51 NYC Restaurants to Try for the Best Foodie Frenzy Ever!
51 NYC Restaurants to Try for the Best Foodie Frenzy Ever
New York City is known for its bright lights, stunning sights, magnificent skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, history, and tough-as-nails vibe - but did you know that the Big Apple is also a foodie paradise? From the cheap restaurants in Times Square to the best NYC bars for singles, you'll find cuisine from just about every culture that can be savored with any budget? Even better, many NYC restaurants serve authentic dishes made from well-sourced ingredients in a chill ambiance that set them apart. Be it Italian, Asian, Vegan, when it comes to food in NYC, your greatest challenge will be deciding on which restaurant you like best!
Rooftop Restaurants NYC Foodies Recommend
There’s something magical about the rooftop bars NYC Manhattan locals flock - dining high above the Big Apple amid breathtaking views of the cityscape. Relaxing and enjoying a nice meal with a glass of wine while overlooking the sights below is truly is one of those “musts” to check off your list of things to do in NYC. If you’re searching for the best spots to gather and break bread, follow this complete guide to the 51 NYC restaurants to try for the best foodie experience ever!
ITALIAN RESTAURANTS
1 | Fradei | Fradei is a tiny spot with just a few tables inside, but it’s definitely worth squeezing into - if only for the thrill of it. They serve a secretive five-course menu that you only get to see once it arrives at your dinner table. All you know beforehand is that the dishes are seasonal and use local ingredients. And we’d be remiss not to mention the excellent dining playlist and selection of wines available.
What to order: Whatever Fradei delivers to your table!
WHERE: 99 S Portland Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217 | WHO: 347-379-0660
2 | Rezdôra | Before founding Rezdôra, Chef Stefano Secchi worked at Osteria Francescana ranked number 1 in the world in 2018. Inspired by the Italian region of Emilia Romagna, Rezdôra serves a grand selection of pasta complemented by local vegetables, traditionally prepared protein and Northern Italian wines.
What to order: Assuming you came to a pasta spot for the pasta, the Spaghettoni Con Granchio is the must-order.
WHERE: 27 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003 | WHO: 646-692-9090
3 | Francie | Francie, one of the younger restaurants on this list, opened less than a year ago by chef Christopher Cipollone and owner-operator John Winterman. Inspired by European flavors, you’d be mistaken to think that Francie is one of those uptight fine dining restaurants. Sure, the prices are a bit steep but the place has a pretty relaxed vibe where you can just drop in for a few drinks and snacks.
What to order: The roasted duck, no question!
WHERE: 134 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | WHO: 718-218-7572
PIZZA PARLOURS
4 | Roberta’s | Roberta’s has been christened the “most important pizza in New York,” so this list wouldn’t be complete without it. I’m sure you’ve already seen their frozen pizzas in your supermarket but believe us that you need to try their freshly made pizza. Roberta’s menu is full of creative pizzas, so you really can’t go wrong with any choice.
What to order: Everyone has their own favorite, but if we’re being honest, the sweet, spicy, chewy and cheesy Bee Sting Pizza is our must-order.
WHERE: 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169 | WHO: 646-747-0820
5 | Joe’s Pizza | Joe from Joe’s Pizza originally hails from Italy, the birthplace of pizza itself. And at 75 years, he’s still running the place (it’s been over 50 years at this point). Talk about passion. Joe’s Pizza is a regular mention in pretty much every top 10 New York City restaurants article for a reason. It’s just got enough grease, a sweet sauce on top, and the mozzarella is goey in the best way.
What to order: Get the plain cheese pie. You can add a variety of toppings but believe us that you don’t even need them to enjoy this.
WHERE: 1435 Broadway, New York, NY 10018 | WHO: 646-559-4878
MEXICAN RESTAURANTS
6 | Empellon Al Pastor | Home-made tortilla tacos, snacks like chalupa and pork fried rice, and cocktails aplenty. All served in a super casual environment. What’s not to like?
What to order: The Al Pastor taco is our first pick, washed down with the Paloma or Mescal Negroni.
WHERE: 132 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009 | WHO: 646-833-7039
7 | Los Tacos No. 1 | So for the longest time, the West Coast has us beat when it comes to Mexican food. But lucky for us, three friends from Mexico and California joined forces to bring that authentic Mexican flavor to the East Coast.
What to order: You really can’t go wrong with any dishes here, but we recommend the marinated pork tacos or the carne asada quesadillas. And to wash it all down, the tamarind agua fresca is a must!
