The 34 Best Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan Right Now

Which restaurant in Midtown is the best?

Looking for the best restaurants in Midtown Manhattan? Then you’ve come to the right place – because I’ll show you the hottest Italian, Mexican, French and American places where New Yorkers hang out. The choice of restaurants in Midtown is huge – so there’s bound to be something for you!

To help you quickly and easily see which spot is near you, find all of Midtown’s restaurants on an interactive map.

By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!

My Favorite Restaurants in Midtown

  1. 01

    Añejo

    Mexican Restaurant in Hell's Kitchen
    Our Highlight
    Best_Tequila_Mezcal_Bars_NYC_211222164245011
    Add to myNY added

    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 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. 

  2. 02

    Brooklyn Diner

    American Restaurant in Theatre District
    Our Highlight
    Fru_hstu_cken_in_New_York_190205094318001_1600x960
    Add to myNY added

    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 a book: both from the outside and the inside. Try the pastrami or the French toast.

  3. 03

    Empire Diner

    American Restaurant in Chelsea
    Our Highlight
    210205161224007_Empire_Diner
    Add to myNY added

    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 only a few meters away from the High Line!

  4. 04

    Gayle's Broadway Rose

    American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Our Highlight
    gayles_broadway_rose_nyc_190829205033001
    Add to myNY added

    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 and fancy-looking milkshake.

  5. 05

    La Pecora Bianca

    Italian Restaurant in Flatiron District
    Our Highlight
    190124094655001_La_Pecora_Bianca
    Add to myNY added

    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 them “shine”.

  6. 06

    La Pecora Bianca

    Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Our Highlight
    Pecora_190124094655004
    Add to myNY added

    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 them “shine”.

  7. 07

    Los Tacos No. 1

    Mexican Restaurant in Theatre District
    Our Highlight
    190130105941006_Los_Tacos_1_NYC
    Add to myNY added

    Los 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!

  8. 08

    Serafina Broadway

    Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Our Highlight
    Serafina_Restaurant_NYC
    Add to myNY added

    I 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!

  9. 09

    A Taste of Magic

    American Restaurant in Hell's Kitchen
    Add to myNY added

    When it’s the Halloween season, there’s no shortage of witches, wizards, and warlocks wandering about. That’s why A Taste of Magic is one of our favorite ways to celebrate Halloween in NYC.

    This traveling experience takes place at restaurants around New York, bringing the thrills and intrigue of close-up magic to some of the city’s finest dining. Plus, it’s a family-friendly, all-ages way to get into the season. Each ticket includes the magic acts, the dinner, and the entertainment, and the two seating times (5pm and 8pm) fit perfectly for those packed New York schedules. 

    Their current shows take place at Docks, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, and Gossip. You can find out more about A Taste of Magic and make reservations for yourself at the official page.

  10. 10

    ABC Kitchen

    American Restaurant in Gramercy
    IMG_3163
    Add to myNY added

    The 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.

  11. 11

    ABCV

    Vegetarian Restaurant in Gramercy
    Vegetarian
    Add to myNY added

    ABCV is a plant-based restaurant that features many vegan dishes, in addition to being fully vegetarian. The spot is decorated elegantly but with a modern twist. There are golden chandeliers, among other handing lights, that provide lighting from above. And the space features many light, pastel colors.

    Although ABCV serves everything from ice cream to tomato soup, they’re often praised for their dips. Their green hummus, in particular, seems to be a fan favorite and it is served with whole-grain pita.

  12. 12

    ANA Bar & Eatery

    Other Restaurants in Hudson Yards
    Add to myNY added

    ANA’s at Hudson Yards offers something for everyone. You can have a delicious breakfast including fresh coffee and pastries or enjoy a nice lunch meal with farm-to-table foods or pizza.

    At 4:00 PM the place turns into a perfect happy hour spot for everyone who likes signature cocktails, wine, craft beers on tap and pizza.

    This year ANA Bar & Eatery hosts a Super Bowl watch party where you can treat yourself at the unique market buffet of buffalo wings, Mac & cheese bites and other tasty food.

  13. 13

    Aqua Boil

    Sea Food Restaurant in Hell's Kitchen
    Add to myNY added

    Aqua Boil is a Hell’s Kitchen restaurant that you will want to plan on dining at AFTER your Broadway experience. This casual Cajun-inspired place is going to leave you messy, but that’s such a good thing. It’s a fun and vibrant place where you choose your catch from a bounty of seafood like crawfish, mussels, or even a whole Dungeness crab. You then choose your sauce and heat level of spices. You’ll love every messy bite of this interactive eating experience. Reservations are limited, but the waitlist may be an alternative.

