Food & Drink

Get your taste buds ready: The 15 must-try restaurants in NYC!

New York City is a food lover's paradise, with countless restaurants to satisfy any craving or taste.

From fine dining to casual eateries, the city offers a diverse culinary scene that attracts foodies from all over the world.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, finding the best restaurants in New York City can be overwhelming. With so many options, it's hard to know where to start.

That's why we've put together a list of some of the best restaurants in the city, covering a variety of cuisines and price ranges.

In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through the city, highlighting some of the best restaurants that are sure to impress.

From classic New York pizza joints to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, we've got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the best restaurants in the city that never sleeps.

1. Gramercy Tavern

Gramercy Tavern
42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Gramercy Tavern is a must-visit restaurant for those who appreciate New American cuisine.

With a bustling bar area and a fixed-price-only dining room, the restaurant offers a range of dishes that will tantalize the taste buds.

From the duck meatloaf to the chocolate chip cookie with milk, every dish is cooked to perfection.

The staff is attentive and the ambiance is perfect for both groups and date night. A great choice for those looking for fine dining in the city.

2. COTE Korean Steakhouse

Cote Korean Steakhouse
16 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010 (Google Maps)

COTE Korean Steakhouse is an upscale restaurant specializing in Korean steak.

It features smokeless grills at each table and an extensive wine list. The meat is of high quality and cooked to perfection by well-trained waiters.

The ambiance is young, exciting, and inviting with dim lights and nice accent lighting.

The food is fresh and delicious, though some side dishes could be improved. The restaurant is definitely worth the price for special occasions.

3. The Modern

The Modern
9 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 (Google Maps)

The Modern is a high-class restaurant that offers exceptional service and a diverse selection of wines.

The food is fresh and of high quality, with complex flavors that lean towards the acidic side.

The presentation of the dishes could be improved, but overall, the restaurant offers a great dining experience. The tasting menu is filling and worth the price.

The restaurant also offers a private room for special occasions. The Modern is perfect for a date night or a business dinner.

4. 4 Charles Prime Rib

4 Charles Prime Rib
4 Charles St #3004, New York, NY 10014 (Google Maps)

4 Charles Prime Rib is a must-visit for steak lovers. With exceptional service and delicious food, this restaurant offers a unique and old-school atmosphere that is sure to impress.

The menu boasts a variety of mouth-watering dishes, including the American cheeseburger, 4 Charles cut on the prime rib, and the rib eye.

The sides are just as impressive, with options like spinach, mushrooms, and Mac & cheese.

Finish off your meal with the chocolate mousse cake for a truly satisfying experience. While reservations can be difficult to come by, the dining experience is well worth it.

5. Sushi Nakazawa

Sushi Nakazawa
23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014 (Google Maps)

Sushi Nakazawa is a destination sushi spot that offers high-end omakase meals. Their focus is on bringing out the best of ingredients, resulting in delicious sushi that will not disappoint.

The curated sushi pieces are made with fish and ingredients sourced from around the world, making it a must-visit for sushi fans of any experience.

The Uni box is a standout dish that is highly recommended. The service is attentive and the quiet atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.

While the price may be steep, it is worth it for a special occasion.

6. Shukette

Shukette
230 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001 (Google Maps)

Shukette is a lively bistro that serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of kebabs and seafood dishes, which are cooked to perfection.

The standout dishes include the frena, roasted beets, roasted cauliflower with dates, and arctic char meatballs.

The tahini soft serve is a must-try, and the service is impeccable. Although the prices are a bit steep, the food is definitely worth it.

Shukette is highly recommended for those who crave flavorful and authentic Mediterranean dishes.

7. Per Se

Per Se
10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019 (Google Maps)

Per Se is a fine dining restaurant that offers a luxurious culinary experience. The restaurant has earned three Michelin stars, which is well-deserved.

The food is perfectly cooked, with a standout dish being the buttered noodles with truffles.

