New York City is a global culinary capital—whether you’re into fine dining, bold street eats, or something in between, the city never disappoints. As someone who loves exploring restaurants and finding hidden gems (and a few well-deserved icons), I’ve rounded up the 25 best restaurants in NYC for 2025 that are truly must-try. These spots bring together incredible food, unique atmospheres, and that special NYC energy you just can’t replicate anywhere else.
1. Atomix – Korean Fine Dining at Its Finest
If you want a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, Atomix belongs at the top of your list. Helmed by chef Junghyun Park, this 2-star Michelin restaurant offers a contemporary multi-course Korean tasting menu that is simply art on a plate. Every dish tells a story, and the minimalist, sleek design creates a calm, almost meditative space in the middle of Manhattan.
A new seasonal tasting menu celebrating Korean fermentation techniques.
Ranked in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025.
- 📍 104 E 30th St, New York, NY 10016
- Visit Atomix’s official website
2. Via Carota – The West Village’s Coziest Italian Gem
Via Carota continues to win hearts in 2025 with its cozy atmosphere and unpretentious, soulful Italian food. The cacio e pepe here is the stuff of legends, and their seasonal salads are almost too pretty to eat. Founded by chefs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi, this spot feels like a slow afternoon in Tuscany—right in the West Village.
Still no reservations = still exclusive.
The vegetable antipasti and house-made pastas are consistently excellent.
Great for date nights and casual elegance.
- 📍 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
- Explore Via Carota’s story
3. Laser Wolf Brooklyn – Israeli Grill with a Skyline View
2025 is still all about Laser Wolf, the rooftop Israeli grill that landed in Brooklyn from the team behind Zahav in Philly. This place is a party on a plate—expect sizzling skewers, fluffy pita, and a rainbow of salatim (Middle Eastern-style side dishes) that hit every flavor note. Oh, and the Manhattan skyline? It’s the bonus you didn’t know you needed.
A fixed-price grill menu that’s generous and bold.
The rooftop vibes are unbeatable at sunset.
Impossible to leave hungry.
- 📍 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 (The Hoxton Hotel)
- Check out Laser Wolf NYC
4. Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi – Afro-Caribbean Soul at Lincoln Center
Tatiana is more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural movement. Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s personal culinary story unfolds through bold, soulful dishes rooted in Afro-Caribbean and NYC flavors. Located inside Lincoln Center, this spot is bringing diversity and innovation to the city’s fine dining scene.
Truffled chopped cheese with Wagyu beef.
Goat curry patties and oxtail with rice & peas.
New brunch menu launched this year.
- 📍 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
- View Tatiana’s menu and book
5. Nudibranch – Creative, Trend-Setting Small Plates in the East Village
Don’t let the quirky name fool you—Nudibranch is one of the most exciting and under-the-radar restaurants in NYC. A chef-run spot with rotating global-inspired tasting menus and inventive cocktails, it’s perfect for foodies looking to be wowed. They’re constantly experimenting, and it pays off.
A 7-course tasting menu under $100 (a rarity in NYC).
Influencer buzz + strong local following.
Hidden gem feel, but rising fast.
- 📍 125 1st Ave., New York, NY 10003
6. Café Mars – Brooklyn’s Most Playful (and Delicious) Dining Experience
Café Mars is the kind of place where nothing is expected—and that’s exactly why people can’t stop talking about it. Opened by David Rinaldi and Paul D’Avino, this Gowanus spot serves playful twists on Italian-American favorites with bold plating, a touch of surrealism, and a lot of heart. It’s both dinner and a conversation starter.
House-made pasta with pistachio-pesto foam? Yes, please.
New tasting menu launched this spring.
One of NYT’s Most Exciting Restaurants in NYC.
- 📍 272 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
7. The Noortwyck – Elevated, Seasonal Dining in the West Village
A quiet star in the city’s culinary scene, The Noortwyck is the kind of restaurant that hits the sweet spot between refined and comforting. Seasonal produce drives the menu, with dishes like duck with roasted beets or handmade agnolotti with summer truffle.
Chef Andrew Quinn (ex-Eleven Madison Park) is at the helm.
High-end food without the pretentious vibe.
Ideal for food lovers looking for that “next big thing”.
- 📍 289 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
- Explore The Noortwyck
8. Shukette – Bold, Flavor-Packed Middle Eastern Street Food
From the team behind Shuka, Shukette is a Middle Eastern-inspired spot that brings energy, color, and spice to every dish. It’s perfect for a group dinner or solo counter dining. In 2025, they’ve expanded their dessert menu and added more vegetarian-forward plates, making it even more irresistible.
Flaming hot harissa chicken.
Labneh-topped pita fresh from the oven.
Grilled whole branzino with preserved lemon.
- 📍 230 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10001 (Chelsea)
- Check out Shukette
9. Saga – Sky-High Luxury Dining in the Financial District
Perched on the 63rd floor of a historic Art Deco skyscraper, Saga delivers both sky-high views and a multi-course menu influenced by global cuisine. The ambiance is sleek and sultry, perfect for a celebratory evening or luxury splurge.
