
The 45 Best Restaurants in Manhattan Right Now
Where should you go out to eat in Manhattan?

Are you looking for the best restaurants in Manhattan? Then you’ve come to the right place – as a big foodie, I love Manhattan for its wide range of good restaurants. In the first section I’ll tell you my TOP 50 restaurants in Manhattan that I can recommend to you – further down I have even more restaurants: you’ll find Italian restaurants, French restaurants, burger restaurants, steakhouses, Spanish cuisine and much more.
Check out, these articles are probably interesting for you as well
And even further down sorted by proximity to attractions, for example the best restaurants in Times Square (ui, difficult!), Central Park etc.. Last but not least comes another favorite category of mine: Rooftop Restaurants in Manhattan, Fancy Restaurants, Romantic Restaurants and and and!
To help you quickly see which restaurant is near you, you can find all Manhattan restaurants on the map.
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!
The best restaurants in Manhattan
- 01
Añejo
Mexican Restaurant in Hell's KitchenOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedAñejo is a classy yet fun and casual Mexican restaurant with modern small plates and innovative cocktails. This restaurant was created by the Top Chef season 7 contestant, Angelo Sosa. So, it’s no surprise Añejo is a culinary work of art and is even Michelin recommended for the best Mezcal bars in NYC. You must try the unique ‘Traviesa Montelobos’ with Mezcal, fresh grapefruit, lime, Fresno infused agave, Aperol, and spicy salt when visiting.
Each small plate is a flavorful culinary experience, but their top dishes include the tender and smoky ‘octopus plate’ and the ‘Drunken Lamb Barbacoa.’ These plates are modern but include elements of Mexican food that bring your taste buds for a ride.
- 02
Balthazar
French Restaurant in SoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe stylish restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. Outside the menu you can also choose from the seafood bar and the delicacies from the Balthazar Bakery. The breakfast is legendary and the home-baked bread is especially convincing. By the way, you can get a lot more of it in the adjacent bakery.
- 03
Brooklyn Diner
American Restaurant in Theatre DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedEven if the name doesn’t suggest it, the diner is really close to Times Square! The Brooklyn Diner is a diner like it is in a book: both from the outside and the inside. Try the pastrami or the French toast.
- 04
Carroll Place
Italian Restaurant in Greenwich VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedCarroll Place on Bleecker Street has an exciting concept, as it’s both a gastropub and wine bar where you can enjoy Italian-inspired food. It’s one of our favorite spots when we go for brunch in New York. The atmosphere is relaxed, the vibe is always good and the food is delicious!
Our favorites have been the pizza with truffles and the Pasta Vongole. The fact that the pizza oven is wood fired gives the pizzas a taste like a pizza should have! By the way, next time try the Carroll Place Burger with Gorgonzola. This one looked mega delicious too!
My tip: if you want to go for brunch, be sure to reserve a table in advance!
- 05
Dante NYC
Bar in Greenwich VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedWhen it comes to the best Negroni in town, there is hardly a way around Dante NYC. They are an institution in New York and have been serving their Negroni since 1915 (it’s an Italian restaurant with a small bar). You find it at the corner of Greenwich Village, SoHo and Hudson Square – here we are super-often when we are on the road in New York.
- 06
Drift In
Sea Food Restaurant in West VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Drift In is one of my latest new discoveries in New York: it’s located right on the Hudson River promenade in the West Village. They serve oysters and the best lobster roll in town – no wonder, the team behind the Drift In is the same as at my beloved PILOT Brooklyn and GRAND BANKs. Just great!
- 07
Eataly
Other Restaurants in Financial DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedIn 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!
- 08
Empire Diner
American Restaurant in ChelseaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThis American Diner in Chelsea is an icon of NYC – you can’t miss it, because a beautiful graffiti decorates the building. And it is only a few meters away from the High Line!
- 09
Gayle's Broadway Rose
American Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedGayle’s Broadway Rose features singing waiters and waitresses that will sing classic and modern Broadway hits to you while you indulge yourself in a delicious and fancy-looking milkshake.
