Best Restaurants in New York for First-Time Visitors
The best restaurants in New York include a mix of neighborhoods, cuisines, and atmospheres. New York has an abundance of everything—including old-school delis, bustling brasseries, famous chefs, and skyscraper eateries offering dinner with a view.
I was born in New York City, and I am still amazed by the sheer volume of dining options every time I visit.
As a chef and food blogger, to say food is important to me is a gross understatement. When I travel, I don’t want to waste a single meal on a tourist trap or subpar eating experience. That’s especially true in NYC, one of the best foodie cities in the U.S.
And I want you to love every meal in New York too! If it’s your first trip to the Big Apple, I’ve got you covered: This guide was created especially with you in mind!
All of the New York restaurants on this list not only have delicious food, but they have a claim to fame that makes them worthy of your consideration.
I’ve whittled down the list of over 6,400 restaurants in Manhattan to 15 iconic spots. You certainly don’t need to dine at all of them, but this New York City eating guide will make it easy for you to design an amazing culinary journey.
Katz’s Delicatessen
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Overview
If there is one deli that symbolizes New York Jewish food culture, it’s Katz’s. It has been a Lower East Side staple since 1888, after all.
It’s loud, chaotic, and smells incredible. You grab a ticket at the door (don’t lose it!) and line up at the counter to watch the cutters slice steaming meat by hand while you decide on your selection.
Claim to Fame
The walls are covered with photos of celebrities who have dined there over the last century. But Katz’s is also legendary for the “I'll have what she's having” scene from the movie When Harry Met Sally.
Standout Dishes
If you’re a pastrami and rye lover like my husband and I, your order is non-negotiable. It’s a tower of smoked, peppery meat that melts in your mouth. Pair it with a sour pickle and a Dr. Brown’s soda.
Katz's Delicatessen: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Russ & Daughters Cafe
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Overview
A minute’s walk west on Houston from Katz’s, you’ll find Russ & Daughters Appetizing Shop. I love gawking at their fish displays and specialty foods. But for a sit down meal, walk the extra 5 minutes to Russ & Daughters Cafe on Orchard.
If you’re wondering about the term “appetizing” in the name, it’s an old Jewish term that has come to mean “foods eaten with bagels.” Appetizing stores sell primarily smoked and cured fish, fish salads, and cream cheeses. And that’s exactly what Russ & Daughters specializes in.
Claim to Fame
Founded in 1914, it was the first American business with “& Daughters” in its name, honoring the daughters of founder Joel Russ. Today, this New York institution is a James Beard Award winner and a cultural landmark.
Standout Dishes
The classic bagel board with your choice of fish is the way to go. (I highly recommend the pastrami-cured salmon or the Gaspe Nova smoked salmon.) The board comes with cream cheese, tomato, onion, and capers with a bagel or bialy.
For something a little more on the adventurous side, I like the Super Heebster sandwich and/or the Potato Latkes with salmon roe and creme fraiche.
Russ & Daughters Cafe: 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Fans of Russ & Daughter will want to try this Smoked Fish Dip recipe!
Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant
Neighborhood: Midtown East
Overview
Located in the belly of Grand Central Terminal, this cavernous space features beautiful Guastavino tile vaults on the ceiling. It’s a bustling, noisy piece of old New York that feels like a movie set.
And of course this bar and restaurant has been in its fair share of movies, with The Girl on The Train, The Untouchables, and North by Northwest just a small sampling.
Commuters, tourists, and local New Yorkers gather here for some of the freshest seafood in the city. What always surprises me is the astounding variety: At times, as many as 30 types of oysters are offered!
Claim to Fame
Opened in 1913, Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant is as old as the terminal itself, and it’s the oldest restaurant in all of Grand Central. It’s also famous for the “Whispering Gallery” just outside the entrance: This is an acoustic anomaly where whispers travel all the way across the archway.
