest of the way. I’m serious! The store is 47+ years old and its popularity seems to have just increased with time. In fact, two more similar stores opened relatively close to it and yet it has not had any impact on the footfall. That tells you just how amazing the food is here!

Pro tip: This bakery makes insanely good patties. The crescent shaped goodies draw crowds from all over the city so definitely try to snag some yourself.

Address: 400 White Plains Rd, Bronx, NY 10466

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, Sat: 9:30-7pm and Sun: 10am-4pm

Price: A beef patty is $2.25 and $23 for a dozen

How to get there: The 219 St subway station is the closest to Kingston Tropical Bakery. You can get off there and walk. 

10. Veselka

Thing #3,765 you didn’t know about Girl with the Passport? Yeah, she is hardcore obsessed with pierogis and eats them every chance she gets.

Yup, I would be a carb-o-holic, party of one up in here.

So, if you love pierogies ALMOST as much as I do, then say hello to your new bestie, Veselka. It’s seriously one of the places you must eat in NYC since they have been around forever (or since 1954) and make some hella awesome food that will cure just about any hangover.

Yeah, Veselka is now basically a Ukrainian institution here in NYC since this diner is known for serving delicious borscht, kielbasa, pierogi. blintzes, rugelach, poppy-seed bread, and wheatberry pudding.

And, added bonus? All of their baked goods are made fresh daily, in-house, and are totally out of this world. Therefore, come to this informal place with friends and order everything mentioned above for the ultimate NYC foodie experience.

Address: 144 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm (Under normal, non-pandemic circumstances they are open twenty-four hours a day).

Price: A plate of four pierogi starts at $8.00 and it’s $15.00 for eight.

How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to Union Square or the R/W train to 8th Street station and walk to the restaurant from there.

11. LeVain Bakery

Honestly, LeVain Bakery probably makes one of the best cookies that I’ve ever had in my life. And that’s high praise coming from someone who is as obsessed with dessert as I am.

But, their chocolate chip walnut cookies are something extra special since they come out crunchy on the outside and all warm and gooey on the inside – making for the most ultimate of all cookie experiences.

These cookies are also hella big (6 ounces), so be sure to share one with a few of your closest friends. There also WILL be a line. But, it generally moves pretty quickly since staff is mad efficient.

FYI, the cookies here are also totally worth the wait. And while they do make dark chocolate chocolate chip, dark chocolate peanut butter chip, and oatmeal raisin flavors, the chocolate chip walnut cookies are the best IMHO.

You’ll also need to grab your cookie to go since there are no seats inside.

Pro Tip: Come later in the day when the line has died down since they bake cookies throughout the day and literally never run out.

Address: 1484 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028 (although they have locations all across the city)

Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Price:  $4.00 per cookie (so worth it)

How to Get There : Take the 4/5/6 to 86th Street station and walk to the bakery from there.

12. Magnolia Bakery

Most notably of Sex and the City fame, people mistakenly assume that you come to Magnolia Bakery from the cupcakes. And while they do make pretty dang good cupcakes, you’re really here for the banana pudding.

Made with decadent layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and creamy vanilla pudding, this is one of those desserts that will perpetually leave you wanting more.

And if you’re a total chocoholic, they also have a chocolate version made with Oreo wafers, chocolate pudding, and served with chocolate shavings on top.

So, stop by their original West Village location and try this epic dessert today!

Actually, come to think of it, visit one of their other locations instead since their flagship store is usually packed and routinely has lines that wrap around the block.

Pro Tip: Stop by at the right top of the year and you can enjoy seasonal varieties of your fave banana pudding.

Address: West 11th Street, 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: $4.50 for a small portion.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 train to 14th street station or the A/C/E train to 8th Avenue station or the B/F/M train to Washington Square station and walk to the bakery from there.

13.  Supermoon Bakehouse

If you ever find yourself wishing that the confections featured in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory were real, then this is one of the places you must eat in NYC.

Because Supermoon Bakehouse is a world of pure imagination! Get it? Because that’s one of the songs from the movie?

Okay, lame jokes aside, Supermoon Bakehouse really is more than a little amazing since they bake a divine assortment of croissants, donuts, and cruffins (a croissant/muffin hybrid) that come in wild flavors like banana split and peanut butter jelly.

Plus, they have the added distinction of being voted the BEST bakery in all of NYC. So yeah, you know these guys (and girls) are the real deal.

Their baked goods are also highly stylized (read super photogenic) so this place always makes for a stellar stop if you constantly find yourself doing it, “all for the gram”.

And while everything here is delicious, I personally love their sourdough bread and the kouign brûlée.croissant which is buttery and soft, with a crispy outside and a rich, cinnamon flavor (be forewarned that their menu changes weekly so this might not be available when you visit).

It also doesn’t hurt that their store features super sleek, chic AF decor that includes snazzy things like neon-pink lights.

Pro Tip: Arrive early since they routinely run out of everything, especially on the weekends since this place is uber-popular and they regularly have a line out the door.

Address: 120 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

Hours: Open Friday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Price: Most items are around $5.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the F or M train to Delancey Street/Essex Street station and walk to the bakery from there.

14. Milk Bar

Started by Christina Tosi of downtown NYC pastry fame, this now iconic uptown bakery is one of those places you must eat in NYC if you love dessert .

And you know your girl over here definitely does. This location on the upper west side also has the added benefit of having enough seats for up twenty people while sitting right next door to the legendary, Stumptown Coffee (it’s seriously one of the best coffee shops in NYC).

And while many people opt for their compost cookies (really good) and their cereal milk soft serve (I thought it was gross), I’m a huge fan of their crack pie since, hello, it really is the most delicious food crack ever.

Personally, though, I’d stop by with a few friends and get their greatest hits package, which consists of a compost cookie, a slice of Crack Pie, B’day Truffles (also good), and a Cereal Milk soft-serve ice cream with Cornflake Crunch on top.

Yup, just an all-around fun and funky, super sweet, uber-colorful place to grab dessert in NYC.

Address: 561 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024

Hours: Open 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily except on Friday and Saturday when they are open until 11:00 pm.

Price: $20 for all of their greatest desserts.

How to Get There: Take the 1/B?C train to 86th street station and walk from there.

Who rocks the house? Umm, dough doughnuts rock the house, that’s who.

Because this Flatiron area bakery is packed to the gills with innovative and downright delicious versions of your favorite breakfast treat. Confectionary delights that will leave you perpetually drooling for more.

However, believe it or not, this epic bakery first started out in 2010 in the Bed-Stuy area of Brooklyn. It was founded by none other than Fany Gerson, who created delicious, handmade, 4″ donuts that were total crowd-pleasers.

And while their classic plain glazed donut is always a winner, you can opt to walk a bit on the wild side with flavors like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, toasted coconut, hibiscus, dulce de leche, pecan pie, and pumpkin with salted pumpkin seeds.

Full disclosure? The last two are only available seasonally which means that you obviously need to stop by this fall in NYC .

Pro Tip: Try and get here early in the day – especially on the weekends – since this bakery routinely sells out of everything.

Address: 14 West 19th Street at, 5th Ave, New York, 10011

Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and on Sundays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: $4.50 each.

How to Get There: Take the R/W/F/M train to 23rd Street station or the 1 train to 18th street station and walk to the bakery from there.

16. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza

Not your average slice of New York style pizza, Artichoke Basille is known for its artichoke pizza. And yes, these slices really are as decadent and rich as they sound since they are made fresh daily with artichoke hearts, spinach, cream sauce, mozzarella, and pecorino romano cheese.

So, order a slice, bring a friend to share it with, and prepare for one of New York’s most iconic foodie experiences. Because this bad boy of the pizza world tastes like the best spinach and artichoke dip that you’ve ever had.

Only, it comes to you as a fresh and delicious piece of pizza. That’s why, even though you can order classic slices of Margherita and Sicilian pizza (both are good) the real star of the show here is the artichoke pizza, which is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before.

They also have simple, unassuming stool seating and routinely stay open until 4:00 am, making this the perfect place to go after a show at the Comedy Cellar or after a night of hardcore debauchery.

FYI, Mamoun’s Falafel is also right down the street so be sure to hit up both places while you’re here.

Address: 111 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 am.

Price: $4.50 for a slice.

How to Get There: Take the B/F/M/A/C/E train to Washington Square station and walk from there.

17. Africa Kine

All the way from Africa comes traditional dishes that you just can’t ignore. The restaurant takes its name from one of the founders. Kine and Samba Niang opened up Africa Kine way back in the 1996. They opened numerous outlets as the popularity of the food skyrocketed. They are currently based out of 7th Avenue.

The good thing about the new location is that they have expanded upon their menu. In fact, they have a special lunch menu for every day of the week. This means that as a regular, you are never going to get bored!

The restaurant in NYC concentrates on Sengalese cuisine. A popular favorite here is the Jolof rice and the Souloukhou (an interesting take on marinated fish). 

Pro tip: One of the things that really got me hooked onto this place is the fact that they offered home delivery. Sometimes I just don’t want to head out but I still want to dig into their specialty food.You can also order take out online and just head over and collect it.

Address: 2267, 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10030

Hours : Open every day of the week from 1pm to 1am

Price: The prices start at $17 per item

How to get there: The closest metro is at 135 St. It is just a short walk from there.

18. Joe’s Pizza

If you’re looking for places you must eat in NYC, then there really is no place better than Joe’s Pizza. I mean, not only do they serve a delicious version of the classic New York slice, but it’s a great place to go to get an authentic, NYC pizza experience (it’s also in Manhattan so you won’t have to haul ass to Brooklyn).

Therefore, the crust will be thin and crispy, the cheese will be equal parts stretchy, drippy, and gooey, and the sauce will be ever-so-slightly sweet.

Also, expect a super informal dining experience that will involve you standing at a table while you eat your pizza – at least if you’re lucky enough to snag a table since seating is limited.

FYI, the pizza served here will be “burn the rough of your mouth and tongue” hot. So yeah, consider yourself warned.

Also, you are forbidden from using a fork and knife to cut your pizza and MUST, instead, fold your slice down the middle and eat your way from the bottom to the crust.

You’ll know it’s a REAL New York slice when you see a river of grease drip out from the crust at the bottom.

Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014-44

Hours: Open Sunday through Wednesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 am and Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 am.

Price: $3.00 per slice and you should get a regular slice.

How to Get There: Take the B/D/F/M/A/C/E train to Washington Square station or the 1 train to Christopher’s Street station and walk to the pizzeria from there.

If you’re feeling extra ambitious and want to check out one of the places you must eat in NYC, then head on over to this pizzeria in Caroll Gardens (a neighborhood in Brooklyn).

Because Lucali easily makes THE best pizza in all of NYC and has been an iconic foodie hot spot ever since it was first opened by Mark Iacono in 2006.

And that makes sense since the pizza here is made the traditional way, with dough that has been left to proof for twenty-four hours, with house marinated tomatoes that are crushed into sauce, and pies that are made to order as they are cooked in a hot, wood oven.

The result? Fresh and delicious pizza that is totally worth waiting in line for. I also like to keep it simple and order a regular pie with basil and garlic. But, other toppings offered include pepperoni, shallots, onions, mushrooms, hot peppers, and sweet peppers.

Just be sure to bring plenty of cash and to arrive BEFORE 5:00 pm for seating since there will always be a line. Basically, you’ll just put your name on the list once you get here and can then go have a drink since they’ll call you when your table is ready.

Address: 575 Henry Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Hours: Open Wednesday through Monday from 5:45 pm to 11:00 pm.

Price: $24 for a large pie

How to Get There: Take the F or G train to Carroll Street station and walk from there.

20. Jongro BBQ

Looking to experience all the awesomeness of authentic Korean culture right here in NYC? Then beeline it on over to Koreatown.

It’s a vibrant neighborhood on 32nd Street (right near the Empire State Building) that is overflowing with Korean spas, Korean karaoke places, and, you guessed it, authentic Korean BBQ restaurants.

And one of the best of them all is Jongro BBQ since, well, it’s one of the places you must eat in NYC – at least if you like Korean BBQ.

So, order up generous helpings of fresh pork and beef that you then cook for yourself, right there at the grill on your table. Also, be sure to leave room for some of the restaurant’s amazing sides, like traditional Kimchi (you get a BUNCH so if kimchi isn’t your thing, don’t worry).

Finally, order a bit of soju (a traditional Korean liquor/alcohol) to compliment your meal before enjoying the old-world, wooden decor that will seamlessly transport you back to the Korea of old.

Address: 22 W 32nd St 2nd floor, New York, NY 10001

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 am to 12:00 am and Friday/Saturday from 11:30 am to 1:00 am.

Price: Prices vary by dish but platters of meat (get the Bulgogi) start at around $33.00 each and you’ll then cook it yourself.

How to Get There: Take the N/R/W/B/D/F/M train to Herald Square or the 1/2/3 train to Penn Station and walk from there.

21. Emilio’s Ballato

Want to try some truly authentic Italian food while you’re in NYC? Then go just outside of Little Italy, to Nolita, where you can experience all of the deliciousness that Emilio’s Ballato has to offer!

It’s definitely one of the places you must eat in NYC since they are known for serving up amazing, Italian-American dishes like meatballs, baked clams, parm of every variety (veal, eggplant, chicken, meatball, etc.) baked ziti, and lasagna.

And along with the delicious cuisine, you’ll also enjoy an atmosphere of old-world Italian charm that includes giant menus, waiters in tuxedos, red-checked, and table-clothes that would make no less than the Godfather himself proud.

Because this place has been in business since 1956, has served a variety of celebrities, and continues to pay homage to the Little Italy of old that we all kind of miss.

Not surprisingly, they DEFFO do NOT take reservations, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.

Pro Tip: Portions are huge, service is great, and your meal comes with fresh, warm bread. Highlights include the tagliatelle with bolognese, the cannolis, and the tiramisu.

Address: 55 E Houston St, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm and Friday/Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am.

Price: Entrees start at around $31 each but are huge.

How to Get There: Take the R/W train to Prince Street station or the B/D/F/M train to Broadway-Lafayette Station and walk to the restaurant from there.

22. Clinton Street Baking Company

Home to one of the best brunches in NYC, Clinton Street Baking Company is one of those places you must eat in NYC since it’s all about the pancakes up in here.

That’s why, if you love pancakes almost as much as I do, then this is easily one of the best restaurants in New York for you!

Because at its core, Clinton Street Baking Company is this amazing, low-key, family-owned restaurant where you can go for some uber-delicious, blueberry pancakes.

An iconic brunch staple that is the perfect cure for any residual hangovers that you might have.

Now, is this place fancy? Hell to the no. But, that doesn’t really matter since the pancakes topped with stewed Maine blueberries are the stuff that all my foodie dreams are made of.

However, if you’d rather try something savory then go for the biscuit sandwich with scrambled eggs, melted cheddar cheese, homemade tomato jam, and hash browns. Add on a side of sugar-cured bacon and you have one of the best meals in the city.

Pro Tip: Waits for weekend brunch can regularly exceed two hours. Therefore, avoid the queues and stop by in the evening or during the week since they serve breakfast all day long.

Address: 4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002

Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Price: Entrees start at $12.00 and go up to $19.00 (I’d get the pancakes though for $16.00)

How to Get There: Take the F/M train to Delancey Street/Essex Street station and walk to the restaurant from there.

23. Russ and Daughters

Bagels and New York kind of go together like PB and J. So yeah, a total match made in heaven for anyone who’s not a fan of this classic, American sammie.

That’s also why I cannot in good conscience let you leave the city without eating an amazing, New York bagel. And one of the places you must eat in NYC for a delicious bagel is none other than Russ and Daughters .

And if you’re partial to salmon, then definitely get a classic New York bagel with cream cheese and lox since it’s the stuff that all the kids with refined tastes crave.

Especially since these culinary giants have been mastering the art of smoking fish since 1914 and now have deli-like counters all across the city where you can go and grab your bagel to-go.

However, for a more formal sit-down experience, head to either the Russ & Daughter’s Café on the Lower East Side or the one inside the Jewish Museum on the Upper East Side.

Both offer guests all the classics of the deli counter but with a variety of egg dishes and Jewish deli staples available too, including matzo ball soup and potato latkes.

Plus, the café even has a bar where you can enjoy a variety of brunch-erific drinks like champagne, wine, beer, and several unique, flavor-infused Bloody Marys.

Address: 127 Orchard Street, New York, New York 10002

Hours: Open Thursday through Monday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

Price: A classic bagel and lox will cost you $14.00 (If you’re feeling fancy get the nova smoked salmon with chive cream cheese on an everything bagel with tomato, onion, and capers).

How to Get There: Take the F/M train to Delancey Street/Essex Street station or the B/D train to Grand Street station and walk from there.

24. Jacob’s Pickle’s

Quietly sitting on NYC’s Upper West Side is this brunch spot  that is absolutely one of the places you must eat in NYC.

And, of course, I’m talking about Jacob’s Pickle’s, which is known for its decadent, Southern comfort food and its amazing variety of 20+ in-house craft beers.

So, sit down inside this well-designed, rustic meets city chic, barn-inspired eatery and savor fan faves like the buttermilk fried chicken and homemade biscuits.

Also, as the name so accurately suggests, you obviously have to sample their homemade pickles. which are made in small batches and will forever change the way you feel about pickles.

Plus. added bonus? The vast majority of menu items here cost less than $20, like their decadent mac and cheese.

Therefore, you won’t actually have to go broke while enjoying some of the top restaurants in NYC.

Now, time for the not-so-good news. Jacob’s Pickles only accepts reservations for parties of 6 or more. Therefore, waits are exceptionally long on the weekends and service is kind of MEH as a result.

Yup, you’ve been officially warned.

Address: 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 2:00 am, Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 am, Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 am, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 am.

Price: Most entrees here are around $14.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 86th Street station and walk to the restaurant from there.

25. The Smith

Not gonna lie, The Smith has easily been one of my favie fave brunch spots for YEARS now. That’s why I obviously needed to add it to this list of places you must eat in NYC.

Plus, they have multiple locations across the city – with outposts in NoMad, the East Village, Midtown, and Lincoln Square – making it, now, easier than ever to get your brunch fix and enjoy some of the best places to eat in New York, regardless of where you are in the city.

And when you dine here, expert to enjoy classic, American fare that ranges from healthy to next level indulgent.

Personally, though, I’d opt for the mac and cheese (they say it’s a starter but it’s easily a big enough portion for a main), the Ranchero Scramble for brunch (perfectly scrambled eggs, black beans, cheddar, avocado, and chipotle salsa on fresh corn tortillas), and some freshly baked cookies to-go.

They also DO accept reservations for brunch so be sure to make some before you dine here on the weekend.

Pro Tip: Visit the East Village location since it’s light and bright and just really well-designed, making it the perfect place for dining out with friends.

Address: 55 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, on Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:00 pm, and on Sunday from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Entrees range in price from $16.00 to $23.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the R/W train to 8th Street station or the 5/6 train to Astor Place station and walk from there.

26. Sunday in Brooklyn

Honestly, I usually hate schlepping out of Manhattan and ALL THE WAY (lol) into Brooklyn. Yup, I am indeed lazy.

But, the one (actually there are several on this list) exception to that rule is Sunday in Brooklyn. Because as you probably already guessed, I’m more than a little obsessed with brunch.

Yeah, it’s kind of my favorite meal of the week, and the fact that Sunday in Brooklyn serves up insanely awesome pancakes – with hazelnut maple praline and brown butter no less –  has me wanting to stop by every single weekend.

Thankfully though, my eternal desire to actually be able to fit into my clothes is what prevents me from doing that eating brunch here in Williamsburg every single weekend.

I also love that uber-fab American restaurant has its very own marketplace, barroom, and a light and airy upstairs dining room with a garden. Yup, feel free to be duly impressed.

So, the moral of the story? Do yourself a favor and visit one of the many places you must eat in NYC now, before the HANGRY beast within totally takes over.

Address: 348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Hours: Open daily from 10:30 am to 3:300 pm and again from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Price: Most entrees start at around $15 but I’d go with the pancakes. the egg and cheese sammie is also really good, as are the wood-roasted mushrooms.

How to Get There : Take the M train to Marcy Avenue station or the L train to Bedford Avenue station and walk to the restaurant from there.

27. Sylvia’s Restaurant

I know eating super amazing soul food probably isn’t the first thing that you think of when dining in NYC. But honestly? It really should be.

Especially since Harlem is practically overflowing with epic, soul-food-centric places that should definitely be at the very top of your list of places you must eat in NYC.

And Sylvia’s Restaurant is 110% one of those places. After all, this eatery has been serving customers since 1962 when Sylvia Woods, a North Carolina native, started her restaurant and quickly became the unofficial queen of soul food.

Since then, this place – and its ever-lit marquee out front with Sylvia’s emblazoned on it – has become a foodie landmark where you can order classics like fried chicken, cornbread, BBQ ribs, mac and cheese, and chicken and waffles.

So, come hungry, enjoy the down-home cooking, appreciate the warm and friendly atmosphere, and quickly become part of the Sylvia’s Restaurant extended family.

Pro Tip: Stop by the legendary Apollo Theater either before or after since you are literally right down the street.

Address: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Hours: Open Monday through Wednesday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm and Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Most entrees start at around $15 each.

How to Get There: Take the 2/3/B/D/A/C train to 125th Street station and walk to the restaurant from there.

28. Murray’s Bagels

If you’re in Greenwich Village and looking for one of the places you must eat in NYC, then check out Murray’s Bagels and them that Kelly sent you.

Just kidding. They have no idea who I am so don’t say that. Instead, walk up to the counter and order an everything bagel with cream cheese. And yes, you are forbidden from getting your bagel toasted since these carb bombs are totally delicious without any toasting.