- 10
Gelso & Grand
Italian Restaurant in Little ItalyOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Gelso & Grand is a successful mix of a restaurant (with excellent pizza), a bar and a small outdoor area. It is not only super stylishly furnished, but also has typically Italian good espresso. The audience is colourful: from families with children to couples and business espresso guests.
- 11
Grand Banks
Sea Food Restaurant in TribecaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedWater, a great view of Manhattan and a great atmosphere – the location is simply the best. You are sitting on a historic ship called F/V Sherman Zwicker on the Hudson River and can enjoy New York from the water when the weather is fine. The place also serves great drinks and seafood.
- 12
Hudson Clearwater
Other Restaurants in West VillageOur Highlight - 13
Industry Kitchen
American Restaurant in Financial DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe restaurant offers typical American cuisine with modern influences. Fresh ingredients form the basis for the dishes. Salads, pizza and freshly grilled meat combined with first-class wines make a visit to the Industry Kitchen highly recommended. Beer lovers and cocktail fans will get their money’s worth here, because the selection is great.
- 14
Jun-Men Ramen Bar
Asian Restaurant in ChelseaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Jun-Men is one of the best restaurants for ramen in the city. By the way, Jun-Men means “noodles, straight up”. The secret of a really good ramen dish is the broth, which is sometimes reduced for hours and in the end is really “concentrated” and delicious. Absolutely sensational and once you have tasted it, you will understand why we rave about it so much.
- 15
La Mela
Italian Restaurant in Little ItalyOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedA good address if you want to go out for dinner in a relatively relaxed atmosphere. The food comes from the hands of a real Italian family. The mussels are highly recommended.
- 16
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight - 17
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Flatiron DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLa Pecora Bianca, which translates to “The White Sheep” in Italian is a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dishes. Their ingredients are locally sourced letting them “shine”.
- 18
Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery
French Restaurant in NoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedNever leave NoHo without stopping by Lafayette Grand Bakery. Great vibes, authentic French scenery, plus amazing food will amaze you for sure. Lafayette is an everyday French restaurant bringing the spirit of French dining to the NoHo neighborhood. They are open in the morning, noon and night, so you can join them either for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
My favorite dishes (it’s very hard to only mention one) are the lemon pancakes, the chicken salad, and the egg sandwich. Oh, and their fruit tarts are very delicious as well.
Other than Lafayette Grand Bakery there are many other smaller coffee shops and bakeries in the area. Just by simply exploring the neighborhood, you will come across a few. Walk-in, join the locals and take a break from sightseeing. NoHo is the perfect place to do so.
- 19
Lakeside Restaurant am Loeb Boathouse
Café in Upper West SideOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Lakeside Restaurant of the Loeb Boathouse is located at the northeastern tip of Central Park Lake right on the waterfront and is one of the most idyllic restaurants in New York City.
- 20
Little Prince
French Restaurant in SoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedFor the first time we noticed the French restaurant in summer: the windows can be opened completely and because it is so small, you have a window seat & table all to yourself, so to speak. Super-romantic and that’s why it immediately landed on our list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC.
- 21
Lombardi's Pizza
Italian Restaurant in NolitaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLombardi’s is a pizza restaurant in Nolita and prides itself in being the first pizzeria in the United States. Here you can eat really well and enjoy a welcoming Italian atmosphere. Also make sure to try the Meatballs!
- 22
Los Tacos No. 1
Mexican Restaurant in Theatre DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLos Tacos No. 1 in Times Square is rightly very popular: in the “standing snack bar” everything revolves around tacos & quesadillas. Wonderfully traditional, cheap and really delicious. What’s special about it? The handmade tacos taste like in Mexico, because instead of wheat flour (as it is unfortunately often done for cost reasons) real corn flour is used for production. My tip: Take the tacos with grilled cactus!