WHERE: 75 9th Avenue, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-256-0343
8 | Gran Eléctrica | Inspired by their travels abroad, three owners came together to create an authentic dining experience inspired by Mexican street fare. To keep their menu rooted in authentic Mexican cooking, Gran Eléctrica proudly emphasizes hand-made ingredients on-site and a Mexican flavored beverage program.
What to order: If you came for brunch, go for the carnitas tacos. You won’t be disappointed.
WHERE: 5 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | WHO: 718-852-2700
9 | Cosme | Cosme is Mexico City chef Enrique Olvera’s baby. This restaurant serves contemporary cuisine inspired by Mexican flavors and traditions. But aside from the food, a few things set Cosme apart on the surface. One, this Mexican spot is not filled with your typical Mexican decorations like sombreros. Two, it’s situated in a former strip joint. Don’t let that put you off though, the crowd of New Yorkers that pack the place every night certainly aren’t.
What to order: Any tostada, really. We particularly like the octopus one with chintextle and sorrel.
WHERE: 35 E 21st St, New York, NY 10010 | WHO: 212-913-9659
10 | Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine | You can get plenty of classic Mexican dishes at Ruta Oaxaca, such as tacos, but what they truly shine in is moles. You can get them in many varieties, each a different color like yellow, dark brown or green. And on the beverage side, Ruta Oaxaca specializes in mezcal cocktails.
What to order: Get the Mole with chicken, queso fresco, platano macho puree, crema, onions and cilantro.
WHERE: 35-03 Broadway, Queens, NY 11106 | WHO: 929-349-1228
ASIAN FOOD
11 | Rangoon | Rangoon was founded by Chef Myo Moe, and serves traditional Burmese dishes from recipes that were passed onto her from multiple generations. And in terms of presentation, Rangoon takes inspiration from the idea of a bistro, a small restaurant where everyone can afford to come and enjoy simple meals.
What to order: Among the many tasty, colorful dishes served at Rangoon, we gravitate toward the lemongrass fish noodle soup.
WHERE: 500 Prospect Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11238 | WHO: 917-442-0100
12 | Sushi Noz | Inspired by childhood memories of extraordinary fish from his grandfather's seafood company in Hokkaido, Sushi Noz is Chef Nozomo Abe’s attempt to transport you from New York City to Japan. The restaurant itself is designed to resemble an ancient Kyoto temple and the sushi counter is meant to act as a stage where Abe can perform his art.
What to order: At Sushi Noz’s Hinoki Counter you’ll get the full experience. 5-6 small plates and a selection of seasonal nigiri from an Edomae style tasting menu.
WHERE: 181 E 78th St, New York, NY 10075 | WHO: 917-338-1792
13 | Gentle Perch | Gentle Perch has a relatively simple formula: Korean flavors mixed with Southern barbecue. And we can attest that it’s a match made in heaven.
What to order: Anything from the Korean Southern BQQ section of the menu with some soju to wash it all down with.
WHERE: 112 Graham Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206 | WHO: 929-298-0041
14 | XI’AN FAMOUS FOODS | If you're craving some Chinese noodles on a budget, look no further than Xi'an Famous Foods. It started out as a small restaurant in Flushing, New York by an immigrant from Xi'an, China, who simply wanted to share his hometown food with others. Today, XFF has become so popular that they have multiple locations in New York and even sell cookbooks, meal kits and chili oil.
What to order: The signature Liang Pi "Cold-Skin Noodles" of course! Or if you're in the mood for burgers: the Stewed Pork Burger or Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger.
WHERE: 96 8th Ave., New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-786-2068
15 | Shu Jiao Fu Zhou Cuisine | Shu Jiao Fu Zhou might just have the best dumplings in Manhattan. They succeed on several levels: they’re soft and visually appealing, steamed, not fried, inexpensive and taste great even without any sauce (though the sauce does elevate it). What more could you want?
What to order: The pork dumplings, duh!
WHERE: 295 Grand St, New York, NY 10002 | WHO: 212-625-2532
16 | Blue Willow | Most of the Chinese restaurants in Midtown are focused on Cantonese cuisine. But Blue Willow sets itself apart by serving traditional Hunan & Szechuan dishes. From the moment you walk in, Blue Willow’s aromatic dishes and retro interior transports you back to old China.
What to order: The sweet & sour crispy pork will certainly delight your palate.
WHERE: 40 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019 | WHO: 212-213-2299
17 | Golden Palace Gourmet | Golden Palace Gourmet serves meals inspired by the Chinese region of Dongbei. But what’s truly remarkable about this restaurant is that it produces many of its own ingredients - for instance, the blood sausage.
