30 Highly Regarded Restaurants In New York

New York City is home to some of the most exciting and diverse dining experiences in the world.

From classic steakhouses that have served customers for over a century to modern spots bringing fresh flavors from around the globe, the restaurant scene here never stops evolving.

Whether you’re craving authentic Italian pasta, spicy Thai street food, or perfectly charred pizza, these highly regarded restaurants offer something special for every taste and occasion.

Note: Restaurant offerings, locations, and hours can change quickly, and individual experiences vary by visit, timing, and party size. Details here are provided for general informational and entertainment purposes and should be confirmed directly with each restaurant before making plans.

1. Adda

Honestly, nothing beats the aroma of sizzling spices and home-style Indian cooking that fills the air at this East Village gem.

Adda brings the bold, unapologetic flavors of North India straight to your plate with dishes that feel like they came from a family kitchen. The menu features classics like butter chicken and tandoori specialties, all prepared with authentic recipes and generous portions.

Perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day of exploring the city, this spot delivers comfort and warmth in every bite. You’ll find it at 107 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003.

2. Saint Theo’s

Imagine walking into a place where every dish tells a story of Mediterranean sunshine and fresh ingredients. Saint Theo’s celebrates the flavors of Greece and the broader Mediterranean region with vibrant salads, grilled meats, and seafood that tastes like summer.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, making it ideal for both casual lunches and special celebrations.

Families love the welcoming vibe, and the pita bread alone is worth the visit. Located at 340 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014.

3. Foxface Natural

Maybe you’re the kind of person who loves food that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious.

Foxface Natural is known for a frequently changing menu that leans into wild fish, seafood, and game, with an adventurous, ingredient-driven approach. Each meal feels nourishing without sacrificing flavor, and the simple, natural approach means you know exactly what you’re eating.

It’s the perfect stop for a quick lunch that fuels your afternoon adventures. Find this spot at 189 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009.

4. Hellbender

Queens’ food scene just got a whole lot more exciting with this spot dedicated to bold flavors and creative cooking.

Hellbender offers a menu that changes with the seasons, featuring dishes that blend American comfort food with unexpected twists and international influences. The chefs here aren’t afraid to experiment, and that adventurous spirit shows in every plate.

Whether you’re grabbing brunch or settling in for dinner, expect flavors that wake up your palate. You’ll discover it at 68-22 Forest Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385.

5. Three Decker Diner

A classic Greenpoint diner option when you want a straightforward breakfast, lunch, or dinner without overthinking it.

Comfort-focused plates, booth seating, and that steady neighborhood energy make it an easy pick for an everyday NYC meal.

Located at 695 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222.

6. Kabawa

Tucked away on a tiny street in the East Village, this hidden treasure specializes in Filipino comfort food that warms your soul.

Kabawa is a Momofuku restaurant built around a Caribbean-inspired prix fixe experience led by chef Paul Carmichael. The flavors are rich, the portions generous, and the hospitality genuine.

Hospitality is warm and the format is designed for a relaxed, lingering meal. Visit at 8 Extra Place, New York, NY 10003.

7. Borgo

If you’ve ever dreamed of dining in a charming Italian trattoria without leaving Manhattan, this is your spot.

Borgo brings authentic Italian flavors to Gramercy with handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and classic dishes that transport you straight to Rome or Florence. The ingredients are imported from Italy, and the recipes honor centuries of culinary tradition.

Each bite feels like a celebration of Italian heritage and craftsmanship.

Find it at 124 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016.

8. Gage & Tollner

Step back in time at this beautifully restored Brooklyn landmark, founded in 1879 and revived through a major restoration. Gage & Tollner combines historic charm with a modern menu featuring oysters, steaks, and classic American dishes prepared with contemporary flair.

Ornate interior design, complete with original gas lamps and mahogany details, makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

It’s dining as theater, where history and flavor meet on every plate. Located at 372 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201.

9. Roscioli NYC

Actually, this Roman import has New Yorkers lining up for a taste of authentic Italian baking and charcuterie.

Roscioli NYC offers incredible sandwiches, fresh-baked bread, and a selection of cured meats and cheeses that rival anything you’d find in Italy. The bakery counter tempts with pastries and pizza by the slice, while the cafe serves espresso that’s strong and perfectly brewed.

It’s a slice of Rome in Greenwich Village.

You’ll find it at 43 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012.

10. Thai Diner

Craving pad thai at midnight? Thai Diner brings the energy of Bangkok street food to a retro American diner setting.