  14. 14

    Artichoke Basille's Pizza

    Italian Restaurant in Chelsea
    191120191816006_Artichoke_Basille_s_Pizza
    Add to myNY added

    Artichoke Basille’s Pizza was founded in 2008 and serves big slices with creamy toppings.

  15. 15

    At Nine Restaurant & Bar

    Asian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Add to myNY added

    If you’re craving some good Thai food, Nine Restaurant & Bar has got you covered. They offer a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere where you can enjoy exquisite dishes prepared by talented chefs. What’s more, their prices are reasonable, and they are committed to providing uncompromising service. With numerous Thai restaurants in New York City to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go but look no further. 

    Nine Restaurant & Bar stands out as one of the best Thai restaurants in the city, offering a welcoming ambiance, friendly staff, excellent service, and, most importantly, delicious Thai cuisine. Their dishes are crafted with simplicity and flair to capture the true essence of Thai cooking. Their noodle soups and their red curry are super delicious!

  16. 16

    Avra Rockefeller Center

    Other Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
    231030124609002_Courtesy_of_The_Avra_Group
    Add to myNY added

    Avra, located in the heart of Rockefeller Center in NYC, is a culinary tribute to the rich traditions of Greek cuisine. Inspired by the family’s idyllic memories of feasting on freshly caught seafood and garden-fresh produce in Nafpaktos, Greece, Avra was born out of a desire to bring those authentic flavors to New York. With a commitment to simplicity and the use of the finest ingredients, Avra offers an exquisite dining experience that reflects the essence of Greek culinary traditions.

  17. 17

    Azuki

    Japanese Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    240403171201002_Azuki
    Add to myNY added

    If you fancy sushi, then come to Azuki, a first-class sushi restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. Not far from Times Square, you can get really good sushi here at a reasonable price by New York standards. The restaurant is not huge, but it is comfortably furnished and the staff were very friendly and attentive during our visit.

  18. 18

    Bacall's Family Steakhouse

    Steak Restaurant in Theatre District
    Steak
    Add to myNY added

    Bacall’s Family Steakhouse is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in NYC, known for its delicious steaks and romantic ambiance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bacall’s is the perfect spot for a special dinner with your loved one.

    The restaurant offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all cooked to perfection and served with your choice of sides. In addition to the steaks, Bacall’s also has a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and pan-seared salmon, as well as vegetarian options.

  19. 19

    Basta Pasta

    Italian Restaurant in Gramercy
    Basta_Pasta_200228145741001
    Spaghetti pasta inside a cheese wheel. Close-up.
    Add to myNY added

    The 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.

  20. 20

    Benjamin Steakhouse

    Steak Restaurant in Murray Hill
    210505154613002_Benjamins_Steakhouse_New_York
    Add to myNY added

    Located in the heart of Midtown East, Benjamin Prime is a sleek and modern steakhouse that is an excellent choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner in New York City. The restaurant features stylish and sophisticated decor, with dark wood accents, leather banquettes, and dim lighting that creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

    Regarding NYC Valentine’s Day restaurants 2022, Benjamin Prime typically offers a special menu featuring a variety of high-quality steaks and other meat dishes and a selection of seafood and vegetarian options. The restaurant is known for its excellent wine list, which includes a wide range of red wines that are carefully chosen to pair with the menu.

  21. 21

    Bill's Bar and Burger

    Burger Spot in Midtown Manhattan
    Bills_Bar_and_Burger_New_York_06
    Add to myNY added

    This 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.

  22. 22

    Black Iron Burger Midtown

    Burger Spot in Midtown Manhattan
    Burger_170423115755007_1600x800
    Add to myNY added

    Black Iron Burger is a well known burger restaurant that can be found several times in New York.

  23. 23

    Blossom

    Vegetarian Restaurant in Chelsea
    blossom_chelsea_nyc_180202100958026
    Add to myNY added

    The Blossom is a vegan restaurant chain. It was founded with the aim of bringing vegan food to a creative, new and delicious level.

  24. 24

    Bocca di Bacco

    Italian Restaurant in Chelsea
    Restaurant-170423115755029
    Add to myNY added

    What could be better than a brunch restaurant steps away from the lush greenery of the High Line that also offers a two-hour bottomless drink special for your weekend afternoon feasting? Say hello to Bocca di Bacco! 

    Take your pick from champagne, sangria, Bellinis, mimosas, screwdrivers, or Bloody Marys to sip on as you dive into their delicious Ham and Cheddar Cheese Frittata. And the icing on the cake? A welcome shot that greets you at the door! With its unique offerings, Bocca di Bacco truly redefines the Chelsea brunch experience!

