Best Restaurants in New York City

Top Food Destinations in NYC You Shouldn't Miss

New York City is a culinary powerhouse. Whether you're craving street food or fine dining, the city serves up endless options. From historic eateries to trendy hotspots, NYC is packed with top-rated restaurants that cater to every taste.

In this guide, you'll discover some of the best restaurants in New York City for every palate and occasion. Get ready to explore flavors that define the city that never sleeps.

Popular Restaurants in NYC with Local and Tourist Appeal

NYC is known for iconic dining experiences. These are the best-known places loved by both locals and visitors:

• Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side) – Serving legendary pastrami on rye since 1888.
• Peter Luger Steak House (Brooklyn) – A must-visit for steak lovers since 1887.
• Le Bernardin (Midtown) – A Michelin three-star destination for elegant seafood dishes.
• Carbone (Greenwich Village) – A retro Italian-American spot that's become a celebrity favorite.
• Russ & Daughters Cafe (Lower East Side) – A Jewish deli with a rich heritage.

These NYC staples continue to set the standard for iconic New York food experiences.

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in NYC

Looking for high-end dining? NYC is home to several premium restaurants that offer unforgettable tasting menus and award-winning wine lists.

• Per Se – Located at Columbus Circle with panoramic views of Central Park. Known for its French and American cuisine.
• Eleven Madison Park – Offers a plant-based tasting menu in a refined Art Deco setting.
• Masa – A luxurious sushi experience in the Time Warner Center. One of the most expensive restaurants in America.
• Gabriel Kreuther – Combines Alsatian flavors with modern techniques near Bryant Park.

Perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or once-in-a-lifetime meals, these restaurants are known for excellence and attention to detail.

Top Casual and Affordable Restaurants in NYC

You don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well in New York. These budget-friendly places offer quality without the hefty price tag.

• Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village) – A classic New York slice loved by locals and tourists alike.
• Prince Street Pizza – Known for its thick, spicy pepperoni square slices.
• Los Tacos No. 1 (Chelsea Market) – Authentic Mexican tacos made fresh to order.
• Halal Guys (Midtown) – Famous for their chicken and gyro platters with white sauce.
• Super Taste (Chinatown) – Affordable and delicious hand-pulled noodles with beef soup.

These spots are ideal when you're exploring the city on a budget or want something tasty and fast.

Best International Cuisine Restaurants in NYC

New York’s diverse population brings global flavors right to your plate. Here are top spots for international food lovers:

• Zabb Elee (East Village) – Specializes in Northern Thai cuisine, heavy on spices and herbs.
• Miss Ada (Fort Greene, Brooklyn) – Inventive Mediterranean dishes in a cozy setting.
• Oxomoco (Greenpoint) – A modern Mexican restaurant with a wood-fired menu and a mezcal-focused bar.
• Hanjan (Flatiron) – Elevated Korean fare with a culinary twist.
• Sushi Nakazawa (West Village) – An omakase-only sushi bar led by a former apprentice of Jiro Ono.

Craving Japanese, Thai, Mexican, or Mediterranean? You'll find it all right here in NYC.

Best Brunch Restaurants in New York City

Brunch is a weekend ritual in NYC. These places are known for delicious food and relaxed vibes.

• Jack’s Wife Freda (SoHo) – A charming bistro with Mediterranean-influenced brunch dishes.
• Balthazar (SoHo) – Parisian-style brunch with eggs benedict and French toast.
• Clinton St. Baking Company (Lower East Side) – Fluffy pancakes and comforting breakfast options loved by locals.
• Sarabeth’s (Upper West Side) – Elegant brunches with house-made jams and fresh juices.

These brunch spots are perfect after a morning stroll through Central Park or SoHo.

Hidden Gem Restaurants in NYC You Need to Know

If you like to explore off-the-beaten-path, NYC has many underrated and lesser-known places:

• Via Carota (West Village) – A rustic Italian trattoria with unforgettable cacio e pepe.
• Lucali (Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn) – Hands-down one of the best pizzerias, but cash only and long wait times.
• Oiji Mi (Flatiron) – Combines modern design with high-end Korean dishes.
• Spicy Village (Chinatown) – Tiny spot offering Chinese Henan-style food and hand-pulled noodles.

Hidden gems in NYC deliver big flavors without the crowds. They're the places you’ll want to rave about after your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dining in NYC

What are the most booked restaurants in NYC right now?

Popular reservations include Carbone, Le Coucou, L'Artusi, and Rezdôra. These restaurants often have waitlists, so book in advance using apps like Resy or OpenTable.

Where can I eat late-night in New York City?

Great options for late-night dining include Veselka (24-hour Ukrainian diner), The Smith, Katz’s Deli, and Empanada Mama. Many food trucks also serve until early morning hours.

Are there good vegan or vegetarian restaurants in NYC?

Yes, top vegan places in NYC include abcV, Superiority Burger, and Blossom Restaurant. They offer diverse plant-based dishes in stylish, casual, or upscale settings.

What food is New York City famous for?

NYC is famous for bagels, pizza by the slice, hot dogs, cheesecake, pastrami sandwiches, and international street food. You’ll find top spots for these across all five boroughs.