The 13 Best Restaurants in the West Village Right Now
Which restaurant in the West Village is the best?
Are you looking for the best restaurants in the West Village of NYC? Then you’ve come to the right place – because I’ll show you the hippest and most authentic places where New Yorkers hang out in the West Village. The choice of restaurants in the western part of New York’s Village is huge – so there’s bound to be something for you!
You can expect many relaxed, good and romantic spots here, because the West Village is a residential area. To quickly and easily see which spot is near you, you can find all the restaurants of the West Village 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 West Village
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01
Drift In
Sea Food Restaurant in West VillageOur Highlight
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. 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!
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02
Hudson Clearwater
Other Restaurants in West VillageOur Highlight
This beautiful little restaurant has everything I like: it is cozy, beautifully decorated, the food is delicious and in summer you can sit together romantically in a small courtyard!
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03
Móle
Mexican Restaurant in West VillageOur Highlight
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 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.
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04
& Son
Steak Restaurant in West Village
The & Son Restaurant is a steak speakeasy ( “steakeasy” for short) located in an old townhouse in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. Their menu features steak dinners that consist of several courses. With each course, you can choose between at least two options. In addition to delicious, top-quality steaks, there are also vegetarian options on the menu.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm you can stop by for brunch. How about a Lobster Benedict, for example? The lobster meat and boiled eggs taste just sensational with the hollandaise sauce! You’d rather have something sweet? Then try the French toast with berries and whipped cream! Add a few mimosas and the brunch is perfect!
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05
5 Guys Burger and Fries
Burger Spot in West Village
Just like Shake Shack, the 5 Guys Burger and Fries have become a burger chain that is very popular. Again, the good ingredients are the basis of everything – if you’re looking for a 5 Guys in New York, there are several of them!
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06
Baker & Co
Italian Restaurant in West Village
If you’re looking for a restaurant with innovative dishes in Greenwich Village, then your answer is Baker & Co. Situated just a few blocks from Washington Square Park, this restaurant is a trendy fusion of a modern Italian eatery with a rustic, cozy feel.
If you want to try Baker & Co.’s brunch, then you’ll need to stop by on Saturday and Sunday between the hours of 10:30 am and 3:45 pm. Known for their devotion to fresh and seasonal ingredients, I’d highly recommend the Nutella French toast or the savory Crab Eggs Benedict. Trust me, one bit of their food, and you’ll see why it’s rated as one of the best brunches in West Village, New York.
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07
Boucherie West Village
French Restaurant in West Village
Around NYC, you’ll find four Boucherie sister restaurants, all of which will offer a special menu for Thanksgiving dinner. The dinner will consist of a roasted turkey smothered with truffle ballotine, brussels sprouts, sweet potato au gratin, cranberry compote, chanterelles, and turkey for $48 per person. This year’s famed dessert is priced at $15 for a slice of cheesecake topped with spiced caramel and pecans.
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08
Buvette
French Restaurant in West Village
Tucked away on 42 Grove St, Buvette serves up daily brunch in the heart of Greenwich Village and provides a distinctly Parisian flair that’s hard to resist. The moment you enter, you’re whisked away to a charming Paris café thanks to its laid-back ambiance.
Amid the tempting brunch menu options, the succulent Croque Madame is a clear standout, with velvety prosciutto that melts in your mouth. And sure, Buvette’s popularity might result in a slight wait, but I assure you, this tantalizing French culinary adventure is genuinely worth your patience. So, brace yourself for this French delicacy in your New York City brunch itinerary that’s undeniably worth the hype.
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09
Cafe Cluny
French Restaurant in West VillageThere’s something about Cafe Cluny that just screams, “New York Brunch!” This classy spot, nestled between Eighth Ave and Greenwich Ave, is a staple of the West Village brunch scene.
Come the weekend between 10:00 am and 3:30 pm, and you just may find me digging into a breakfast sandwich filled with scrambled eggs or, on more adventurous days, the buffalo chicken dumplings. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, the French Toast with butter, maple syrup, and mixed berries is out of this world. Just a heads up, though – it’s as popular as it is good, so be sure to book a reservation ahead of time to secure your spot!
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10
Claudette
French Restaurant in West VillageNestled on the corner of 5th Ave, right by the iconic Washington Square Park, is Claudette. This spot serves up one of the tastiest brunches in West Village with Mediterranean-inspired French cuisine every Friday through Sunday.
If you’re lucky enough to stop in and eat, be sure to try the Eggs Benedict with lox, it’s my brunch staple that hits the spot every time. And don’t overlook the pastry basket; it’s a yummy assortment that’s ideal for sharing during a leisurely brunch with friends. However, one of the things that truly sets this restaurant apart is its abundance of natural light, creating a warm and lively ambiance. Of all the things you do, you don’t want to miss the unique experience of Claudette.
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11
Dante West Village
Other Restaurants in West VillageSituated on 551 Hudson Street, just a stone’s throw from Pier 45 on the Hudson River, Dante is an iconic restaurant with a history dating back to 1915. Though it wasn’t given a new lease on life until 2015, it was crowned the best bar in the world in 2019. Brunch here is available on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am until 4 pm and is a real treat that you should try at least once!