You’ll also love that the bagels here are made fresh here daily, that the staff is friendly but efficient, and that the decor inside is pretty nice, at least as far as bagel places go.

And while there isn’t a ton of indoor seating, they’ve set up some nice white tables outside where you can sit and people-watch while hoovering your bagel of awesome.

Address: 500 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm, except on the weekends when they open at 7:00 am.

Price: Around $5 for a bagel with cream cheese.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3?F/M train to 14th street station and walk from there.

29. Pommes Frittes

Looking for some of the best french fries in New York City? Then hit up Pommes Frittes on MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village.

Because this is without a doubt, one of the places you must eat in NYC, at least if you like thick-cut, double-fried fries of the non-French variety.

So, step inside this old-world, basement-level fry shop, and uncover sturdy wood tables with pre-cut holes where you can readily place your divine, paper cone full of hot and delicious, fried potatoes.

And while you may be tempted to get a large, stick with a regular order of fries since there will be more than enough greasy goodness to go around, especially since you have a whopping, twenty-five different specialty sauces to choose from.

Now, I’m sure that all the sauces here are good, but my personal faves are the sweet mango chutney, the spicy mayo, and the Thai Chili ketchup. So, go forth, order lots of fries, and be the happy human that I know you are.

Pro Tip : If you want a slightly more substantial meal, get their poutine and thank me later.

Address: 128 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open Sunday through Wednesday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am, Thursday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am, and Friday and  Saturday from 11:00 am to 3:00 am.

Price: $6.50 for a small cone of fries and sauces are extra.

How to Get There: Take the D/F/M/A/C/E to Washington Square and 4th Street station and walk to the restaurant from there.

30. Buvette

If you love France almost as much as you love New York City, then this is one of the places you must eat in NYC since Buvette is basically like a dream come true for Francophiles.

I mean, not only does the entire restaurant look like the sleekest French bistro that you ever did see, but they have tons of outdoor seating that is perfect for relaxing with a latte and watching the people mosey on by.

The being said, because of the current state of the world, you will NOT be given an actual menu. Instead, you’ll have to use your phone to scan the QR Code on the wall and then order from there.

However, once you master the fine art of QR scanning, you can order delicious things like a buttermilk waffle sandwich with bacon, a sunny side up egg, and gruyere (I’ve heard it’s good).

Although, I personally ordered their chevre and absolutely loved it. It’s basically this decadent, small plate of steamed eggs, goat cheese, and sundried cherry tomatoes.

Just try to eat it semi-quickly because if you wait too long, the oil will separate out from the eggs and that’s kind of gross. it’s also served with this toasted, fresh, crusty bread that is super delicious and that provides a great textural contrast to the cloud-like eggs.

Pro Tip: Get here EARLY, like right when they open. Yeah, this place is super popular and they don’t accept reservations so it’s imperative that you go at an off time since this place is literally always crowded.

Address: 42 Grove St, New York, NY 10014

Hours : Open Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm and Friday/Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 am.

Price: Entrees start at around $15 each.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Christopher Street station or the A/C/E train to 4th Street and Washington Square and walk from there.

31. Fairfax

Easily one of those places you must eat in NYC for breakfast, Fairfax is this super cool, Greenwich village eatery where the only thing better than the decor is the food.

Because this restaurant basically looks like a beyond quirky version of your best friend’s living room – at least if your bestie had mismatched sofas, vintage posters, vibrant bookshelves, and animal heads on the walls.

However, if eclectic to the extreme decor ain’t your thing, then dine outside and order a petit omelet. And while my eggs were more like scrambled eggs than an omelet, they were super tasty since the chives added a nice touch of flavor. I also loved the light kale salad on the side that helped me feel mildly healthy.

And FYI, you SHOULD get some toast with your omelet since the bread here is fresh and delish and next-level awesome. You are also forbidden from leaving without ordering a coffee of some sort since this eatery carries Stumptown brand coffee.

But, just in case you’re quite in the know, Stumptown Coffee is straight-up nectar of Gods and basically some of the finest coffee in the city. So, be sure to caffeinate to the extreme with a giant mug of their coffee and thank me later.

Address: 234 West 4th Street, New York, NY 10014

Hours : Open Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 11:30 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:30 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Most entrees are $13 and up.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train th Christopher Street station and walk from there.

32. Loring Place

Real talk? Run, don’t walk to this Greenwich Village, date night hot spot. Because, not gonna lie, this swank AF, super chic place served me some of the BEST food I’ve had in a very long time.

No really, I recently dined at Loring Place and loved it so much that I just had to add them to this list of places you must eat in NYC. That being said, this restaurant is kind of expensive, so be sure to stop by for a special occasion or when you have some extra disposable income available to you.

You also should NOT roll up in a ratty pair of PJs because this place is nice. And while the staff are awesome and probably wouldn’t say anything, I think you’d feel a little uncomfortable being so underdressed.

Anyway, back to the food, which is modern, totally reimagined American fare that is brought to you by the culinary genius that is Chef Dan Kluger of ABC Kitchen notoriety.

If you have the stomach for it, order their whole wheat, squash blossom pizza. It’s this slightly weird but totally delicious combination of ricotta, honey, and chiles.

Yeah, I tried really hard not to eat the whole thing – since I wasn’t super hungry – and failed miserably.

Pro Tip: This is another one of those places you must eat in NYC that is popular. So, do not attempt to dine here on the weekend without a reservation.

Address: 21 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

Hours: Open daily from 5:00 pm to 9:15 pm, except on Sundays when they close at 8:45 pm.

Price : $24 for a personal pizza so, yeah, not cheap.

How to Get There:  Take the B/D/F/M train to West 4th Street and Washington Square and walk from there.

33. Mamoun’s Falafel

In Greenwich Village, students from nearby NYU like to party hard until the sun comes up. So, they need a place where they can go to get some deep-fried, Middle Eastern deliciousness.

And Mamoun’s Falafel is THAT place since this hole-in-the-wall falafel shop has been around since ye olde 1971. I also appreciate that their hot sauce is actually spicy and not lame AF. But I digress.

Anyway, a lot of people seem to enjoy their tabouli sandwiches. However, I personally find them to be a bit dry and recommend that you order their falafel instead.

I would also live a little and get falafel with pita, tomato, lettuce, and tahini. If you can, add a little baba ganoush or hummus on top since yes, their falafel too can feel a bit dry in your mouth.

And, per usual, this place becomes totally inundated with drunk college late into the night. So, arrive early or prepare to stand while you devour your falafel.

Pro Tip: The Comedy Cellar is basically right next door and you should absolutely see a show here. Not only are the tickets cheap, but a lot of famous comedians like Adam Sandler, Dave Chapelle, and Amy Schumer randomly stop by.

So yeah, you could definitely spot a celebrity before eating at one of the places you must eat in NYC.

Address: 19 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open Sunday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am, Monday through Wednesday from 11:00 am to 2:00 am, Thursday from 11:00 am to 3:00 am, and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 4:00 am.

Price: Around $2.00 for falafel and pita.

How to Get There; Take the B/D/F/M train to West 4th Street and Washington Square and walk from there.

Kochi is one of the best places to eat in NYC if you have a hankering for Korean food. Full disclosure… This is one of the Michelin star restaurants so it is pricey but boy oh boy, is the food worth the money.

Kochi in Korean means skewer. That seems to be the theme of the restaurant because one of the top attractions is the grilled bites which are obviously skewered.

Unlike most of the Michelin star restaurants in the city, this one is loud and boisterous. It has a fun vibe going on and in true Korean style, the idea is to have a meal where everyone talks and picks off a large spread.

Wondering how much this would cost you? Well at bare minimum it would set you back by $75 for a meal which would include delicacies like blow fish and rice cakes.

Address: 652 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States

Hours: Sun – Thur: 5 – 9:30pm, Fri and Sat: 5 – 10 pm

Price: Starts at $75 per meal

How To Get There: Take the bus to 10 Av/W 45 St

35. Dhamaka

Love Indian food? Then you are extremely lucky to be in NYC because Dhamaka will knock your socks off. The restaurant markets its food as the forgotten side of India and the concept has really taken off.

Some of the delicacies that you really should try are the Methi na Gota aka a fried chickpea flour ball with methi which comes from Gujarat and  the Chapli Kebab which is a kind of short rib just Indian style. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, try the Gurda Kapoora. This is goat kidney and testicles made with a tomato base and served with an Indian bread. 

Intrigued yet? I would hope so. Oh and the prices here are pretty decent. So don’t hesitate to walk in. It is without one of the best places to eat in NYC if you love Indian food!

Pro Tip: The food is HOT! So if you aren’t used to spicy food, ask for a milder version when you order. The staff are super helpful and will accommodate your request.

Address: 119 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Hours: Mon closed. Tue – Fri: 5 – 10pm, Sat -Sun: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5-10pm

Price: Items on the menu start at around $20

How To Get There: Take the F, J, M train to Delancey St · Essex St

36. Petite Boucherie

Can’t get enough French food but don’t have the time to go to France? Oh! The horrors! Just kidding. Luckily for us New Yorkers there is always a good place to catch some good French cuisine and the Petite Boucherie hits all the right notes. Plus unlike many of the extremely good restaurants, it isn’t very expensive. A bonus if you ask me!

Petite Boucherie has a motto aka ‘Joie de Vivre’. For those that don’t know the translation, it means the joy of living or the potential to find pleasure in everyday things. Here it is quite literally translated in the food that is served, the ambiance that is created and just all round good vibes.

If you want to try something different try the snails as a starter. They were surprisingly good. The seafood pasta, salade verte and filet mignon were delicious. Susanna was so kind as she helped us make our selection. If you have any dietary restrictions or are curious about the menu itself, just ask her. She will definitely help you out!

Just note that the place isn’t very large and that it fills up really quickly. So make a reservation in advance.

Address: First Floor, 14 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014, United States

Hours: Mon-Fri: 11am – 12am, Sat-Sun: 10am – 12am

Price: Most entrees start at $18

How To Get There: Take the red line to Christopher St-Sheridan Sq and walk from there.

37. Cowgirl

If you are searching for one of the best places to eat in NYC that serves up delicious southwestern cuisine then Cowgirl is where you want to be. While it may be located in the West Village, you will find that it is filled with the famed Texan hospitality. They have somehow managed to combine the fiery NYC spirit in so you will definitely feel right at home.

The decor is also uber cozy. Think old school diner with wooden chairs and paneling. Let’s not forget the red and white checked tablecloth on every table which really seals the deal. 

Cowgirl is known for its juicy burgers. I had my medium rare burger and I’m picky mind you but I had nothing to complain about here. I just wish I had more space to eat more than one burger. Sigh. Another great thing to order is the ribs. The portions are HUGE! I mean Flintstone sized portions so be well aware of what you are ordering.

The kids’ meals are also well loved. Chopped brisket, beans and fritos… What’s not to love? I mean, I wanted my own platter even though I’m not a kid!

Oh and let’s not forget the array of drinks for the adults in the room. If you come in early you can catch the $10 margaritas which are to die for. I also loved having a chat with Michele who is the owner of the restaurant. The whole place has such a homey feeling that you definitely would come back more than once.

Address: 519 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014, United States

Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:30 am -11 pm, Sat: 10:30am – 12 am Sun: 10:3 am – 10:30 pm

Price: Burgers start at $18

How To Get There: Take the orange or blue line to Christopher St.

Places To Eat In NYC FAQ

What part of nyc has the best food.

You really can’t break up NYC into parts and say one place has the best food. Each area has their own specialities and it is rather like comparing apples and oranges. The best places to catch a bite to eat in NYC in my humble opinion are Chinatown, East Village, Harlem, West Village and Korea town.

What Sandwich is NYC Famous For?

You haven’t lived until you have taken a bite of the famed New York Signature sandwich. Making this dish requires slices of thinly sliced pastrami which are layered between rye bread. Mustard is one of the toppings that you will find frequently used. Some restaurants even add in cornbeef. 

How Much Does A Meal Cost In NYC?

The cost of a meal in NYC fluctuates depending on the restaurant and the area that you are eating in. On an average expect to pay about $20-25 per meal. 

Why Is NYC Food So Good?

People will give you a number of different reasons for why the food in NYC is so good. Honestly, I think it boils down to diversity and authenticity. The people living in NYC are so diverse. They bring along with them their own food cultures and culinary palate.

When they set up restaurants in the city, you will find that they cook up an authentic meal based on what they grew up with. This is what makes the food scene in NYC so good.

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Map of Places You Must Eat in NYC

Additional Places You Must Eat in NYC Resources You’ll Love

• 20 best places to shop in NYC on a budget
• 100+ amazing NYC slang words you need to know
• 17 fun things to do in NYC on your birthday
• How to see NYC on a budget
• The Ultimate NYC Solo Travel Guide
• 15 Amazing Things to do on the Upper West Side NYC
• Best Things to do on the Upper East Side
• Best New York City Bucket List
• 30+ Best Books about NYC
• 20 Best Things to do in NYC this Winter
• Best Things to do this Christmas in NYC
• Best Bottomless Brunch in NYC
• Best Vegan Restaurants in NYC

There you have it NYC travel fans! Because that just about wraps up this epic guide to 31 places you must eat in NYC. 

Tell me, did all of your picks for the top restaurants in nyc make the cut if not then let me know in the comments below so that i can check them out. , and if you found this post helpful, be sure to join our email list and then pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

Susan Baraz

Sunday 18th of July 2021

Your list is very cool except for the horror committed by showing the ultimate Gray’s Papaya hot dog WITH KETCHUP!!! No NY’r would ever do that. Mustard and sauerkraut-Done! I know you said it in text, but showing a hot dog dripping in ketchup is a definite no, no. Also, one of my very favorite spots, a fixture on W. 70th, is Cafe Luxembourg-always packed, now since Covid-huge enclosed area on the street-even more seating. Moules-Steak frite, Luxemburger and in Winter their Onion Soup. Yum.

girlwiththepassport

Monday 19th of July 2021

Oh wow. How have I not heard of Cafe Luxembourg? Sounds amazing. I'll have to check it out asap. And yeah, you are not wrong about the pic. LOL. It's very anti-NY. I'll need to retake it at some point. I will say - in my defense - that it was a friend's hot dog and not mine. LOL.

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32 Most Beautiful Restaurants In NYC Right Now

Of course the food is divine, but these stunning restaurant design concepts across NYC are so beautiful you have to see them to believe it!

NYC is home to an endless amount of restaurants to try. However, some places go above and beyond just mouthwatering fare to create jaw-dropping environments that tantalize more than your taste.

From dramatic pendants suspended in the air to floor-to-ceiling glass windows, we have put together a collection of the most beautiful restaurants in NYC.

1. Thai Villa, Flatiron

Not only does Thai Villa serve some of the best Thai cuisine you can find in the city, but it’s interior is absolutely show-stopping. From gorgeous hanging lanterns to sparkling, ornate decor, you’ll enjoy the perfect ambiance to pair with your delicious dishes. The space has two levels of dining (both equally as gorgeous) and a backlit bar that invites you to sip on one of their uniquely crafted cocktails. Make your reservation on their website here .

Where:  5 E 19th St, New York

2. One if by Land, Two if by Sea, Greenwich Village

Leave your Sundays open for One if by Land, Two if by Sea’s enchanting jazz brunch . Located in a historical carriage house in the Village, you can’t miss out on dreamy music with a mimosa in hand. The gorgeous venue is bathed in candlelight with a stunning baby grand piano, brick fireplace, and a private garden. Book your reservations today.

3. 1803, Tribeca

Transport to New Orleans at this lively restaurant sure to lift your spirits! With vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns decorating the entire space, you’ll forget you’re even in NYC. 1803 serves up Cajun-Creole cuisine like no one else with their Shrimp & Grits, Gumbo, Niçoise Salad, Jambalaya and more. Perfect for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the space even hosts live jazz. See more on their website here .

Where:  82 Reade St, New York

4. Temple Court, FiDi

Tucked inside the luxurious Beekman Hotel, Temple Court comes from American chef and restauranteur, Tom Colicchio. The entire space is gorgeously wrapped in stained-glass windows. Experience fine dining inside this historic space and make sure to check out the bar room for an after dinner drink! See more here.

Where:  5 Beekman St, New York

5. Lamia’s Fish Market, East Village

Immerse yourself in an underwater oasis at this East Village gem. Find curving booths in blue velvet line the walls and beautiful nautical-themed murals and decor decorate the unassumingly large venue. Indulge in their fish-forward menu that will whisk you away to the breezy oceanside. More details here.

Where:  47 Avenue B, New York

6. Tavern on the Green, Central Park

NYC legend, Tavern on the Green has a reputation for its elegant fare, spectacular location, and of course, its dreamy design. Featuring a beautiful garden and courtyard seating during the warmer months, the interior is just as breathtaking. Bask in the sun with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and look out onto Central Park.

Where:  W 67th St, New York

7. Le Coucou, SoHo

French fare with a gorgeous atmosphere, oui oui! Beyond having one of the most beautiful bars in NYC, Le Coucou honors European gastronomy by bringing a piece of Paris to NYC. Coming from internationally acclaimed Chef Daniel Rose, savor everything on the menu from the Foie gras poché au Sauternes to the Canette a l’Orange. Find out more on their website .

Where:  138 Lafayette St, New York

8. Verōnika, Flatiron

After you’re done checking out the Fotografiska Museum, head upstairs to the second floor and dine at Verōnika! This elegant spot tucked away upstairs is full of velvet furniture, ornate chandeliers, burning candles, and world class photography that’s just as good as the works downstairs. The classic European menu is equally delicious and the cocktails are fantastic. Book a spot here .

Where: 281 Park Ave S, Floor 2

9. Peak, Hudson Yards

Dine in the sky at Hudson Yards’ restaurant Peak. This fine establishment boasts stunning 360° skyline views that will have your jaw drop to the floor. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant is 101 floors above and a definite must-visit.

Where:  30 Hudson Yards 101st floor, New York

10. River Cafe, DUMBO

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You know you’re in for a stunning view when you dine at the River Cafe. Situated right on the East River, admire the glittering skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from your table. The Michelin Star restaurant offers elevated fare from Scallop Ceviche to Wagyu Steak Tartare. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to try Blandy’s Madeira Dessert Flight and indulge in a variety of petit sweets. See more here.

Where:  1 Water St, Brooklyn

11. Aurora Ristorante, Williamsburg

Aurora Ristorante is a green oasis tucked away in Williamsburg. Enjoy their rustic atmosphere with wood finishings, or dine out in their heated garden and be surrounded by blossoming plants and glittering fairy lights. Make your reservation here.

Where:  70 Grand St, Brooklyn

12. Cathédrale, East Village

Located inside the Moxy East Village, Cathédrale is a French-Mediterranean fusion spot that’s design is as elegant as its food. Be blown away by its dreamy and dimly lit dining room that goes as far back as the eye can see. With seemingly endless ceilings and an outdoor dining terrace, it’s no surprise that this restaurant made it on our list. See more here.

Where:  112 E 11th St, New York

13. Grand Central Oyster Bar, Midtown

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Grand Central Oyster Bar (@nyoysterbar)

This NYC landmark is a gorgeous piece of history that’s been serving from an enormous menu of seafood specialities since 1913. Known as the oldest restaurant in Grand Central, you’ll sit beneath the charming curved ceilings as you choose from 25 types of fish and 30 varieties of oysters. They previously closed down operations at the start of the pandemic but they have been back in business since September 2021.

Where:  89 E 42nd St

14. Buddha-Bar, Tribeca

Also found in major cities like Dubai, London, & Prague, Buddha-Bar opened a NYC location last year. The space is ornately decorated with dramatic pendant lights, custom furnishings and a 16-foot glass-hewn Buddha sculpture that steals the show. The menu features Asian fusion dishes and is helmed by Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli, Food Network’s Chopped Champion.

Where:  62 Thomas St, New York

15. Le Crocodile, Williamsburg

You can find this airy, neighborhood brasserie inside the Wythe Hotel. The space is inspired by Chef Partners Jake Leiber and Aidan O’Neal “Parisian and New York favorites.” Book a table for brunch, lunch or dinner and admire the chic design from their tiled floors to their charming bar. More details here.

Where:  80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

16. Casa Ora, East Williamsburg

Casa Ora is a beautiful gem that’s an immediate breath of fresh air. Step inside to see vibrant works of art cover the wall, blooming greenery at every corner, and glowing candlelight. Diners can enjoy Venezuelan plates for an intimate culinary experience. See more here.

Where:  148 Meserole St, Brooklyn

17. Twenty Three Grand, SoHo

This trendy spot tucked off of Grand is one of SoHo’s latest culinary gems, and it’s packed to the brim with greenery, ambient lighting, and inviting blue cushioned booths. During the winter, they’re also offering heated outdoor yurts, which diners can reserve and enjoy a speciality menu while playing board games with friends or family! Book a table here.

Where:  23 Grand St, New York

18. Fandi Mata, Williamsburg

Go on a blissful escape to to the Mediterranean at Fandi Mata in Williamsburg. Take in the gorgeous space filled with plants and patterns and make sure to snap your photo on their iconic bright blue staircase. Going for “industrial-chic,” this lively spot is a perfect place to take friends or family. More info here.

Where:  74 Bayard St, Brooklyn

19. Nerai, Midtown East

Discover a floral paradise at Nerai, Midtown East’s transcendent Greek restaurant. Guests can enjoy their spacious outdoor patio in warm weathered months two floors of dining year-round. Helmed by Executive Chef Aaron Watson, order mouthwatering menu items like the Shrimp Mikrolimano, Lavraki, Short Rib Yiouvetsi and Seafood Orzotto.

