New York City, famous for being the city that never sleeps, is equally renowned for being the city that never stops eating. From sizzling street vendors to swanky Michelin-starred establishments, NYC is a veritable feast for the senses. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the challenge isn’t finding a good meal—it’s choosing between so many amazing options. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 55 best restaurants in NYC that you absolutely must try.

The 55 Best Restaurants in NYC

1. Le Bernardin

Le Bernardin is a legend in the NYC dining scene. Known for its impeccable seafood, this three-Michelin-star restaurant offers dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The tasting menu, crafted by Chef Eric Ripert, is a must-try for seafood lovers. Highlights include the almost raw dishes, lightly cooked options, and sweet course. The elegant, minimalist decor allows the food to be the star, and the service is unparalleled, making it a true culinary temple among the best restaurants in NYC.

2. Eleven Madison Park

Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in NYC, Eleven Madison Park offers a dining experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Daniel Humm’s multi-course tasting menu showcases the best of local and seasonal ingredients, with each dish telling a story. The restaurant’s sleek, art deco interior and stunning views of Madison Square Park add to the allure. Signature dishes like the honey lavender duck and celery root en vessie are not to be missed.

3. Per Se

Per Se, Thomas Keller’s New York outpost, is synonymous with fine dining. With its luxurious ambiance and meticulously crafted dishes, it’s no wonder this restaurant remains a top choice for those seeking the best restaurants in NYC. The nine-course tasting menu is a symphony of flavors, featuring Keller’s famous “Oysters and Pearls” and an array of seasonal delights. The opulent setting, overlooking Central Park, makes dining at Per Se a memorable experience.

4. Daniel

Chef Daniel Boulud’s flagship restaurant, Daniel, is the epitome of French elegance. The seasonal tasting menus and exquisite service make it a staple in the best restaurants in NYC list. Located on the Upper East Side, Daniel’s opulent dining room is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or special celebration. Signature dishes include the black truffle-crusted Dover sole and the roasted duck with salsify and citrus. The extensive wine list and impeccable service complete the experience.

5. Gramercy Tavern

A pioneer in the farm-to-table movement, Gramercy Tavern offers a cozy yet upscale dining experience. The menu, crafted by Chef Michael Anthony, is a celebration of American cuisine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The tavern room offers a more casual, a la carte menu, while the main dining room features an elegant tasting menu. Dishes like the beef tartare and the carrot tartare showcase the kitchen’s creativity and skill, making it a perennial favorite among the best restaurants in NYC.

6. Peter Luger Steak House

When it comes to steakhouses, Peter Luger is the gold standard. Located in Brooklyn, this iconic establishment has been serving up perfectly cooked steaks for over a century. The porterhouse steak, dry-aged in-house, is the star of the show, but the side dishes, like the German potatoes and creamed spinach, are equally impressive. The old-school ambiance, complete with wooden tables and waiters in bow ties, adds to the charm. It’s a carnivore’s paradise and undeniably one of the best restaurants in NYC.

7. Momofuku Ko

David Chang’s Momofuku Ko is a culinary adventure. With its innovative and ever-evolving tasting menu, it’s a place where boundaries are pushed, and diners are delighted. The intimate setting, with just 12 counter seats, allows for an up-close view of the chefs in action. Dishes like the foie gras with lychee and pine nut brittle and the aged beef ribeye with shiso and mushroom are testament to Chang’s creativity and skill. This restaurant is a gem among the best restaurants in NYC.

8. Jean-Georges

Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s flagship restaurant in Columbus Circle offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French, American, and Asian-inspired dishes. The tasting menu is a journey through the chef’s culinary influences, with dishes like the egg caviar and the sesame-crusted tuna. The modern, sleek decor and stunning views of Central Park add to the allure, making it a cornerstone of the best restaurants in NYC.

9. Katz’s Delicatessen

For a taste of classic New York, Katz’s Delicatessen is unbeatable. Famous for its pastrami on rye, this no-frills deli is a beloved institution. The sandwiches are piled high with tender, flavorful meat, and the matzo ball soup is comfort in a bowl. The bustling, chaotic atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot and undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in NYC for an authentic experience.

10. Carbone

Stepping into Carbone is like stepping back in time. This retro Italian-American restaurant serves up all the classics with flair, from veal parmesan to spicy rigatoni vodka. The tuxedo-clad waiters and vintage decor create a nostalgic ambiance, while the food is rich and satisfying. Don’t miss the meatballs or the lemon cheesecake, which are house favorites. It’s a delightful spot on the best restaurants in NYC list.