What to order: The chef’s special, pork chop with cabbage soup.
WHERE: 140-09 Cherry Ave, Queens, NY 11355 | WHO: 718-886-4383
18 | Mao Mao Restaurant | Mao Mao restaurant offers an experience like none other in New York City. They brand themselves as an old-school Thai restaurant & bar with a movie theater experience from the seats to the vintage posters and massive projection playing while you eat.
What to order: The small dishes and snacks are worthy of a visit in and of themselves, but for the main dish we recommend the Khao Mun Gai: a slow poached chicken with chicken fat rice, chicken soup, served with ginger, chilies, tauchu dipping sauce.
WHERE: 1000 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11221 | WHO: 929-600-5965
19 | Lil Chef Mama | Lil Chef Mama has a huge menu that is perfect for dining with a big group. Here you’ll find everything from burgers and noodle soup to duck curry, frog legs and deep-fried squid.
What to order: The specials menu has many great selections, like the chicken dish called “In Honor of the King” and the fish basil Pla Kaprow.
WHERE: 27 Cliff St, New York, NY 10038 | WHO: 646-964-5555
20 | Farida | Farida was founded by the husband-and-wife team of Farida Gabbassova-Ricciardelli and chef Umitjon Kamolov. The focus here is on the cuisines and traditions of Uzbek, Kazakh. And their influences don't stop there, the entire place is decorated with objects that transport you into the Central Asian region, complete with traditionally prepared meats, teas, salads and vegetables.
What to order: The home-made Manti dish is a customer-favorite.
WHERE: 498 9th Ave, New York, NY 10018 | WHO: 646-863-2020
21 | FoHi Ramen |This is a well-known restaurant chain in Japan, and this is its only location in the west. Many of its NYC guests flock here to get their fix after having already tried this soft, chewy ramen once in Japan.
What to order: The chasyu ramen is a must-try.
WHERE: 6860 Austin St Ste 10A, Queens, NY 11375 | WHO: 718-880-2938
22 | Bánh Vietnamese Shop House | Bánh Vietnamese Shop House serves all the classic Vietnamese plates like pho. But it’s the smaller, lesser-known dishes that you should be paying attention to here, like Banh Chung Chien (crispy sticky rice cakes) and Bún Cha Gio (crispy roll noodle salad).
What to order: The crispy rice cake has both a pork and a vegan option.
WHERE: 942 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 | WHO: 917-639-3151
23 | Kochi | The brainchild of chef Sunchul Shim, Kochi is a seven-course tasting of skewers inspired by traditional Korean cuisine. Open for just 2 years now, it has already been awarded a Michelin star. And the best part? The seven-course menu has a fixed $85 price, which is among the more affordable options in the same class.
What to order: The skewers are a must!
WHERE: 652 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036 | WHO: 646-478-7308
INDIAN RESTAURANTS
24 | Adda | Acclaimed restaurant owner Roni Mazumdar and executive chef Chintan Pandya came together to create Adda, which translates to “a place where people hang out.” True to this name, Adda offers a casual vibe complete with authentic Indian dishes. There’s no modern twists on these meals, they’re made in the traditional manner: in-house with a wealth of spices.
What to order: The butter chicken is an obvious choice, but aside from this the Kale Pakoda will make your tastebuds sing
WHERE: 31-31 Thomson Ave, Queens, NY 11101 | WHO: 718-433-3888
25 | Sona | Anyone who’s looking for Indian fine dining in New York City has to give Sona a visit. The restaurant was built to remind guests of a bygone era Indian fare within the heart of New York City. It has an extensive menu with all sorts of Mumbai favorites, and fun fact: Priyanka Chopra is one of the owners.
What to order: The India House’s butter chicken is a mouth-watering classic. Aside from that, the Rock Shrimp Koliwada will rock your world.
WHERE: 36 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003 | WHO: N/A
26 | Atithi Indian Cuisine | The word Atithi means guest in ancient Sanskrit. And that's exactly how you're treated from the moment you walk in, as a beloved guest. Serving up rich, spicy Indian cuisines that have been passed down from generations, Atithi is truly a place where you can sit down and feast. With budget-friendly options like the $18 three-course dinner, any guest is guaranteed to walk away stuffed and happy.
What to order: The vegetable samosas are to die for. Other popular options include the Pakora and Naan (plain or garlic).