Recently awarded its second Michelin star.
A new wine pairing program led by a James Beard-nominated sommelier.
Panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond.
- 📍 70 Pine St, 63rd Floor, New York, NY 10005
- Book Saga NYC
10. Foul Witch – East Village’s Neo-Gothic Italian Sensation
Don’t let the spooky name fool you—Foul Witch is one of the most exciting and atmospheric restaurants in the East Village. A moody offshoot of Roberta’s (yes, that Roberta’s), this new hotspot offers wood-fired Italian dishes with a dark twist and exceptional technique.
The squid ink risotto and black garlic agnolotti are stunning.
Goth-meets-glam decor that’s Instagram gold.
Highly rated by Eater, Grub Street, and food influencers alike.
- 📍 15 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
- Read more about Foul Witch
11. Clover Hill – Refined Dining in Brooklyn Heights
Hidden on a quiet cobblestone street in Brooklyn Heights, Clover Hill offers a one-Michelin-starred dining experience without the ego. Chef Charlie Mitchell—Brooklyn’s first Black Michelin-starred chef—crafts a seasonal tasting menu that’s both elegant and soulful.
The 8-course tasting is under $200 (a rare find at this level).
New focus on sustainable seafood and local produce.
Cozy, intimate space with under 30 seats.
- 📍 20 Columbia Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Reserve at Clover Hill
12. Semma – South Indian Cuisine with Bold, Regional Flair
Semma, part of the Unapologetic Foods group, is redefining what Indian food means in NYC. No butter chicken here—think banana leaf fish fry, gunpowder dosa, and oxtail curry from South India’s coastal and inland regions. Chef Vijay Kumar’s food is bold, personal, and unapologetically spicy.
Earned its Michelin star by honoring true regional Indian cuisine.
Spice lovers will find nirvana here.
2025 update: New Sunday thali brunch option.
- 📍 60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
13. Jean-Georges – Timeless Elegance Near Central Park
In 2025, Jean-Georges is celebrating over 25 years of excellence—and still evolving. With new updates to its tasting menu and a refreshed, minimalist design, this iconic French-Asian restaurant is proof that true elegance never fades. A go-to for anniversaries, proposals, and high-end experiences.
Offers both 6- and 10-course tasting menus.
Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten still innovates, even decades in.
World-class wine pairings with every course.
- Visit Jean-Georges NYC
14. Dhamaka – Explosive Flavors from India’s Underdog Regions
Dhamaka lives up to its name—meaning “explosion”—with loud, colorful flavors from India’s lesser-known regions. This is not your butter chicken joint. Think goat neck biryani, Champaran mutton, and eggplant chaat bursting with spice and crunch. The vibe is energetic, the flavors unapologetically bold.
Often booked solid weeks in advance.
Taps into India’s street and home-style cooking.
Recently added a tasting menu for adventurous diners.
- 📍 Essex Market, 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002
- Explore Dhamaka NYC
15. Le Rock – Classic French with a Cool Midtown Twist
From the duo behind Frenchette, Le Rock brings French brasserie charm to the heart of Midtown. Think escargots, duck frites, and warm bread served with style—but without the stuffiness. Whether you’re coming from MoMA or just people-watching at Rockefeller Plaza, this is your refined-yet-relaxed stop.
Perfect for pre-theater or business dinners.
Expanded outdoor terrace now open year-round.
Elevated but not intimidating—French for everyone.
- 📍 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
- Book a table at Le Rock
16. Cote Korean Steakhouse – Where BBQ Meets Luxury
If you’ve never had wagyu beef grilled tableside under soft lighting while sipping a dry-aged soju cocktail, welcome to Cote. This Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse blends NYC sophistication with Seoul’s grilling culture. It’s dinner and a show—but make it luxury.
Launch of a “Butcher’s Feast 2.0” with even more premium cuts.
New chef’s tasting counter for intimate BBQ experiences.
Perfect for group dining, date nights, or foodie celebrations.
- 📍 16 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010
- Book your table at Cote NYC
17. Cucina Alba – Coastal Italian in Chelsea with a Glam Twist
Cucina Alba feels like a breezy escape to the Amalfi Coast, right in the heart of Manhattan. The pasta is delicate, the seafood is fresh, and the vibe is as polished as it is warm. Whether you’re after a relaxing lunch or a glittering dinner, this spot always delivers coastal comfort with style.
House-made focaccia with whipped ricotta? Irresistible.
Offers a seasonal crudo bar.
Chef Adam Leonti (formerly of Leuca) brings depth and precision.
- 📍 275 Park Ave South, New York, NY 10010
- Explore Cucina Alba
18. Sushi Noz – A Zen-Like Edomae Experience on the UES
Sushi Noz is like stepping into a quiet Kyoto temple—with sushi. Every piece of nigiri is expertly aged, seasoned, and served with precision in an intimate cedar-wood space. It’s not cheap, but if you’re serious about sushi, it’s a rite of passage.