Where: 55 E. 54th Street, New York

20. Nubeluz, NoMad

José Andrés has done it again with another stunning NYC restaurant Nubeluz. The space, located above the Ritz Carlton, NoMad, opened up last September and boasts a sense of glamour you can only find in NYC. Sip sky-high cocktails and watch the city light up from the 270-degree views. See more here.

Where: 25 West 28th Street, New York

21. Lulla, Chelsea

Led by partners & founders of Renwick Hospitality Group, Carsten Johannsen and Gary Wallach, Lulla is a little slice of Italian luxury in Chelsea. Enjoy modern-Italian fare, paired with a jaw-dropping interior that feels as inviting as it is beautiful.

Where:  113 W 24th St, New York

22. Apotheke , NoMad

The beloved Chinatown speakeasy opened a second location in NoMad, complete with a basement bar and rooftop terrace. From the rosa aurora marble bar to the eclectic glassware, it’s a true NYC gem. Read more here .

Where: 9 W 26th St, New York

23. Amylos Taverna, Astoria

Astoria is the new Athens with Amylos Taverna. From its mouthwatering Greek food to its inviting atmosphere, you can’t miss this spot when you’re in the neighborhood !

Where: 33-19 Broadway, Queens

24. tán, Midtown East

Forget the plane ride and travel to this Tulum-inspired escape in the heart of Manhattan. tán not only boasts one of the most breathtaking restaurant interiors, it’s elevated, seafood-focused fare make it a favorite on this list!

Where: 209 East 49th St

25. Milk & Roses, Greenpoint

This Brooklyn spot is not only a cute restaurant and bar, but it’s even take a life as an event venue! During the summer, you can eat outside in the gorgeous garden when the weather’s nice, or in the cooler months snuggle amongst their vintage book shelves and catch up with friends!

Where: 35 Box St, Brooklyn

26. Bad Roman, Columbus Circle

Your phone will most definitely eat first at this dazzling dining space. From their beautifully presented and semi-quirky dishes to the interior’s opulent pops of color and detailing, Bad Roman isn’t just to satisfy your stomach but a feast for the eyes!

Where:  10 Columbus Cir, New York

27. Habibi, Bushwick

Though it might not have the prettiest exterior, considering it’s located inside a warehouse in the middle of Bushwick, what awaits you inside will absolutely blow your mind. Prepare to be greeted with bubbly on the way up a freight elevator to the actual dining room that’s complete with sparkling city views, ambient lighting and greenery. Read more about Habibi The Restaurant here .

Where: 154 Scott Ave., Brooklyn

28. Breeze , Greenpoint

Expect delicious Sichuanese dishes in addition to a Shanghainese Dim Sum section  at Greenpoint’s gorgeous new restaurant, Breeze. The minimal exterior invited diners inside to an even more beautiful interior with a neutral color palette and tons of greenery. Read more about Breeze here .

Where: 595 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn

29. La Marchande, FiDi

Situated inside the luxurious Wall Street Hotel, La Marchande’s stylized café-inspired dining room will make you feel like you are dining in France. Chef John Fraser’s tantalizing chophouse menu will make your mouth water, thanks to his signature specials and wonderful interpretations of Parisian Street food. Top it off with one of their 200+ French wines and you’ll never want to leave.

Where: 88 Wall St

30. Hav & Mar, Chelsea

This beautiful seafood house from Chef Marcus Samuelsson sits right in the heart of Chelsea, and its contemporary and classically design interior stuns us every time we dine here. From the beautifully illuminated circular bar to the hand crafted tile mermaids on the wall, we couldn’t think of a better ambiance to enjoy seafood like snapper, halibut, and more. Book your spot here .

Where: 245 11th Ave

31. Sushi By Bou Hotel 32|32

Close your eyes and open your mouth to an elevated culinary experience that will put your senses to the test. Hosted for a limited time at Sushi By Bou at the beautiful Hotel 32|32, you can explore a secret omakase menu thanks to this Dining in the Dark “omakase” edition. Grab you tickets now !

32. Leuca, Williamsburg

Rather take a pass on sushi for Italian instead? Williamsburg’s trendy Italian restaurant Leuca is also hosting Dining in the Dark events . Guests will be completely blindfolded for a three-course meal. Upon the completion of dinner, you’ll be able to take in the dazzling atmosphere that the restaurant elicits. Reserve your spot here .

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22 Iconic Restaurants in New York City

From the oldest Sicilian restaurant in town to classic taverns, here are 22 famous New York City restaurants.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

New York City is a cultural melting pot, and many of those cultures are represented somewhere in the city's 25,000-plus restaurants. Given this, it's little surprise that the Big Apple is one of the best food cities in the U.S. and in the world .

While there are dozens of decades- and even century-old mainstays in New York City, the metropolis is also teeming with new restaurants , and these kitchens are making waves in their own way, be it in the form of a Michelin star, an innovative chef, or an eclectic menu. With so many choices, it's hard to decide where to go for breakfast or a midnight snack or any meal in between. So with the help of players in New York's culinary scene and travel experts, we rounded up 22 famous New York City restaurants that both locals and visitors should have on their lists, plus what to order at each one. We’ve also included a handful of lesser-known, chef-approved picks throughout all five boroughs.

mark peterson/Corbis via Getty Images

“ The Odeon in Tribeca is a quintessential NYC restaurant,” says Caroline Schiff , executive pastry chef at Gage & Tollner in Brooklyn. Schiff, who is also a member of the Food & Wine Best New Chef Class of 2022 — as well as a James Beard Outstanding Pastry Chef finalist — tells Travel + Leisure , “You just feel fabulous sitting at the Odeon; perched at the bar enjoying an order of profiteroles blanketed in glossy chocolate sauce is my idea of heaven.” To beat the crowds, Schiff recommends ducking in for a weekday lunch, which "feels particularly luxurious.”

Must order: Steak tartare

Ferdinando's Focacceria

Founded in 1904, Ferdinando's Focacceria is “about as close to old Sicily as you can get before hopping on a plane," says Schiff. The low-key Cobble Hill haunt is the oldest Sicilian restaurant in the city, and folks flock here from all over to feast on classics like rice balls and vastedda , or Sicilian-style sandwiches. Per Schiff, "The panelle are so delicious and not to be missed — crispy chickpea fritters, hot out of the oil, with the milkiest ricotta around."  Must order: Panelle

Gabriela Herman/Bloomberg via Getty Images

“I love The Grill because it brings you back to what it was like eating in New York City in the ‘60s, with big band music playing while your captain flambés a baked Alaska tableside,” says Chris Caliso, executive chef at Rosemary's West Village . A few of his favorite must-have menu items at this Midtown Manhattan spot include caviar served with “a plethora of accouterments, like Jidori egg and small potato pancakes,” plus littleneck crabs, avocado crab Louis, and steak tartare. Must order: New York strip

Ditte Isager

Those craving upscale French fare in the heart of The Big Apple need not look further than this haute eatery. Helmed by chef Daniel Rose, “ Le Coucou is a great place to celebrate a special occasion, because the atmosphere and service do not miss,” says Caliso. “My favorite dish there is sweetbreads with maitake mushrooms — such a rich and satisfying dish that you would probably find in France.” 

Must order: Gratin de fruits de mer au Champagne (sweet shrimp, urchin, mussels and lobster, Champagne sabayon)

Wu's Wonton King

According to Caliso, this BYOB Chinese eatery in Manhattan’s Lower East Side neighborhood is especially popular amongst people in the restaurant industry. Caliso-approved picks include the roast suckling pig, the razor clams with black bean sauce, or the wonton soup. “Its called Wonton King for a reason,” he says. Must order: Roast suckling pig

Eric Medsker/Bloomberg via Getty Images

JG Melon on Manhattan’s Upper East Side offers a delicious taste of old-school New York. Open since 1972, the cash-only tavern serves classic cheeseburgers that Caliso describes as “simple, straightforward, and always solid.” His other tips? “Put on your favorite song at the jukebox, order a cheeseburger, a side of cottage fries, and a bloody bull or martini.”  Must order: Cheeseburger and cottage fries

Paul Frangipane/Bloomberg via Getty Images

For prime people-watching opportunities paired with mouthwatering cuisine, Chef TJ Steele , owner of Brooklyn’s Michelin-starred Claro restaurant, recommends Balthazar . Set in SoHo, this swanky eatery is a favorite amongst trend-forward travelers and locals, including many a celebrity. “I love sitting at the bar and having a martini, steak tartare, and fries,” Steele tells T+L. 

Must order: Steak frites

Russ & Daughters Cafe

Courtesy of Russ & Daughters

This family-owned, New York City establishment has been serving up traditional Jewish comfort food for over a century. While there are now four locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, we recommend visiting the original one on Houston Street in the Lower East Side. When Steele’s here, he orders an Aquavit Bloody Mary with a platter of assorted fish and spreads. “While [the shop is] obviously known for bagels, I am gluten-free, and they are always very accommodating,” he adds.  Must order: Classic bagel sandwich with smoked salmon and cream cheese on a bagel or bialy

"When I hear 'famous restaurant in New York,' without fail, I think Rao's," says Fora travel advisor Karen Hart . "There is truly nowhere as cozy and as classic feeling." Snagging a reservation at this ten-table haunt is next to impossible; visitors should attempt to book a table six or more months out to increase their chances. However, if you're a local, Hart recommends trying to get a spot last minute. "That's what works for me," she says. Must order: Lasagna

Courtesy of Indochine

Dating back to the ‘80s, “ Indochine is an iconic cornerstone of the New York City dining scene,” says Fora travel advisor Julia Flood , who notes that the restaurant was once “the stomping grounds of Warhol and Basquiat." According to the travel pro, this restaurant is not only the “epitome of timeless New York cool," it serves some seriously delicious food, too. “Don’t skip the fried spring rolls or the gorgeous cocktail menu.”  Must order: Fried spring rolls

Courtesy of Rubirosa

New York is renowned for its pizza, and according to Fora travel advisor Michelle Zelena , Rubirosa serves some of the best — and most Instagrammable — in the city. (The tie dye pizza, which features vodka sauce, tomato sauce, pesto, and fresh mozzarella, is just as photogenic as it is delicious). Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood, the Italian eatery has a quaint ambiance that makes it “perfect for date night or a small group of friends.” The shop just began taking a limited number of reservations for parties up to seven; however, if you can’t seem to snag one, consider popping in right when they open. Alternatively, put your name down and stroll around the area before returning a few hours later for your meal.  Must order: Tie dye pizza

Katz's Delicatessen

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

You may recognize this traditional Jewish deli from "When Harry Met Sally" and the very famous "I'll-have-what-she's-having" scene. This nostalgia-inducing, old-school deli is renowned for its thick-cut pastrami and corned beef, best enjoyed piled high on rye. Place your order at the counter before sitting down to dig into the deliciousness. And don't forget to try one of the crunchy pickles, which come in half- and full-sour options.  Must order: Katz's pastrami sandwich

Keens Steakhouse

This iconic NYC steakhouse has “the atmosphere of old school New York,” says Caliso. Its legendary pipe display helps — in fact, Keens has the largest collection of churchwarden tobacco pipes in the world. Prepare to drool over the dry-aged porterhouse steaks, which, per the chef, “come sizzling to the table with melted butter.” Caliso also recommends ordering the thick-cut smoked bacon to start, as well as a side of creamed spinach.  Must order: Prime porterhouse for two

Mario's

For some of the best Italian eats in the city, look no further than Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Mario’s has been a mainstay here since its 1919 debut. Owned and operated by the same family for five generations and counting, the restaurant is beloved today for delicious dishes like stuffed artichokes, homemade gnocchi, Margherita pizza, sausage and peppers, and heaping portions of chicken and eggplant parmigiana. Entering the restaurant, with its long banquette tables, white tablecloths, and dim lighting, feels like a glorious step back in time.  Must order: Chicken Francese

Le Bernardin

Daniel Kreiger

Helmed by chef Eric Ripert, Le Bernardin is one of just a handful of New York City restaurants to receive three Michelin stars. Also a James Beard Award-winning establishment, Le Bernardin is conveniently located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and is a must-visit for any culinary connoisseur. Its seafood-forward menu features everything from charred octopus and crispy black sea bass to poached lobster. The multi-course chef’s tasting menu is the true star of the show here, and there’s even a vegetarian option.  Must order: Tuna carpaccio (layers of thinly pounded yellowfin tuna, foie gras, toasted baguette, chives)

Joe's Shanghai

Rob Kim/Getty Images

Diners feast on Shanghainese cuisine at this Chinatown hotspot . The expansive menu includes dozens of time-honored classics like Kung Pao chicken, soup dumplings, crispy shredded beef, lo mein, and whole Peking duck. There's also braised sea cucumber, smoked fish noodle soup, and fish head casserole.  Must order: Soup dumplings

Courtesy of Semma

Expect authentic Southern Indian cuisine at Semma in the West Village. The Michelin-starred restaurant serves flavorful dishes like paniyaram (a rice and lentil dumpling), dosas, and banana leaf-wrapped whole sea bass ( meen pollichathu ) in a colorful and stylish setting. Wash down your meal with a signature cocktail or mocktail.  Must order: Gunpowder dosa (rice and lentil crepe, potato masala, sambar)

Union Square Cafe

The first restaurant from restauranteur Danny Meyer, Union Square Cafe serves elevated American fare — or comfort food with a slightly fancy twist — in a casual setting. Tuck into appetizers like caviar tater tots and mains like roasted duck while sipping cheeky drinks; options include the “dirty appletini” and the “gin and green juice.” The eatery’s bustling ambiance is a bonus.  Must order: USC Seafood Platter (Island Creek oysters, shrimp cocktail, daily crudo)

Head straight to Junior's for classic diner fare plus a selection of incredible cheesecakes. While there are two locations in Manhattan, consider trekking to the original Brooklyn diner on Flatbush Avenue for its old-school retro vibes. The menu truly offers something for everyone, be it disco fries and deli sandwiches or steaks or seafood entrees. And since the place is famous for its New York-style cheesecakes, you’ll definitely want to save room for dessert.  Must order: Plain cheesecake

Nathan's Famous

Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images

What’s a trip to New York City without at least one hot dog? The original Nathan’s Famous location in Coney Island — which dates back more than 100 years — is arguably the best place to have one. Don't forget to snap a photo of your beef frank or corn dog below the trademark signage. Must order: Hot dog with a side of plain or cheese crinkle-cut fries 

Enoteca Maria

Johannes Schmitt-Tegge/picture alliance via Getty Images

Next time you find yourself on Staten Island, be sure to dine at Enoteca Maria , where the kitchen is run by grandmas from all over the world — Japan, Italy, Argentina, Hong Kong, you name it. The menu is ever-changing depending on " Nonnas Calendar .” No matter who's cooking, you can expect fresh, flavorful, and made-from-scratch fare prepared with lots of love.

SriPraPhai is “an all-time favorite," says Steele. Set in Woodside, Queens, "the backyard is charming, the southern-style Thai food is crazy spicy, and they have terrific vegetarian options.” Steele's menu picks include the fried watercress salad and the spicy tom-zap soup made with beef, tripe, and liver. “Get sauteed pork with long beans and a whole fish to finish.”

Must order: Tom-zap soup

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New York City’s 17 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants

Tight New York City spaces mean that escaping to an especially gorgeous restaurant is particularly exciting. And with historic buildings and stunning views, NYC’s restaurants really show out in the design department.

An outrageous beauty in Columbus Circle demonstrates the best of maximalist modern design. On the other end of the spectrum, iconic architecture shines at a century-plus-old institution. And several over-the-top outdoor spaces make dining outside a luxurious treat.

In praise of restaurants that make you reluctant to leave, we present to you this guide to the 17 most beautiful restaurants in New York City.

Buddakan (Meatpacking District)

Restaurateur Stephen Starr’s stunning modern Chinese restaurant is a fitting beauty for the city’s fashion-forward Meatpacking District. The lavish duplex is anchored by a grand staircase leading down to a dining room with vaulted ceilings, carved dark wood panels, and a row of chandeliers softly lighting sumptuous banquettes and a candle-strewn communal table. It’s a very sexy atmosphere to share dishes like edamame dumplings, chili rock, shrimp, and tea-smoked spare ribs.

Hawksmoor (Gramercy Park)

It’s tough to find a more magnificent steakhouse in New York City than Hawksmoor, the British import steps from Gramercy Park in the historic United Charities Building. With its 26-foot soaring ceiling, stained glass windows, and magnificent archways, the restaurant feels cut from stately New York elegance, wrapped in espresso-toned wood with hunter green banquettes. All-natural steaks seared over live-charcoal and (must-have) beef fat fries complete the picture.

Veronika (Gramercy Park)

Secreted on the second floor of Fotografiska New York, Veronika embraces a Gilded Age grandeur with arched double-height windows, crushed velvet seating, and brass chandeliers soaring overhead, filling the room with a timeless amber glow. Whether in the low-lit intimate Bar Room or the sun-drenched Dining Room, the European menu matches the glamour of the space, with sumptuous dishes like veal sweetbreads and Dover sole meunière.

Genesis House Restaurant (Meatpacking District)

It’s easy to lose yourself at Genesis House Restaurant, a serene oasis that boasts a library, a tea salon, and a dining room devoted to royal Korean cuisine in a tasting menu format. From the library to the dining room, every space at Genesis House is artfully designed with harmony and balance as touchstones—tones of sand and stone, rich warming textures, and a dramatic ceiling crafted from sheets of cascading natural wood that almost feels like a canopy of trees.

Zou Zou’s (Hell’s Kitchen)

Style spills from the seams of Zou Zou, the eastern Mediterranean brasserie in Manhattan Plaza. Chef Juliana Latif’s open kitchen anchors a dining room wrapped in seafoam green tile, with cherry red banquette seating, polished wood tables, alabaster marble counters, and cafe curtains sweetly hung on street-level windows. Take a seat under brass mid-century globe lighting, and tuck in for a shareable feast of dishes like Moroccan fried chicken and Zou Zou’s signature duck borek.

La Grande Boucherie (Midtown West)

This Art Nouveau-styled restaurant occupies an entire city block, a stunning and ample stage for the brasserie detailed with Renaissance sculptures and oil paintings from the turn of the century. There’s no better seat than the glass-enclosed outdoor plaza filled with swaying palm fronds and round café tables lined up under an arched skylight. The effect is transporting, like you’ve just come from shopping on the Champs-Élysées, ready for a bottle of Bordeaux and flawless steak frites.

RH Rooftop (Meatpacking District)

An all-glass elevator takes you to this penthouse beauty. Named after the fancy furniture store it’s perched on top of, RH Rooftop is peak luxe. The same ornate accents feature here as the floors below, such as a chandelier hanging over every table. But it really shines for nailing the indoor-outdoor vibe with trickling fountains and a massive skylight. Naturally, the menu is just as larger-than-life, featuring Black Forest bacon-topped cheeseburgers and massive banana splits.

Montesacro BK (Williamsburg) 

Montesacro’s highly regarded Roman-style pizza gets exceptional ambiance in an enchanting enclosed garden, a sun-filled room cheerfully filled with plants and capped off by a soaring living wall. The garden has a convenient retractable rooftop, making it an oasis of flowers and greenery. It’s ideal for any sort of weather—but on a sunny day munching on crispy pinsa, there’s nothing quite like it.

Temple Court (Financial District)

Located in the magnificent Beekman Hotel in FiDi, Temple Court is a twofer that makes for a special evening. Start with a drink in the dramatic atrium lobby bar with wrought-iron staircases, tufted couches, and oversized armchairs tucked into corners for lingering over perfectly stirred cocktails. Then move to your reservation in chef Tom Colicchio’s highly seasonal New American restaurant, where the sexy dining room is all soft curves and low lighting from striking stained glass.

Grand Central Oyster Bar (Midtown East)

Designed by Rafael Guastavino and his son, Rafael Guastavino Jr., this absolutely iconic room has changed little since it opened in 1913. The design is classically old-school: wood-paneled walls, vaulted, herringbone-tiled ​​archways, tables covered in red-and-white gingham linen, and a serpentine lunch counter with original swivel stool seating—the best way to dine on the James Beard Award-winning restaurant’s stunning menu of shellfish and, as you might expect, over 30 varieties of oysters.

Tavern on the Green (Midtown West)

Since 1934, Tavern on the Green has been serving a classic American menu in its timeless space on Central Park’s western edge. The restaurant is practically synonymous with “special occasion,” with several different dining rooms. There’s the famed glass-enclosed atrium; a more formal dining room; an A-framed, ski lodge-like space; and an elegant bar. Then there’s the garden, where in the winter a massive Christmas tree is an obligatory seasonal stop.

Bad Roman (Columbus Circle)

New Yorkers flock to Bad Roman for its vibe: The space is downright outrageous, lined with unapologetically red banquettes and filled with tightly spaced bistro tables flanked by floor-to-ceiling mirrors, glass tiles, stretches of polished wood, and emerald slab marble—all of which gives the space a decidedly maximalist energy and buzz. The vibe marries well with the menu of bold Italian favorites like chicken Milanese, veal chops, and rich short rib pappardelle. 

Cecconi’s (Dumbo)

Cecconi’s Dumbo is housed in a converted coffee warehouse and packs a triple punch with an unbeatable Brooklyn Bridge Park address, stunning Manhattan views, and classic Italian food. Whether you’re here for a sunset negroni under the black-and-white-striped awning outside or digging into a squash blossom and truffle pie from a cushy velvet chair inside, there’s no denying the see-and-be-seen vibes at this handsome Soho House destination.