WHERE: 159 Grand Street. Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NYC | WHO: 718-684-9192
SEAFOOD EATS
27 | Dame | Dame is an English restaurant serving a small menu of inventive seafood like macerated strawberries with fish and chips (eton mess), squid and shishito pepper skewers and warm lobster tart with morels & snap peas. Fair warning though, the place is hard to get into. But once you do, it’s happy eating!
What to order: We quite like the eton mess.
WHERE: 87 MacDougal Street, New York, NY 10012 | WHO: 929-367-7370
28 | Luke’s Lobster | When Luke Holden initially started Luke’s Lobster in 2009, he wasn’t able to find the same high-quality Maine lobster he was used to from back home. That’s when he decided to open his own seafood purchasing business in Maine so he could source lobster directly from fishermen he knew and trusted. All that hard work paid off, as Luke’s is one of the best lobster roll shacks in NYC, with locations all over the US, Singapore and Japan.
What to order: The Lobster Roll Bundle, no question. It includes 5 New English split-top buns with 1 lb. of fresh lobster meat and Luke’s Seasoning. Yum!
WHERE: 26 S William St, New York, NY 10004 | WHO: 917-882-7516
AFRICAN CUISINE
29 | Africa Kine | Africa Kine was founded by Dakar natives Kine and Samba Niang in 1996. It boasts a large menu of classic African dishes, including lunch items like thiebu djen (fish stew) and yassa (sauteed chicken). For dinner, they have items like brochette crevette (grilled shrimp skewers) and dibi (grilled lamb).
What to order: If you want to play it safe, go with thiebu djen.
WHERE: 2267 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027 | WHO: 212-666-9400
BARBECUE ROADHOUSES
30 | Hudson Smokehouse | Hudson Smokehouse started in Robin Hudson’s backyard, just cooking barbecue and ribs for friends and family. After word started spreading about Robin’s tasty meat, he decided to go all-in BBQ and open a location. Two decades later, loyal customers flock to Hudson Smokehouse for the well-smoked brisket, ribs, chorizo and pork belly.
What to order: Brisket on a Brioche Bun with Pickles and Pickled Onions on the Side
WHERE: 37 Bruckner Blvd, Bronx, NY 10454 | WHO: 718-872-7742
31 | Jongro BBQ | Jongro BBQ has many characteristics that set it apart from other Korean BBQ joints. Chief among those is their commitment to freshness. To that end, they don’t ever use frozen meat but have their cuts delivered daily and butchered in house. They’ve gone above and beyond, even implementing laser thermometers and overhead smoke lamps at the dining table to increase the food’s freshness.
What to order: Their most famous dish is the Beef Platter, a spread of brisket, skirt steak, ribeye, marinated chuck, and kalbi, or marinated short rib. We’re beginning to drool just thinking about it.
WHERE: 22 W 32nd St 2nd floor, New York, NY 10001 | WHO: 212-473-2233
BREAKFAST RESTAURANTS
32 | Russ & Daughters | The late Anthony Bourdain said that "Russ & Daughters occupies that rare and tiny place on the mountaintop reserved for those who are not just the oldest and the last — but also the best." We tend to agree. Russ & Daughters is a family-owned business that’s been operating in the same spot for over 100 years, serving New York favorites like: smoked fish, caviar, bagels, bialys, babka, and other traditional baked goods.
What to order: The heebster bagel toast should not be missed!
WHERE: 141 Flushing Ave Building 77, Brooklyn, NY 11205 | WHO: 212-475-4880 ext. 3
33 | Clinton Street Baking Company | Every city has a go-to breakfast spot that serves amazing food coupled with a cozy environment. Many would claim that Clinton Street Baking Co. has won that title in New York. Opened in 2001, CSBC initially only served hand-mixed muffins and scones. But as word of mouth spread, they expanded their offerings to include all of your favorite breakfast foods, including what is arguably the best pancake in New York. And yes, they serve it all day and night.
What to order: Like we said, the pancakes are the best items on the menu. Try the blueberry pancakes with maple butter and prepare to have your mind blown!
WHERE: 4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002 | WHO: 646-602-6263
34 | The Cookshop | THE best place in New York for huevos rancheros. Enough said.
WHERE: 156 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-924-4440
MEDITERRANEAN COOKING
35 | Meadowsweet | In 2014, Meadowsweet was opened in Williamsburg Brooklyn by award-winning chef Polo Dobkin and his wife and director of operations Stephanie Lempert. Named after the meadowsweet herb, this cool space serves Mediterranean-influenced New American dishes & craft cocktails, with fresh vegetables sourced from their own upstate Meadowsweet Farm.
