Where to Eat in NYC: The Most Recommended Restaurants by Locals + Visitors
- taylor campbell
- Nov 14, 2021
- 4 min read
When it comes to New York City, every meal is not just a feast for the palate but also a part of an unforgettable travel experience.
Welcome to the bustling streets of New York City, where the vibrant pulse of life intertwines with the tantalizing aromas of diverse cuisines. For food enthusiasts and gastronomes alike, New York City is nothing short of a culinary paradise, offering a smorgasbord of flavors from every corner of the globe. But beyond its famed landmarks and towering skyscrapers, NYC beckons travelers on a journey of culinary discovery, promising an adventure for the senses that extends far beyond the plate.
In this guide, we'll list some of our personal favorites and most recommended restaurants in NYC, translating from our own back pocket guide we've collected over the years. Whether you're craving a classic New York slice, eager to sample authentic ethnic dishes, or ready to indulge in a Michelin experience, these establishments promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. It really is New York or Nowhere.
Join us as we explore the culinary gems that define the essence of New York City's vibrant food scene, inviting you to savor the diverse flavors and rich cultural tapestry that make this city a haven for food lovers around the world. So, loosen your belt, sharpen your appetite, and let's delve into the gastronomic delights awaiting us in the Big Apple. And while you're at it, don't forget to wander through the city's charming neighborhoods, soak in the views from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, and immerse yourself in the energy of this dynamic metropolis. After all, in New York City, every meal is not just a feast for the palate but also a part of an unforgettable travel experience.
The Michelin Experience
In the realm of culinary excellence, few accolades hold as much prestige as a Michelin star. For chefs and restaurateurs, receiving this coveted recognition signifies not just culinary mastery, but an unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary dining experiences. And in the heart of New York City, a metropolis renowned for its gastronomic diversity and innovation, the Michelin Guide serves as a beacon for discerning food enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of gastronomy.
Our Michelin Favorites
11 Madison Park
Daniel (2 Stars)
Masa (3 Stars)
Per Se (3 Stars)
Kochi (1 Star)
Le Bernadin (3 Stars)
Aquavit (2 Stars)
Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare (3 Stars)
Odo (1 Star)
Rezdora (1 Star)
Jeju Noodle Bar (1 Star)
Food Network Favorites
Like any true foodie, we love watching and salivating over Food Network. Some off this list are simply iconic while some are true insider secrets. Here our some of our favorites collected over the years of drooling over the TV.
Food Network Curated Eats
Cocoron (Lower Manhattan) - Order the "Mera Mera Dip with Soba Noodles"
Pisillo Italian Panini (Chelsea) - Italian Paninis. Order #26.
Issac's (Brooklyn) - For a sweet treat sure to remember, order the infamous "Chocolate Babka"
Katz's Deli (SoHo) - "I'll have what she's having" aka the classic pastrami on rye.
Joe's Shanghai (Chinatown)
Cervo's Seafood (Lower East Side)
Laperi Bakery (West Village) - Turkish Breakfast
Cosme (Flatiron) - upscale Mexican
Butter (Midtown) - One of our favorite chefs, the talented Alex Guarnaschelli's modern American restaurant always delivers.
Marea (Midtown) - former San Dominico spot, Chef Michael White
Osteria Morini (SoHo) - casual Italian, Chef Michael White
Xi'an Famous Foods (Queens) - fast casual Chinese, try the hand-ripped noodles.
Sri Pra Phai (Queens) - Thai food
Melba's Chicken n Waffles (Harlem)
New York Pizza
The allure of New York pizza is undeniable. It transcends age, background, and culinary preferences, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared appreciation for good food. Whether you're a native New Yorker or a first-time visitor, sinking your teeth into a slice of pizza is not just a meal—it's an experience.
Must-Try Pizza Spots
DiFara Pizza (Brooklyn)
Lucali's Pizza (Brooklyn)
Scarr's Pizza (Lower East Side)
Joe's Pizza (Multiple Locations)
John's of Bleecker (West Village)
New York Bagels
In a city known for its diversity and dynamism, the New York bagel stands as a symbol of culinary excellence and cultural heritage. From its humble beginnings in immigrant communities to its status as a global icon, the journey of the New York bagel is a testament to the enduring power of food to unite and delight.
Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or smothered in cream cheese, it's sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and a warm feeling in your heart. After all, in a city of endless possibilities, there's nothing quite like the simple pleasure of a freshly baked bagel from New York City.
Favorite New York Bagels Stops
Liberty Bagels (Midtown)
Tompkins Bagel (East Village)
Absolute Bagel (Upper West Side)
Essabagel (Multiple Locations)
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company (Multiple Locations)
Russ & Daughters (Multiple Locations)
Curated Local's Recommendations
New York City, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. We always love to eat what the locals eat. We're collected this curated list of some local restaurant recommendations and even some hidden gems.
NYC Local Recommendations
Ci Siamo (Hudson Yards) - Italian
Via Carota (West Village) - Italian
12 Chairs (SoHo and Williamsburg) - Mediterranean + Turkish
Kashkaval (Hells Kitchen) - Mediterranean Tapas + Fondues
Senna (West Village) - Indian
Boqueria (Multiple Locations) - Spanish Tapas
Lil Frankies (East Village) - Old School Italian
Cafe Mogador (East Village + Brooklyn) - Moroccan
Ryujin (Williamsburg) - Ramen
Miss Favela (Williamsburg) - Brazilian
Rule of Thirds (Williamsburg) - Japanese
Levain Bakery (Upper East Side) - "best cookies in the world" and its true.
So, loosen your belt, sharpen your appetite, and get ready to delve into the gastronomic delights awaiting us in the Big Apple. Don't worry, you'll walk it all off as you wander through the city's charming neighborhoods, soak in the views from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, and immerse yourself in the energy of this dynamic metropolis. After all, in New York City, every meal is not just a feast for the palate but also a part of an unforgettable travel experience. Bon voyage!
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