Casa Ora (Williamsburg)

This MICHELIN-recognized bistro takes an upscale approach to Venezuelan fare—braised short rib asado negro, lobster fosforera—and the setting matches. Rattan lighting casts a golden glow over a room with midnight blue wainscoting, deep banquettes upholstered in soft emerald green velvet, hardwood floors strewn with Moroccan area rugs, and the lush greenery of wandering vines and potted plants. There’s also an enclosable outdoor garden dressed up with string lights for pretty nights al fresco.

Level Restaurant & Bar (Sheepshead Bay)

Sheepshead Bay tends to have more low-key restaurants, so this glamorous restaurant, bar, and dance hall particularly stands out. Chevron-tiled flooring, jewel-toned armchair seating, cool ebony marble tables, chandeliers, and a sleek cocktail bar backed by mirrored shelves and artisan spirits feature throughout the several rooms. An expansive menu includes steak and sushi, but come later, this place becomes a full-on party complete with a DJ and acrobatic dancers.

The Tusk Bar (NoMad)

The Tusk Bar, tucked into the historic Evelyn Hotel, marries effortless glamor with Jazz-age flair. Wildair’s Jeremiah Stone and Fabian Von Hauske are behind the seafoody small plates and rich desserts, and their famed food is the perfect match for the stunning setting and upscale cocktails. The luxurious room is filled with overstuffed armchairs, antique lamps perched on small carved end tables, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, dark velvet curtains, and the soft glow of an evening of elegance.

Peak Restaurant & Bar (Chelsea)

It’s obvious that acclaimed architect David Rockwell designed this stunning space, wrapped in glass and offering unparalleled views from the 101st floor of 30 Hudson Yards. Inside, natural earth tones allow the beauty of the city and the Hudson River below to take center stage. Whether you go in for sunset cocktails and caviar, or a more formal dinner, chef Rose Noel’s elevated new American menu hits only high notes.

Known for her pioneering food blog, The Strong Buzz , Andrea Strong has been writing about restaurants, chefs, and life around the table for the past 25 years for publications such as The New York Times , Fast Company , Food & Wine , New York magazine, Eater, and more. She lives, eats, and loads and unloads the dishwasher in Brooklyn. Follow her on Instagram @strongbuzz_ .

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The 30 Most Beautiful Restaurants in NYC: A Dining Guide of the Prettiest Eateries in New York

The 30 most beautiful restaurants in nyc: a dining guide to the prettiest eateries in new york.

Exploring the New York City Dining Scene

The New York City dining scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape, offering an array of cuisines from around the world. From time to time, you will find new restaurants opening within the state. From Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved neighborhood eateries, there is something to satisfy every palate and budget. With a constant influx of new concepts and innovative dining experiences, NYC remains a global epicenter for food enthusiasts seeking unforgettable culinary adventures

Discovering the Beauty of Restaurant Interiors

In the bustling streets of New York City, the beauty of restaurant interiors is an art form in itself, captivating diners with every step through the door. Among the myriad of stunning dining establishments, some stand out for their exquisite design and perfect ambiance. Picture entering a restaurant adorned with a grand chandelier, casting a soft glow over diners indulging in culinary delights. The interplay of light and shadows accentuates the elegant décor, from plush seating to intricate details that speak of opulence and sophistication.

Moreover, the allure extends beyond the confines of four walls, with many establishments offering enchanting outdoor dining experiences . Here, amidst the urban hustle, patrons can savor gourmet cuisine under the open sky, surrounded by lush greenery or panoramic cityscapes. Whether it’s a chic lounge with sleek furnishings or a marble bar gleaming under ambient lighting, these beautiful restaurants in New York weave together elements of style and comfort, inviting guests into a world where every meal is a sensory delight and every moment, unforgettable.

Unique Dining Experiences in Soho

In the heart of Soho, amidst the vibrant streets of New York City, lies a culinary haven where innovative dining experiences await. Venture into the bustling streets and discover a fusion of flavors at NYC’s finest Italian restaurant, where traditional recipes meet contemporary flair. Indulge your senses as you savor delectable dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients, transporting you to the streets of Italy with each bite.

But what truly sets this dining experience apart is its unparalleled city views; from its lofty perch, guests can feast their eyes upon the iconic skyline while relishing in culinary delights, creating a dining experience that is as unforgettable as it is unique.

Romantic Dining Destinations

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience amidst the enchanting ambiance of New York City’s romantic dining destinations. From candlelit bistros tucked away in charming neighborhoods to rooftop restaurants boasting panoramic skyline views, each venue promises an evening of refined cuisine and intimate moments, perfect for celebrating love and creating lasting memories. Discover the epitome of romance in the heart of the Big Apple’s vibrant dining scene.

1. Indulge in the Romantic Ambiance of RH Rooftop Restaurant

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Abby ♡ | NYC Adventures (@cityhuntress)

Plush velvet banquettes and custom lighting fixtures create an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy, while the meticulously crafted marble bar serves as a focal point for artisanal cocktails. Lush greenery adorns the rooftop terrace, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the urban hustle. RH Rooftop Restaurant’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence in design make it a truly beautiful destination for dining and socializing when in the West Village spot.

2. A Cozy Evening at La Mercerie

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by La Mercerie (@lamercerieny)

From the charming bistro chairs to the delicate tableware, every element is meticulously selected to create a harmonious atmosphere. The centerpiece is the inviting communal table, where diners gather to enjoy a curated menu of French-inspired dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Soft lighting and botanical accents add a touch of romance, making La Mercerie a truly beautiful destination for culinary delights and intimate gatherings.

3. 1803 NYC: Classic New York Restaurant in Tribeca

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Simone | NYC Food & Fitness (@nycmuncher)

Oversized windows flood the space with natural light, offering panoramic views of the bustling city streets below. A central communal table, crafted from reclaimed materials, serves as the heart of the restaurant, fostering a sense of community and conviviality among diners. The thoughtful integration of modern and vintage elements, along with the warm ambiance, makes 1803 one of the most beautiful restaurants in New York.

4. Charm and Elegance at Le Coucou

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Le Coucou (@lecoucou_nyc)

Classic bistro chairs and marble tabletops add to the refined ambiance, while large windows allow natural light to filter in, creating an inviting atmosphere. Artfully arranged floral displays and vintage artwork adorn the walls, adding to the restaurant’s romantic allure. With its exquisite attention to detail and impeccable design, this French restaurant with a Michelin star stands as a beacon of beauty in the culinary landscape of NYC.

5. Experience the Timeless Charm of Tavern on the Green

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tavern on the Green (@tavernonthegreen)

Vintage touches such as brass fixtures and plush upholstery evoke a sense of timeless glamour, while the expansive outdoor terrace offers al fresco dining amidst lush greenery. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Tavern on the Green’s stunning design and picturesque setting make it a truly beautiful destination for dining in the heart of New York City’s beloved park.

Iconic NYC Dining Locations in Central Park, Tribeca & More

Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or a romantic dinner, dining in Central Park promises an unforgettable experience in a truly picturesque setting. Here are some of the top choices located inside

6. An Enchanting Evening at One if by Land, Two if by Sea

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by NYC Date Nights (@nyc_date_nights)

The lush garden courtyard, complete with a cascading fountain and twinkle lights, provides a picturesque backdrop for weddings and events, adding to the restaurant’s allure. With its combination of historic charm, impeccable design, and exquisite cuisine, One if by Land, Two if by Sea remains a quintessential destination and one of the best restaurants in New York City.

7. Marea: Best Italian Restaurant

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Marea | NYC (@mareanyc)

The dining experience is further elevated by impeccable service and a menu crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, showcasing exquisite seafood dishes prepared with precision and finesse. With its meticulous attention to detail and culinary excellence, Marea stands as a shining example of beauty and sophistication in the world of fine dining.

8. Buddha-Bar: Offers Gourmet Asian Cuisine and Exotic Cocktails

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Emily | FOODIE (@eatwith_em_)

Luxurious seating arrangements, including low-slung sofas and oversized cushions, invite guests to relax and unwind in style. Whether indulging in gourmet Asian cuisine or tasting menu from exotic cocktails, diners are transported to a world of sensory delights at Buddha-Bar, where beauty and decadence converge in perfect harmony.

9.  City Vineyard at Pier 6: Exquisite Cuisine with Panoramic Views

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by New York City 🗽 NYC Travel | Hotels | Food | Tips (@newyorkcity.explore)

In the evening, diners are treated to a romantic ambiance, with the twinkling lights of the city reflecting off the water, while in the morning, the restaurant transforms into a tranquil oasis, bathed in soft morning light. Customers rave about the dining experience, praising both the exquisite cuisine and the unparalleled views, making City Vineyard at Pier 26 a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

10. Habibi: Pop-Up Rooftop

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by New York Nibbles | Food & Travel (@new_york_nibbles)

As diners indulge in delectable cuisine, they are treated to a dining room ambiance that exudes sophistication and charm, with soft lighting casting a warm glow over the space. The pièce de résistance, however, is the breathtaking views of the sparkling city skyline, visible through expansive windows that invite guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. With its meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled vistas, Habibi stands as a truly beautiful destination for dining and indulgence.

11. Apotheke: Captivating and Stylish Restaurant and Bar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Apotheke Chinatown NYC (@apothekenyc)

The basement bar and rooftop terrace offer intimate spaces for guests to socialize and unwind, while electric glassware adds a touch of whimsy to the drinking experience. Having opened a second location in Chinatown, Apotheke continues to captivate patrons with its exquisite design and innovative approach to mixology.

Instagrammable Gems in Williamsburg, SoHo, West Village & More

New Yorkers flock to Soho and Williamsburg when looking for great restaurants in the city. Here are some of the great eateries in the area.

12. Le Crocodile: Explore Its Understated Beauty 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shakur L. (Mr. GVGP) (@shakstylez)

Oversized windows allow natural light to flood the space, illuminating the stunning marble bar where skilled mixologists craft artisanal cocktails. The focal point of the restaurant is the open kitchen, where guests can watch as chefs prepare French-inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients. With its meticulous attention to detail and impeccable design, Le Crocodile stands as a beacon of beauty and culinary excellence in the Brooklyn dining scene.

13. NoMo Kitchen: Photo-Ready and Serves Delicious Food

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by NYC Spots/Food🗽 (@venconmigo0)

Guests can indulge in farm-to-fork dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails at the sleek bar. With its thoughtful design, delectable cuisine, and vibrant ambiance, the restaurant offers a memorable dining experience that embodies the essence of downtown New York City.

14. Adda Indian Canteen: Indulge in Authentic Indian Flavors in Long Island City

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Adda Indian Canteen (@addanyc)

Comfortable seating arrangements, including cozy booths and communal tables, encourage guests to gather and share meals in a casual atmosphere. Artisanal touches such as handcrafted pottery and woven textiles add to the restaurant’s charm and authenticity.

There are tons of Indian takeout spots in the city serving standards like chicken tikka masala and paneer. However, Adda is different as it offers authentic Indian food. Chef Chintan Pandya is the executive chef of the restaurant which also serves local beers and non-alcoholic beverages.

With its laid-back vibe and flavorful cuisine, Adda Indian Canteen offers a beautiful dining experience that transports diners to the bustling streets of India while fostering a sense of community and connection.

15. Shuka: One of City’s Best Eatery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shuka (@shukanyc)

Whether dining indoors amidst the trendy ambiance or al fresco on the charming patio, Shuka offers a beautiful setting for enjoying a culinary journey through the Mediterranean. With its impeccable design and delectable menu, Shuka stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of Mediterranean cuisine.

16. Le Cuocou: Soho’s Beacon of Beauty and Culinary Excellence

Diners indulge in exquisite French cuisine, including delicacies like foie gras, served in a refined yet welcoming ambiance. With its impeccable attention to detail and timeless elegance, Le Coucou remains among Soho’s culinary excellence and beacon of beauty in the heart of New York City.

17. Peak: Great NYC Food and Amazing Manhattan Skyline in Hudson Yards

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐍𝐘𝐂 (@peak_nyc_)

The interior design features sleek and modern aesthetics, with elegant furnishings and contemporary decor elements that complement the expansive vistas. Whether indulging in a gourmet meal or sipping on artisanal cocktails, diners are treated to a sensory feast for the eyes and palate alike. With its combination of exquisite design and unparalleled views, Peak is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience in NYC’s restaurant scene.

18. River Cafe: Dine With a View

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ᴄʜᴀᴄʜɪ ᴇᴀᴛs | ʏᴜʟ-ʏʏᴄ (@__chach.eats__)

Floral arrangements and tasteful decor elements adorn the space, creating a romantic ambiance that is perfect for intimate dining experiences. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace, with its lush greenery and twinkling lights, offers a serene escape from the bustling city below. Whether enjoying a gourmet meal or celebrating a special occasion, the River Cafe’s timeless design and breathtaking views make it a truly beautiful destination for dining in Brooklyn. Plus, it serves Scallop Ceviche to Wagyu Steak Tartare and satisfying deserts.

19. Cathédrale: Enjoy Elegance and Timeless Dining

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sharm Sil (@sharmedlife)

Plush velvet banquettes, polished marble tabletops, and sleek brass fixtures add to the luxurious ambiance, inviting guests to indulge in a culinary experience fit for royalty. Whether enjoying a gourmet meal or sipping on artisanal cocktails, diners are transported to a world of refined elegance and timeless beauty at Cathédrale that’s why it makes it into our list of best restaurants in NYC.

20. Nubeluz: Your Newest Cocktail Destination

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nosso Cardápio (@nossocardapio_)

Guests are treated to sky-high cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, served against the stunning backdrop of the New York City skyline. The ambiance is further elevated by chic furnishings, stylish lighting fixtures, and tasteful decor accents, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Whether enjoying a romantic evening or celebrating a special occasion, Nubeluz offers a truly beautiful destination for dining and cocktails above the bustling streets of New York City.

21. Lamia’s Fish Market in East Village

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by K A E ♑️ (@keepingupwithkaex)

The centerpiece of the restaurant is the raw bar, where fresh seafood is proudly displayed on ice, inviting guests to indulge in the day’s catch. With its meticulous attention to detail and charming design, Lamia’s Fish Market offers a beautiful and memorable dining experience reminiscent of a coastal getaway.

Flatiron Restaurants in NYC

The vibrant Flatiron district of New York City has a diverse array of restaurants, each offering its own unique culinary delights and ambiance. From cozy cafes serving artisanal coffee to upscale eateries showcasing innovative cuisine, Flatiron restaurants cater to every palate and occasion.

22. Serra by Birreria: The Best Italian Food With Rooftop Dining Experience

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by SERRA by Birreria (@serrabybirreria)

Whether savoring a leisurely meal or enjoying aperitivo with friends, diners are transported to the idyllic countryside of Italy, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the aroma of delicious cuisine. With its immersive design and delectable menu, Serra by Birreria offers a truly enchanting dining experience atop one of New York City’s most iconic culinary destinations.

23. Thai Villa: Serves the Best Thai Cuisine in a Stylish Setting

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Thai Villa (@thaivillanyc)

Whether dining in the elegant main dining room or al fresco on the charming patio, guests are treated to an immersive dining experience that transports them to the heart of Thailand. With its meticulous attention to detail and inviting atmosphere, it’s a particularly beautiful destination for enjoying authentic Thai cuisine.

24. Cosme: Modern and Minimalist

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dorsia (@dorsia)

Soft ambient lighting and carefully curated artwork add warmth and character to the dining area, inviting guests to linger and savor the experience. With its meticulous attention to detail and understated beauty, Cosme offers a truly memorable dining experience that delights the senses.

25. Eleven Madison Park: Servers Exceptional Cuisine

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Eleven Madison Park (@elevenmadisonpark)

Guests are greeted with impeccable service and treated to upscale American tasting menus that showcase the culinary prowess of the kitchen team. Artfully arranged floral displays and tasteful decor accents add a touch of elegance to the dining experience, while the expansive windows offer stunning views of Madison Square Park. With its combination of stunning design and exceptional cuisine, Eleven Madison Park stands out in the world of fine dining.

Best Rooftop Bars in NYC

26. 230 fifth rooftop bar: blends modern elegance and cozy comfort.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar NYC (@230fifthrooftop)

With panoramic views of the city skyline stretching across Manhattan, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar showcases the bustling energy of New York City while offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle below. Whether lounging in one of the plush seating areas or enjoying a cocktail by the fire pits, patrons are enveloped in a sense of luxury and relaxation, making it a truly beautiful destination for both locals and visitors alike.

27. The Roof at Viceroy Central Park: Go-To Destination for Intimate Events

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Roof NYC 🇺🇸✈️ (@theroofnyc)

What truly makes it beautiful is its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air and stunning vistas while savoring expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet bites. Whether bathed in sunlight during the day or aglow with the city lights at night, The Roof is one of those rare beautiful restaurants that exude an undeniable allure that captures the essence of New York City’s beauty and elegance.

28. The Press Lounge: A Captivating Oasis in NYC

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by the Press Lounge (@thepresslounge)

Its chic ambiance and attention to detail, from the carefully curated cocktail menu to the attentive service, create an elevated experience that celebrates both luxury and comfort. As the sun sets and the city skyline illuminates, The Press Lounge transforms into a captivating oasis, making it a truly beautiful destination for those seeking an unforgettable rooftop experience in the heart of New York City.

29. The Skylark: Modern and Luxurious Rooftop Bar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Skylark NYC (@theskylarknyc)

What makes it particularly beautiful is its seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a spacious terrace adorned with cozy seating and ambient lighting, providing the perfect backdrop for romantic evenings or celebratory gatherings. As day turns to night, The Skylark becomes even more enchanting, with the city lights twinkling against the backdrop of the starlit sky. It’s a must-visit destination to lift your spirits and revive your joy.

30. The Crowd: Slee and Modern Bar With Breathtaking Views

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Isaac Mejia (@imsny)

The Crown combines urban chic with natural elements, creating a harmonious balance between the bustling cityscape and the tranquility of the outdoors. You can drink at the bar, enjoy your glass of martini and look out onto the beautiful views of the city lights to mark any special event and make it more memorable. Whether enjoying handcrafted cocktails or savoring small plates from the eclectic menu, guests are treated to an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of New York City’s vibrant energy and timeless allure.

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to beautiful restaurants and bars in NYC. We recommend making a reservation because New Yorkers and tourists flock to these places and you might have a hard time finding a seat. Everything on the menu is as appealing as the place, so you should try them!

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• Disclaimers

The 17 BEST Restaurants in Times Square NYC in 2024

Where to find the best food in times square, new york city.

I love good food and would definitely call myself a true foodie. And New York City is a real mecca with an estimated 24,000 restaurants (even if you visited two restaurants a day, it would take you over 32 years to visit them all!) There really isn’t a nationality that isn’t represented here with a restaurant or food spot, from low budget to high end, you’ll find it all.

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• Times Square NYC
• The Best Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan

Unlike the Neighborhoods like the West Village, SoHo, Williamsburg or Tribeca, however, I sometimes found it quite difficult to find good restaurants in Times Square. There are plenty of choices here, but not that much quality. Here are my highlights, where the price-performance ratio is good!

Which restaurant should be on the best list in your opinion? I’m looking forward to your comments!

Carmine's is a great Italian restaurant in Times Square

I love the concept of Carmine’s: the portions are huge and – like an Italian family meal – are meant to be shared. Just put them in the middle of the table, add a glass of red wine and you feel like in Italy! The waiters are super-nice and the restaurant itself is suitable for families with children. I was there with my family (2 children) and both of my friends were delighted.

One of our favorite restaurants in Times Square: Tony's Di Napoli

A lot like Carmine’s is Tony’s Di Napoli. Thanks to the friendly and cordial staff, we felt like we were in an extended Italian family. Pleasant atmosphere & hustle and bustle do it by the way. The portions are also large here, so that they are perfect for sharing. My tip: try the Frozen Peach Bellini as an aperitif!

The Lambs Club

As soon as you enter the restaurant (it’s in the hotel lobby, the bar is one floor up) you will notice the noble atmosphere. Dark wood and many shades of red determine the interior, we especially like the bar. The food itself is sensational, not cheap but definitely worth its price. Main courses start at $30, the multiple awarded wines start at $15 per glass (!). For a romantic ending or the beginning of a musical The Lambs Club at Times Square is perfect.

Try some delicious French food in Times Square at Benoit

Here at Benoit you can get the French classics like cassoulet or onion soup. The restaurant is famous for its fantastic fish dishes and steaks. Be sure to order the fries with it – they are second to none. The Benoit is also ideal for a romantic dinner for two, as the selection is large and the wines are sensational. Here the emphasis is on French wines.

Sushi of Gari offers finest sushi in Times Square

Around Times Square there are many Japanese restaurants, most of which are unfortunately not recommended. A real exception is the “High End” Japanese Sushi of Gari 46 (this is the nickname of the owner and sushi chef). It is a bit more expensive but extremely tasty! If you are looking for a noble restaurant suitable for a visit to a musical, then Sushi of Gari 46 is a suitable candidate.

Los Tacos is a great Mexican restaurant in Times Square

Los Tacos No. 1 in Times Square is rightly very popular: in the “standing snack bar” everything revolves around tacos & quesadillas. Wonderfully traditional, cheap and really delicious. What’s special about it? The handmade tacos taste like in Mexico, because instead of wheat flour (as it is unfortunately often done for cost reasons) real corn flour is used for production. My tip: Take the tacos with grilled cactus!