What to order: One dish isn’t enough to do this place justice. We’d go with the crispy baby artichokes, smoked trout, roasted chicken (yes it’s that good) and literally anything on the dessert menu.
WHERE: 149 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 | WHO: 718-384-0673
RICE BOWL MENUS
36 | Fieldtrip | FIELDTRIP's mantra is "Rice is Culture." Chef JJ Johnson created FIELDTRIP as a celebration of culture told through the medium of rice, a food staple in almost every community around the world. This rich concept even influences the way their rice bowls are made and served -- freshly milled, unbleached, not enriched, paired with ethically sourced veggies and protein.
What to order: The salmon with China Black Pineapple Fried Rice and Piri Piri sauce has got to be one of their tastiest bowls, followed by the crispy chicken. And don’t forget to try their Rice Milk Hibiscus Raspberry soft serve ice cream for dessert.
WHERE: 109 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10026 | WHO: 917-639-3919
MIDDLE EASTERN DISHES
37 | The Halal Guys | The Halal Guys started in 1990 as a humble hot dog stand at the intersection of 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. After they pivoted to serving halaal food to Muslim taxi drivers, word of their exotic platters quickly spread among other New Yorkers, and the rest is history. Visit the Halal guys for street food of all kinds, like pretzels and falafel sandwiches. And you don’t even need to be in New York to get a whiff of this, The Halal Guys has grown into a global franchise with almost 100 locations worldwide.
What to order: The chicken and gyro over rice with their signature white sauce is irresistible.
WHERE: 75 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 | WHO: N/A
VEGAN FOOD
38 | Hangawi | Hangawi is rare among New York City Korean restaurants in that it is one of the few all-vegan ones. Hangawi was founded to introduce balanced vegetarian dishes from Korean cuisine to the western world. Aside from the meals, the traditional teas, folk and zen music and decor at Hangawi all come together to promote a harmony of body and mind.
What to order: The pumpkin porridge will leave your soul feeling full, satisfied and at peace.
WHERE: 12 E 32nd St, New York, NY 10016 | WHO: 212-213-0077
39 | Superiority Burger | Superiority Burger is widely regarded as one of the best vegan restaurants in New York City, a place where even the vegetables don’t taste boring. And speaking of boring, Superiority Burger changes its specials on the daily, so there’s always something new to explore.
What to order: You can’t go wrong with the yuba verde sandwich and their coconut gelato.
WHERE: 430 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009 | WHO: N/A
40 | Peacefood | Peacefood serves a variety of delicious vegan meals that prove that you don’t necessarily have to eat meat to feel full and satiated. But what really sets them apart is their unforgettable sides and pastries.
What to order: Get an order of the chickpea fries as an appetizer and the carrot cake for dessert. You will not regret it!
WHERE: 460 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 | WHO: 212-362-2266
SNACKS, SANDWICHES & BURGERS
41 | J.G. Melon | New Yorkers don’t really want anything new or trendy when it comes to their burger joints. All they want is a juicy patty topped by soft buns with crispy fries on the side. J.G. Melon plays their role to perfection, serving a classic burger that isn’t going out of style anytime soon.
What to order: The juicy Bacon Cheeseburger with cottage fries and a bloody mary.
WHERE: 1291 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021 | WHO: 212-744-0585
42 | Shake Shack | Shake Shack was originally a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park that was such a raging success that they decided to open up a permanent establishment. Today, it's one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City and a classic American success story.
What to order: A good ol’ ShackBurger with a cup of Shack-made lemonade and a side of Crinkle Cut Fries.
WHERE: 1700 Broadway, New York, NY 10019 | WHO: 917-942-6038
43 | Tudor City Tavern | This guide cannot be complete without a mention of one of the best local taverns around town, Tudor City Tavern in the historic Tudor City neighborhood of NYC. The cozy tavern inside Westgate Grand Central Resort is the perfect spot to relax and catch with friends. The menu offers seasonal soups and salads, delicious sandwiches, Starbucks coffee and a fully stocked bar with cocktails, spirits, beer and wine pairings.
What to order: Enjoy the fresh-baked pastries. And don’t be shy about ordering extras to go, this is a judgement free zone and they’re that d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!!
WHERE: 304 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017 | WHO: 212-986-8800
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44 | Tompkins Square Bagels | Christopher Pugliese got his start at Bake City Bagel where he learned to pay extreme attention to detail during the bagel making process. He then went on to apply those same lessons to Tomkins Square Bagels, which he credits with its success. TSB’s specialty is the warm, soft and creamy breakfast bagel.