- 23
Manhatta
French Restaurant in Financial DistrictOur Highlight - 24
Móle
Mexican Restaurant in West VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLooking for a large variety of tequilas to try? Móle is known for having over 125 different types of tequilas, all made with 100% blue agave. Although they serve many of the classics, the house special drinks include ‘El Diablo’ and ‘El Vampiro,’ two spicy cocktails with Don Reyes Tequila.
Móle is also, of course, famous for its móle, which is imported from Mexico. The móle is handmade by Doña Emelia for complete authenticity and then used to enhance the flavor of the dishes. The chicken ‘enchiladas de mole poblanos’ are absolutely amazing and the best item on the menu.
- 25
Pastrami Queen
Other Restaurants in Upper East SideOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedBesides the Katz’s delicatessen, the Pastrami Queen is one of our favourite pastrami shops. The sandwiches are kosher, incredibly tasty and really thickly topped. The shop has remained unchanged for almost 30 years and stands for very good dishes.
- 26
Pier A Harbor House
Sea Food Restaurant in The BatteryOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedCLOSED
The Pier A Harbor House extends over two levels and also offers a large outdoor area. The restaurant area has been completely restored and shines in new splendor. On the second floor you will also find the cocktail bar. Here you will find seafood dishes, sandwiches and tacos on the menu. Prices range from about $15 to $25 and cocktails cost about $12 to $15. Happy Hour is from Monday to Friday from 15.00 to 19.00.
- 27
Red Rooster
American Restaurant in Harlem & Washington HeightsOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Red Rooster is an absolute institution and an integral part of the Harlem community. Located near the famous Apollo Theatre, the restaurant named after the legendary Harlem Speakeasy was located at 138th Street and 7th Avenue. This pleasant, colourful atmosphere was to be revived with the Red Rooster – and it really succeeded in creating a great atmosphere. The place does not only offer soul food but also cooking classes and live music.
- 28
Rubirosa
Italian Restaurant in NolitaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedAlready from the outside the restaurant looks like a typical Italian restaurant. You will feel completely at home: there are great red wines, the atmosphere is pleasant and you are definitely among locals. The Rubirosa is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in town, because the food is fantastic. The pasta and also the starters (for example grilled calamari) remind you of Italy – not to mention the pizza.
If you are looking for a late afternoon glass of wine with some snacks or a quality evening meal this is definitely a good choice. There is also a pizza hour, where – you guessed it – they sell 2 pizzas for $16!
- 29
Serafina Broadway
Italian Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedI love the restaurants of Serafina! There are now more than 10 spots in New York where you can enjoy great Italian food. The pizza is legendary, each of the Serafina restaurants is beautifully styled and offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The burrata and heart-shaped lobster ravioli are unbelievably delicious. I’ve had several pizzas, all of which were delicious. I highly recommend both the simple Margherita pizza and the Portofino pizza with pesto & pine nuts!
- 30
Super Taste
Asian Restaurant in ChinatownOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedHere it can quickly get crowded, the shop is really super small. Super Taste is probably the best place to visit in Chinatown NYC if you are looking for some authentic and great quality noodles. The amazing food is reason alone to visit but with the amazing prices on offer, this is a no-brainer to get a quick and delicious bite to eat on your way through Chinatown.
Make sure to try the pork belly bao – one of our favorites!
- 31
The Dutch Restaurant
American Restaurant in SoHoOur Highlight - 32
The Mercer Kitchen
American Restaurant in SoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Mercer Kitchen is a restaurant located in SoHo and can be found right next to The Mercer Hotel. We recommend coming here for breakfast and lunch while you’re visiting SoHo.
- 33
Villa Mosconi
Italian Restaurant in Greenwich VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedIf you’re looking for an Italian restaurant with real vintage charm, you have to go to Villa Mosconi! This restaurant has been around for over 40 years and is still run by the same family.
Villa Mosconi restaurant offers authentic Italian food in a lovely ambiance and it’s family friendly and welcoming. No matter what (homemade) pasta you order, it’s guaranteed to be delicious. Another highlight for us was the Veal Milanese. And the best part? The prices are really reasonable!
For me, Villa Mosconi is one of the best Italian restaurants in New York, because we were not disappointed during any of our visits!