Toloache is a chef-owned Mexican restaurant with locations in the Upper East Side and the Theater District. These fine-dining restaurants are modern and will give you the perfect culinary experience. They have a tasting menu with three types of guacamole, including traditional guacamole, fruity guacamole, and spicy guacamole. The menu is Mexican fusion, and each of their tacos is made with innovative components. For example, try the vegan calabacita taco with zucchini, corn, spicy kale, and queso fresco. If you feel like a classy taco, try the langosta tacos made with spicy lobster. These spicy lobster tacos are some of the best tacos in New York. 

One of our favorites: Shake Shack at Times Square

Shake Shack is a burger chain with more than 20 stores in New York alone. We got this spot recommended by a New Yorker as the “ best burger in town ” with the warning that you have to wait an hour for your burger – but it was worth the wait! From the outside the burger shop may seem quite inconspicuous, but the burgers are certainly among the best in New York .

Gayle's Broadway Rose

Gayle’s Broadway Rose features singing waiters and waitresses that will sing classic and modern Broadway hits to you while you indulge yourself in a delicious and fancy-looking milkshake.

Enjoy some of the best steaks in Times Square at Bacall's Steakhouse

Bacall’s Family Steakhouse is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in NYC, known for its delicious steaks and romantic ambiance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bacall’s is the perfect spot for a special dinner with your loved one.

The restaurant offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all cooked to perfection and served with your choice of sides. In addition to the steaks, Bacall’s also has a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and pan-seared salmon, as well as vegetarian options.

Boqueria NYC

If you are looking for Spanish cuisine, the Boqueria in New York is a great option. With four branches in New York City (in Midtown, Flatiron, Upper East Side and SoHo), the Spanish restaurant and tapas bar Boqueria has successfully brought many culinary traditions from Barcelona to New York City in recent years.

The Del Frisco Restaurant is a luxurious three-story restaurant near Times Square and Rockefeller Center. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows you can relax and watch the hustle and bustle on Sixth Avenue. The Del Frisco is famous for its steaks, but on Thanksgiving you can also order a typical turkey roast menu.

The Hard Rock Cafe is one of the most famous restaurants in Times Square

One thing is for sure, whoever loves the Hard Rock Cafe should also stop by in New York. The selection in the shop is gigantic and 1 floor below you find the restaurant. On the menu you will find the Hard Rock Cafe typical dishes and you will definitely get full, because the portions are huge. Attention: with the beer the surprise comes with the bill. Unfortunately there are no prices on the menu.

Have a delicious burger at Schnipper's near Times Square

Schnippers is a very popular restaurant that falls into the fast food category. Here you can also find healthy food, which is actually healthy and the price is also right. By the way: even the wine and beer is recommendable.

Sean's Bar And Kitchen

Newer than most Irish restaurants, Sean’s Bar and Kitchen is a great place to go for a casual meal. The menu is simple, but features all of your favorite Irish dishes along with an incredible 2 for 1 happy hour during the weekdays. Plus, they have an excellent whiskey selection! If you’re looking for a no-frills Irish pub in NYC, Sean’s Bar and Kitchen is the perfect place to go. Don’t forget to try Meg’s Curry for a delicious treat!

The Long Room

The Long Room is a mix of a club atmosphere featuring elements of the classic Irish pub. With a large selection of imported and craft beers on tap, as well as an extensive whisky menu, this bar is perfect for those who want to experience a bit of everything. The food menu includes Irish staples like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips, as well as American favorites like burgers and pizza. Plus, they have live music every night. Make sure to try the Bavarian Uber Pretzel and the Skillet Roasted Chicken when you visit!

Wolfgang's Steakhouse

Wolfgang’s is an institution in New York. Beside the classic steaks like Rib Eye, Sirloin or Filet Mignon, you can also order the Porterhouse variations for two, three or four persons. The steaks are roasted to the point and only first-class meat is used.

Times Square New York City

The 34 best restaurants in midtown manhattan right now.

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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Best Restaurants in NYC: Top 25 Places For a First Timer

• In Town For One Day
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When it comes to New York City, finding (and eating) the best food is a greater pastime than even baseball. And with tens of thousands of restaurants offering cuisines from every corner of the globe, picking the best of the best seems an impossible task, especially to city newcomers. But that’s where we come in.

While this is by no means an exhaustive list of every notable New York spot, consider this guide a jumping-off point to some absolute must-trys, from legendary Manhattan landmarks that have been around for decades to quintessential restaurants newer to the scene. We aimed to cover the best restaurants in NYC for a first-timer, but we welcome seasoned city food aficionados alike.

Please note, this guide includes several extremely popular restaurants. Plan accordingly to make reservations or prepare to wait. Additionally, this post features restaurants in Manhattan only. We hope you enjoy the best 25 places to eat for a first timer!

SEE ALSO: TOP 20 DESSERTS IN NEW YORK CITY 

25. Best Dim Sum: Jing Fong (Multiple)

With locations in both Chinatown and on the Upper West Side, this enormous Cantonese restaurant draws crowds on weekends for dim sum rolled out on carts. Fun fact: their site in Chinatown is 20,000 square feet, making their dining room more of a banquet hall (or 36 studio apartments, to give you a New York perspective). Most importantly, Jing Fong has a bustling atmosphere embodying all the essential elements of “yum cha”– a traditional dim sum brunch. The pork buns alone are enough to distinguish Jing Fong on our guide to the best restaurants in NYC. But they offer loads of other unique dim sum options as well, from Peking duck and asparagus dumplings with a lilac hue to sui mai dumplings delicately topped with roe. You can be sure that you (and about 800 of your closest friends) will have an unforgettable experience.

$$ Dim Sum, Cantonese

380 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10013

646-678-5511

24. Vegetarian Spot: Superiority Burger (East Village)

New York might be a meat lover’s paradise wrapped in pastrami and mortadella, but it’s also become quite a haven for vegans and vegetarians alike. Superiority Burger, a tiny joint nestled in the East Village, doesn’t even need an Impossible burger patty to achieve the impossible. That is, convince a devoted carnivore to come back for seconds. Their classic burger is the main menu item, though its ingredients can vary by season. They blend spiced quinoa and chickpeas and expertly char them into burger form on a sesame bun, topping it with a tangy spread that mixes with the curried patty in a burst of flavor that will make you forget you’re not actually eating beef. Plus, their sides are truly, as their name suggests, superior. Get the burnt broccoli and grab a scoop of their vegan ice cream to go.

Superiority Burger

$ Burgers, Vegetarian

119 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

RELATED: 11 BEST EAST VILLAGE RESTAURANTS

23. Chinese Noodles: Xi’an Famous Foods (Multiple)

Xi’an Famous Foods is one of the best restaurants in NYC if you’ve got a hankering for Chinese noodles. Once just a small stall in Flushing, Xi’an Famous Foods now has 14 locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Their menu offers a robust selection geared toward the flavors of Northwest China, but they’re known for their fresh, hand-ripped biang biang noodles. The most popular menu item is the spicy cumin lamb, but try their pork zha jiang for something with sweeter undertones. Either way, you get a plate of foot-long, chewy, slurpy noodles. Their famous sauce combines soy sauce and black vinegar for a kick that will hit all the right spots.

Xi’an Famous Foods

$$ Chinese, Noodles, Burgers

328 E 78th St, New York, NY 10075

212-786-2068

22. All-Around Crowd Pleaser: The Smith (Multiple)

Traveling with a group? We’ve all been there. Between your selective grandmother, picky teenage brother, and opinionated father-in-law, finding a restaurant that will make everyone happy can make going to the DMV sound relaxing. Thankfully, the Smith is one of the best restaurants in NYC when you’re looking for a spot that has a little something for everyone. Serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they have an enormous variety of menu options. Some of our favorites include the avocado toast, the vanilla bean French toast, and the skillet roasted mac and cheese. For something a little heartier, the burger ticks all the boxes with crispy fried onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy aioli.

$$ American (New), Breakfast & Brunch, Cocktail Bars

55 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

212-420-9800

21. Pizza by the Slice: Joe’s Pizza (Multiple)

Pizza by the slice in NYC is its own food group; a way of life, if you will. And at around just $1–3 per slice, their impact cannot be ignored. Enter: Joe’s Pizza. Established in 1975 by Joe Pozzuoli, who is originally from Naples, Italy, Joe’s Pizza is an institution whose legacy nabs it a spot on our guide to the best restaurants in NYC for a first timer. Get the classic cheese slice (skip the fresh mozzarella) to enjoy a New York rite of passage. It folds like a crease line was intentionally baked into the dough, and the grease and cheese ooze straight to the middle for a perfect bite every time.

Joe’s Pizza

7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, USA

212-366-1182

20. Upscale American: Blue Ribbon Brasserie (Soho)

Blue Ribbon Brasserie is the iconic late-night bistro that became such a hot spot when it first opened in 1992, it kicked off the multi-city chain of Blue Ribbon restaurants that exists today. It’s also still one of the only full entrees you can have in the city at 3 AM, which feels right at home on our guide to best restaurants in NYC. The menu doesn’t follow a single theme, offering instead a hodgepodge assortment of chef-favorite dishes from around the city. Don’t miss out on the beef marrow and oxtail marmalade or the fried chicken with mashed potatoes and collard greens.

Blue Ribbon Brasserie

$$$ American (Traditional), Cocktail Bars

97 Sullivan St New York, NY 10012

(212) 274-0404

READ NEXT: 15 BEST BRUNCH SPOTS IN NYC

19. Lobster Roll: Luke’s Lobster (Multiple)

There’s a reason Luke’s grew from a tiny shack in East Village to a large chain with select locations around the country, and it’s still one of the best lobster rolls you can find in the city. The Luke’s team even opened its own seafood and production business in Maine in 2013 to ensure the quality and sustainability of their food from dock to plate. When it comes to their version of the east coast staple, they keep things simple. A quarter pound of Maine-style lobster served chilled on a buttered, griddled New England split-top bun with a swipe of mayo, a dash of lemon butter, and a sprinkle of their Secret Seasoning. You won’t leave a crumb behind.

Luke’s Lobster

93 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, USA

212-387-8487

18. Best View: The Loeb (Central Park)

Try one of the best restaurants in NYC and get an elite view at the Loeb Boathouse Restaurant in Central Park. The iconic restaurant is a must-stop for tourists, park visitors, and local diners seeking out a rare moment of tranquility while dining in bustling Manhattan. You can come here any time of day to equally delicious results, the gorgeous park scenery serving as a picturesque backdrop. For brunch, the stuffed french toast with blueberry mascarpone is pure radiance. For lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong ordering the cast iron crispy chicken with chive whipped potatoes. But no matter when you arrive, make sure to start with the crab cake and its zesty red bell pepper remoulade.

$$$ Boating, American (Traditional), Venues & Event Spaces

Park Drive North, E 72nd St, New York, NY 10021

212-517-2233

17. Casual Breakfast: Bubby’s (Tribeca)

Bubby’s opened in 1990 on Thanksgiving Day. They ran a tiny operation selling pies to neighboring restaurants and locals. Today, Bubby’s is a resident Tribeca favorite with a full menu of from-scratch dishes. And when it comes to brunch, they aren’t just one of the best restaurants in NYC, they are city royalty. They serve just about everything under the sun on their breakfast menu, from huevos ranchers plates to avocado toast. Their signature pancakes are what they’re most known for; delightfully buttery, fluffy, and griddled. Pick your base (James Beard or 1890 sourdough) and add your toppings (blueberry, caramelized banana & toasted walnuts, chocolate chip, or Nutella & mixed berries). If you’re feeling particularly ravenous, go for the fried chicken and pancakes. And don’t forget to order pie for dessert!

Bubby’s

$$ American (Traditional), Breakfast & Brunch, Sandwiches

120 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013

212-219-0666

16. Best Any Time of Day: Jacob’s Pickles (Upper West Side)

Find one of the best restaurants in NYC for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Jacob’s Pickles. And with portion sizes bigger than Texas, it might be the only meal you need that day. Jacob’s offers comfort food at its finest. Their dishes brim with that cozy, all-consuming sort of joy you can only get from southern-style cooking. We’re talking fried pickles, buttery biscuits, cheesy grits, and buttermilk fried chicken that takes up the whole plate. If you’re feeling traditional, go for the sausage gravy-smothered chicken. It’s heavy, crispy, and absolutely delectable. For something with a little more kick, you can’t go wrong with the ultra-tangy and creamy buffalo mac n’ cheese.

Jacob’s Pickles

$$ Comfort Food, Southern, American (Traditional)

509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

212-470-5566

SANDWICH MOOD? READ: 12 BEST SANDWICHES IN NYC

15. To-Go Sushi: Sugarfish (Multiple)

Discover high-quality sushi to go in the bento box of your dreams at Sugarfish. For the best deal, go with one of the three sets of their “Trust Me” menus. Each set comes curated with a mix of sashimi, sushi, edamame, and various dipping elements. What’s more, the box has a “cheat sheet” for what fish pairs best with which sauce. For example, it gently reminds you to coat the tuna sashimi in ponzu sauce and chives versus soy sauce. You’ll enjoy an elegant variety of fish including tuna, albacore, Japanese yellowtail, Nozawa-style shrimp sushi with toasted sesame, Dungeness crab cut rolls, and more– all fresh and totally mouthwatering. It’s not just one of the best prices point for sushi in the city, it’s easily one of the best restaurants in NYC.

$$$$ Sushi Bars

33 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003

347-705-8100

14. Bagel with Lox: Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side)

There are a limited number of tourist traps in NYC that are worth the wait, and Russ & Daughters is one of them. Even among countless other premier bagel shops, this legendary Jewish deli rules the Lower East Side because their lox is simply the best. Which is why, if you decide to brave the lines, you have to order a bagel with one of their fish toppings. The classic bagel and lox sandwich is an excellent start. It comes with Gaspe nova smoked salmon delicately layered atop a mound of cream cheese and a bagel of your choice. To balance out the lox’s saltiness, pair with a poppyseed, sesame, egg, or plain bagel. But we won’t hold it against you if you go full everything (just remember, not toasted– welcome to New York).

Russ & Daughters

$$ Bagels, Smokehouse, Bakeries

179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

212-475-4880 ext. 1

13. Ramen: Mr. Taka (Lower East Side)

Mr. Taka originally came to be thanks to two friends from Japan who wanted to bring true Japanese ramen cuisine to the city. The spicy tonkotsu is the bowl of choice for newcomers and long-time fans alike, and why the noodle shop is one of the best restaurants in NYC. The pork bone broth simmers for 12 hours until the flavor is deep, dense, and addictive. It comes loaded to the brim with scallions, crunchy kikirage mushrooms, shredded red ginger, crispy garlic slices, a soft boiled egg, and black fried garlic oil that elevates it to the next level. Not to mention, thick slices of fatty pork belly charred by blowtorch immediately prior to serving. If you come during wintertime, get the seasonal spicy black tantanmen ramen with curried fried chicken for an explosive flavor you’ll think about for weeks.

170 Allen St, New York, NY 10002

212-254-1508

12. Casual Italian: Osteria Morini (Soho)

Italian food is one of New York’s cuisine pillars. And with tens of thousands of Italian eateries spanning the city, it can be hard to know where to start. Since debuting their flagship a decade ago in Soho, Osteria Morini has maintained its status as a premier Italian staple. One of the best restaurants in NYC, it offers a quintessential Italian ambiance the entire family will enjoy. While the menu offers an abundance of options, their house-made pastas are the restaurant’s shining star. Get the Cappelletti (truffled ricotta ravioli with prosciutto) or the tagliatelle with bolognese ragu and parmigiana for dishes that will transport you to northern Italy.

Osteria Morini SoHo

$$$ Italian, Cocktail Bars, Wine Bars

218 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012

212-965-8777

GET YOUR HOT DOGS: 9 BEST HOT DOGS IN NYC

11. Non-Deli Sandwich: Bahn Mi Saigon (Chinatown)

When it comes to sandwiches, New York doesn’t mess around. And neither does the pork banh mi sandwich at Banh Mi Saigon in China Town. It offers a radically different sandwich experience than the standard city deli with their emphasis on cutlets, pastrami, or reuben. But it’s one you are sure to never forget. Their fresh, made-from-scratch baguette is heaven in bread form. It comes loaded with sweetly caramelized pork and crumbly pâté, sweet julienned cucumber, pickled daikon and carrots, and a fistful of cilantro. And, if you request extra hot, they’ll even treat your banh mi with fresh jalapeños and sriracha.

Bánh Mì Saigon

$ Vietnamese, Sandwiches

198 Grand St, New York, NY 10013

212-941-1541

10. NYC-Style Pizza: Rubirosa (Nolita)

Rubirosa offers everything you could want in a classic New York City-style pizza. The 57-year-old family recipe has provided one of the consistently best pies in town for years and established it as one of the best restaurants in NYC. It stands apart from other pizza locales in the city because it’s not just a pizza joint– it’s a true-blue Italian restaurant. From ricotta ravioli to roasted octopus, their dishes continue to stand the test of time. But if you’re visiting the city for the first time, you’re here for the vodka pizza. Paper-thin crust, fresh mozzarella, and insanely good vodka sauce collide to create a truly top-notch eating endeavor.

$$ Italian, Pizza

235 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012

(212) 965-0500

9. True New York Bagel: Absolute Bagels

Don’t let the weekend lines scare you away– there’s a reason crowds gather outside at 6 AM each morning here. Absolute Bagels has garnered city-wide bagel acclaim for about three decades. Always, always fresh, their old-school bagels arrive with salty, seed-heavy topcoats and blistered bottoms. While you can certainly go the lox route here, if it’s your first time, simple is the way to go. The everything bagel with a generous schmear of scallion cream cheese is an order as timeless as New York. Their egg bagel is also arguably the best in the city — it’s so fluffy it’s almost buoyant. The color matches the vibrant yolks that make it so delectably airy, and its saccharine piquancy pairs perfectly with fillings savory or sweet alike.

Absolute Bagels

$ Bakeries, Bagels

2788 Broadway, New York, NY 10025

212-932-2052

8. Casual Burger: 7 th Street Burger (East Village)

7 th Street Burger might have only opened in the summer of 2021, but it’s already eclipsing the city burger scene as one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu boasts quality over quantity, featuring just four food items: a cheeseburger, a double cheeseburger, an Impossible cheeseburger, and fries. Their burger formula proves elegant in its simplicity: a sumptuous, generously sized beef patty sits on a cushy bun, topped with American cheese and pickles, all dressed in a creamy, tangy spread mixed with sautéed onions. The burst of flavors is concentrated and delicious, and at just $6 per cheeseburger, it’s one of the best and most affordable burgers you’ll find in all of New York.

7th Street Burger

91 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009

646-490-6797

WANT BAGELS? READ: 10 LOCAL MUST-TRY BAGEL SPOTS IN NYC

7. NYC Staple: Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side)

Katz’s is one of New York’s most famous establishments, and one of the few esteemed icons that genuinely lives up to the hype. More of an institution than a restaurant at this point, their iconic pastrami hot sandwich, in particular, has been praised and extolled for half a generation. Still wondering why Katz’s is considered one of the best restaurants in NYC? Their pastrami is pickled, brined, smoked, and carved into the apex of deli meats. It’s lustrous, juicy, savory, crusted with blackened spices, and stacked on rye bread that barely holds it all together. If you’re not into pastrami, they’re also known for their blintzes, hot dogs, and corned beef or turkey sandwiches.

Katz’s Delicatessen

$$ Delis, Sandwiches, Caterers

205 East Houston Street New York City, 10002

212-254-2246

6. Fancy Breakfast: Sadelle’s (Soho)

When a restaurant comes from Major Food Group (the team behind Carbone, Dirty French, and Santina), you can pretty much guarantee it’s going to be excellent. Sadelle’s is no exception. They’re famous for their “towers,” a tiered platter serving fish and garnishes alongside a skewer of fresh, perfectly baked bagels crusted with seasonings. Of all the dreamy fish options, make sure to get the smoked Scottish and the whitefish salad. Load up your bagel with a little bit of anything and everything. It hits the tongue with a luxurious purr of flavor– salt, brine, sweetness. If you go for brunch, their french toast reigns supreme. Why? It’s soaked overnight in custard and then deep-fried to achieve churro-like apotheosis. It just doesn’t get better than that.

Sadelle’s

$$$ Bakeries, Breakfast & Brunch, Sandwiches

463 West Broadway, New York, NY 10012

646-757-5477

SEE ALSO: TOP 20 DESSERTS IN NEW YORK CITY

5. Fried Chicken: Koko Wings

Fried chicken is a cooking tradition across the world, but the Korean brand, achieving crunchy yet perfectly non-greasy results, is one you do not want to miss out on. Korean-style fried chicken uses an Asian frying technique that renders out the fat in the skin. The result is a crust that is as delicate as spun sugar, but so crackly it shatters like glass against your teeth. And at Koko Wings, this chicken comes coated in a gleaming soy garlic sauce, which is the one you should get (specifically the combo plate). The candied glaze covers every fissure, and the meat beneath is moist, tender perfection. It is an irresistible combination of texture, sweetness, salt, and spice. And it’s no wonder it’s one of the best restaurants in NYC.

$$ Korean, Chicken Wings, Beer Bar

192 1st Ave, New York, NY 10009

646-892-3152

4. Tacos: Los Tacos No. 1 (Chelsea Market)

Los Tacos No. 1 offers authentic Tijuana street-style tacos in the heart of New York. So what makes them one of the best restaurants in NYC? Their tacos are, in short, miraculous. Choose from just-made corn or flour tortillas and fill with either steak, pollo asado, adobada pork, or grilled cactus. While the pork is the general crowd favorite (it comes marinated in a zingy, spicy, bold, drool-worthy sauce), any of their fillings are going to make your tastebuds sing. Don’t forget to order your tacos “con todo” to ensure it comes packed with all the goods.