  25. 25

    Bocca di Bacco (Theater District)

    Italian Restaurant in Theatre District
    Restaurant-170423115755029
    Add to myNY added

    Perhaps you’ll run into a few celebrities at Bocca di Bacco, but even if not, you’ll love the experience before or after your Broadway play. The creative Italian cuisine you’ll find here indulges with homemade pastas as well as meats and seafood. Wine lovers will absolutely adore the vast selection that includes 500 bottles from the most renowned wineries in Italy. It is most assuredly one of the best Italian restaurants that you won’t want to miss while in New York.

  26. 26

    Boqueria NYC

    Spanish Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Boqueria_NYC_190424113435003
    Add to myNY added

    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, Flatiron, Upper East Side and SoHo), the Spanish restaurant and tapas bar Boqueria has successfully brought many culinary traditions from Barcelona to New York City in recent years.

  27. 27

    Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

    Sea Food Restaurant in Theatre District
    bubbagump_3
    Add to myNY added

    Life is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get. – Forrest Gump. We all love him and know his story inside and out. So we know what Bubba Gump means, right? A visit to the restaurant of the same name in Times Square is a must for all fans of Forrest Gump or seafood.

  28. 28

    Calle Dao

    Other Restaurants in Chelsea
    Add to myNY added

    Have you ever eaten a meal that featured a blend of Cuban and Chinese cuisine? If you said no, then you must check out Chelsea’s own Calle Dao. This culinary hotspot is located at 461 W 23rd Street and is your direct ticket to the best boozy brunch in NYC. 

    Why do I say this? Well, for just $30, you can indulge in 60 minutes of bottomless cocktails with the purchase of an entree. When I stop at Calle Dao, I usually opt for an order of Avocado Toast or a crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich. The energetic vibes and attentive staff ensure that every visit is nothing short of delightful, but make sure to get there long before 4:30 pm because that’s when the last drinks are served!

  29. 29

    Carnegie Diner & Cafe

    American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    230712082458001_CarnegieDiner
    Add to myNY added

    Carnegie Diner & Cafe in Midtown is a must-visit, because they feature an all-day brunch menu and unlimited mimosas for less than twenty bucks. Here, you’ll enjoy unique creations like their Peanut Butter & Bacon Pancakes or classy Lobster Benedict. 

    Situated right across from Carnegie Hall and a stone’s throw from Central Park, it’s a fantastic spot for food and sightseeing. My favorites? Avocado Toast with fresh, smashed avocado and poached eggs, and their Banana Nutella Strawberries Pancakes, a delicious mix of fresh fruits and indulgent Nutella. Or if I’m looking for more classic brunch entrees, I usually go for the breakfast waffle sandwich or fried chicken sandwich.

  30. 30

    Chalong

    Asian Restaurant in Hell's Kitchen
    Add to myNY added

    Chalong is a Southern Thai spot in Hell’s Kitchen that’s perfect for a meal before or after a Broadway show. Guests appreciate chef Nate Limwong’s authentic cuisine and love dishes like the Coconut Crab Curry. Due to its popularity, we recommend you make a reservation.

    Chef Nate Limwong, originally from Southern Thailand, brings decades of culinary expertise from Asia, Australia, and North America. Her goal is to showcase the authentic flavors of Southern Thailand, known for its fresh spices and seafood, and create a memorable dining experience in NYC.

  31. 31

    Chipotle

    Mexican Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Chipotle_171004111557003
    Add to myNY added

    Chipotle is a famous chain that brought Mexican food to the USA. Although there are many Mexican restaurant options in the Big Apple, it is one of the top low budget restaurants in New York. The menu includes tacos, burritos, quesadillas, burrito bowls and salad bowls. You can find the Mexican restaurant on almost every corner in the city.

  32. 32

    Ci Siamo

    Italian Restaurant in Hudson Yards
    220926150921001_Ci_Siamo_Best_Restaurants_Hudson_Yards_NYC_Credit_Giada_Paoloni
    Add to myNY added

    Probably one of the best Italian restaurants in Manhattan is Ci Siamo. With its open kitchen, you can watch the kitchen crew prepare your dishes. Also perfect if you are looking for a romantic restaurant.

  33. 33

    Cipriani Dolci

    Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
    Restaurant-170423115755029
    Add to myNY added

    Located directly in Grand Central Terminal, Cipriani Dolci is an exceptional Italian restaurant. Opened in March 2002, Cipriani Dolci quickly made a name for itself with great service and an affordable menu. Visually, the restaurant blends in beautifully with the magnificent Grand Central Terminal.

    In addition to delicious meals, you can also enjoy great cocktails here.

  34. 34

    Cookshop

    American Restaurant in Chelsea
    Restaurant_170423115755029-1
    Add to myNY added

    Directly from the grill, you’ll get dishes made from fresh and sustainably produced ingredients. But you should expect a waiting time.

The Best Restaurants in Midtown on the map

A map with all restaurants in Midtown 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.

Profilbild Steffen Kneist
About the author

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 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!

Did you like this article?