11. Roberta’s

Roberta’s in Brooklyn has redefined what a pizzeria can be. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and hipster vibe, it has become a favorite among both locals and visitors. The creative topping combinations and perfectly charred crusts are a testament to the skill of the pizzaiolos. Beyond pizza, the menu offers a variety of small plates and entrees, all made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a must-visit on any best restaurants in NYC tour.

12. L’Artusi

L’Artusi offers a modern take on Italian cuisine in a chic West Village setting. The open kitchen and sleek decor create a lively atmosphere, while the menu highlights the best of Italian flavors. Dishes like the ricotta gnocchi and the roasted chicken with hen of the woods mushrooms are standouts. The extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff add to the experience, making it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC.

13. The Spotted Pig

Though it has closed, The Spotted Pig remains a legend. This gastropub, known for its decadent burgers and rustic charm, was a staple in the NYC dining scene. The blue cheese burger and the shoestring fries were beloved favorites, and the cozy, pub-like setting made it a go-to spot for a relaxed meal. It remains in the hearts of many as one of the best restaurants in NYC.

14. Di Fara Pizza

Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn is legendary for its perfect pies. The owner, Dom DeMarco, handcrafts each pizza himself, ensuring a unique and delicious experience every time. The thin, crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and high-quality toppings make it a standout. The lines can be long, but the wait is worth it for what many consider the best pizza in the city. It’s an essential stop for pizza lovers looking for the best restaurants in NYC.

15. Russ & Daughters

For over a century, Russ & Daughters has been serving up the finest smoked fish, caviar, and other traditional Jewish delicacies. The bagels with lox are a classic, but the whitefish salad and the matzo ball soup are also must-tries. The sleek, modern cafe on the Lower East Side offers a more contemporary setting, but the original appetizing store remains a beloved spot. It’s a quintessential New York experience and definitely one of the best restaurants in NYC.

16. Blue Hill

Blue Hill at Stone Barns gets all the hype, but don’t overlook the original Blue Hill in Greenwich Village. The farm-to-table menu is both inventive and delicious, with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Dishes like the beet burger and the pasture-raised chicken showcase the chef’s creativity and commitment to quality. The intimate, elegant setting adds to the charm, making it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC.

17. The Modern

Located at the Museum of Modern Art, The Modern offers a sleek, contemporary dining experience. The menu, crafted by Chef Abram Bissell, is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, with dishes like the poached egg with caviar and the roasted duck. The dining room offers stunning views of the museum’s sculpture garden, adding to the allure. The combination of art and fine dining makes it a favorite among the best restaurants in NYC.

18. Jungsik

For a unique take on Korean cuisine, Jungsik is the place to go. This two-Michelin-star restaurant blends traditional Korean flavors with modern techniques, resulting in dishes that are both innovative and delicious. The tasting menu features dishes like the oyster with caviar and the beef tartare with gochujang. The sleek, minimalist setting adds to the experience, making it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC.

19. Minetta Tavern

Minetta Tavern perfectly combines a classic NYC steakhouse with a French bistro. Known for its Black Label Burger, it’s a favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The old-world charm, with its red leather banquettes and vintage decor, adds to the appeal. The menu features a variety of steaks and chops, as well as French classics like steak frites and escargot. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of NYC dining.

20. Shuko

Shuko offers a sublime sushi experience in an intimate setting. The omakase menu is a journey through the best of Japanese cuisine, with each piece of sushi meticulously crafted by the chefs. The minimalist decor and limited seating create an exclusive atmosphere, allowing diners to focus on the food. The quality of the fish and the skill of the chefs make it a top choice among the best restaurants in NYC.

21. Le Coucou

Le Coucou brings a touch of Paris to NYC with its elegant French cuisine. The romantic ambiance and impeccable dishes make it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC. Chef Daniel Rose’s menu features classic French dishes like quenelle de brochet and duck à l’orange, each beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The stylish, candlelit dining room adds to the charm, making it perfect for a special night out.

22. Balthazar

A Soho institution, Balthazar offers a bustling brasserie atmosphere with a menu full of French classics. The steak frites and the onion soup are perennial favorites, but the seafood platters and the daily specials are also worth trying. The lively, Parisian-inspired decor and the always-bustling dining room make it a quintessential New York dining experience. It’s one of the best restaurants in NYC for a reason.

23. Marea

Marea specializes in seafood and house-made pastas, bringing a taste of the Italian coast to Central Park South. The crudo and the fusilli with octopus and bone marrow are standout dishes, but the entire menu is a testament to Chef Michael White’s skill and creativity. The elegant, ocean-inspired decor and the impeccable service make dining at Marea a special experience. It’s a must-visit for seafood lovers exploring the best restaurants in NYC.