Los Tacos No.1 at Chelsea Market

75 9th Ave. New York, NY 10011

212-246-0343

I SCREAM YOU SCREAM: 10 BEST ICE CREAM SHOPS IN NYC

3. Best Manhattan Square: Prince Street Pizza (Soho)

Not for the faint of heart, the famous “Soho Square” is no standard New York slice. Prince Street Pizza features Sicilian pizza and recipes that have been passed down for generations. And while they offer more traditional triangle slices, you’re here for the spicy spring square. The crust is airy and dense all at once, slathered in homemade spicy fra diavolo sauce, and covered in dollops of fresh mozz and an absolute stockpile of curly cut pepperoni. Hot oil pools and glistens in every tiny pepperoni cup, threatening to spill over each blistered edge. The slice is so massive it’s almost hard to know where to start. But once you do, you’ll find yourself three slices down and unable to walk. It is pizza art, and truly, as their motto goes, “no other square can compare.”

Prince Street Pizza

$ Pizza, Italian

27 Prince St A, New York, NY 10012

212-966-4100

2. Upscale Italian: Scarpetta (Flatiron)

One of the best restaurants in NYC is also one of the greatest upscale Italian restaurants in the entire city. Scarpetta is known for providing some of the city’s most heavenly pasta, and has been since 2008. The restaurant’s name is derived from the Italian expression, “fare la scarpetta,” which means to savor a meal to the very last bite. Start with the braised short ribs for an appetizer and don’t even think about skipping their famous tomato and basil spaghetti for your pasta course. It’s classically simple, expertly prepared, and utterly perfect.

$$$ Italian

88 Madison Avenue New York NY 10016

212-691-0555

SEE ALSO: 20 BEST DESSERTS IN NYC

1. Gourmet Burger: Emily (West Village)

Emily is a rare eatery that manages to do everything really well. From the Detroit-style grandma pies to the stand-out sides, their menu is genuinely extraordinary. And even though they’re technically a pizzeria, we’re here to talk about their burger. The award-winning Emmy Burger is double stacked and made with LaFrieda dry-aged beef. The patties are seared in clarified butter (aka, pure butterfat) on a flat top, and the resulting taste is reminiscent of steak. It’s topped with American cheese, pickles, caramelized onions, and doused in their top-secret Emmy sauce, which is so good you could drink it. The pillowy pretzel bun soaks up all that gooey, saucy goodness in a way a potato bun could never. It’s an out-of-body experience, and fits perfectly at the top of our guide to the best restaurants in NYC.

Emily – West Village

$$ Pizza, Burgers

35 Downing St, New York, NY 10014

917-935-6434

1345 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

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This is awesome!!!

I love your list, but the best pizza in NY is Rose’s pizza in Penn station.

Brooke Eliason

Thanks for your recommendation!

I just got back from NYC. Visited a few of these restaurants. Cant wait to go back…since there are so many more amazing ones!

Thank you so much Stephanie! Glad that you got to go to some of these spots!

Andrew Witter

Love Osteria Morini. My go to Italian in NYC. Casual, great food and service, and, the best, no pretentious scene here. Now my heart is set on Emily, Thanks Brooke (my Godchilds name).

I’m so glad that you love Osteria Morini as much as I do! Emily is a must- let me know what you think 🙂

awesome!! Can’t wait to try Emmy Burger.Been hearing a lot about it. I will definitely visit these place.

Thanks Priscilla! Let me know what you think!

We just ate at Osteria Morini, I went with your suggestion of the tagliatelle. It was delicious!! The ambiance, the food.. will definitely be going again.

Hi Jenny- so happy that you were able to eat at Osteria Morini. I love the food there and I’m glad that you did too!

I LOVE New York City! It’s one of my favorite places ever. We actually made it to more than half of these places when we visited a couple years ago. I wish we had tried Blue Ribbon Brasserie though. Next time. I am so ready to move there for a year and eat my way through the city!

Hi Danielle! Thanks so much for your comment- Blue Ribbon is FANTASTIC! I hope you get the chance next time. I try to talk my husband into moving there for a year all the time!

Yaaaas that burger from Emily looks amazing!!

Thanks- it WAS amazing!

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The Hit List: New NYC Restaurants To Try Right Now

photo credit: David A. Lee

Team Infatuation

June 4, 2024

When new restaurants open , we check them out. We subject our stomachs and social lives to the good, the bad, and more often than not, the perfectly fine. And every once in a while, a new spot makes us feel like Adam Sandler at a sweatpants sale. When that happens, we add it here, to The Hit List. 

The Hit List is where you’ll find all of the best new restaurants in New York. As long as it opened within the past several months and we’re still talking about it, it’s on this guide. The latest addition might be a buzzy new restaurant with caviar priced by the bump. Or it might be an under-the-radar lunch counter, where a few dollars gets you something that rattles around in your brain like a loose penny in a dryer.

Keep tabs on the Hit List and you'll always know just which new restaurants you should be eating at right now. (If you're looking for more Brooklyn spots, check out our borough-specific Hit List , too.)

​​New to the Hit List (6/3): Cafe Mado, Strange Delight, Lucia Alimentari, Mariscos El Submarino, Sammy's Roumanian, Xie Bao

photo credit: Chris Coe

Hi. It's June. Have you eaten spring peas yet? You're running out of time. Head to Cafe Mado in Prospect Heights, where the peas are just slightly charred and served with squeaky-soft cheese, and lots of herbs. As our neighbor sitting at the bar said, "I wish peas could always taste like that." From the team behind Place des Fêtes , and located in the old Oxalis space, this all-day cafe works for a breakfast sandwich in the morning, a pan bagnat at lunch, or a dinner of small, vegetable-forward plates in the back dining room— which resembles a sunlit secret garden. 

photo credit: Lanna Apisukh

Strange Delight

Fort Greene

This New Orleans-inspired Fort Greene restaurant has been teasing its opening since last fall. Now it’s finally here, serving Bubba Gump quantities of seafood. They have oysters six ways, a few different dips (crab, smoked fish), and an exhaustive catalog of shrimp dishes, the most noteworthy of which is a sandwich on milk bread with Dukes mayo and giardiniera. Get that, and pair it with some natural wine . The casual front area is saved for walk-ins, but you can also book a table in the back room that looks a bit like a fancy retro diner .

photo credit: Willa Moore

Lucia Alimentari

Lucia Pizza’s tiny, sit-down alimentari, which is directly behind their Soho slice shop, is a pizza party for adults. The menu features all our favorites, like the creamed spinach slice, in personal pizza form. There’s also wine, and small plates like caesar salad, and whipped ricotta with orange blossom honey. Plus tiramisu. We know, we know—this sounds like the makings of a tough reservation . But when we stopped by on a recent Friday night at 7pm, we only waited 15 minutes. According to our calculations, it won't be like this for long.

Mariscos El Submarino

Just in time for summer, Mariscos El Submarino has a second location in Greenpoint (in the former Mitica spot), with a perfect little patio in the back. Mariscos’ aguachiles and tostadas are a Jackson Heights classic, but their big cauldrons of raw fish become peak day-drinking food when you bring them outside. On a nice weekend, there might be an hours-long wait for the handful of patio tables‚ but even if you end up inside, you'll get to eat their excellent aguachile negro or equally formidable verde. Get one of these for the table, then fill out your meal with the cheesy shrimp tacos el gobernador and the craken, a pressed octopus taco that goes great with an icy michelada.

photo credit: Molly Fitzpatrick

Sammy's Roumanian

Eastern European

Lower East Side

There are few parties livelier than dinner at Sammy's Roumanian, and fewer parties still that will have you dancing the hora and ordering frozen vodka by the bottle. The beloved, nearly half-century-old Jewish steakhouse closed in 2021, and it’s back in a new Lower East Side location. Former regulars will not be disappointed. The house entertainer continues to deliver parody songs (we have a soft spot for "The Girl From Emphysema") from his electronic keyboard, and a pitcher of golden schmaltz still graces every table. They have a $75 prix fixe (with the the option to order a la carte on Thursdays and Sundays): The signature Romanian tenderloin—an absurdly large, garlicky skirt steak—is good, but the chicken liver, mixed tableside, is great.

This booth in Flushing's New York Food Court is devoted to all things crab roe, a Shanghainese favorite. The roster here includes crab roe mooncakes, crab roe spring rolls, crab roe soup dumplings, and more—but our favorite dish so far is the silky crab roe with noodles, which comes with wood ear mushrooms, pickled vegetables, and a soy egg. You won’t regret ordering widely at Xie Bao. If the counter spot went full concert merch stand and started selling crab roe posters and crab roe T-shirts, we'd probably load up on those too.

Burmese Bites at Mona Kitchen & Market

Midtown East

The best mall food in America might very well be at Burmese Bites in the Queens Center food court in Elmhurst. With this new outpost inside Mona Kitchen & Market, they may have claimed the title of best quick lunch in Midtown East, too—but we’d travel to any neighborhood for the larger-than-life flavors of their ohno kaukswe, a comforting coconut-chicken ramen, or nan gyu kaukswe, an udon noodle salad with tender minced chicken and roasted bean powder. This small booth serves just four dishes (all $15 each) between 11am-3pm on weekdays, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.

photo credit: Tadhana

There are plenty of Filipino kamayan-style meals around town, but the $185 tasting menu at Tadhanà on the Lower East Side is less banana leaf and more liquid nitrogen. The seven courses (with several more small bites) are full of high-end flourishes and made-for-social media moments: like smoke billowing over wagyu ceviche with uni, and a pair of tiny appetizers hidden inside a hollowed-out book. There's a pretty sweet Pinoy hip-hop playlist and it’s BYOB, so plan accordingly for a splashy, fun date. We’ll be back for their punchy house-made aged vinegar, just as soon as they start selling it.

photo credit: NoMad Diner

NoMad Diner

This stylish new-school diner—or is it just LARPing as a diner?—is in the lobby of the Arlo NoMad Hotel. They serve bread pudding french toast and green shakshuka at breakfast, but you’ll want to stop in later in the day to try the Arlo Dog. This $15 hot dog (we promise, it’s worth it) comes tucked under a blanket of crispy fried shallots, with kimchi and kewpie mayo. Get it with NoMad Diner’s version of disco fries, with chicken gravy and gournay cheese, loaded with chives, and one of their very good cocktails. We like the Mack the Knife, a dirty martini made with parmesan-infused vodka.

photo credit: Carbon Stories

Bar Madonna

Williamsburg

You could, technically, bring a date to Bar Madonna, huddle in a corner on a hunter green banquette, and limit your consumption to mezcal, vermouth, and Fernet Branca. But if you don’t eat here, you’re missing out. Pop into this Williamsburg cocktail lounge , and try what is essentially a messy smashburger made with one giant meatball. Supplement with a grilled caesar and some Calabrian chili wings, and don’t forget to check out the painting in the back from KidSuper.

photo credit: Kate Previte

As tough reservations and painfully expensive entrees become the norm, Kisa leans in the opposite direction. Modeled on the quick, casual restaurants that cater to Korean cab drivers, this walk-in-only spot on the Lower East Side offers a few set meals for $32. Choose a protein like spicy pork or stir-fried squid, then enjoy it alongside an abundance of bottomless sides. On your way out, grab a black bean latte from the coin-operated coffee machine that blends right in with all the retro decor. It’ll only cost you a quarter—and they’ll give you one with your bill.

photo credit: Francesco Sapienza

We’ve had a little surge of restaurants serving great Levantine food on the Hit List lately: Huda , Frena , and now Sawa in Park Slope. This Lebanese spot has big windows and an open kitchen, so you’ll be welcomed by the sights and smells of pita being rolled out and baked in their domed oven. Start with a minty arak cocktail or a glass of red from a very high-altitude vineyard in Lebanon, and some of that fresh pita, alongside muhammara and a thick hummus—to which you should add beef cheeks and pine nuts. Don’t skip the kibbeh arnabiyeh, a large lamb shank in tahini, or the whole dorade in a tomato-pepper stew, but keep in mind that portions are large. We’d recommend bringing a couple of friends.

photo credit: Katrine Moite Photography

East Village

Thumping bass, fake vines, and a celebrity chef are all potential red flags. But we’ve had some seriously good food at Bungalow. This East Village restaurant channels the spirit of a retro Indian clubhouse, with sprawling rugs, rattan chairs, and an excess of chandeliers. Its menu, on the other hand, goes the modern route. Try the tart, architecturally interesting purple sweet potato chaat, then spend some quality time with the Rajasthani pulled lamb in a thick, chocolate-brown curry. Reservations are scarce, but you can always put your name in for a table, then find somewhere to hang for an hour or so. The front cocktail lounge, for example.

photo credit: Sonal Shah

Upper East Side

There’s an attention-grabbing “ice cream hot pot” at Tha Phraya, but that’s not what makes this Thai spot on the Upper East Side sizzle. From the neon yellow sign at the entrance, to the illuminated cityscape in the back “Temple Room,” everything here is stylishly lit—and that includes the food, which tingles with freshly ground and pounded spices. They have dishes from all over Thailand, but start with the chef’s specialities on the menu’s first page: the pomelo salad is perfectly balanced and strewn with tiny little fishes, and the fried whole branzino comes in a tangy kaeng som curry that’s hard to stop eating, even as it bubbles down into a thicker, spicier sauce over the course of dinner. We’ll be heading back soon to delve into the menu’s back half.

Crudo fatigue is the firstest of first world problems, but just when we thought we were sick of raw seafood and wine, here comes Penny, a new seafood bar in the East Village. The 31-seat counter is situated above its sister restaurant Claud , and you might think snacking here before a full dinner downstairs is the move. But Penny is worth your full attention. Start with the icebox, a luxurious raw bar selection on a  personal tray of ice, and then stick around for stuffed squid, whole lobster, and a creamy oyster roast with puff pastry on top. The shoulder-to-shoulder set-up is slightly chaotic, but when everyone oohs-and-ahhs with you at your rare red rice sake order, you’ll appreciate the camaraderie.

Unlike so many 21st-century Italian restaurants designed to feel old, this Noho spot from the owners of Delmonico’s is charming not cheesy. Black-and-white photos, brick walls, and that quintessential formal service are conducive to romance over a little shrimp scampi. And 1800s-era stone arches make up for any lackluster pastas, like bland casarecce and agnolotti. Stick to the dishes that share chophouse DNA with Delmonico’s, and sit in the downstairs dining room. The top floor with a shiny bar and large tables looks like it’s from an entirely different mood board, and doesn’t have the same (admittedly manufactured) old-world appeal. 

West Village

Between the surf guitar and an affection for citrus, San Sabino feels like the nicest seaside cafe in 1970s Malibu—only they do fancy Italian American seafood and there's a view of a uBreakiFix cell phone repair shop. You might have to know a guy to get a reservation at this limoncello-colored West Village restaurant from the Don Angie team, but dishes like farfalle stuffed with bright chili crab are worth the fuss of getting in. Or do what we did and stand in line by 4:30pm, then kill a few hours at a West Village bar before it’s time to gulp down shrimp parm or a cocktail that tastes like an Italian mojito.

photo credit: Demo

Demo in the West Village encapsulates a whole word-cloud worth of recent trends: a coffee shop by day and a wine bar by night, it sells shoppy-shop items, and shares a kitchen with a bagelry. The pounding R&B deep cuts are working even harder than the staff’s forearm tattoos to make this place feel exciting, but you can get some pretty good snacks to go with a glass of wine made from some grape you've never heard of. A full meal may run you over $100 per person, so unless you're flush with cash, stick to the smaller plates like the lengua tonnata decorated with caper berries.

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The 18 Best NYC Restaurants To Visit In 2023

There is no question that New York City is well-known around the world as a culinary center. The City That Never Sleeps is a true melting pot, with just about every cuisine imaginable able to be found somewhere within its limits. With countless new restaurants popping up every day all across the city, sometimes it's hard to know what's worth the trip (and in some cases, the massive waitlist). While it may feel like 2023 is just beginning, New York City has already experienced a variety of worthy new culinary openings.

Whether you're looking for exclusive seasonal sushi picks, a classic old-school Italian restaurant, or incredible vegan alternative dishes, there's a new restaurant in New York City serving up what you're looking for. To make the process easier for your next dinner date or night out with friends, we've compiled the city's hottest new openings this year that you won't want to miss.

Moono, the elevated Korean eatery in Koreatown, is brimming with elegant sophistication. The high ceilings give the restaurant an air of grandeur and the aesthetic detailing of the old-fashioned wood and marble bar diners pass by en route to their tables makes the dining experience all the more majestic. The restaurant is chef Hoyoung Kim's newest culinary venture after celebrating success at Jua in the Flatiron District, which has one Michelin star for its upscale tasting menu. 

Moono arrives with an a la carte menu featuring dry-aged branzino, mung bean pancakes, spicy fried chicken, and Pyongyang cold noodles. The menu is divided into categories with many of the dishes lending themselves well to sharing, which allows you to sample seafood, hot pot, noodles, and sotbap. On the beverage side, the restaurant boasts a strong variety of Korean spirits including sojus and chunjus, as well as specialty cocktails with flavor profiles that complement the dishes. 

Unlike Jua, which is known for Western twists on Korean delicacies, Moono focuses on expertly rendering under-represented Korean dishes for its Manhattan audience.

One of the glories of the New York City food scene is its diversity and commitment to rendering authentic international dishes in New York. Hailing from the mega-popular Roman institution Rosciloi opened a location in NYC , the first outpost of the beloved restaurant outside of Italy. Rosciloi brings the essence of the Italian culinary experience to SoHo with two dining options: an upstairs a la carte space, which is opening in August, where diners can enjoy specialty products sourced directly from Italy, as well as an elegant sit-down experience downstairs to enjoy the prix fixe tasting menu and wine pairings. 

While everything at Roscioli is top-notch, specifically the creamy burrata and the Panzanella salad, the highlight of the meal for us is the pasta, which is made with the highest quality ingredients including imported Italian olive oil, aged cheeses, and preserved tomatoes. Some standout pasta dishes include the carbonara and the cacio e pepe. 

Come to Rosciloi for a taste of Rome in a homey environment with bricks lining the walls and a curated wine cellar with over 2,500 bottles, according to Eater . The space feels at once perfect for the New York City culinary scene and a strong homage to its roots in the eternal city.

Chang Lai Fishballs & Noodles

New York City has a storied history with food carts. Many beloved restauranteurs began serving specialty food to their communities as street vendors, including the chefs behind Mexicue, which combines traditional Mexican flavors with Southern barbecue, and Halal Guys , whose platters of chicken and rice are a culinary staple in NYC. Chang Lai Fishballs & Noodles is the latest restaurant to follow this trajectory by taking its celebrated Cantonese street cart and transforming it into a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Chinatown. 

At Chang Lai Fishballs & Noodles you can enjoy all of your favorites from the food cart that operated in the area for more than seven years. Menu highlights include rice rolls with curry fishballs and a variety of Hong Kong-style noodles with your choice of oyster sauce fish balls, pork skin and radish, curry fish balls, and beef tripe and spleen radish. 

The casual eatery is the labor of love of its founders, husband-and-wife team Lai Sheng Zhang and Li Qing Wu who immigrated to New York from the Guangdong province of China. Service is warm and friendly with a dedicated following of customers from Chang Lai Fishballs & Noodles' years as a culinary fixture in the neighborhood. The food is still served in plastic containers making it perfect for takeout or eating on the go. The rice rolls are the real standout here with flavor offerings of pork, beef, shrimp, and sweet corn chicken. 

This brand-new Italian spot in Colombus Circle, Bad Roman, has taken the city by storm. The luxurious interior and creative modern takes on classic Italian flavors have diners filling the restaurant's reservations nonstop. If you can manage to get a table here, you'll be among the privileged few to enjoy the restaurant's most talked about dishes like black truffle honey whipped ricotta, roasted garlic babka, 'roni cups with ranch, Osetra caviar gnocchi served with crème fraîche and chives, ravioli-topped filet mignon, and more.

Brought to you by the team behind one-Michelin-star West Village Italian restaurant Don Angie , it's clear the team knows a thing or two about elevated Italian fare. With great ambiance, fun food, and creative cocktails, you can't go wrong with a night at Bad Roman (if you can snag a reservation).

Soho seafood hotspot Principe is serving up fresh seafood with flair. From an extensive raw bar to main dishes like lobster risotto, you don't want to miss out on the best flavors the ocean has to offer. Italian influences and an elegant, upscale interior make Principe the place to be. Diners can enjoy everything from typical seafood like clams and shrimp to slightly more exotic choices like sea urchins.

In an ode to the restaurant's Italian influences, the menu boasts a pasta section filled with delicious options like clam bucatini with black pepper and egg yolk and rock shrimp mafaldine with sugo biano. Add in fun drink options like unique takes on traditional Italian spritzes and an extensive Italian wine list, and you have a dinner spot you won't forget.

Those with dietary restrictions rejoice! Anixi is here to save the day. This Mediterranean restaurant in Chelsea is both vegan and kosher, with an extensive list of gluten-free options as well. From salmon and tuna to chicken and beef, Anixi has vegan replacements for just about every non-vegan Mediterranean element you can think of. Everything from whipped "ricotta" dip to grilled chick'n shish kabobs still captures authentic Mediterranean flavors with a vegan, kosher, and gluten-free twist.

To perfectly pair drinks that will round out your meal, Anixi offers unique options like housemade sodas, creative cocktails, and a diverse wine list with a kosher section. The restaurant's chef, Guy Vaknin, is a world-renowned vegan chef who is no stranger to creative vegan options, having created the Beyond Sushi vegan sushi brand together with his wife Tali. The next time you're looking for a vegan, kosher, or gluten-free meal that won't feel like you're missing anything, head to Anixi.