- 34
ABC Kitchen
American Restaurant in GramercyAdd to myNY addedThe ABC Kitchen serves Slow Food – the opposite of fast food and a declaration of love for our planet. Only the freshest ingredients, supplied by local farmers, are put on the plate. The dishes change seasonally and are free of pesticides, antibiotics, hormones and genetic engineering. The prices are more than reasonable for the quality of the ingredients and the service.
- 35
American Cut
American Restaurant in TribecaAdd to myNY addedThe restaurant is very modern and here you can get very tasty steaks.
- 36
Angelica Kitchen
Vegetarian Restaurant in East VillageAdd to myNY addedFresh, vegan food has been served here since 1976. Many of the ingredients are organically grown and Fairtrade certified.
- 37
Antique Garage
Other Restaurants in SoHoAdd to myNY addedAs the name suggests, the location used to be an old screwdriver garage, which was brought to life in 2003. The furnishing with antique paintings and lamps creates a relaxed, cosy atmosphere. And then the food: the starters alone are already a blast. Try “Mezze” – these are Mediterranean little treats.
- 38
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Italian Restaurant in ChelseaAdd to myNY addedArtichoke Basille’s Pizza was founded in 2008 and serves big slices with creamy toppings.
- 39
Asiate Restaurant
American Restaurant in Upper West SideAdd to myNY addedBesides the innovative dishes, the stylish decoration of the “Asiate” in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel is an absolute highlight every time. In front of the windows, an impressive branch sculpture, which symbolizes trees in winter, forms the center of the restaurant. In addition, the huge wall with more than 3,000 wine bottles.
- 40
Avant Garden
Vegetarian Restaurant in East VillageAdd to myNY addedIn the cozy restaurant in the East Village, the food is served in a very stylish way. The quality is excellent and it tastes fantastic.
- 41
Barney Greengrass
Café in Upper West SideAdd to myNY addedA legendary deli on the Upper West Side. The portions are huge and the classic American cuisine is convincing all along the line.
- 42
Basta Pasta
Italian Restaurant in GramercySpaghetti pasta inside a cheese wheel. Close-up.Add to myNY addedThe restaurant is clean and elegant in style, has an open kitchen and offers a relaxed atmosphere. As the name suggests, they serve great pasta dishes – excitingly combined with Japanese cuisine (for example, pasta with shitake mushrooms) and with great sauces. All organic and homemade, of course.
- 43
Beatnic West Village
Vegetarian Restaurant in Greenwich VillageAdd to myNY addedOk, the name can be a bit misleading, because the Beatnic West Village is actually located in Greenwich Village (the discussion about the neighborhoods and their exact boundaries is typical for New York 🙂 ). Anyway, Beatnic is a really popular vegan restaurant right on Bleecker Street.
It’s super-stylish, beautifully decorated and so delicious! And I say that, who likes everything around steaks, burgers and BBQ so much. Everything is freshly prepared, there are a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and burgers – all vegan, of course.
Really colorful is the beet ketchup and the avocado pesto. My tip: try the guac burger and the magic mushroom salad. That alone is worth a visit!
- 44
Benjamin Steakhouse
Steak Restaurant in Murray HillAdd to myNY addedThe stay at Benjamins is always a treat. The steak and wine list is very extensive. So there should be something for everyone.
My Favorite Restaurants in Manhattan – sorted by category
The 5 best Italian restaurants in Manhattan
From pizzerias to pasta spots, everything we love about Italian is here: it’s warm, you feel welcome, and afterwards you can take a relaxed stroll through Manhattan.
