New York City is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to legendary street food. Whether you’re craving world-class seafood, an unforgettable steak, or a cozy hidden gem, NYC has something for every taste. With so many incredible restaurants, choosing where to eat can be overwhelming—but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best restaurants in New York City, featuring must-visit spots for every kind of foodie. Whether you’re a local looking for new favorites or a visitor planning your dream food tour, these restaurants will give you an unforgettable dining experience. Get ready to explore NYC’s finest eats! Also can read Best Restaurants in USA
1. Le Bernardin - French, Seafood
Le Bernardin is a renowned French seafood restaurant located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Established in 1986 by siblings Gilbert and Maguy Le Coze, it has consistently maintained its status as one of the city’s premier dining establishments. Le Bernardin is one of the most famous seafood restaurants in the world, located in New York City. Here’s everything you need to know before dining there-
Website- www.elevenmadisonpark.com
Key Information:
- Type: Fine Dining, French Seafood
- Michelin Stars: ★★★ (3 Stars)
- Chef: Eric Ripert (Renowned French Chef)
- Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA
- Dress Code: Formal (Jackets required for men)
- Reservations: Highly recommended (book weeks/months in advance)
- Price Range: $$$$ (Expensive, Tasting Menu & Prix Fixe Options)
What Makes It Special?
- Ranked as one of the best seafood restaurants in the world
- Holds 3 Michelin Stars since 2005
- Focus on fresh, high-quality seafood with French techniques
- Elegant, luxurious dining experience
Menu Highlights
Le Bernardin offers a Prix Fixe Menu ($198 per person) and a Chef’s Tasting Menu ($298 per person) featuring:
- Thinly Pounded Yellowfin Tuna – With foie gras and toasted baguette
- Barely Touched Scallop – With yuzu vinaigrette
- Lobster Lasagna – Rich and decadent
- Dover Sole – With lemon and capers
- Decadent Desserts – Chocolate Parfait, Sorbets
Opening Hours
- Lunch: Monday – Friday (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
- Dinner: Monday – Saturday (5:15 PM – 10:30 PM)
- Closed on Sundays
Awards & Recognition
- 3 Michelin Stars
- James Beard Awards for Best Chef & Outstanding Restaurant
- Consistently ranked in “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants”
Tips for Dining at Le Bernardin
- Book early – Reservations fill up fast
- Dress properly – No sneakers, jeans, or casual wear
- Try the Chef’s Tasting Menu – Best way to experience the restaurant
- Be prepared for a luxurious experience – It’s pricey but worth it
2. Eleven Madison Park - Fine Dining, Modern American
Eleven Madison Park (EMP) is a renowned fine dining restaurant located at 11 Madison Avenue in New York City, overlooking Madison Square Park. Established in 1998, it has evolved under the ownership of Chef Daniel Humm since 2011. In a pioneering move, EMP transitioned to an entirely plant-based menu, becoming the first vegan restaurant to earn three Michelin stars.
Website- www.elevenmadisonpark.com
Cuisine and Menu:
EMP offers a seasonally rotating tasting menu that emphasizes innovative plant-based dishes. The eight to ten-course dining room tasting menu showcases Chef Humm’s dedication to sustainability and culinary excellence. For a more concise experience, a five-course option is available at the bar. Notably, the restaurant collaborates with an upstate farm dedicated to harvesting fruits and vegetables exclusively for EMP, ensuring hyper-seasonal offerings.
Location and Ambiance:
Situated at the base of a historic Art Deco building on the corner of East 24th Street and Madison Avenue, EMP underwent a full-scale renovation and redesign in the summer of 2017. The restaurant’s interior reflects modern elegance, providing an oasis of calm and sophistication amidst the bustling city.
Reservations and Dining Experience:
Reservations open at 9 a.m. on the first of each month for the following month and tend to book quickly. There is no strict dress code; diners are encouraged to wear whatever makes them feel most comfortable. The restaurant operates Monday to Wednesday from 5:30 pm to 10 pm, Thursday to Friday from 5 pm to 11 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 2 pm and 5 pm to 11 pm.