Standout Dishes
Oysters are obviously the main draw, with dozens of varieties available daily. Or try one of the seafood Pan Roasts served in steam kettles.
Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017. Please note: Both the bar and restaurant are closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Tavern on the Green
Neighborhood: Central Park West
Overview
Located in Central Park, Tavern on the Green is one of New York’s most historic restaurants. But it wasn’t always a place for sophisticated dining. The original 1870 structure actually housed sheep.
Today with its sparkling chandeliers, glass-walled dining rooms, and elegant outdoor spaces it’s hard to imagine livestock in this fairy tale setting—although adoring patrons continue to flock here.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking the perfect romantic date experience, or just hanging out with friends, spending the day roaming Central Park and enjoying a meal at this New York icon is always a great idea.
Claim to Fame
Since the restaurant opened in 1934, Tavern on the Green has appeared in countless films and shows, including Ghostbusters and Wall Street. It has hosted everyone from Grace Kelly to John Lennon and remains one of the city’s most celebrated dining destinations.
Standout Dishes
Favorites include the Rack of Lamb, Shrimp Cocktail, and the Tavern Burger. From the brunch menu, the Lobster Eggs Benedict and Brioche French Toast are yummy choices.
Tavern on the Green: 67th St & Central Park West, New York, NY 10023
Momofuku Noodle Bar
Neighborhood: East Village
Overview
When David Chang opened Momofuku Noodle Bar in 2004, he changed the restaurant world. He elevated Asian street food such as buns and ramen and created a culinary sensation.
He also was at the forefront of producing high-quality food without white tablecloths or a fancy environment.
In fact, the Noodle Bar still has a very casual vibe with a minimalist decor. It’s friendly and energetic with communal seating in case you didn’t reserve a table.
Claim to Fame
This is the restaurant that launched David Chang’s empire and sparked the ongoing ramen craze in the United States.
Standout Dishes
The Steamed Buns are legendary (pork belly or shrimp patty). And, of course, a bowl of the Smoked Pork Ramen is just about a must. I can’t visit without having both!
Momofuku Noodle Bar: 171 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003
Minetta Tavern
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Overview
Minetta Tavern strikes the perfect balance between a Parisian bistro and a classic New York tavern. With its red leather banquettes, checkered floors, and warm lighting, it feels both intimate and exclusive.
Originally opened in 1937, it was once, like many famous cafes in Paris, a hangout for writers like Hemingway, Ezra Pound, and E.E. Cummings.
After its renovation by Keith McNally in 2009, it quickly became a favorite hot spot for New York food lovers.
Claim to Fame
It’s widely considered to have one of the best burgers in the entire city.
Standout Dishes
No surprise here: The Black Label Burger. It uses a custom blend of dry-aged beef and is topped with caramelized onions. It’s pricey, but worth every penny. The Steak Frites will melt in your mouth. And if truffles are on the menu, I usually can’t help but order whatever dish they’re showing up in.
Minetta Tavern: 113 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Balthazar
Neighborhood: SoHo
Overview
Another Keith McNally masterpiece, Balthazar opened in 1997 and instantly became a hit. It’s always buzzing, from breakfast until late at night.
I’ve spent a lot of time eating my way through France, and Balthazar is like a little bit of Paris in NYC. The interior is stunning, with giant mirrors, brass rails, and a raw bar that looks like a work of art.
Claim to Fame
Mentioned in numerous novels and seen on both TV and the big screen, Balthazar has defined the SoHo dining scene for decades.
Standout Dishes
I am always a sucker for France’s most famous sandwich, Croque Madame, and Balthazar’s does not disappoint. Steak Frites, onion soup, and the seafood tower are also spectacular.
Balthazar: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
McSorley’s Old Ale House
Neighborhood: East Village
Overview
Sawdust on the floor, wishbones above the bar, Houdini’s handcuffs attached to the rail, hundreds of old photos, and a motto of “Be Good or Be Gone”—that’s McSorley’s.