01 Carroll Place
Carroll Place on Bleecker Street has an exciting concept, as it’s both a gastropub and wine bar where you can enjoy Italian-inspired food. It’s one…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added-
02 Dante NYC
When it comes to the best Negroni in town, there is hardly a way around Dante NYC. They are an institution in New York and…
Read moreAdd to myNY added 03 Gelso & Grand
The Gelso & Grand is a successful mix of a restaurant (with excellent pizza), a bar and a small outdoor area. It is not only…
Add to myNY added04 La Mela
A good address if you want to go out for dinner in a relatively relaxed atmosphere. The food comes from the hands of a real…
Add to myNY added05 La Pecora Bianca
La Pecora Bianca, which translates to “The White Sheep” in Italian is a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dishes. Their ingredients are locally sourced letting…
Add to myNY added
The 5 best Japanese restaurants in Manhattan
I love sushi – and was unfortunately disappointed a few times in New York because it wasn’t as good as I expected. To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, here are my personal recommendations for good Japanese restaurants in Manhattan.
01 Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya
Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya is a Japanese-style tavern and a traditional sushi bar with a fine dining experience. This spot is all about bonding together…
Add to myNY added02 BONDST
BONDST is a very exceptional Japanese restaurant that is one of the best in all of New York City. Here, fine dining meets high-class and…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added03 Harajuku Sushi & Crêpe
On the one hand you will find delicious sushi and on the other hand fresh crêpes. The crêpes are filled with avocados, shrimps, pork, eggs…
Add to myNY added04 Hudson Eats
In the Hudson Eats you can enjoy a great view of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty. The restaurants are more in the…
Add to myNY added-
05 Kenka NYC
Authentic Japanese cuisine in the East Village for those who love Sushi & Co. Itadakimasu!
Read moreAdd to myNY added
The 5 best French restaurants in Manhattan
01 Balthazar
The stylish restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. Outside the menu you can also choose from the seafood bar and the delicacies from the Balthazar Bakery.…
Add to myNY added02 Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery
Never leave NoHo without stopping by Lafayette Grand Bakery. Great vibes, authentic French scenery, plus amazing food will amaze you for sure. Lafayette is an…
Add to myNY added03 Little Prince
For the first time we noticed the French restaurant in summer: the windows can be opened completely and because it is so small, you have…
Add to myNY added-
04 Manhatta
The restaurant Manhatta is one of the best restaurants in town and is perfect if you are looking for a restaurant for a special occasion.…
Read moreAdd to myNY added 05 Benoit
Here at Benoit you can get the French classics like cassoulet or onion soup. The restaurant is famous for its fantastic fish dishes and steaks.…
Add to myNY added
The 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in Manhattan
-
01 Drift In
The Drift In is one of my latest new discoveries in New York: it’s located right on the Hudson River promenade in the West Village.…
Read moreAdd to myNY added -
03 Pier A Harbor House
CLOSED
The Pier A Harbor House extends over two levels and also offers a large outdoor area. The restaurant area has been completely restored and…
Add to myNY added04 Barney Greengrass
A legendary deli on the Upper West Side. The portions are huge and the classic American cuisine is convincing all along the line.
Add to myNY added05 Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Life is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get. – Forrest Gump. We all love him and know his…
Add to myNY added
The 5 best Mexican restaurants in Manhattan
01 Añejo
Añejo is a classy yet fun and casual Mexican restaurant with modern small plates and innovative cocktails. This restaurant was created by the Top Chef…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added02 Los Tacos No. 1
Los Tacos No. 1 in Times Square is rightly very popular: in the “standing snack bar” everything revolves around tacos & quesadillas. Wonderfully traditional, cheap…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added03 Móle
Looking for a large variety of tequilas to try? Móle is known for having over 125 different types of tequilas, all made with 100% blue…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added04 Café Frida
The ambience in Café Frida is typically Mexican. In the kitchen, too, great importance is attached to ensuring that the dishes come to the table…
Add to myNY added05 Casa Mezcal
Casa Mezcal is – as the name suggests – a mezcal bar in New York, more precisely in the Lower East Side. Both from the…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added
The 5 best vegan restaurants in Manhattan
01 Angelica Kitchen
Fresh, vegan food has been served here since 1976. Many of the ingredients are organically grown and Fairtrade certified.
Add to myNY added02 Avant Garden
In the cozy restaurant in the East Village, the food is served in a very stylish way. The quality is excellent and it tastes fantastic.