3. Katz’s Delicatessen - Jewish Deli
Katz’s Delicatessen, affectionately known as Katz’s Deli, is a historic Jewish delicatessen located at 205 East Houston Street in New York City’s Lower East Side. Established in 1888, it has been serving classic deli fare for over a century, becoming a beloved institution among both locals and tourists.
Website- katzsdelicatessen.com
Signature Dishes:
Katz’s is renowned for its generously portioned pastrami sandwiches, featuring tender, hand-carved meat piled high on rye bread. Another favorite is the Reuben sandwich, combining corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. These iconic offerings have contributed to Katz’s recognition as one of the world’s most legendary restaurants, ranking eighth globally.
Cultural Significance:
The deli gained cinematic fame for the memorable scene in the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally…,” where Meg Ryan’s character fakes an orgasm, prompting a fellow patron to quip, “I’ll have what she’s having.” The table where this scene was filmed is marked with a sign, inviting fans to relive the moment.
Operating Hours and Ordering:
Katz’s operates seven days a week, typically from early morning until late night, accommodating both early birds and night owls. Patrons can dine in, take out, or order for nationwide delivery, ensuring that their favorite deli delights are accessible far and wide.
4. Peter Luger Steak House (Steakhouse)
Peter Luger Steak House is one of the most famous steakhouses in the USA, known for its dry-aged beef, old-school ambiance, and legendary reputation. Here’s the important information people usually want to know about it-
Website- peterluger.com
Location(s)
- Brooklyn, New York (Original)
- Address: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
- Great Neck, Long Island
- Address: 255 Northern Blvd, Great Neck, NY 11021
Why Is Peter Luger Famous?
- Legendary Dry-Aged Steaks: Their steaks are USDA Prime beef, dry-aged in-house for several weeks for a unique flavor.
- Historic Reputation: Opened in 1887, it has been a staple for steak lovers for over a century.
- Michelin Star Recognition: The Brooklyn location has earned a Michelin Star for its quality.
- Classic Steakhouse Experience: No frills, just old-school charm and excellent food.
Most Popular Dishes
- Porterhouse Steak – Their signature dish, served sizzling hot.
- Luger’s Special German Fried Potatoes – Crispy and flavorful.
- Creamed Spinach – A famous side dish.
- Luger Burger – Available only at lunchtime, one of NYC’s best burgers.
- Thick-Cut Bacon Appetizer – A must-try for bacon lovers.
- Apple Strudel with Schlag (Whipped Cream) – A classic dessert.
Pricing
- It’s expensive but worth it. Expect to pay around:
- $60–$80 per person (without drinks).
- The Porterhouse for two costs $140+.
Awards & Recognition
- One Michelin Star (Brooklyn location).
- Zagat & James Beard Foundation Awards.
- Consistently ranked among the best steakhouses in America.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cash Only! (But they accept Peter Luger gift cards and debit cards).
- Reservations Required – Book weeks in advance.
- No Fancy Atmosphere – It’s all about the steak.
- Customer Service Can Be “Old-School” – Some love it, some find it rough.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 11:45 AM – 9:45 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11:45 AM – 10:45 PM
- Sunday: 12:45 PM – 9:45 PM
5. Carbone - talian-American
Carbone is one of New York City’s most iconic Italian-American restaurants, known for its old-school charm, celebrity guests, and luxurious takes on classic dishes. Here’s everything people usually want to know about it-
Website- carbonenewyork.com
Location
Carbone NYC (Original)
- Address: 181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
- Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Other Locations: Miami, Las Vegas, Dallas, Hong Kong, and more.
Why Is Carbone Famous?
- Old-School Italian Vibes: Inspired by 1950s NYC Italian-American restaurants.
- Celebrity Hotspot: Regular guests include Beyoncé, Drake, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian.
- Michelin-Starred Excellence: Awarded one Michelin star for its high-quality food and service.
- Signature Dishes with a Pricey Twist: Classic Italian dishes made with premium ingredients and a luxurious touch.
Most Popular Dishes
- Spicy Rigatoni Vodka – Their most famous dish, made with a rich, creamy vodka sauce.