24. Wildair

Wildair offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience with a focus on natural wines and inventive small plates. The minimalist decor and casual atmosphere create a welcoming vibe, while the menu showcases Chef Jeremiah Stone’s creativity. Dishes like the beef tartare with smoked cheddar and the fried squid are both unique and delicious. It’s a hip spot on the Lower East Side and one of the best restaurants in NYC.

25. Upland

Upland combines California cuisine with a touch of NYC sophistication. The menu is full of bright, flavorful dishes that make it a favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The crispy duck wings and the bucatini cacio e pepe are standout dishes, but the entire menu is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The rustic-chic decor and the lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a must-visit spot.

26. Casa Enrique

For Michelin-starred Mexican cuisine, Casa Enrique in Long Island City is the place to go. The menu offers traditional dishes with a modern twist, earning its spot among the best restaurants in NYC. The mole de Piaxtla and the cochinita pibil are standout dishes, but the entire menu is a testament to Chef Cosme Aguilar’s skill and creativity. The bright, colorful decor and the friendly service make it a welcoming spot.

27. Union Square Cafe

Danny Meyer’s Union Square Cafe has been a cornerstone of the NYC dining scene for decades. The warm hospitality and delicious New American cuisine make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the ricotta gnocchi and the roast chicken, each made with the finest seasonal ingredients. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and the attentive service add to the experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

28. Osteria Morini

Osteria Morini brings the flavors of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region to NYC. With its hearty pastas and rustic dishes, it’s a comforting and delicious choice among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the gramigna with sausage and the lasagna verde, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The warm, inviting decor and the friendly service make it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

29. Ippudo

For a taste of Japan, head to Ippudo for some of the best ramen in the city. The rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles make it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC. The pork buns are also a must-try, offering a delicious contrast to the hearty ramen. The sleek, modern decor and the lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

30. Atoboy

Atoboy offers a modern take on Korean cuisine with a menu of inventive small plates. The sleek, minimalist setting adds to the experience, making it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the soy-marinated short rib and the fried chicken with spicy gochujang, each bursting with flavor. The focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative presentations make it a standout spot.

31. Sushi Yasuda

For a traditional sushi experience, Sushi Yasuda is a must. The expertly crafted nigiri and serene ambiance make it a top choice among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features a variety of sushi and sashimi, each made with the finest, freshest fish. The minimalist decor and the attentive service create a calming atmosphere, allowing diners to focus on the food. It’s a must-visit for sushi lovers.

32. Lilia

Lilia in Williamsburg is known for its handmade pastas and wood-fired Italian dishes. The welcoming atmosphere and delicious food make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the mafaldini with pink peppercorns and the grilled clams with Calabrian chili, each showcasing the chef’s skill and creativity. The rustic-chic decor and the friendly service add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

33. Rezdôra

Rezdôra brings the flavors of Emilia-Romagna to the Flatiron District. The handmade pastas and traditional dishes have earned it a spot among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the tagliatelle al ragu and the cappelletti verdi, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The warm, inviting decor and the attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

34. Don Angie

Don Angie offers a modern take on Italian-American cuisine with dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. It’s a chic spot in the West Village and one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the lasagna for two and the stuffed garlic flatbread, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The stylish decor and the lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

35. Keens Steakhouse

Keens Steakhouse is a historic NYC institution known for its mutton chops and old-school charm. It’s a must-visit for steak lovers looking for the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features a variety of steaks and chops, each cooked to perfection. The dark, wood-paneled dining room and the vintage decor create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The extensive selection of single malt scotches adds to the experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

36. Cosme

Cosme brings contemporary Mexican cuisine to NYC with a focus on local ingredients. The innovative dishes and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the duck carnitas and the corn husk meringue, each bursting with flavor. The sleek, modern decor and the lively ambiance add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

37. Xi’an Famous Foods

For a taste of China’s Shaanxi province, Xi’an Famous Foods is the go-to spot. Known for its spicy, hand-pulled noodles, it’s a beloved favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the lamb noodle soup and the spicy cumin lamb noodles, each packed with bold, authentic flavors. The casual, no-frills setting adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for a quick, delicious meal.

38. Estela

Estela offers a menu of inventive small plates in a cozy, intimate setting. The Mediterranean-inspired dishes have made it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the beef tartare with sunchoke and the ricotta dumplings, each showcasing the chef’s creativity and skill. The rustic-chic decor and the friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

39. Cote

Cote combines Korean BBQ with the sophistication of a steakhouse. The high-quality meats and stylish ambiance make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features a variety of cuts of beef, each grilled to perfection at the table. The sleek, modern decor and the lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

40. The Polo Bar

Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar offers classic American cuisine in a refined, club-like setting. The impeccable service and elegant dishes make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the crab cake and the ribeye steak, each made with the finest, freshest ingredients. The stylish, equestrian-inspired decor and the attentive service create a sophisticated atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a special night out.