Don’t come here expecting a cocktail menu; they serve two drinks: light beer and dark beer. And don’t be surprised if you get two half mugs for one beer, it’s their thing.
The food menu is simple and cheap and will be written on a chalkboard at the bar. Expect dishes like fish and chips, burgers, and $7 sandwiches. And be sure to bring cash; McSorley’s does not accept credit cards.
Claim to Fame
Established in 1854, McSorley’s is the oldest continuously operating saloon in New York. It’s not big on gimmicks or trends, maybe even evolution: It didn’t allow women inside until 1970. But it is a living museum of New York history, and the vibe is one of a kind: Even Abraham Lincoln is rumored to have visited.
Standout Dishes
It depends on the day, but the chili and Feltman’s Hot Dog are staples.
McSorley's Old Ale House: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
Manhatta
Neighborhood: Financial District
Overview
If you want views, Manhatta is hard to beat. Perched 60 stories up, this restaurant offers stunning, panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, city skyline, and the Statue of Liberty.
It’s part of Danny Meyer’s restaurant group (which also includes Union Square Cafe and Gramercy Tavern), so the service is impeccable and the food is outstanding.
If you’re not up for the dinner tasting menu, go for the a la carte lunch menu. The daytime views are even better, in my opinion!
Claim to Fame
In addition to the famous views, the name “Manhatta” was inspired by Walt Whitman’s poem of the same name. Both have been called “love letters to New York.”
Standout Dishes
The menu changes, but look for elegant dishes like the Dry Aged Duck or the Wagyu Coulotte. From apps to dessert, everything I’ve even eaten here has been divine!
Manhatta: 28 Liberty St, 60th Floor, New York, NY 10005
The Peak
Neighborhood: Hudson Yards
Overview
If you’re looking for spectacular views on the other side of town, The Peak sits right above the Edge observation deck on the 101st floor of 30 Hudson Yards.
When you’re looking down on the Empire State Building, you know you’re in an extraordinary location.
The restaurant itself is glamorous and polished, with a modern American menu focused on sustainability.
Claim to Fame
It is the restaurant on the highest floor of any building in the United States.
Standout Dishes
My favorites include the Yellow Fin Crudo and the Atlantic Scallops, but the Steelhead Trout and Steak Frites are also winners. Don’t skip dessert!
The Peak: 30 Hudson Yards, 101st Floor, New York, NY 10001
Veselka
Neighborhood: East Village
Overview
My husband’s family is Ukrainian, so I may appreciate Ukrainian food more than the average person. But Veselka (meaning “rainbow”) is more than a Ukrainian restaurant, it’s also a delicious slice of New York history.
This family-run restaurant has been helmed by 3 consecutive generations since opening in 1954 in an area of the city once known as “Little Ukraine.” In the old days, it operated 24/7 and served as a community hub dishing out authentic Ukrainian soul food at an affordable price.
More than 70 years later, this neighborhood gem now has multiple locations, including one in Grand Central Terminal and one in Madison Square Garden.
Claim to Fame
In 2024, David Duchovny narrated a documentary film on Veselka’s history and the restaurant’s humanitarian efforts supporting Ukraine during the war it is fighting to end Russia’s invasion. The NYC restaurant has also been featured in Ocean’s 8, Trainwreck, Gossip Girl, and other hit movies and series.
Standout Dishes
We stick to ordering the Ukrainian essentials: Borscht, Varenyky (pierogi), and Holubtsi (stuffed cabbage).
Veselka: 144 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Via Carota
Neighborhood: West Village
Overview
Via Carota is an award-winning Italian restaurant created by two acclaimed chefs, Jody Williams and Rita Sodi.
The space is rustic, warm, and decorated with antiques. It feels like a countryside Italian home.
It is widely considered the best Italian restaurant in NYC by chefs and critics alike. It represents the perfect marriage of simple ingredients and flawless execution.