- Veal Parmesan – A massive, crispy cutlet served with tomato sauce and cheese.
- Caesar Salad alla ZZ – Tossed tableside for an interactive experience.
- Meatballs – Huge and packed with flavor.
- Lobster Fra Diavolo – A seafood lover’s dream, made with a spicy tomato sauce.
- Desserts – The Tiramisu and Lemon Cheesecake are legendary.
Pricing
- It’s very expensive for Italian food.
- Spicy Rigatoni Vodka – Around $35+.
- Veal Parmesan – Around $70+.
- Lobster Fra Diavolo – $100+.
- Expect to spend: $150+ per person with drinks.
Awards & Recognition
- One Michelin Star
- Frequently ranked among NYC’s best Italian restaurants.
- Carbone’s Spicy Rigatoni Vodka is considered one of the best pasta dishes in NYC.
Things to Know Before You Go
Reservations Are Hard to Get!
- You must book weeks (or months) in advance through Resy.
- Walk-ins are almost impossible.
Dress Code:
- Smart casual – no shorts, sandals, or sportswear.
Celebrity Spotting:
- You might see A-list stars, but no photos inside (they keep it exclusive).
Service & Ambiance:
- Classic New York-style hospitality – friendly but can be fast-paced.
- The restaurant has a dim, intimate setting with old-school decor.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
6. Sushi Nakazawa - Sushi, Omakase
Sushi Nakazawa is one of New York City’s top omakase sushi restaurants, known for its exceptional quality, Michelin-star status, and ties to the legendary Jiro Ono from Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Here’s everything people want to know about it:
Location
Sushi Nakazawa (NYC)
- Address: 23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014
- Neighborhood: West Village
Other Locations: Washington, D.C.
Why Is Sushi Nakazawa Famous?
- Chef Daisuke Nakazawa trained under Jiro Ono, the legendary sushi master from the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi.
- Michelin-Starred Excellence – NYC location has one Michelin star.
- Authentic Edo-style Omakase – A 20-course sushi experience with top-tier ingredients.
- One of the Best Sushi Spots in NYC – Frequently ranked among the top omakase restaurants in America.
The Omakase Experience
- 20 Courses of Sushi – Each piece is handcrafted and served one at a time.
- No Soy Sauce Needed – The chef seasons each piece perfectly.
- Chef’s Counter vs. Dining Room:
- Chef’s Counter ($180+ per person) – Best experience, where sushi is served directly by the chef.
- Dining Room ($150+ per person) – Same sushi, but without the interactive chef experience.
- Premium Ingredients – Expect sushi made from Japanese uni, fatty tuna, Hokkaido scallops, and more.
Pricing
- Omakase Price:
- Chef’s Counter: $180+ per person
- Dining Room: $150+ per person
- Optional Sake Pairing: $80+
- Expensive, but considered worth it for the quality and experience.
Awards & Recognition
- One Michelin Star
- 4 Stars from The New York Times (a rare honor).
- Featured in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Reservations Are a MUST – Book weeks in advance via Resy.
- No Rolls or Extra Orders – It’s a strictly omakase experience.
- No Substitutions – The chef curates the meal, and changes are rarely allowed.
- Dress Code: Smart casual (no flip-flops, shorts, or gym wear).
- Punctuality is Key! – Arrive on time or risk losing your reservation.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
7. Joe’s Shanghai - Chinese, Soup Dumplings
Joe’s Shanghai is one of the most famous Chinese restaurants in New York City, best known for its soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) and authentic Shanghai cuisine. Here’s everything people want to know about it-
Website – www.joeshanghairestaurants.com
Location(s)
Joe’s Shanghai NYC (Main Location)
- Address: 46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013
- Neighborhood: Chinatown
Other Locations:
- Midtown Manhattan – 242 E 56th St, New York, NY 10022
- Flushing, Queens – 136-21 37th Ave, Flushing, NY 11354
Why Is Joe’s Shanghai Famous?
- Legendary Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) – One of the best places in NYC for hot, juicy, handmade dumplings.