41. Joe’s Pizza

For a classic New York slice, Joe’s Pizza is unbeatable. This no-frills pizzeria has been serving up perfect slices since 1975, earning its place among the best restaurants in NYC. The thin, crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and high-quality cheese make each slice a delicious experience. The casual, bustling atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for pizza lovers.

42. ABC Kitchen

ABC Kitchen focuses on local, sustainable ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes. The chic, rustic setting adds to the appeal, making it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the roasted carrot and avocado salad and the wood-oven roasted Maine lobster, each made with the finest, freshest ingredients. The stylish decor and the friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

43. Bubby’s

Bubby’s is the place to go for comfort food with a twist. Known for its pies and brunch menu, it’s a cozy spot that feels like home and one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the buttermilk biscuits and the fried chicken, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The rustic-chic decor and the friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

44. Frenchette

Frenchette brings a modern touch to classic French bistro fare. The lively atmosphere and delicious dishes have made it a favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the roast chicken and the steak frites, each made with the finest, freshest ingredients. The stylish decor and the lively ambiance create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

45. Kajitsu

Kajitsu offers a unique dining experience with its focus on shojin cuisine, a type of vegetarian cooking from Zen Buddhism. The serene ambiance and exquisite dishes make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the tempura and the sushi, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The minimalist decor and the attentive service create a calming atmosphere, allowing diners to focus on the food. It’s a must-visit for vegetarian and vegan food lovers.

46. Prince Street Pizza

For those craving pepperoni, Prince Street Pizza’s spicy pepperoni square is a must-try. This tiny pizzeria has a cult following and is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in NYC. The thick, crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and generous topping of spicy pepperoni make each slice a delicious experience. The casual, no-frills setting adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for pizza lovers.

47. The River Café

The River Café offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline along with its refined American cuisine. It’s a romantic spot that’s perfect for special occasions and one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the foie gras and the roast chicken, each made with the finest, freshest ingredients. The elegant, candlelit dining room and the breathtaking views create a sophisticated atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a special night out.

48. Via Carota

Via Carota is a charming West Village spot known for its rustic Italian dishes. The cozy ambiance and delicious food make it a beloved favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the cacio e pepe and the roasted chicken, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The rustic-chic decor and the friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

49. Momofuku Noodle Bar

David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar offers a casual yet exciting dining experience. The ramen and pork buns are legendary, making it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the spicy miso ramen and the pork belly buns, each bursting with flavor. The sleek, modern decor and the lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

50. Lobster Place

For seafood lovers, Lobster Place in Chelsea Market is a must-visit. The fresh seafood and casual atmosphere make it a standout among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the lobster roll and the clam chowder, each made with the finest, freshest ingredients. The bustling market setting adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a quick, delicious meal.

51. Lombardi’s Pizza

Lombardi’s is credited as the first pizzeria in America, and it still serves up some of the best pies in the city. The coal-fired pizzas are a must-try, securing its place among the best restaurants in NYC. The thin, crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and high-quality toppings make each slice a delicious experience. The cozy, old-world decor and the friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for pizza lovers.

52. Diner

Diner offers a unique dining experience in a restored 1920s railcar. The seasonal, locally sourced menu makes it a favorite among the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the grass-fed burger and the roasted chicken, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The vintage decor and the cozy atmosphere add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

53. Los Tacos No. 1

For authentic Mexican street tacos, Los Tacos No. 1 in Chelsea Market is the place to go. The tacos are fresh, flavorful, and some of the best you’ll find in NYC. The menu features dishes like the carne asada and the adobada tacos, each bursting with bold, authentic flavors. The casual, bustling atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for a quick, delicious meal.

54. Joe’s Shanghai

Famous for its soup dumplings, Joe’s Shanghai is a must-visit for anyone exploring Chinatown. The delicious dumplings and bustling atmosphere make it one of the best restaurants in NYC. The menu features dishes like the crab and pork soup dumplings and the scallion pancakes, each packed with bold, authentic flavors. The casual, no-frills setting adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for a quick, delicious meal.

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Conclusion

Phew! That’s 55 reasons to loosen your belt a notch or two. Remember, this is just the tip of the culinary iceberg in NYC. The city’s dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as its population, so get out there and explore beyond this list. And if you don’t, well, more deliciousness for the rest of us! Bon appétit!