Claim to Fame
Via Carota earned Sodi and Williams the James Beard Award for Best Chefs, New York City, in 2019. The New Yorker called it “New York’s most perfect restaurant.” It’s no surprise that this spot is also popular with tons of celebrities, among them Taylor Swift.
Standout Dishes
The Insalata Verde is shockingly famous for a green salad. You can’t go wrong with any of the hand-crafted pastas, especially the Tuscan specialty, Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu.
Via Carota: 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
John’s of Bleecker Street
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Overview
In a city obsessed with slices, John’s is strictly whole pies only. The no-slice policy is a strict tradition that the owners believe keeps the quality of the pizza high.
This pizzeria has been around since 1929, and it still uses its original coal-fired brick oven. The interior is worn in the best way, even with the wooden booths carved with the names of past diners. The place feels authentic because it is.
Claim to Fame
One of the oldest pizzerias in NYC, John’s is frequently cited as one of the best pizzas in New York.
Standout Dishes
A plain cheese pie. The coal oven gives the crust a perfect char that gas ovens just can’t replicate.
John’s of Bleecker Street: 278 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
P.S. If, you’re looking for a quintessential slice, you can try Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village, Midtown, Chelsea, East Village/Union Square, and the Financial District. It’s the the gold standard for the “New York Street Slice.”
Una Pizza Napoletana
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Overview
I know you’re in New York, but my favorite style of pizza is Napoletana, the original pizza from Naples.
Like in Naples, the focus of Una’s pizza is on the dough. So much so that owner Anthony Mangieri is the one making the dough by hand every day.
And at Una Pizza Napoletana, only 100% Italian flours are used without any commercial yeast (the dough is naturally leavened).
Without the emphasis on toppings, the menu is tiny, usually offering only a handful of types of pizza and a couple of starters.
Claim to Fame
It has been ranked the #1 pizza in the world by “50 Top Pizza.” It represents the pinnacle of Neapolitan-style pizza making.
Standout Dishes
The Margherita. When the ingredients are this good and the technique this precise, you don’t need toppings to hide anything.
Una Pizza Napoletana: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Red Rooster
Neighborhood: Harlem
Overview
I fell in love with Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s story when I read his memoir Yes, Chef (which I highly recommend). Now, years later, he has created an empire and won 8 James Beard awards. Red Rooster in Harlem started it all.
Red Rooster is a cultural celebration. It honors the roots of American cuisine and the diverse history of the neighborhood. The atmosphere is vibrant and colorful.
Downstairs hides Ginny’s Supper Club, a live music venue inspired by the speakeasies of the early 1900’s. Gospel brunch on Sundays is a great way to start the day.
Claim to Fame
Red Rooster revitalized the Harlem dining scene and put a global spin on comfort food.
Standout Dishes
The Fried Yardbird. It’s dark meat chicken, dredged in a special spice blend, served with garlic mash and collard greens.
Red Rooster: 310 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027
New York City Restaurant Tips
1. The best advice I can give you for eating in New York is to plan well ahead and make reservations when you can.
2. New York has no shortage of Michelin-starred restaurants. I have had the privilege of dining at some of them, but personally, I cannot justify their expense anymore. I prefer the Michelin Guide recommendations for Bib Gourmand restaurants (eateries with great food considered a good value), some of which are on this list.
3. New York City has some of the best places to eat in America, but there are tons of tourist traps too. Obviously, you don’t have to stick to this list, but get a reliable recommendation of some kind before wasting a great opportunity for a memorable meal.
4. That being said, take a chance on something unique rather than choosing a chain (this includes Shake Shack). New restaurants open every month, and every neighborhood has a mom-and-pop hidden gem. Even the fancy department stores on Fifth Avenue have good eateries with dining experiences you can’t get at home.
5. Generally speaking, many of the biggest tourist spots like Rockefeller Center and Times Square have restaurants that cater to tourists. So, if you want something less touristy, venture away from those areas.