What to order: TSB is famous for their massive bagels, all of which taste amazing. But if you’re in the mood for something else, we recommend the Weezer.
WHERE: 165 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009 | WHO: 646-351-6520
45 | Gray’s Papaya | I know the movies make it seem like there’s a hotdog stand on every corner of New York City, but they’re mostly just concentrated in the most tourist-heavy areas and vary in quality. If you’re looking for the archetypical New York hot dog though, look no further than Gray’s Papaya.
What to order: If you’re nursing a big craving for franks, then the Recession Special was made for you. You’ll get two hot dogs and a medium tropical drink like coconut, banana, piña colada and papaya.
WHERE: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 | WHO: 212-799-0243
46 | Blue Sky Deli | Previously called Hajji’s, Blue Sky Deli’s is the creator of the famous chopped cheese sandwich. Once upon a time ago, this sandwich was only known to a select few NYC foodies, but over the last decade, it has grown increasingly popular, touted as a classic comparable to the bacon, egg and cheese sandwich.
What to order: Did you think we’d say anything other than chopped cheese?
WHERE: 2135 1st Ave, New York, NY 10029 | WHO: 646-682-7488
47 | Dough | Dough was founded just two years ago in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn and expanded into Manhattan as it quickly grew in popularity. What sets Dough apart from other doughnut shops is its oversized donuts, unique flavors and doughnut-making philosophy. They take pride in the fact that their doughnuts are handmade in small batches throughout the day so that customers always enjoy them fresh.
What to order: Plain glazed is a no-brainer, but also try more unique flavors like blueberry lemon. Their seasonal menu currently includes doughnuts like blood orange and pumpkin with salted pumpkin seeds.
WHERE: 14 West 19th Street at, 5th Ave, New York, 10011 | WHO: 212-243-6844
48 | Black Seed Bagels | Unsurprisingly, New York City is home to some of the best bagels in the world. You’ve got your fair share of good options here, but Black Seed Bagels is in a league of its own. This artisan bagel shop prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and unconventional baking techniques. Each bagel is hand-rolled and boiled in honey water, after which they are baked until lightly browned and cooled.
What to order: Any bagel with bacon, egg and cream cheese.
WHERE: 170 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012 | WHO: 646-915-1500
49 | Katz’s Delicatessen | Katz's Delicatessen is a family business with a long and storied history that goes back over 100 years. Founded by Willy Katz and his cousin Benny, Katz's became like a second home to millions of immigrants in the early 1900s and throughout World War II. The restaurant has since attracted all types and tastebuds and was even part of a memorable scene in “When Harry Met Sally.” Katz’s corned beef and pastrami are the stuff of legends, cured using a famously slow method that takes up to 1 month!
What to order: The iconic pastrami on rye sandwich.
WHERE: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002 | WHO: 212-254-2246
50 | Magnolia Bakery | Magnolia Bakery first opened its door in 1996 in New York City’s West Village. In the 20-odd years since then, it’s become a well-known and beloved bakery with locations worldwide.
What to order: The banana pudding, a creamy mixture made with vanilla wafers, banana and vanilla pudding that’s so good you won’t want to stop eating!
WHERE: 1240 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020 | WHO: 212-767-1123
EUROPEAN (UKRAINE)
51 | Dacha 46 | Dascha 46 is the creation of Jessica and Trina Quinn started from their apartment in Bed Stuy Brooklyn in 2020. The couple are both chefs who have put in their hours at restaurants like Rezdora and Red Hook Tavern before teaming up to start their own thing. Dascha 46 specializes in Banya Brunch, serving all sorts of warm meals and baked goods inspired by Ukrainian culture.
What to order: The plump pork pelmeni with hazelnut-mocha kievsky for dessert.
WHERE: 657 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 | WHO: N/A
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
Last Tips for Choosing an NYC Restaurant
There are more than 24,000 restaurants in New York City, so choosing where to eat is a challenge in and of itself. Here are some final tips to help you make the choice you'll end up happy with:
● When it comes to exotic cuisine (e.g. Asian, Italian, etc.), go where the natives love to eat.
● Only eat at restaurants with an A grade from the New York City Health Department.
● To decrease the chances of a disappointing meal, order the restaurant's specialty.
● Any restaurant that is empty at peak times is probably not worth eating at.
Bon Appetit!
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