Add to myNY added03 Beatnic West Village
Ok, the name can be a bit misleading, because the Beatnic West Village is actually located in Greenwich Village (the discussion about the neighborhoods and…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added04 Blossom
The Blossom is a vegan restaurant chain. It was founded with the aim of bringing vegan food to a creative, new and delicious level.
Add to myNY added05 Blossom on Columbus
The Blossom is a vegan restaurant chain. It was founded with the goal of bringing vegan food to a creative, new and delicious level.
Add to myNY added
Here you can find all the good vegan restaurants in Manhattan.
The 5 best Asian restaurants in Manhattan
01 Jun-Men Ramen Bar
The Jun-Men is one of the best restaurants for ramen in the city. By the way, Jun-Men means “noodles, straight up”. The secret of a…
Add to myNY added02 Super Taste
Here it can quickly get crowded, the shop is really super small. Super Taste is probably the best place to visit in Chinatown NYC if you…
Add to myNY added03 BoCaphe
The BoCaphe is one of our favourite spots if we want to enjoy “Vietnamese French Cuisine” in a relaxed atmosphere.
Add to myNY added04 Decoy
Here you get the best Peking duck in town. The restaurant is well known beyond the city limits.
Add to myNY added-
The 5 best Spanish restaurants in Manhattan
Spanish cuisine is always a vacation for me: I really like the tapas idea of sharing food among friends or family. Find out my favorite tapas restaurants in Manhattan here!
01 Boqueria
One of our highlights is the Boqueria in SoHo. We have walked past it 100 times and have not noticed it at all. Then it…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added02 Boqueria NYC
If you are looking for Spanish cuisine, the Boqueria in New York is a great option. With four branches in New York City (in Midtown,…
Add to myNY added03 Tia Pol
The Tia Pol is totally inconspicuous from the outside, but it has it all! We became aware of it by chance, because we had some…
Add to myNY added
The 5 Best American Restaurants in Manhattan
01 Brooklyn Diner
Even if the name doesn’t suggest it, the diner is really close to Times Square! The Brooklyn Diner is a diner like it is in…
Add to myNY added02 Empire Diner
This American Diner in Chelsea is an icon of NYC – you can’t miss it, because a beautiful graffiti decorates the building. And it is…
Add to myNY added03 Gayle's Broadway Rose
Gayle’s Broadway Rose features singing waiters and waitresses that will sing classic and modern Broadway hits to you while you indulge yourself in a delicious…
Add to myNY added-
04 Industry Kitchen
The restaurant offers typical American cuisine with modern influences. Fresh ingredients form the basis for the dishes. Salads, pizza and freshly grilled meat combined with…
Read moreAdd to myNY added 05 Lakeside Restaurant am Loeb Boathouse
The Lakeside Restaurant of the Loeb Boathouse is located at the northeastern tip of Central Park Lake right on the waterfront and is one of…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added
The Best Restaurants in Manhattan – sorted by location
The best restaurants in Midtown
- 01
Añejo
Mexican Restaurant in Hell's KitchenOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedAñejo is a classy yet fun and casual Mexican restaurant with modern small plates and innovative cocktails. This restaurant was created by the Top Chef season 7 contestant, Angelo Sosa. So, it’s no surprise Añejo is a culinary work of art and is even Michelin recommended for the best Mezcal bars in NYC. You must try the unique ‘Traviesa Montelobos’ with Mezcal, fresh grapefruit, lime, Fresno infused agave, Aperol, and spicy salt when visiting.
Each small plate is a flavorful culinary experience, but their top dishes include the tender and smoky ‘octopus plate’ and the ‘Drunken Lamb Barbacoa.’ These plates are modern but include elements of Mexican food that bring your taste buds for a ride.
- 02
Brooklyn Diner
American Restaurant in Theatre DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedEven if the name doesn’t suggest it, the diner is really close to Times Square! The Brooklyn Diner is a diner like it is in a book: both from the outside and the inside. Try the pastrami or the French toast.