Menu features Thai classics with a playful twist, from spicy basil noodles to crispy chicken wings glazed with fish sauce and palm sugar.

Lively diner atmosphere makes it a fun pick when you want bold Thai flavors in a casual room. Every dish packs authentic flavors that transport your taste buds across the Pacific.

Located at 186 Mott St, New York, NY 10012.

11. Hav & Mar

Hav & Mar is a seafood-forward restaurant from Marcus Samuelsson, with influences tied to his Swedish and Ethiopian roots.

Hav & Mar specializes in raw bar offerings, smoked fish, and Nordic-inspired dishes that let the quality of the ingredients shine. The dining room sits in Chelsea’s Starrett-Lehigh Building near the High Line.

It’s seafood at its finest, clean and elegant.

Find this gem at 245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001.

12. Semma

When you want Indian food that goes beyond the usual curry house menu, Semma delivers bold South Indian flavors with sophistication.

The restaurant showcases regional dishes from Tamil Nadu and other southern states, featuring ingredients and techniques rarely seen in American restaurants.

Expect vibrant spice blends, crispy dosas, and rich curries that challenge and delight your palate in equal measure. Every dish tells a story of tradition and innovation.

Located at 60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011.

13. Crane Club

Imagine a place where Chinese cuisine meets modern American dining in a sophisticated setting.

Crane Club offers elevated Chinese dishes with creative presentations and unexpected flavor combinations that honor tradition while embracing innovation. The dim sum selection is outstanding, and the beverage list complements the food beautifully.

It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special after a busy week exploring Manhattan.

You’ll discover it at 85 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011.

14. Carnitas Ramirez

Absolutely nothing beats the smell of slow-cooked pork simmering in traditional Mexican spices and its own fat.

Carnitas Ramirez specializes in exactly one thing and does it to perfection: tender, flavorful carnitas served in fresh tortillas with all the fixings.

The no-frills approach means every taco bursts with authentic flavor that transports you straight to Michoacán. It’s simple, delicious, and exactly what you need for a satisfying meal.

Find it at 210 East 3rd St, New York, NY 10009.

15. Sailor

Brooklyn’s Fort Greene neighborhood gained a culinary treasure when seafood-focused spot opened its doors. Sailor serves coastal American dishes with Mediterranean influences, featuring fresh fish, shellfish, and seasonal vegetables prepared with care and creativity.

Warm, nautical-inspired decor makes you feel like you’re dining by the ocean, even though you’re in the heart of the city. Casual elegance at its best.

Located at 228 DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205.

16. Mama’s Too

Usually, the best pizza comes from places where the dough is treated with respect and patience.

Mama’s Too has perfected the art of square pizza with a crispy, airy crust and just the right amount of cheese and sauce. The slices are huge, the flavors are classic New York, and the lines out the door prove that locals know quality when they taste it.

It’s pizza perfection in every bite.

Visit at 2750 Broadway, New York, NY 10025, or 325 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014.

17. L’Industrie Pizzeria

Quietly earning a reputation as one of the city’s best pizza spots, this West Village gem serves slices that rival anything in Naples.

L’Industrie Pizzeria uses imported Italian ingredients and traditional techniques to create pies with perfectly charred crusts, fresh mozzarella, and bright tomato sauce.

The vodka slice has achieved legendary status among pizza lovers, and one bite explains why. It’s the kind of place you’ll visit once and become a regular.

Located at 104 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014.

18. Hawksmoor

For steak lovers, this London import brings British steakhouse excellence to the Flatiron District.

Hawksmoor sources premium beef and ages it to perfection before grilling it over live fire to create steaks with incredible depth of flavor. The sides are equally impressive, from bone marrow to triple-cooked chips.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just really love a great steak, this is the place. You’ll find it at 109 E 22nd St, New York, NY 10010.

19. Atoboy

Traditionally, Korean food is served family-style with many small dishes to share.

Atoboy reimagines this approach with a modern tasting menu that showcases Korean ingredients and techniques in creative new ways. Each course arrives beautifully plated, revealing unexpected combinations that honor tradition while pushing boundaries.

The intimate space and attentive service make every meal feel personal and memorable.

It’s Korean cuisine elevated to art. Located at 43 East 28th St, New York, NY 10016.

20. Leland Eating And Drinking House

Thankfully, some restaurants still believe in the power of simple, well-executed food served in a welcoming atmosphere.

Leland Eating and Drinking House focuses on seasonal American dishes made with local ingredients and prepared without fuss or pretension.