Additionally, the dessert selection is extensive and covers the entire table. The service is exceptional, with knowledgeable and friendly waitstaff.

While the restaurant is pricey, it is worth the cost for a special occasion or a night out. The ambience is nice, with views of Central Park adding to the overall experience.

8. Momofuku Ko

Momofuku Ko
8 Extra Pl, New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Momofuku Ko is a small, trendy restaurant offering Asian-accented American cuisine. The restaurant has an exclusive 12-seat eatery and offers a multicourse tasting menu.

The menu changes seasonally and each dish is unique and imaginative. The chefs interact with guests and explain the dishes and techniques.

The service is professional and pleasant. The presentation of the food is excellent and the taste is phenomenal. The atmosphere is quirky and cool, with the sights and smells of the kitchen immediately noticeable.

The prices are expensive but include the tip. Momofuku Ko is a great place to try something new and innovative.

9. Gabriel Kreuther

Gabriel Kreuther
41 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 (Google Maps)

Gabriel Kreuther offers upscale French cuisine in a chic and elegant atmosphere.

The food is presented beautifully and cooked to perfection. The staff is professional and attentive, making the dining experience a pleasure.

The menu is unique and interesting, with some dishes being exceptional while others could be improved.

Despite some minor flaws, Gabriel Kreuther is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sophisticated dining experience.

10. Atera

Atera
77 Worth St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Atera is a high-end New American restaurant that offers inventive, multicourse tasting menus and cocktails.

The food is exceptional and has a lot of complexity. The menu changes daily, so customers can expect something new each time they visit.

The presentation of the dishes is stunning, and the service is impeccable. The atmosphere is intimate and luxurious, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.

Atera is definitely worth a visit for those looking for an exceptional dining experience.

11. Raoul's

Raoul's
180 Prince St, New York, NY 10012 (Google Maps)

Raoul's is a classic French bistro that has been around since the 1970s. The atmosphere is bustling and Parisian, with glamourous pictures adorning the walls.

The food is outstanding, with French and American classics on the menu. The steak au poivre is a fan-favorite, as well as the burger served only at the bar during the week.

The wine list is superb, and the drinks are mixed to perfection. The service is attentive and professional, making for a wonderful dining experience.

Raoul's is a must-visit for those looking for a taste of classic French cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

12. Marc Forgione

Marc Forgione
134 Reade St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Marc Forgione is a rustic-chic restaurant that offers bold farm-to-table cuisine. The menu is eclectic and features innovative dishes that are carefully prepared and presented.

The atmosphere is inviting and the service is superb. The restaurant is a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

The wine list is extensive and reasonably priced. The desserts are amazing and the cocktails are expertly crafted.

The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. Marc Forgione is a must-visit for foodies looking for a unique dining experience.

13. Le Coucou

Le Coucou
138 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Le Coucou is a refined French restaurant that offers a rustic-chic ambiance and elegant setting.

The menu features classic French dishes, including lobster, rabbit, duck, and foie gras, all prepared with exceptional attention to detail.

The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making for a fantastic dining experience.

Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a fine dining experience with family, Le Coucou is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates modern European cuisine.

14. Gotham Restaurant

Gotham Restaurant
12 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Gotham Restaurant is a West Village fixture that serves standout New American plates in a stylish yet relaxed setting.

The cuisine is modern and exquisite, with a thoughtful wine program to match.

The service is customer-centric and the atmosphere is classy and elegant.

While it may be a bit pricey, the experience is worth it for those looking for a special dining experience.

15. Dame

Dame
87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012 (Google Maps)

Dame is a seafood restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere and hearty dishes.

Their fish and chips are crispy and flaky, and their tuna tartare with bottarga is a perfect dish.

They also offer small plates and classic cocktails, plus a terrace to enjoy the meal. The restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Dame is a great place for seafood lovers who want to enjoy a casual dining experience.