Petite Patate

This traditional French bistro is new to Prospect Heights from acclaimed chef Greg Baxtrom, who city diners may already know as the chef behind a number of other hot restaurants in the city, including Olmsted , Patti Ann's, and Five Acres. With a name meaning "small potato," Petite Patate is named after Baxtrom's dog, Spud, giving the restaurant a lighthearted, welcoming vibe. The menu keeps true to the French bistro theme with hearty French dishes like burger au poivre, duck coq au vin, and steak frites.

The menu is perfectly rounded out with a meticulously curated French wine list, perfect for pairing with the traditional French dishes. This replaces Baxtrom's previous restaurant Maison Yaki, which was located in the same space and offered French-Japanese fusion cuisine. You won't want to miss out on the location's re-vamp.

The Office of Mr. Moto

This unique sushi spot focuses on highlighting the rich history of Japanese culinary practices. The restaurant is named after Mr. Moto, who traveled from the U.S. to Japan in 1853 on the USS Susquehanna and recorded his culinary findings there. Rather than a typical American menu where guests can pick and choose on their own, the restaurant instead offers a unique 21-course experience where guests are served special seasonal picks from the chefs.

The restaurant's highly-trained sushi chefs, called itamae, begin the tasting experience with a selection of appetizers. This is followed by a savory Chawanmushi egg custard. Guests are then offered 16 pieces of nigiri that reflect both traditional and modern interpretations of Edomae sushi. Finally, guests are offered a hand roll, soup, and dessert to finish up the meal. While reservations fill up quickly and require a $100 deposit per person, the experience is well worth it for serious sushi fans.

Steak Frites Bistro

Bringing traditional French bistro fare to Hell's Kitchen, Steak Frites Bistro offers diners an authentic French menu and decor to match. As the name implies, the highlight of the restaurant is its steak frites dish, which comes in two different iterations: a 9-ounce hanger steak and a 16-ounce dry-aged New York strip steak. However, this is far from the only notable dish on the menu. Other French favorites like a cheese plate, escargot, roast chicken, and cheesy gnocchi with mushrooms round out the rest of the dinner menu.

The bistro is also open for weekday lunch and weekend brunch, with unique sandwiches like duck confit on brioche on the lunch menu and eggs benedict, omelets, and other fun French breakfast options added for the brunch menu. The restaurant's sommelier Alexis Percival adds a special touch with a carefully curated wine list, heavily focused on natural French wines.

For upscale Italian cuisine near Rockefeller Center , look no further than Duomo 51. The restaurant has options for every time of day, serving breakfast every day and lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Duomo 51 serves a wide variety of Italian favorites, including antipasto, salad, and soup to start, as well as an extensive list of pasta, seafood, and meat for main dishes.

Rich chocolate cake, creamy cheesecake, and a variety of other dessert options give your meal a sweet finish. And no Italian dinner would be complete without a selection from the restaurant's global wine list, with diverse options available by the glass or by the bottle. During the warmer months, the restaurant will utilize a stunning terrace, offering diners fresh air and views of the bustling city below.

Carriage House NYC

This upscale American eatery provides diners with a special menu style, where dishes are broken up into "small," "medium," and "large" categories rather than traditional divisions like "appetizers" and "main dishes." This creates a unique atmosphere where diners can dig into anything from "small" berry toast with chicken liver pate for $16, to "large" wagyu skirt steak, which is priced at $86. In between are a variety of pasta, salads, seafood, and meats for diners of all preferences to enjoy.

Perhaps the most unique element, however, is not an item on the menu at all, but rather the way the restaurant's complimentary bread and butter are served at the beginning of the meal. Rather than your typical butter blocks, Carriage House serves up butter in the form of a candle that is lit, causing it to melt and drip down — perfect for dipping your bread.

Bar Mario, a new Italian spot in Red Hook, Brooklyn is a casual eatery, filled with locals enjoying the delicious pasta, salads, drinks, and desserts on offer. While the restaurant may be brand new, it has already become a neighborhood fixture. The restaurant gets its name from a fictional place mentioned by famous Italian musician Luciano Ligabue in his songs, a favorite of the owners Alessandro Bandini and Moreno Cerutti.

The pair are both from Italy — Florence and Turin, respectively — and have now brought the flavors of their heritage to Red Hook. Popular dishes include the "Spaghetti Hangover," which contains just about everything salty and delicious you can think of, including anchovies, garlic, and cheese; creamy, cheesy gnocchi Castelmagno e nocciole; and the absolutely massive Mario's Caesar salad.

This classic red sauce joint may be new on the block, but it offers all the old-school Italian-American charm you could hope for. Located in Ridgewood, Queens, Velma is serving up pizza, pasta, chicken Parmigiana, and more classic Italian-American dishes for diners to enjoy.

The restaurant takes pride in its homey, familial atmosphere. This is made clear by its eclectic decor, which includes a wall of family photos in mismatched frames as a main fixture of the restaurant. Paulina Grigonis and J.R. Savage, the couple who own the restaurant, drive home the family feeling. This is not the couple's first venture together; the pair also run the successful Mexican restaurant Gordo's Cantina located in Bushwick, Brooklyn and so far, they seem to be met with success yet again at Velma.

Named after owner Mark Roof's grandmother, Lula Mae was originally conceived as an homage to her Southern cooking. However, as the idea continued to evolve, it eventually came to involve Chef Dan San, who now brings Southeast Asian inspiration to the table with a menu of sophisticated small bites.

From sweet petite oysters to fried tofu to Sambal crab fried rice, San has created a delicious menu that perfectly complements the restaurant's specialty cocktails and extensive wine list. For San, the dishes channel family inspiration as well, as he thinks back to the flavors he experienced with his Cambodian grandmother. Located in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, Lula Mae may be more wine bar than restaurant, but you definitely won't want to miss out on the delicious bites on offer.

Garnacha Bite

If you're looking for a casual, unfussy spot to easily grab Tex-Mex favorites in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Garnacha Bite is the place to be. Garnacha Bite offers enchiladas, burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, and more for diners to enjoy.

Highlights include their signature Azteca nacho options, including Macho Nachos, made with Mucho melted cheese blend, olives, scallions, pinto, and black beans, topped with pico, sour cream, and guacamole; Gringo Nachos, made with Mucho melted cheese blend over grilled chicken and corn, topped with salsa, pico de Gallo, black olives, scallions, sour cream, and guacamole; Supreme Nachos, made with Mucho melted cheese blend, refried beans, sour cream, and guacamole; and more. Garnacha Bite also offers a special kid's menu, as well as homemade Mexican drinks —including Horchata, Jamaica (Hibiscus Cold Tea), and Tamarindo — desserts like churros, tres leches, fried sweet plantains, and more.

New to Brooklyn Winery comes seasonal modern American restaurant Rosette. Located on the border of Williamsburg and Greenpoint, the menu includes sharable favorites, including grilled oysters, fluke ceviche, porcini and guanciale croquettes, and more. The menu also highlights snack boards, with a variety of options for cheese, fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie. A notable inclusion is the "chef's whim" board option, for which the chef decides what to include on the board at the moment that it is ordered so that no two boards are ever the same.

Rosette also of course serves a variety of wines from Brooklyn Winery, as well as some beer options as well. Perfect for date night or relaxing on weekends with friends, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming for all to enjoy.

Located in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, Parashades is serving up delicious pizza and cocktails. Conveniently around the corner from Barclay's Center, Parashades is the perfect spot to grab a slice before or after a concert or sporting event. Popular pies include Parashades' signature "hot chick" with the restaurant's own blend of chicken seasoning as well as hot sauce and blue cheese; the vegan cheese pie made with Numu vegan cheese; the vodka pie with pesto, and more.

Add in handcrafted cocktails, sharable garlic knots, and a fun atmosphere, and it's clear that Parashades is the perfect spot for a fun evening with friends, no matter the occasion. The next time you find yourself in need of a slice in Prospect Heights, don't hesitate to give Parashades a try.

New York City is always full of opportunities to try new, unique cuisines, and Zhego NYC is no exception. Serving up traditional Bhutanese cuisine in Woodside, Queens, Zhego NYC is far from ordinary. If you, like many, have never experienced Bhutanese cuisine before, you may want to try the national dish of Bhutan, Ema Datsi, which is described as a spicy stew made of fresh chili peppers, scallions, tomato, and locally produced cheese.

The menu is mainly divided between vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with plenty to try on both sides. The cheese momo dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, essentially a Bhutanese dumpling filled with cabbage, cilantro, and locally-produced cheese. For another unique option, look to the drink menu and try the hot butter tea.

New Astoria hotspot Figlia is offering up tasty Italian food including neo-Neapolitan pizza, housemade pasta, antipasti, cocktails, and more. Figlia's pizzas are created through a special process, starting with long-fermented dough and high-quality, local ingredients. Once prepared, the pizzas enter Figlia's wood-fired pizza oven built by the craftsmen of Fiero Forni. The pies are then baked at 750 degrees Fahrenheit to create a uniquely flavorful artisanal crust.

Delicious pizza options include arugula and speck, burrata and Pomodoro, Maitake mushroom, and more. Popular pasta options include rigatoni bolognese, pappardelle with spiced braised lamb leg, and more. Don't forget to balance out your meal with Figlia's diverse selection of wines and beers from Italy and beyond. Finally, finish things up with a slice of rich chocolate and hazelnut mousse cake or creamy tiramisu.

Stretch Pizza

Stretch Pizza, a fun new pizza spot in the Flatiron District, was formed by an unlikely restaurant duo, Wylie Dufresne and Gadi Peleg, striking up a simple conversation about New York pizza. A casual chat soon became a brainstorm of how to open their own place together, and the rest is history. Now the Flatiron District gets to reap the benefits with crispy, cheesy, delicious dishes for everyone to enjoy.

As the name implies, the menu contains no shortage of pizza options, with a number of fun signature pies including The Oddfather, made with zucchini, smoked eggplant, and Italian-style tempura crumbs; The Old Town, made with mushroom, muenster, garlic cream, and pumpernickel; The Couch Potato, made with fingerlings, sour cream, bacon, and scallion; and more. However, the restaurant also serves up a number of creative small plates, including basil chickpea fries with signature Stretch sauce; potato chip salad with frisée, mizuna, and herbs; and plenty more for diners to enjoy.

New Midtown Korean restaurant Olle is serving up warm and comforting dishes, highlighting a variety of delicious soups and rice dishes. The perfect mixture of casual and elegant, the restaurant offers the perfect atmosphere for a date, solo lunch, or dinner with friends. One of the restaurant's most popular dishes is the Galbi Jjim, which are braised beef short ribs with oyster mushrooms, jalapeño peppers, and jujube. Available in sizes small and large, there are also a number of add-on options for the Galbi Jjim, including noodles, fried rice, and more.

Another popular menu section is the Naengmyeon or cold noodle dishes. Olle offers two different varieties. Both are made with cold handmade noodles, lightly pickled radish and cucumber, Korean pear, and boiled egg, but the Mool Naengmyeon is made into a cold soup with the addition of beef dongchimi broth, while the Bibim Naengmyeon instead adds spice.

11 New York City Restaurants to Visit This Summer

From subterranean bars to sizzling new international eateries, the city's dining scene is hotter than ever.

The weather is warming up and so is New York City's dining scene. This summer, reimagined classics and bold international flavors take center stage.

Aghassi Gopchang

Offerings range from gopchang (small and large beef intestines) to perennial favorites like tender marinated kalbi and succulent Iberian pork collar, and the menu caters to all tastes. For those less inclined toward offal, there’s an array of classic cuts including brisket and pork belly, alongside hearty side dishes such as seafood pancake, spicy rice cakes, and seafood and soft tofu stew.

The dining room pulses with the energy and ambiance of a Seoul hot spot, complete with K-pop tunes and a lively decor that blends modern design with traditional Korean elements. The vibrant pink façade and artful interior make a visit feel like a mini-escape to one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Dining here isn’t just a meal; it’s a cultural experience.

Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare

At the recently reopened Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare in Midtown Manhattan, newly appointed executive chefs Max Natmessnig and Marco Prins blend their illustrious backgrounds to redefine the dining experience. The chefs, with sterling credentials from Michelin-starred kitchens across Munich and New York, have crafted a 13-course tasting menu that marries French and Japanese culinary philosophies with a pronounced focus on seafood. Their creations draw on both their professional journeys and personal histories.

A standout dish, for example, transforms a traditional Belgian waffle recipe from one chef's grandmother into a sophisticated base for luxurious Hokkaido uni. Other highlights include Grilled Faroe Island langoustine with yuzu and a decadent scallop with vin jaune and caviar, each dish a testament to the chefs' commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and showcasing them with inventive flair.

Complementing this gastronomic adventure is an award-winning wine program led by Head Sommelier Peter Joung. His expert pairings draw from a deep well of fine wines from celebrated European regions, enhancing the exquisite culinary offerings with perfect sips of Champagne, Burgundy, Rhône, and beyond.

Coral Omakase

Discreetly tucked behind mirrored glass doors within Point Seven, chef Franklin Becker's luxe seafood restaurant in the MetLife Building, Coral Omakase is a 10-seat sushi counter helmed by Chef Robby Cook, a notable figure in New York's sushi scene with over 15 years of experience at top sushi counters including BONDST and Morimoto NY.

Coral offers a 17-course omakase experience, showcasing Cook's mastery and thoughtful sourcing of ingredients. The omakase showcases high-quality seafood and fish from Tokyo's Toyosu Fish Market, with standout dishes like shiro ebi with uni and truffles, and an assortment of nigiri including baby amberjack and chu-toro. Cook's unique touch extends to the rice used in his nigiri, sourced from his in-laws' rice paddies in Minamiuonuma, Niigata—known for producing the best rice for sake and sushi. The experience culminates in a savory dish of medai (Japanese butterfish) steamed with sake, kombu, and a matsutake dashi ankake, highlighting Cook’s respect for the craft and tradition of omakase.

Beverage pairings are expertly curated by wine director Luke Boland and feature a diverse selection including champagne, wine, sake, and a comprehensive array of non-alcoholic teas, wine, cocktails, and various elixirs.

La dolce vita has landed in the West Village with the arrival of Il Totano , the new eatery from chef/owner (and Top Chef winner) Harold Dieterle and restaurateur Alexandra Shapiro. Inspired by the vibrant flavors and culture of southern Italy, where Dieterle and chef de cuisine Steven Lopin's families hail from, the menu is a seafood lover's dream.

Their passion for fishing and cooking from this region is showcased in a menu centered around dry-aged, umami-forward fish, featuring dishes like dry-aged Kona kampachi with fresh chickpeas and spicy passion fruit colatura, and grilled dry-aged branzino with blistered Sicilian green beans and tuna collar sauce. For those craving something other than fish, the menu also features a crispy pork chop cotolette with bitter greens and spicy duck meatballs with mint cavatelli.

The decor, designed by Sasha Bikoff, features blue and white striped hand-painted wallpaper, mid-century inspired furnishings, and a deco bar crafted from rich walnut wood, evoking the sleek lines of a Riva boat on the Amalfi Coast. Shapiro's playful cocktail menu, with drinks named after 1980s cartoon characters, adds a fun twist to the evening.

The acclaimed team behind C as in Charlie introduces Kisa , a nod to the Korean kisa sikdang or "driver’s restaurants" that emerged in the 1980s to serve cabbies looking for nutritious and convenient meals along major roads throughout Korea.

Chef Simon Lee (formerly of Michelin-starred Jua) brings a slice of Korean diner culture to the Lower East Side with a robust "Baekban" menu reflective of home-style Korean dining. Patrons can savor dishes like bulgogi and stir-fried spicy pork, each accompanied by rice, soup, and a medley of seasonal side dishes, capturing the essence of hearty, nutritious meals favored by road warriors. The ingredients are meticulously sourced, emphasizing authenticity and a deep connection to traditional Korean culinary practices. Kisa’s ambiance merges retro diner aesthetics with the spirited bustle of East Houston and Allen streets, completing a dining experience that’s both a cultural homage and a culinary delight, designed to transport its guests back to a cherished, bygone era.

Perched above Claud, owners Chase Sinzer and Joshua Pinsky's perennially packed boîte in the East Village, Penny is a chicly minimal raw bar and seafood counter where walk-in diners get a front row seat to the gleamingly fresh shellfish and crustaceans on display in wall-mounted stainless steel bins, alongside bottles of wine ready for pouring.

Diners at Penny can begin with one of the signature "ice boxes," which offers a unique take on a seafood plateau, where raw bar selections are served in striking blue, powder-coated steel boxes. One can then move onto an array of dishes, from warm Maine lobster with brown butter to a decadent beggar’s purse filled with caviar, as well as stuffed squid, cod with clams, and an innovative oyster pan roast.

Complementing the menu is the thoughtfully curated and comprehensive wine program, led by Ellis Srubas-Giammanco and Sinzer, which spotlights emerging vintners alongside established legends. With over 250 bottles to choose from and options like affordable by-the-glass selections, fine sake, sherry, and Suntory Premium Malt on draft, Penny’s beverage menu is one of the best in town.

From the team behind Don Angie, comes San Sabino , a modern Italian-American restaurant. Here, chefs Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli have created a menu that boldly reinterprets classics, infused with inventive flavors that celebrate the chefs’ heritage and travels. Dishes are crafted with a focus on seafood and handmade pastas, each offering a contemporary twist on traditional red-sauce staples.

Starters include a selection of raw and chilled dishes such as Greenpoint Co. Oysters dressed with Neapolitan pomodorini and fresh horseradish; crab and mortadella dip served with Ritz crackers and sweet cherry pepper jelly; and octopus carpaccio accented with capocollo and grilled sourdough. The culinary journey continues with standout pastas like the lobster triangoli in a white vodka sauce enriched with black garlic, and the pepperoni Carbonara, which marries hand-rolled ziti with the zest of Szechuan peppercorn.

Three desserts end the meal on a sweet note: toasted rice panna cotta combining pistachio sticky rice, young coconut, and candied Sicilian pistachios; caramelized Crespelle with Italian rum crema and key lime; and gelato Viennese, a delightful blend of espresso-créme fraiche gelato, burnt hazelnut caramel, and torta caprese.

This northeastern Thai eatery in Chelsea redefines Esan-style cuisine with a fun and modern twist. Created by the innovative team behind SOOTHR, SAPPE emphasizes authentic regional flavors while its design and ambiance channel the golden era of 1950s Thailand, blending traditional elements with a touch of vintage glamour.

Executive Chef Tom Khaengkarn, renowned for his expertise in open flame cooking and aromatic herbs, leads the kitchen. The menu is richly varied, spanning seven categories including grilled skewers and authentic Esan specialties. Key offerings include Ping Yang grilled skewers—favorites include ox tongue and marinated BBQ chicken—served with a signature spicy powder. The Esan region's culinary distinctiveness shines in dishes such as Tum Pu Pla-Ra, a spicy green papaya salad with crab and anchovy, and Gang Om Gai, a robust spicy chicken soup infused with dill and pumpkin.

The drinks menu, curated by Supatta Banklouy, features the "Sura-Naree" collection—cocktails inspired by Thai novels and films, crafted with traditional Thai distillates and rare ingredients, each telling a dramatic story of an iconic female protagonist.

(SUB)MERCER

Tucked beneath the Mercer Hotel in SoHo, (SUB)MERCER is the latest hotspot from Scott Sartiano and BOND Hospitality, the minds behind the chic Italian spot SARTIANO’s and private club Zero Bond.

With a cozy capacity of 85, (SUB)MERCER is designed for smaller groups looking for a more intimate night out. Moving away from the typical full-size bottle service that dominates club culture, (SUB)MERCER offers half bottles and sophisticated small bites like caviar chips; meatball sliders; and cacio e pepe arancini crafted by executive chef Chris Lewnes and culinary director Alfred Portale, to create a more tailored experience.

The latest culinary endeavor from Tomer Blechman, chef and owner of Miss Ada in Fort Greene, Theodora brings a fresh Mediterranean flair to the neighborhood. This new restaurant celebrates seasonal produce and specializes in dry-aged seafood, all centered around an open-fire kitchen concept.

Chef Tomer's dedication to enhancing natural flavors is evident in his unique approach to aging fish for three to seven days, intensifying its umami qualities.

The menu at Theodora displays Mediterranean flavors with dishes such as hiramasa crudo with finger lime, avocado, and dashi, and kampachi with coconut turmeric and pickled ginger. The bread selection features za'atar kubaneh accompanied by schug, tomato aioli, and harissa. Options for wood-fired vegetables include sweet potatoes with crème fraîche and smoked paprika, and broccolini with basil and dill dressing. Seafood enthusiasts can enjoy grilled dishes like swordfish belly skewers and black cod with shallot beurre blanc.

Theodora also boasts a natural wine list and creative cocktails like the Cynara with vodka, artichoke, and sun-dried cherry tomato, making it a culinary destination where each dish and drink is crafted to emphasize the beauty of every ingredient.

Yingtao , the debut offering from Bolun Yao's August Hospitality Group, celebrates his grandmother’s legacy with a modern twist on traditional Chinese cooking. Firmly rooted in the rich tapestry of China's culinary heritage, Yingtao combines traditional flavors with modern haute cuisine under the direction of chef Jakub Baster, whose resume includes stints at Michelin-starred Daniel in NYC, Astrid & Gaston in Lima, and La Dame de Pic in France.

The restaurant offers an eight-course tasting menu priced at $165 and a four-course pre-fixe for $90, both with optional wine pairings or an innovative cocktail selection.