Chef Nozomu Abe continues to innovate with seasonal omakase menus.
Only 8 seats at the hinoki-wood counter—reservation gold.
Offers a newer, slightly more accessible sibling, Noz Market, nearby.
- 📍 181 E 78th St, New York, NY 10075
19. Pecking House – Fried Chicken Reinvented
Once a viral pop-up, Pecking House now has a permanent home in Brooklyn—and it’s blowing up for good reason. The star of the show? Chili-crusted fried chicken, inspired by Chinese flavors with Southern cooking technique. Crispy, juicy, spicy, and totally addictive.
New menu additions: five-spice duck confit and Sichuan mac & cheese.
Expanded late-night hours for Brooklyn night owls.
Strong delivery game with zero drop in quality.
- 📍 244 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
- See Pecking House menu
20. Mari – Handroll Heaven with a Korean Twist
Mari (which means “roll” in Korean) flips the script on handroll bars. This chic Korean eatery from Chef Sungchul Shim offers a 12-course handroll tasting menu, and every bite is bursting with creative layers—think uni, galbi, kimchi, and crispy rice all rolled together.
Affordable luxury with a prix-fixe under $150.
Michelin recognition + rave reviews from Time Out and Eater.
Chef-driven, fun, and unlike anything else in the city.
- 📍 679 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036 (Hell’s Kitchen)
- Check out Mari NYC
21. Hav & Mar – Afro-Mediterranean Seafood by Marcus Samuelsson
Hav & Mar (Swedish for “ocean and land”) is a visual and culinary celebration of Black excellence. Chef Marcus Samuelsson fuses African and Mediterranean flavors with NYC-style seafood flair. The design is vibrant, the menu soulful, and the vibe—pure Chelsea creativity.
Signature dish: Berbere-spiced lobster with okra & couscous.
Art installations rotate seasonally—feels like a gallery and a restaurant.
Brunch now includes Senegalese-inspired shakshuka.
- 📍 245 Eleventh Ave, New York, NY 10001 (Chelsea)
- Discover Hav & Mar
22. Maison Close – Parisian Glamour in SoHo
If NYC had its own Moulin Rouge, it would be Maison Close. This SoHo hot spot brings French flair with velvet booths, moody lighting, champagne towers, and a menu that balances indulgence with finesse. Think beef tartare, truffle risotto, and crème brûlée with flair.
Live entertainment nights—think sultry jazz or cabaret.
Stunning interiors make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in NYC.
New prix-fixe lunch menu attracting locals and visitors alike.
- 📍 15 Watts St, New York, NY 10013
- Visit Maison Close NYC
23. Gage & Tollner – A Brooklyn Classic Reborn
Gage & Tollner is a 19th-century institution that’s been brilliantly revived for the modern era. Think wood-paneled walls, gaslight chandeliers, and a menu rooted in American classics—steaks, oysters, Parker House rolls, and buttery desserts. It’s vintage NYC at its best.
The banana cream pie is legendary.
Gorgeous vintage bar with retro cocktails.
Great for groups or special occasions with a touch of nostalgia.
- 📍 372 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Book at Gage & Tollner
24. Kjun – Korean-Cajun Fusion That Just Works
Kjun is the kind of mashup that shouldn’t work—but totally does. Korean-American chef Jae Jung blends the soulful heat of New Orleans cuisine with the punch of Korean spice. Dishes like kimchi jambalaya, crawfish étouffée with gochujang, and spicy collard greens are totally crave-worthy.
Gained cult status after pop-up success, now a permanent restaurant.
Chef’s tasting menu highlights the Korean-Cajun fusion story.
One of NY Mag’s Top 10 New Restaurants of the Year.
- 📍 34 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065
25. Lore – Indian-American Comfort Food in Park Slope
A warm, welcoming Brooklyn bistro with global soul, Lore brings together Chef Jay Kumar’s Indian heritage and his love of American comfort food. The result? Dishes like buttermilk fried chicken with masala gravy, or paneer lasagna that feel both nostalgic and new.
Cozy, family-style atmosphere with Brooklyn charm.
Vegan and gluten-free options that don’t compromise on flavor.
One of Park Slope’s best-kept secrets—until now.
- 📍 441 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
- Visit Lore NYC
Final Thoughts: NYC Dining in 2025
From Michelin-starred masterpieces to neighborhood joints with heart, New York City’s food scene in 2025 is all about depth, culture, and flavor. These 25 restaurants represent the diversity and vibrancy that makes NYC the greatest food city on earth.
Tip: Reservations are harder to come by than ever—plan ahead, and be ready to explore beyond Manhattan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the #1 restaurant in NYC in 2025?
While rankings can vary, Atomix is widely regarded as one of the top fine dining destinations this year.
Is there a good rooftop restaurant in NYC right now?
Yes, Laser Wolf Brooklyn offers incredible views and flavor-packed Israeli cuisine on a lively rooftop.
Are these restaurants touristy or local-approved?
All five are highly rated by locals, critics, and travelers. Some (like Via Carota) are iconic neighborhood favorites.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
