10 of the best restaurants in New York

Sarah Merle

Sarah is one of the creative minds behind the Le Petit Chef blog. With her authentic and approachable style, she enjoys sharing all kinds of experience-based activities.

New York, the city that never sleeps, the city that awakens everyone’s heart!

Known for its impressive skyline, the culture and entertainment on Broadway, the world-famous sights like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, or of course New York’s food: hot dogs, bagels, and New York-style pizza.

One thing is clear: New York is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and with our blog, we want to bring this diversity closer to you. Eat like a local or eat like a star – in this blog article, we reveal the 10 best places to eat in New York.

Tip #1: Central Park Boathouse

Looking for the perfect place to stop during your walk through Central Park? Then our first tip is just right for you.

At the Central Park Boathouse, every guest is a star – whether a seat on the idyllic outdoor terrace or in the cozy indoor area, everyone has an unbeatable view. A breakfast, a warming coffee, or a romantic dinner by lights – the Boathouse makes it all possible.

Of course, it offers a boat rental to experience even more of the magical Central Park. Thus, it is rightly our first best restaurant in NYC.

5 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Le Petit Chef

Continue reading to find out how Le Petit Chef will turn your next evening into an extraordinary experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tip #2: One World Observatory

Have you always dreamed of dining in one of the tallest buildings in the world? Welcome to New York – at the World Trade Center, on the 101st floor, this is made possible for you.

Everything here is under the motto “Eating on top of the world.” The American restaurant offers seasonal dishes and is inspired by Caribbean culture. The bar also leaves nothing to be desired – a selection of handcrafted cocktails for every taste invites you to enjoy the expansive view and linger.

It is no coincidence that this is one of the coolest restaurants in New York – it is an unforgettable experience!

Tip #3: Balthazar

Anyone who gets a table at Balthazar can expect that a superstar like Leonardo DiCaprio or Anna Wintour might be sitting across from them.

Here, not only is a piece of Paris brought to New York, with French flair and French specialties like steak frites or fresh seafood, but the guest also becomes part of a true New York moment.

Keith McNally, the founder of Balthazar, has managed to turn a popular restaurant into a social meeting point. Since 1997, he has been attracting countless tourists and celebrities. The New York Magazine wrote: „Balthazar is Keith McNally’s masterpiece, an evocation of a Paris brasserie that outglows anything within brie-tossing distance of the Seine.“

Tip #4: Una Pizza Napoletana

You haven’t really been to New York until you’ve tasted a slice of the best pizza! Una Pizza Napoletana is by far the best and most popular pizza – it was crowned number 1 out of 50, and U.S. media as well as the Michelin Guide have recognized Una Pizza.

In the restaurant, you witness true masterclass: chef Anthony Mangieri prepares the dough fresh every morning, and every pizza is made entirely by hand. The fact that they have only one location shows how much they focus on attention to detail and flavor.

Small appetizers, homemade ice cream, and a fine selection of Italian wines and beers make this American-Italian pizza restaurant truly unique.

Tip #5: Eleven Madison Park

If you’re looking for fine dining, you should stop at Eleven Madison Park. In the heart of New York, overlooking Madison Square Park, star chef Daniel Humm creates various menus. The special thing: the motto “from the ground to the plate.”

In his restaurant, everything is plant-based, combining art with hospitality. To such an extent that he earned three Michelin stars and was named “Best Restaurant in the World” in 2017.

Eleven Madison Park is definitely one of the best places to eat in New York. It’s a combination of dinner and show – because it is a performance for all the senses.

5 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Le Petit Chef

Continue reading to find out how Le Petit Chef will turn your next evening into an extraordinary experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tip #6: Sylvia’s

A true family-run business that values a warm, homey, and hospitable atmosphere. In 1962, Sylvia Woods opened the restaurant, and since then, it has carried her name.

She is the “Queen of Soul Food” – here, burgers, salads, fried chicken, and mac and cheese are prepared and served with love, truly food for the soul.

The bonus the restaurant offers includes the Gospel Brunch on Sundays, live music on Wednesdays, and daily home-cooked meals. This makes the restaurant a real crowd-puller. It is so popular that even Obama and Mandela have visited.

Tip #7: Ess-a-bagel

Huge bagels, huge line, huge flavor! That’s exactly how Ess-a-Bagel can be described. A NYC classic, even a NYC tradition: over 15 different types of bagels and a wide variety of toppings.

The most popular in NYC is the pumpernickel bagel with chive cream cheese. The perfect crispy crust is complemented by a fluffy inside, making everyone want to take a quick, authentic bagel break.

Tip #8: Los Tacos No 1

You’re visiting Times Square and looking for the perfect food spot? Then Los Tacos is the must-try spot! It is a must for authentic, quick, and still high-quality Mexican cuisine in New York.

When the three founders, three friends, decided to bring the taste of Mexico to the East Coast, they surely didn’t know they would become so popular.

Handmade tacos, quesadillas, or other small extras like guacamole with chips make your long search for a good restaurant easier. The concept is fast and direct – order and get. A flavorful journey to Mexico is promised!

Tip #9: Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

Experience New York’s nightlife in a hidden club – with classic American food and good jazz music. That’s exactly what the Smoke Jazz Club on Broadway offers!

It is one of the best jazz clubs in the world and opens its doors three times a day – three shows enchant the guests. A dining room with candlelight, red velvet, antique chandeliers, and excellent acoustics.

Changing artists promise entertainment, perfection, and excitement. Special guests are also promised – it’s best to check in advance who will be winning musical hearts. Simply ideal for anyone who loves jazz or is looking for a special evening plan.

Tip #10: Torrisi

Italian cuisine appeals to everyone, right? But Torrisi serves an à la carte menu that incorporates American flavors and creates a unique approach to Italian cuisine.

For its spectacular ingredients and creativity, Torrisi receives a Michelin star and is ranked among the 10 best restaurants in the USA. That’s why it also makes it into our Top 10!

The open kitchen and the magnificent design of the Puck Building offer an upscale atmosphere and a show factor. Popular often means fully booked – so our tip is to plan and reserve your visit early enough. However: A must-try in New York!

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!