The menu changes regularly to reflect what’s fresh and available, ensuring every visit offers something new to try. It’s neighborhood dining at its finest, where you’re treated like family from the moment you walk in.

Find it at 755 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11238.

21. Place Des Fêtes

How does a Brooklyn restaurant capture the essence of a Parisian bistro so perfectly?

Place des Fêtes serves French-inspired dishes with North African influences, creating a menu that’s both familiar and exciting. The menu is built for lingering over multiple courses, with seasonal cooking that keeps the experience feeling fresh.

The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, perfect for lingering over multiple courses.

Located at 212 Greene Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238.

22. Via Carota

Where rustic Italian cooking meets Greenwich Village charm, you’ll find this beloved neighborhood spot.

Via Carota serves simple, seasonal Italian dishes that let quality ingredients speak for themselves. The pasta is handmade daily, the vegetables are treated with reverence, and the atmosphere feels like dining at a friend’s apartment in Rome.

Reservations are nearly impossible, but the walk-in wait is worth it for food this soulful and delicious. You’ll discover it at 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014.

23. Kisa

However unconventional it might seem, combining Japanese techniques with seasonal American ingredients creates something truly special.

Kisa offers an intimate omakase experience where the chef guides you through a progression of courses that showcase precision, creativity, and respect for ingredients.

Each piece of sushi is a small work of art, and the warm hospitality makes you feel valued and welcomed. It’s a dining experience that engages all your senses.

Located at 205 Allen St, New York, NY 10002.

24. Gramercy Tavern

Though trends come and go, this New York institution has remained a favorite for decades by staying true to its values.

Gramercy Tavern offers refined American cuisine in two distinct spaces: a casual tavern area and a more formal dining room. The menu celebrates local farms and seasonal bounty with dishes that are both elegant and comforting.

The warm hospitality and impeccable service make every meal feel special, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.

Find it at 42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003.

25. Sushi Nakazawa

Because sushi at this level is more than food – it’s an experience that demands attention and appreciation.

Sushi Nakazawa offers omakase tasting menus where Chef Nakazawa personally prepares each piece with techniques honed over decades of training.

The omakase highlights carefully sourced fish, with supply chains that often include Japan. Every bite reveals layers of flavor and texture that demonstrate true mastery of the craft.

Located at 23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014.

26. Delmonico’s

Maybe one of America’s most historic steakhouses deserves a spot on your dining bucket list.

Delmonico’s has been serving classic American steakhouse fare in the Financial District since 1837, creating dishes like Delmonico steak and Baked Alaska along the way. The historic dining rooms transport you to an earlier era of New York elegance and sophistication.

It’s dining with a side of living history, where every meal connects you to centuries of culinary tradition.

Visit at 56 Beaver St, New York, NY 10004.

27. Oxomoco

Later in the evening, when the wood-fired oven gets going, this Greenpoint spot transforms into a celebration of Oaxacan flavors.

Oxomoco serves modern Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on mole, tlayudas, and other regional specialties rarely found in New York restaurants.

The room is lively, and the wood-fired cooking drives the experience. Every dish brings bold, complex flavors that honor Mexican culinary traditions.

Located at 128 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222.

28. Dept Of Culture

Often the best meals happen at places that feel like they’re in on a secret you’re just discovering.

Dept of Culture brings Caribbean flavors to Brooklyn with a menu that celebrates island cooking through fresh ingredients and creative presentations. From jerk chicken to curry goat, every dish delivers authentic taste with modern flair.

The welcoming atmosphere and reasonable prices make it a neighborhood favorite that’s worth traveling across boroughs to experience. Find it at 327 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216.

29. San Sabino

Suddenly you’re transported to coastal Mexico when you step into this Greenwich Village gem.

San Sabino is an Italian-American seafood restaurant in the West Village with dishes like aguachile, ceviche, and whole grilled fish prepared with bright, fresh flavors. The intimate space fills quickly with diners seeking authentic coastal Mexican cooking in a refined setting.

The vibe is relaxed yet sophisticated, and the menu keeps the spotlight on seafood.

You’ll find it at 113 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014.

30. Eel Bar

Rarely does a restaurant concept feel this unique and perfectly executed.

Eel Bar is a Lower East Side restaurant opened in June 2024 by the team behind Hart’s, Cervo’s, and The Fly, drawing inspiration from Basque Country and Southern France cooking. The small plates menu also features other seafood and seasonal items, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail.

The minimalist space and intimate atmosphere make it ideal for a quiet dinner where the food takes center stage.

Located at 252 Broome St, New York, NY 10002.