- 03
Gayle's Broadway Rose
American Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedGayle’s Broadway Rose features singing waiters and waitresses that will sing classic and modern Broadway hits to you while you indulge yourself in a delicious and fancy-looking milkshake.
- 04
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Flatiron DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLa Pecora Bianca, which translates to “The White Sheep” in Italian is a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dishes. Their ingredients are locally sourced letting them “shine”.
- 05
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight - 06
Los Tacos No. 1
Mexican Restaurant in Theatre DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedLos Tacos No. 1 in Times Square is rightly very popular: in the “standing snack bar” everything revolves around tacos & quesadillas. Wonderfully traditional, cheap and really delicious. What’s special about it? The handmade tacos taste like in Mexico, because instead of wheat flour (as it is unfortunately often done for cost reasons) real corn flour is used for production. My tip: Take the tacos with grilled cactus!
- 07
Serafina Broadway
Italian Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedI love the restaurants of Serafina! There are now more than 10 spots in New York where you can enjoy great Italian food. The pizza is legendary, each of the Serafina restaurants is beautifully styled and offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The burrata and heart-shaped lobster ravioli are unbelievably delicious. I’ve had several pizzas, all of which were delicious. I highly recommend both the simple Margherita pizza and the Portofino pizza with pesto & pine nuts!
- 08
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Italian Restaurant in ChelseaAdd to myNY addedArtichoke Basille’s Pizza was founded in 2008 and serves big slices with creamy toppings.
- 09
Basta Pasta
Italian Restaurant in GramercySpaghetti pasta inside a cheese wheel. Close-up.Add to myNY addedThe restaurant is clean and elegant in style, has an open kitchen and offers a relaxed atmosphere. As the name suggests, they serve great pasta dishes – excitingly combined with Japanese cuisine (for example, pasta with shitake mushrooms) and with great sauces. All organic and homemade, of course.
- 10
Benjamin Steakhouse
Steak Restaurant in Murray HillAdd to myNY addedThe stay at Benjamins is always a treat. The steak and wine list is very extensive. So there should be something for everyone.
- 11
Benoit
French Restaurant in Midtown ManhattanAdd to myNY addedHere at Benoit you can get the French classics like cassoulet or onion soup. The restaurant is famous for its fantastic fish dishes and steaks. Be sure to order the fries with it – they are second to none. The Benoit is also ideal for a romantic dinner for two, as the selection is large and the wines are sensational. Here the emphasis is on French wines.
- 12
Bill's Bar and Burger
Burger Spot in Midtown ManhattanAdd to myNY addedThis bar is one of the places that are one of our little highlights in NYC. As the name suggests, you can get tasty burgers and excellent beer here. The list of beers that are drafted or bottled is as long as the list of burgers. And all this at a fair price.
The best restaurants in Lower Manhattan
- 01
Balthazar
French Restaurant in SoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe stylish restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. Outside the menu you can also choose from the seafood bar and the delicacies from the Balthazar Bakery. The breakfast is legendary and the home-baked bread is especially convincing. By the way, you can get a lot more of it in the adjacent bakery.
- 02
Drift In
Sea Food Restaurant in West VillageOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Drift In is one of my latest new discoveries in New York: it’s located right on the Hudson River promenade in the West Village. They serve oysters and the best lobster roll in town – no wonder, the team behind the Drift In is the same as at my beloved PILOT Brooklyn and GRAND BANKs. Just great!
- 03
Eataly
Other Restaurants in Financial DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedIn 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!
- 04
Gelso & Grand
Italian Restaurant in Little ItalyOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe Gelso & Grand is a successful mix of a restaurant (with excellent pizza), a bar and a small outdoor area. It is not only super stylishly furnished, but also has typically Italian good espresso. The audience is colourful: from families with children to couples and business espresso guests.
- 05
Grand Banks
Sea Food Restaurant in TribecaOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedWater, a great view of Manhattan and a great atmosphere – the location is simply the best. You are sitting on a historic ship called F/V Sherman Zwicker on the Hudson River and can enjoy New York from the water when the weather is fine. The place also serves great drinks and seafood.