- Authentic Shanghai Cuisine – Classic dishes prepared with traditional Chinese flavors.
- Casual & Lively Atmosphere – Great for groups, with shared tables and a no-frills experience.
- Featured in Top Food Guides – Recommended by Michelin Guide, The New York Times, and food bloggers worldwide.
Most Popular Dishes
- Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) – Their signature dish, available in:
- Pork (most popular)
- Crab & Pork (richer flavor)
- Braised Pork Shoulder – Tender, flavorful, and served with bok choy.
- Scallion Pancakes – Crispy and packed with flavor.
- Eggplant with Garlic Sauce – A must-try for veggie lovers.
- Crispy Whole Fish in Brown Sauce – A Shanghai specialty.
Pricing
- Very affordable for NYC!
- Soup Dumplings: ~$10 per order (8 dumplings).
- Main Dishes: ~$15–$30.
- Expect to spend: $20–$40 per person, depending on what you order.
Awards & Recognition
- Featured in the Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand).
- Frequently ranked among NYC’s best Chinese restaurants.
- Named one of the best places for soup dumplings in America.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Expect a Wait – It’s very popular, especially on weekends.
- Cash & Card Accepted – No longer cash-only like before.
- Casual Dining & Shared Tables – Be ready to sit with strangers at large tables.
- No Reservations – First come, first served.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Is Joe’s Shanghai Worth It?
- YES, if you love authentic soup dumplings, classic Chinese food, and affordable eats.
- MAYBE NOT, if you prefer fine dining or don’t like sharing tables.
8. Via Carota - Italian, Rustic
Via Carota is one of New York City’s most famous Italian restaurants, known for its rustic charm, handmade pasta, and simple yet elegant dishes. It’s a go-to spot for both locals and celebrities looking for an authentic Tuscan dining experience. Here’s everything people want to know about it –
Website- www.viacarota.com
Location
- Address: 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
- Neighborhood: West Village
Why Is Via Carota Famous?
- Authentic Tuscan-Inspired Cuisine – Traditional Italian dishes with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Handmade Pasta & Signature Dishes – Simple yet perfectly executed pasta and rustic Italian flavors.
- Charming, Cozy Atmosphere – A warm, candlelit space with vintage decor.
- Celebrity Hotspot – Frequented by stars like Gigi Hadid, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Taylor Swift.
- No Reservations Policy – People wait hours to get a table!
Most Popular Dishes
- Insalata Verde – Their famous green salad, a surprisingly must-try dish.
- Cacio e Pepe – Classic handmade pasta with pecorino and black pepper.
- Pappardelle al Ragu – Rich, slow-cooked beef and pork ragu over ribbon pasta.
- Carciofi Fritti – Fried artichokes, a Roman specialty.
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina – Tuscan-style grilled steak, perfect for sharing.
- Tiramisu – One of the best in NYC!
Pricing
- Mid-to-High Range but reasonable for NYC.
- Pasta Dishes: ~$25–$35.
- Main Courses: ~$35–$50.
- Expect to Spend: $60–$100 per person with drinks.
Awards & Recognition
- Named Best Italian Restaurant in NYC by Eater & The Infatuation.
- Featured in Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand).
- Recognized as one of America’s best Italian restaurants.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No Reservations! – Walk-ins only, so be ready to wait 1–3 hours.
- Best Time to Go? – Arrive before 5 PM for a better chance at a table.
- Casual Yet Elegant – No strict dress code, but most guests dress nicely.
- Great for Date Nights & Special Occasions – The cozy vibe makes it perfect for a romantic dinner.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Is Via Carota Worth It?
- YES, if you love handmade pasta, rustic Italian food, and a cozy, authentic ambiance.
- MAYBE NOT, if you hate long waits and prefer places with reservations.
9. Lucali - Pizza
Lucali is one of New York City’s most iconic pizzerias, known for its thin-crust, brick-oven pizza, cozy atmosphere, and celebrity fans. It’s a must-visit for pizza lovers, often considered one of the best pizzerias in America.
Website – www.lucali.com
Location
- Address: 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
- Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
Why Is Lucali Famous?