Though famed for their cocktails, Dante’s brunch menu is equally impressive. The breakfast brioche leaves one questioning what they excel at more – food or drinks. Of their tantalizing offerings, I recommend the daily selection of freshly baked pastries and the Avocado Toast with sourdough, which is a delightful combo of grilled halloumi and marinated bell peppers crowned with a soft-boiled egg. Just remember that they do get busy, so you may want to reserve a table or wake up early that morning!
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12
Decoy
Asian Restaurant in West Village
Here you get the best Peking duck in town. The restaurant is well known beyond the city limits.
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13
Elephant & Castle
American Restaurant in West VillageJust around the corner from the Nordstrom Local West Village store is Elephant & Castle, arguably one of the finest brunch spots in the West Village. They are open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am until 4:30 pm and have been serving up unassuming American fare since 1973.
On my visits, I usually opt for their scrumptious Eggs & Apple Benedict, which is expertly served on a bed of French toast. It’s an amazing creation that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, thus earning it a well-deserved reputation as a go-to dish for brunch enthusiasts in the West Village of New York City.
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14
Jack's Wife Freda
Other Restaurants in West Village
The trendy café is a magnet for lovers of healthy, authentic cuisine. One could describe it as: “South African Israeli Jewish Grandmother Cuisine”. At Jack’s Wife Freda, the cuisine is predominantly vegan, kosher and, of course, low-calorie.
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15
Jajaja Mexicana
Vegan Restaurant in West VillageAs you can probably tell from the name, Jajaja Mexicana serves Mexican cuisine, and more specifically, Mexican street-style food. And every dish is vegan! Inside, you can expect to see tiling, paneling, and bright colors that combine to create a welcoming and casual environment for you to enjoy your meal.
Then, it’s simply a matter of choosing between all the great options on the menu. You may end up choosing one of their tacos, some chips with their queso dip, or even a bowl of turmeric cauliflower rice. Although their chorizo burrito is particularly popular!
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16
Jane Restaurant
American Restaurant in West VillageJust across from Fiorello La Guardia Park on 100 W Houston St, you’ll find Jane Restaurant. This inviting spot has been mastering the brunch game since 2001. And the best part is that any time is a good time for brunch here because they serve up their scrumptious fare daily – weekdays from 11:30 am-4:00 pm and weekends from 9:00 am-4:00 pm.
Take my word for it, their French Toast, which is crafted from thick brioche slices soaked in creme brûlée batter and generously adorned with fresh fruit, is a sweet dream come true! Alternatively, if savory is your style, you can’t go wrong with their Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich. And be sure to make it a boozy brunch by adding a refreshing Bloody Mary or a Peach Bellini made with peach syrup and sparkling wine – it’s an experience that’s second to none among West Village brunch spots.
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17
Jekyll & Hyde Club
American Restaurant in West VillageFor a Halloween theme restaurant in NYC that goes all out, you’ve got to make a stop by the Jekyll & Hyde Club. Offering one of New York’s most unusual dinner experiences, you can expect a wide range of continuous live entertainment, special effects, and bizarre characters. From Frankenstein’s monster and Tobias the Werewolf to the legendary transformation of Dr. Jekyll into Mr. Hyde, this restaurant will keep you on your toes.
More than just a good time, this is also a delicious dinner spot with over 60 menu items to scare away your hunger. In addition to the Create-Your-Own Monster Burger and the Mummy, the Jekyll & Hyde Club has an impressive list of American and foreign draught beers.
For more on this entertaining, only-in-New-York experience, visit the official Jekyll & Hyde Club website.
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18
La Bonbonnerie
Other Restaurants in West VillageNow, allow me to let you in on a little secret – La Bonbonniere. It’s a small, picturesque spot that feels like a step back in time. In the heart of West Village, just a few blocks from the famous Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment, this spot dishes up all-day brunch with serious nostalgic vibes. And did I mention that they have outdoor seating?
The French toast is something to write home about – trust me; you won’t leave a crumb on your plate. And if pancakes are your jam, go for the blueberry ones. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something savory, the Swiss cheese omelette at La Bonbonniere is always a crowd-pleaser. But don’t forget – this is a cash-only restaurant, so make sure to arrive prepared!
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19
Little Owl
American Restaurant in West VillageLet’s journey to Little Owl, an amazing spot tucked away in Greenwich Village, just a stroll from its sister restaurants, The Mary Lane, Market Table & The Clam. Open for weekend brunch from 9 am until 3 pm; it’s nestled right under the apartments that inspired the TV show Friends!
Now, when it comes to food, Chef Joey Campanaro serves a Mediterranean twist on traditional brunch dishes that never fail to impress. One of my all-time favorites at Little Owl is the Smoked Salmon Scramble, but if my sweet tooth beckons, I give into the Brioche French Toast with stewed berry sauce. And, of course, their Poached Egg served with fontina biscuits, breakfast patties, greens & hollandaise is always a great choice.