- 06
Industry Kitchen
American Restaurant in Financial DistrictOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedThe restaurant offers typical American cuisine with modern influences. Fresh ingredients form the basis for the dishes. Salads, pizza and freshly grilled meat combined with first-class wines make a visit to the Industry Kitchen highly recommended. Beer lovers and cocktail fans will get their money’s worth here, because the selection is great.
- 07
Little Prince
French Restaurant in SoHoOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedFor the first time we noticed the French restaurant in summer: the windows can be opened completely and because it is so small, you have a window seat & table all to yourself, so to speak. Super-romantic and that’s why it immediately landed on our list of the most romantic restaurants in NYC.
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Manhatta
French Restaurant in Financial DistrictOur Highlight - 09
Pier A Harbor House
Sea Food Restaurant in The BatteryOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedCLOSED
The Pier A Harbor House extends over two levels and also offers a large outdoor area. The restaurant area has been completely restored and shines in new splendor. On the second floor you will also find the cocktail bar. Here you will find seafood dishes, sandwiches and tacos on the menu. Prices range from about $15 to $25 and cocktails cost about $12 to $15. Happy Hour is from Monday to Friday from 15.00 to 19.00.
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Super Taste
Asian Restaurant in ChinatownOur HighlightAdd to myNY addedHere it can quickly get crowded, the shop is really super small. Super Taste is probably the best place to visit in Chinatown NYC if you are looking for some authentic and great quality noodles. The amazing food is reason alone to visit but with the amazing prices on offer, this is a no-brainer to get a quick and delicious bite to eat on your way through Chinatown.
Make sure to try the pork belly bao – one of our favorites!
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The Dutch Restaurant
American Restaurant in SoHoOur Highlight - 12
Angelica Kitchen
Vegetarian Restaurant in East VillageAdd to myNY addedFresh, vegan food has been served here since 1976. Many of the ingredients are organically grown and Fairtrade certified.
TOP Restaurants in Manhattan – sorted by type
Rooftop-Restaurants in Manhattan
01 Hotel Chantelle
Hotel Chantelle is a 3-level bar where the music is surely to make you move. In the basement you’ll typically find a crowded and dimly…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added02 Ampia Restaurant & Rooftop
A trip to New York is an awe-inspiring experience, especially as you find yourself surrounded by buildings that stretch toward the sky in a way…
Add to myNY added03 Saga
Saga is one of the most exclusive and best restaurants with a view in New York. If you’re lucky enough to get a table, you’ll…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added04 The Greens On The Rooftop At Pier 17
What The Greens On The Rooftop lacks in height, it makes up for in beautiful skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and East River views. Set apart from…
see WebsiteAdd to myNY added05 The Water Club
Located on the East River, the restaurant scores with its prime location, relaxed rooftop bar and first class food. You can come here for brunch,…
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The best steak restaurants in Manhattan
01 Little Prince
For the first time we noticed the French restaurant in summer: the windows can be opened completely and because it is so small, you have…
Add to myNY added02 Benjamin Steakhouse
The stay at Benjamins is always a treat. The steak and wine list is very extensive. So there should be something for everyone.
Add to myNY added03 Bowery Meat Company
As the name of the restaurant suggests, you will find plenty of meat on the menu. The Bowery offers you a festive five-course menu on…
Add to myNY added04 Keens Steakhouse
The Keens is a veteran of the New York steak scene. It was opened ready in 1885. The interior of the restaurant – there are…
Add to myNY added05 Porter House Bar & Grill
The menu is very varied. From prime steaks to seafood and pasta, you can find everything here. The wine list is also very impressive.
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The best BBQ restaurants in Manhattan
01 Mighty Quinn's
What can we say: the shop in the East Village was packed (and that in the evening 10 p.m.) and the BBQ is really delicious.…
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The Best Restaurants in Manhattan on the map
A map with all restaurants in Manhattan can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each restaurant on the map to find out everything you need to know.
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I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 20 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!
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