- Handmade, Brick-Oven Pizzas – Everything is made fresh, including the dough and sauce.
- BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) – No alcohol is served, so you can bring your own wine or beer!
- Celeb Favorite – Beyoncé, Jay-Z, David Beckham, and more have been spotted here.
- Old-School, Cozy Vibe – Small, candlelit, and feels like a hidden gem.
- No Reservations – First Come, First Served – Be ready to wait hours for a table!
Most Popular Items
- Large Plain Pizza (Cheese Pie) – The signature dish, made with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce.
- Basil-Topped Calzone – A crispy, cheesy masterpiece served with marinara sauce.
- Garlic Knots (Off-Menu!) – Ask if they have them – they’re incredible.
Pricing
- Large Pizza: ~$30
- Calzone: ~$25
- Expect to Spend: $30–$50 per person (cash only!).
Awards & Recognition
- Regularly ranked as one of the best pizzerias in NYC & the U.S.
- Featured on Netflix’s “Somebody Feed Phil” & multiple food shows.
- Highly rated by food critics from The New York Times and Eater.
Things to Know Before You Go
- No Reservations – Arrive early (before 4 PM) to put your name on the list.
- Cash Only! – No credit cards accepted.
- BYOB (Bring Your Own Booze) – No alcohol served, but you can bring your own wine or beer.
- Small & Cozy – Very few tables, so be patient!
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Sunday: 5:45 PM – 11:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays
Is Lucali Worth It?
- YES, if you love simple, high-quality pizza made with passion.
- MAYBE NOT, if you hate waiting hours for food and prefer quick service.
10. Cosme – NYC’s Modern Mexican Culinary Gem 🌮🔥
Cosme is one of New York City’s top modern Mexican restaurants, blending traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary techniques. It’s a Michelin-starred, fine-dining spot known for its elevated Mexican dishes, world-class chefs, and stylish ambiance.
Website- www.cosmenyc.com
Location
- Address: 35 E 21st St, New York, NY 10010
- Neighborhood: Flatiron District
Why Is Cosme Famous?
- Chef Enrique Olvera’s Masterpiece – Olvera is one of Mexico’s top chefs, also known for Pujol in Mexico City (one of the world’s best restaurants).
- Michelin-Starred & Award-Winning – Holds one Michelin star and was ranked in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
- Famous Duck Carnitas – A must-try, slow-roasted duck dish that has gained legendary status.
- Modern, Upscale Ambiance – A trendy, stylish space perfect for special occasions.
- Top-Quality Mezcal & Cocktails – Known for incredible tequila, mezcal, and creative drinks.
Most Popular Dishes
- Duck Carnitas – Slow-roasted duck served with homemade tortillas and salsa.
- Soft Corn Tamal – Made with fresh masa, topped with mushrooms and mole.
- Uni & Bone Marrow Tostada – A luxurious, umami-packed dish.
- Scallop Aguachile – Fresh, citrusy, and spicy seafood perfection.
- Corn Husk Meringue – One of the most famous desserts in NYC, featuring sweet corn cream inside a crispy meringue shell.
Pricing
- Appetizers: ~$20–$30
- Mains: ~$30–$50
- Duck Carnitas (for 2): ~$98
- Expect to Spend: $80–$150 per person (including drinks).
Awards & Recognition
- One Michelin Star
- The World’s 50 Best Restaurants
- James Beard Award-Winning Chefs
- Regularly ranked among NYC’s best restaurants.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Reservations Are Essential – Book weeks in advance on Resy.
- Trendy, Lively Atmosphere – Modern vibe, not a traditional taqueria.
- Small Portions, Big Flavors – Expect high-end, artistic plating.
- Pricey But Worth It – Fine dining experience, not casual Mexican food.
🕰 Opening Hours
- Monday – Sunday: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
- Brunch (Saturday & Sunday): 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Is Cosme Worth It?
- YES, if you love high-end, modern Mexican cuisine and Michelin-starred experiences.
- MAYBE NOT, if you expect cheap tacos or traditional Mexican street food.
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.