Menu highlights include kampachi adorned with prickly ash pepper, buttermilk, and caviar; crab noodles featuring soy yolk and smoked tobiko; and a decadent Wagyu with sauce au poivre and arugula rabe. Signature cocktails like the Yingtao Sour—blending sour cherry cardamom tea with osmanthus and Pineau Park—and the Mala Negroni, a numbing twist on the classic with green peppercorn shochu.

Contributing Editor William Li is the founder of art consultancy Armature Projects and the Emmy-nominated co-host of Lucky Chow , a series about Asian food and culture on PBS.

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Critic’s Notebook

Are These Really ‘the World’s 50 Best Restaurants’?

The places on this year’s “50 Best” list are endurance tests, theatrical spectacles, monuments to ego and — the two most frightening words in dining — “immersive experiences.”

By Pete Wells

To be media literate these days is to understand that no ranked list, whether it is the “100 Greatest Drummers of All Time” or the “35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Ever Exist,” should be taken too literally. We all know that the cuteness of the Maltipoo and the awesomeness of Keith Moon are matters of opinion.

When it comes to parsing the annual dining survey known as The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, though, you really have to open your mind. Forget asking whether these establishments are the best in the world. The bigger question is: Are they restaurants?

Consider some of the highest-ranking winners from this year’s edition , which was announced Wednesday night in a ceremony at the Wynn Las Vegas that began with feathered and painted dancers twirling light sticks to electronic dance music on a darkened stage.

Gaggan , in Bangkok, was named not just the ninth-best restaurant in the world but the single best restaurant in Asia. The chef, Gaggan Anand, greets diners at his 14-seat table facing the kitchen with “Welcome to my … .” completing the sentence with a term, meaning a chaotic situation, that will not be appearing in The New York Times.

What follows are about two dozen dishes organized in two acts (with intermission). The menu is written in emojis. Each bite is accompanied by a long story from Mr. Anand that may or may not be true. The furrowed white orb splotched with what appears to be blood, he claims, is the brain of a rat raised in a basement feedlot.

Brains are big in other restaurants on the list. Rasmus Munk, chef of the eighth-best restaurant in the world, Alchemist , in Copenhagen, pipes a mousse of lamb brains and foie gras into a bleached lamb skull, then garnishes it with ants and roasted mealworms. Another of the 50 or so courses — the restaurant calls them “impressions”— lurks inside the cavity of a realistic, life-size model of a man’s head with the top of the cranium removed.

Now, among the 50 Best are a number of establishments where they let you see a menu written in real words and order things you actually want to eat. Some of these, like Asador Etxebarri in Spain and Schloss Schauenstein in Switzerland, are hard to reach. Nearly all are very expensive. Still, there are places on the list where a relatively normal person might eat a relatively normal dinner and go home feeling relatively well-fed.

But the list is dominated by places that normal people can’t get into, where the few diners who will go to almost any length for reservations will go home feeling bloated and drunk. They are not restaurants, or not just restaurants. They are endurance tests, theatrical spectacles, monuments to ego and — the two most frightening words in dining — “immersive experiences.”

Whether the World’s 50 Best seeks out these spectacular spectaculars or has simply been hijacked by them is impossible to tell . The list’s website is a model that should be studied by anyone who wants to arrange words that sound important and don’t mean anything.

On the subject of what it takes to win the attention of the 1,080 “independent experts” who make up the organization’s voting body, the website has this to say: “What constitutes ‘best’ is up to each voter to decide — as everyone’s tastes are different, so is everyone’s idea of what constitutes a great restaurant experience. Of course, the quality of food is going to be central, as is the service — but the style of both, the surroundings, atmosphere and indeed the price level are each more or less important for each different individual.”

Well, that clears up that .

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and its spinoff awards, by now almost too numerous to count, weren’t always so rarefied. In the early years, when the list was being published by Restaurants magazine, the editors saw it as a kind of anti-Michelin, and took pride in recognizing spots that would never, ever make Michelin’s little red guidebooks. Carnivore, an open-air meat buffet in a suburb of Nairobi, Kenya, came in at No. 47 in 2003.

No. 1 on the list that year, though, was the Spanish restaurant El Bulli, which set a standard for kitchen experimentation, highly manipulated food, restless change and marathon tastings to which the highest end of the business is still in thrall. The more famous the list became, the harder it was for a place like Carnivore to land a spot. Nobody much noticed, because the game that El Bulli played was starting to become the only one that mattered.

Today the list is dominated by tasting-menu restaurants, and every year those menus seem to get longer and more unforgiving. There are more courses than any rational person would choose to eat, and more tastes of more wines than anyone can possibly remember the next day. The spiraling, metastasizing length of these meals seems designed to convince you that there’s just no way a mere 10 or 15 courses could contain all the genius in the kitchen.

One well-traveled diner told me about a recent, four-hour meal at Disfrutar , in Barcelona — No. 1 this year. He said he was “blown away” and at the same time he never wants to go back. “It was an assault, and not fun,” he said.

Visits to the kitchen and other locations around the property, once an entertaining surprise, are now almost mandatory in any restaurant that aspires to a place on the list. The formula for success is so well-known that the structure of a meal in these restaurants is weirdly, depressingly conformist, even though you’re supposed to be amazed by the originality of it all. Once a revolt against stuffy, conservative dining hierarchies, the World’s 50 Best Restaurants now rewards a different kind of stuffiness and conservatism.

The contradiction at the core of the list is that it has become a publicity machine that directs enormous amounts of attention and business toward some of the least-accessible dining rooms in the world.

The chefs may fool themselves into believing that they’re operating idea factories, that they’re offering intellectual journeys and emotional wallops. But they’re really just competing for votes on a listicle that will reduce whatever they achieve in the dining room to strings of clichés on the World’s 50 Best Website. Table by Bruno Verjus , this year’s third-best restaurant, offers “stunning wine and incredible food.” A meal at Disfrutar is “the dining experience of a lifetime.”

That sounds stunning! And incredible! You know, though, the thing I’m wondering about this experience of a lifetime is whether I’m going to have a good time. But that’s not a question the World’s 50 Best Restaurants is set up to answer.

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

Pete Wells has been the restaurant critic for The Times since 2012. He was previously the editor of the Food section. More about Pete Wells

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The Best Italian Restaurants in L.A.

While some of L.A.’s most beloved Italian joints have been around for decades, the city has also seen an influx of more modern interpretations in the last five years, some of which have already become signature staples for local foodies.

Though New York City is known for having some of the best pizza and old-school Sicilian restaurants in the country, Los Angeles has truly upped the ante when it comes to Italian cuisine, and especially when it comes to pasta. Whether you prefer classic marinara and meatballs or an elevated ravioli stuffed with lobster and sage, pasta is a comforting dish that comes in a variety of shapes, flavors and styles. Most Italian eateries also serve up plenty of fresh seafood, premium cuts of steak and decadent desserts. Of course, no true Italian meal is complete without a bottle of Chianti or a refreshing Aperol spritz.

While some of L.A.’s most beloved Italian joints have been around for decades, the city has also seen an influx of more modern interpretations in the last five years, some of which have already become signature staples for local foodies. From romantic restaurants that have an amore -inducing ambiance and Michelin recognition to cozy and casual hidden gems, you’ll find great pasta, pizza and tiramisu in several of L.A.’s most popular neighborhoods. Get ready to sip on a negroni and dig into a hearty dish of bucatini at the best Italian restaurants in Los Angeles. 

Where to Get the Best Italian Food in Los Angeles, California

Cento pasta bar, angelini osteria, ospi venice, felix trattoria, antico nuovo, forma restaurant, mother wolf, giorgio baldi.

• 921 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

Cento Pasta Bar is a Michelin Guide restaurant located in L.A.’s historic West Adams neighborhood. Though it originally started off as a pasta pop-up, the permanent location has been met with much praise, and you’ll find the chef’s counter consistently full with foodies watching the chef’s work their magic. For a more intimate and cozy ambiance, request a table on the sandy, string light-adorned patio. The Caesar salad is coated in a generous topping of Parmesan cheese and flavorful breadcrumbs, while the spicy pomodoro with creamy ricotta cheese is the most popular pasta dish for good reason. Don’t forget to save room for the banana tiramisu—you won’t regret it. 

• 1241 5th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Colapasta is a small and charming Santa Monica establishment that has gained a pristine reputation from loyal patrons. Organic and locally sourced ingredients are used to make unique Italian dishes like the casunziei, which is a half-moon ravioli filled with red beets and cooked in a decadent brown butter sauce before being topped with crunchy poppy seeds. If you’re a fan of truffles, the moringa agnolotti is a must at this L.A. restaurant. 

• 7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Since 2001, Angelini Osteria has been a hub for Angelenos seeking consistent Italian cuisine in an elevated yet inviting fine dining setting. In 2022, Italy-born chef Gino Angelini also opened a second location in Pacific Palisades. Some highlights from the antipasta section of the menu include the swordfish carpaccio, beef tenderloin tartare and roasted veal bone marrow. Though all of the pastas (and the famous lasagna verde) are made to perfection, the taglioni limone is the most popular, and you can even grab a jar of the signature sauce to-go inside the restaurant store. 

• 1538 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Despite opening less than a year ago, Donna’s has already managed to become one of the most popular Italian-American restaurants in East L.A. Both the menu and atmosphere at this Echo Park eatery pay homage to the classic Italian joints scattered across the East Coast, and the drinks are just as impressive as the food. Order the Donna’s spritz along with cheese-stuffed peppadew peppers before sharing the shrimp scampi and meatballs with the table. Though everything from the chicken parmesan to the mushroom risotto are great, the tiramisu is a must-order dessert. 

• 2025 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Ospi takes a modern approach to classic cuisine in the heart of Venice. The elegant and minimalistic dining room is always buzzing with Westsiders needing to cure their craving for the restaurant's famous crispy provolone with vodka sauce. Though the pizzas are tasty, the pastas are what make a lasting impression, and no visit to Ospi, or any of its sister restaurants, is complete without the spicy rigatoni alla vodka. End the evening with the Nutella mousse and an espresso martini . 

• 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Felix Trattoria is an iconic Westside restaurant by chef Evan Funke and restaurateur Janet Zuccarini . Guests are able to enjoy watching the handmade pasta preparation right in front of them thanks to the giant glass windows that look directly into the kitchen, which sits in the center of the dining room. The puffy crust on each pizza will make your mouth water, with the Diavola and white quattro formaggi being two of the best. The trofie pasta is a pesto-forward delight, and the linguine al limone is full of zesty, citrusy flavor, while the tagliatelle al ragù bolognese is a classic. 

• 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Antico Nuovo transports patrons to the Italian countryside with its traditional menu and classic Italian wine list. The communal tables create a cozy sense of home, while the open kitchen lets you watch as the chefs cook a variety of meats and veggies over the wood-fired grill. Since the menu changes seasonally, there are always new dishes to try, but the focaccia, tuna crudo and beef cheek pappardelle are regulars that never get old, as is the hand-churned ice cream. 

• 1610 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403  
• 110 Navy St, Venice, CA 90291

With two locations on the Westside, Forma Restaurant is a hidden gem that both Santa Monica and Venice locals flock to. Though it’s fine to go straight to the pasta at some Italian restaurants, the appetizers at Forma shouldn’t be skipped. Those who prefer a light start to the meal will enjoy the wild red snapper ceviche and green on greens veggie dish, but the fried pizza dough with burrata is an indulgent starter that needs to be tried at least once. When it comes to pasta, the cacio e pepe and truffle tortellini are both fantastic, while the filet of sole with crispy artichokes is the ideal fish dish. 

• 1545 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Also from chef Evan Funke , Hollywood’s Mother Wolf remains one of the hardest reservations to snag in L.A. The breathtaking interior has a grandiose and European feel, featuring tall ceilings, marble accents and opera-inspired motifs and artwork. The Sirene spritz is refreshing and bubbly, but the wine list is out of this world, and you can’t go wrong with a glass of lambrusco. The menu is inspired by Roman cuisine, with the pizzas and pastas shining. The classic Margherita is simple but timeless, and the rigatoni is topped with crispy pieces of guanciale and a rich Pomodoro red sauce. 

• 114 W Channel Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402 

Giorgio Baldi is a celebrity-loved Santa Monica hot spot that has been frequented by the likes of Kim Kardashian , Pierce Brosnan and the Beckhams. Tucked behind a private wall of greenery, the romantic restaurant uses classic white tablecloths and twinkling lights to set the scene for renowned pastas by the sea. The asparagus ravioli is a must-order that features homemade raviolis stuffed with creamy ricotta cheese and asparagus. The sweet corn agnolotti is another local favorite, but the lemony pan-fried Dover sole is a great entrée if you’re not in the mood for pasta. 

• 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, 90021

Between the hanging copper pots and exposed brick wall, downtown L.A.’s Bestia, in the Arts District, boasts a rustic and cozy ambiance reminiscent of a modern Italian kitchen. Created by chef Ori Menashe and his wife, pastry chef Genevieve Gergis , Bestia serves up delicate wood-fired pizzas and innovative pastas. The sage and mortadella pizza has a complex and enticing flavor profile, and when comes to pasta, the squid ink spaghetti with lobster is delightfully balanced with spice and acidity. 

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The Most Fun Restaurants in NYC

Free shots, flashing chile pepper lights, and a cafe where wearing a bathing suit is required

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What’s a restaurant that’s fun right now? It’s a question we get asked a lot at Eater. Of course, it’s kind of a trick question, since fun can mean something different to everyone. Often there’s some durable gimmick, like goofy decor, a memorable soundtrack, a DYI element to meal preparation, or a room full of diners who seem to be having a night full of belly laughs. As for the food, well, a fun restaurant doesn’t mean it’s necessarily churning out the best bites in town, but it’s reliably enjoyable without seeming fussy.

Guantanamera

This is the kind of place where there’s no dance floor but people dance, where it’s unhip but often crowded. It’s all to the backdrop of worn yellow walls bedecked with palm trees, bananas, farmers, and musicians. You’ll also find some of the city’s  best Cuban sandwiches , vaca frita (skirt steak fried to the texture of soft jerky), and potent mojitos. Swing by after a show for live Cuban music every night.

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Haidilao Hot Pot Flushing

When Haidilao opened its first New York location in 2019, Eater called it an “adult playground.” The Chinese hot pot chain, which has over 1,300 locations globally, is a fine-tuned fun machine: There are hand-pulled “dancing” noodles prepared out at the table, free toothbrushes in the bathroom, and “code words” that elicit secret menu items. The restaurant is spread out over two huge dining rooms on the second floor of a shopping mall in Flushing, Queens.

Fresco by Scotto

The Scotto family — host and matriarch Marion, her daughters Elaina Scotto and Fox 5 anchor and co-host of Good Day New York , Rosanna Scotto — have been feeding dishes like chicken Scarpariello and Dover sole to Midtown’s power set since 1993. But it was during the pandemic that the sisters took a cue from Miami, they said, and pivoted to make the experience more about fun. Now, expect DJs and conga lines — and when Odyssey’s “Native New Yorker” cues up, you know Mayor Eric Adams is in the house.

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Grand Central Oyster Bar

By all means sit at the snaking lunch counter, where it still feels like 1940, or — even better — perch at the actual oyster bar and contemplate the dozens of raw bivalves that can be shucked to order as you eagerly watch. An added plus is the contraption stapled to the counter that looks like a giant juicer, and watch in awe as the cook uses it to create soups called pan roasts, one of the ingredients of which is... ketchup.

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For years, Let’s Meat was Koreatown’s only all-you-can-eat barbecue restaurant. Others have come along , but this rowdy restaurant remains one of the most affordable options in the area. The menu has two price tiers: The $43 menu gets you unlimited soups, banchan, and a dozen types of meat for 100 minutes, while the $49 set comes with a few more items, like strip steak and marinated squid. Beer, soju, and somaek towers keep the good vibes going.

Sushi On Me

Sushi on Me is a raucous , all-you-can-drink, cash-only party. It’s located inside of a Jackson Heights basement (there’s a second location in Williamsburg; however, nothing is quite as fun as the original). Sushi on Me set the tone for a new era of omakase experiences in New York: the kind that can actually be unbuttoned fun, where the music is loud, and the cussing flows as freely as the alcohol.

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Walk into Vatan and find yourself in a reproduction of a Gujarati village, with a thatched-roof building, a banyan tree canopy with tables underneath, and period movie posters. Waiters, too, are dressed in appropriate costumes. Sit back and relax: There’s nothing to order, just a succession of vegetarian dishes in a prix-fixe meal that include freshly made pooris that almost float like balloons, curried vegetables, fritters, and other miscellaneous fare.

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It helps when a fun restaurant has great food, too. That’s the case at Sappe, the new restaurant from one of the city’s top Thai spots, Soothr. The vibe feels a little bit like a club — neon lights, mirrors on the ceiling, colorful cocktails — but the food is top-notch. The charcoal-grilled skewers and pan-fried noodles are great for sharing, and the menu has a few hard-to-find dishes for those who like trying something new, like sok lek kua, made by cooking beef, liver, and tripe with blood and seafood sauce.

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The zany sibling to Don Angie, San Sabino, right next door, has fun with Italian American dishes, like a trio of extra-large shrimp blanketed with cheese for a shrimp Parmesan; a comely plate of stuffed mussels with ‘nduja; or a pepperoni carbonara with Sichuan peppercorns. The drinks are festive, too, especially the Benny, a spicy house margarita that’s a nod to the former tenant of the place, Benny’s Burritos.

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In Taiwan, 886 is the area code given to most cell phone numbers: In the East Village, it’s a sign of a good time. This Taiwanese restaurant has improved some since its opening in 2018. Blood cakes and other Taiwanese snacks are consumed at tables in a narrow dining room whose ceiling is covered in neon lights. On the menu: a “Bad Idea” drinking challenge that must be consumed through a straw and a Taiwanese hot dog named “the sausage party.”

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Panna II Garden Indian Restaurant

Let’s get this out of the way: Panna II is by no means where you’ll find the best Indian food in New York, but the restaurant has been beloved for 40 years because it is one of the most fun places in New York to dine out with a group. Strobe lights turn on when it's a birthday, and the whole restaurant sings along in a room where the ceiling is dripping with chile pepper lights.

New York classic haunts are undeniably fun, especially those that are allegedly haunted. One of the oldest taverns in New York, Ear Inn is reliable for a casual night out over martinis, burgers, and drawing on a paper tablecloth with crayons. And it still has the feeling of being a hardscrabble dive patronized by sailors from the piers just at the end of the street (or their ghosts).

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C as in Charlie

C as in Charlie is on a mission to get you drunk. Dinner at this Korean American restaurant starts with a free shot of sake/soju, and the drinks list has lots of Korean spirits to keep the party going. The food menu — fried chicken, a “Seoul’sbury steak” — is short and affordable. Did we mention it has one of the strangest bathrooms in the city?

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The most fun restaurants in NYC do not have to be alcohol-fueled. In fact, here the experience of dining is not only meditative but restorative . To partake you’ll need to disrobe down to your swimsuit, as this spot — that serves vareniki and borscht — is located inside Spa 88, a basement-level Russian spa known for food almost as much as its banya.

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The Turk's Inn

Bushwick’s Turk’s Inn was inspired by a supper club founded in Hayward, Wisconsin in 1934. In fact, that’s where much of the wacky decor comes from, filled with objets d’art with a Turkish and Eastern Mediterranean theme, including busts of Nefertiti, kitschy paintings of cats, and sculptures of Graeco-Roman wrestlers. You can pick and choose from an eclectic menu: Here, cheese curds go perfectly with tahini White Russians.

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Velma Restaurant

Velma is an Italian restaurant that passes as a dive bar. Or is it the other way around? There are gingham tablecloths, big booths, and chicken Parmesan: Fair enough. But what about the beer and shot specials, chicken nuggets, and Smirnoff Ices on the menu? This isn’t the best Italian food in town, but at Velma, there’s at least one benefit to not having a nonna around: Almost anything goes.

The restaurant is a lot of things: A place where you can sit in movie theater seats hunched over a suitcase acting as a table, eating laab gai sap on a paper plate while various Thai movies play on screen. It’s not a movie theater, per se, in that tables don’t all face toward the screen, and the sound was off on a recent visit, but the Thai cinema theme makes the atmosphere unlike any other spot in the city — a place for a snack with a beer, rather than a full-blown dinner. 

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Lakruwana Restaurant

The knockout Lakruwana is one of several Staten Island Sri Lankan restaurants. It is also one of the most unique restaurants in New York. When the weather allows, take the Staten Island Ferry (itself a completely fun NYC experience), or rope in a friend with a car, and head here. There’s is an all-you-can-eat buffet and the space looks like it's straight out of an antique mall.

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Roll N Roaster

Roll N Roaster was founded in the early 1970s and it feels largely unchanged — a gigantic structure in yellow and orange that looks like a typical fast-food spot, except much bigger and wholly its own. Go on the weekend when the place is jammed with Little Leaguers in full regalia, or families returning from religious observances in their best clothes, and mingle with a cross-section of southern Brooklynites.

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New York City isn’t exactly known for its beaches, but the boardwalk experience at Tatiana, a restaurant in Brighton Beach, is a fever dream — and one of the last of its kind. The banquet hall is outfitted with tablecloths and ornate furniture, the kind of gaudy gold-painted accents that befit an old-school Eastern European venue, where it’s likely you’ll be crashing someone’s wedding or sweet sixteen. All tables face the stage where dinner — cherry vareniki and lots of icy vodka — comes with a show. Think aerial acrobatics and sing-alongs to ABBA. The dance floor opens later in the night to diners.

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