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20
Numero 28 Pizzeria
Italian Restaurant in West Village
If you’re looking for authentic Neapolitan pizza, look no further than Numero 28 Pizzeria. This spot is dedicated to serving up the best pizza in the city, and they definitely succeed. All of their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven for an unbeatable flavor.
What makes Numero 28 so great is that you can taste the difference in their pizza. Not only do they have classic options like cheese and pepperoni, but they also have more unique flavors like mozzarella, mushrooms, and truffle oil or their five formaggi, made with five different kinds of cheese. Plus, if you’re feeling really hungry, they also offer other high-quality dining options like chicken parm, broccoli rabe, or baked ziti along with calzones, sandwiches, and salads.
If you’re looking for a fantastic pizza experience, be sure to check out Numero 28 Pizzeria. Not only do they have some of the best pizza in the city, but their unique flavors will leave you wanting more. Plus, their atmosphere is perfect for groups or date nights alike.
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21
One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Other Restaurants in West Village
One if by Land, Two if by Sea has the reputation to be the city’s most romantic restaurant and has also been voted the 5th most romantic restaurant in the world – for good reasons. The former carriage house, built in 1767, does not only stand out due to its charming architecture but also due to its rich history. The property was once owned by the United States’ first Attorney General Aaron Burr.
After the duel in which he shot Alexander Hamilton, he lost the property and it was later repurposed until it became the restaurant we love today. The decor is simply beautiful. On top of that, One if by Land, Two if by Sea features several fireplaces, a piano, and a garden. As you may imagine, the food is absolutely amazing, too. The restaurant is said to be the most popular restaurant in New York for engagements, too.
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22
Petite Boucherie
French Restaurant in West Village
Petite Boucherie is a small relaxed French restaurant with sensational steak fries and a great Wagyu truffle burger. But they can also do steaks and have nice selection of wines.
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23
Saint Theo's
Italian Restaurant in West Village
Saint Theo’s in New York’s West Village is an Italian restaurant whose dishes are inspired by the Italian city of Venice. On the menu, you’ll find fresh seafood and seasonal salads, as well as homemade pasta and traditional Venetian cicchetti.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 2:30 PM, delicious dishes are available for lunch.
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24
Tacombi
Mexican Restaurant in West VillageCheck out Tacombi for a kitschy, fun, and lively atmosphere with delicious authentic tacos. All of the tacos are served out of a classic red Volkswagen bus to capture the vacation in Mexico vibes. Their top tacos include the flavorful carne asada tacos with Sonoran style Holstein beef and their slow-roasted pork carnitas. Make sure to eat these with their refreshing agua frescas, such as the agua de sandia (watermelon) and agua de piña (pineapple). Aside from serving some of the best tacos in NYC, they fight food insecurity by donating thousands of Mexican dinners to people in need.
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25
Tartine
French Restaurant in West VillageOkay, now let me tell you about Tartine, an absolutely great brunch spot in Greenwich Village. Just around the corner from the Village Vanguard and right up the road from the Magnolia Bakery, this corner bistro opens its doors for brunch on weekends from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Despite its no-reservation policy, believe me; it’s worth getting up early in the morning for, especially with their BYOB option. Tartine is famous for its Eggs Benedict – perfect hollandaise, fluffy poached egg, and crispy Canadian bacon. Pair this with a frothy, delicious cappuccino, and you’re all set. The staff and service here is just as wonderful as their breakfast, making you feel right at home in this charmingly cluttered spot.
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26
Wallsé
Other Restaurants in West Village
Apple strudel, charlotte or apple cake autumn dessert with a scoop of ice cream fresh mint leaf and cinnamon stick close up. Macro photo of sweet pastry roll or pie with fruits and cranberriesThe Wallsé in the West Village is a modern European restaurant and offers a four-course menu at Christmas for about $150 per person. The menu features traditional dishes such as Christmas goose, venison loin and delicious gingerbread soufflé. Drinks are not included in the price. The atmosphere in the restaurant is noble and relaxed and the interior decoration is tastefully chosen.
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27
White Oak Tavern
Other Restaurants in West VillageThe final stop on our Greenwich Village brunch adventure takes us to White Oak Tavern. Situated right across from the Silver Center for Arts and Science on 21 Waverly Pl, it offers a comforting atmosphere that perfectly pairs with their flavorful menu. I will note, though, that White Oak Tavern only offers weekend brunch, so it’s served from 11:00 am-4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
When here, opt for the enticing $30 all-you-can-drink boozy brunch, which lasts a generous two hours. But, don’t forget, it comes with a delicious condition – you must order a dish from their menu. My personal favorite? The hearty Steak & Eggs or avocado toast. Trust me, the combo of a few drinks and satisfying eats makes for a brunch experience you will want to revisit. So, gather your crew and make your weekend memorable at White Oak Tavern.
The Best Restaurants in West Village on the map
A map with all restaurants in West Village 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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