What and where to eat in New York City

Peter Luger, a New York institution, has served top-quality steaks since 1887. Don’t miss their legendary dry-aged beef in this historic, wood-paneled setting. The signature dish is the porterhouse, a massive cut of meat cooked to perfection and served sizzling hot on a platter.

Address: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211

A South Brooklyn staple that now has three locations in total, Di Fara Pizza is a must-visit for pizza aficionados. The late owner Domenico DeMarco made every pizza by hand and used only the freshest ingredients, including imported Italian tomatoes and homemade mozzarella cheese.

Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230

A true NYC institution, Russ & Daughters has served delectable smoked fish, bagels, and caviar since 1914. The store’s old-school charm and friendly service have earned it a loyal following, and it remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

Address: 179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

A New York City staple since 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen is the ultimate destination for deli lovers. The deli’s secret is the slow-cooked, hand-carved meat piled high on freshly baked rye bread and topped with tangy mustard—try the pastrami.

Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

Eleven Madison Park is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative cuisine and impeccable service—and it’s all vegan. Chef Daniel Humm’s menu changes regularly to showcase seasonal ingredients and new techniques, and the dishes are presented with artful precision.

Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010

Experience the finest seafood dishes with elevated French technique at this Midtown favorite.

Chef Eric Ripert’s dishes showcase the freshest fish and shellfish, prepared with techniques highlighting their natural flavors and textures. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make it a top destination for special occasions and foodies.

Address: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019

Gramercy Tavern is a highly acclaimed American restaurant located in the Flatiron District. The elegant and spacious dining room features a rustic and cozy ambiance, with exposed brick walls and warm lighting, that perfectly complements the restaurant’s seasonal and locally-sourced menu.

Address: 42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003

This Italian-American hotspot in Greenwich Village pays homage to the classic New York dining scene of the mid-20th century. The menu features old-school favorites like chicken scarpariello and veal parmesan, served in a retro-chic setting that evokes the glamour and romance of a bygone era.

Address: 181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012

Tucked away in SoHo, Estela offers a creative and eclectic menu that has garnered critical acclaim—and a Michelin star. Chef Ignacio Mattos’ innovative small plates and shareable dishes showcase a range of flavors and textures that surprise and delight the palate.

Address: 47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012

Discover contemporary Italian cuisine in a chic industrial space in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Lilia’s menu, crafted by Chef Missy Robbins, features handmade pasta, wood-fired seafood, and luscious desserts. The sheep’s milk cheese-filled agnolotti is the star of the show here, and for a good reason.

Address: 567 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

abcV is Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s vegetable-forward eatery, offering a vibrant and diverse menu showcasing seasonal produce’s flavors and colors. The restaurant’s eco-conscious design and relaxed ambiance make it the perfect spot for a plant-based meal that is both delicious and sustainable.

Address: 38 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003

This East Village gem has become a cult favorite for its flavorful vegetarian burgers, sandwiches, and sides. Chef Brooks Headley’s small but mighty menu features creative takes on classic American dishes, including a Sloppy Joe and a burnt broccoli salad.

Address: 119 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

Avant Garden is a cozy East Village spot that offers a creative and sophisticated plant-based menu. Dishes focus on the natural flavors of vegetables, using techniques like fermentation and wood-fire grilling to enhance their taste. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Address: 130 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009

Scott’s Pizza Tours is a unique and highly acclaimed food tour company that specializes in exploring the best pizza spots in New York City. Founded in 2008 by pizza enthusiast and author Scott Wiener, the company offers a variety of pizza-focused tours throughout the city.

Sushi Yasuda is a high-end sushi restaurant in Midtown that is revered for its exceptional quality and authenticity. The sushi is prepared in the traditional Edomae style, using only the freshest and highest-quality fish. The restaurant’s minimalist decor and quiet atmosphere create a serene and contemplative dining experience.

Address: 204 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017

This exciting Indian restaurant in the Lower East Side’s Essex Market features bold and flavorful dishes inspired by India’s street food, focusing on regional specialties and unique flavor combinations. The vibrant, colorful decor and lively atmosphere make it a fun and memorable dining experience.

Address: 119 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

Atla is a stylish and modern Mexican restaurant in NoHo that offers a light, fresh take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Chef Enrique Olvera’s menu features dishes made with high-quality and locally-sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and house-made tortillas.

Address: ​​372 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012

SriPraPhai is a family-owned Thai restaurant in Queens, serving delicious and affordable food for over 20 years. The menu features various dishes, from classic Pad Thai and curries to more exotic specialties like crispy watercress salad and spicy frog legs.

Address: 64-13 39th Ave, Woodside, NY 11377

Xi’an Famous Foods is a beloved local chain of fast-casual restaurants that specializes in the spicy and aromatic flavors of the Xi’an region in China. The menu features a variety of dishes, including hand-pulled noodles, lamb burgers, and spicy cumin lamb noodles, made with fresh ingredients and bold spices, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile.

Address: 45 Bayard St, New York, NY 10013

Mamoun’s Falafel has been a Greenwich Village staple for over 40 years, serving delicious and affordable Middle Eastern street food. The menu features falafel, shawarma, kebabs, and more, all made with fresh ingredients and served in generous portions. Don’t miss their signature falafel sandwich, which has earned them a loyal following.

Address: 119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Los Tacos No. 1 is a small but popular taqueria with a few locations around the city. The menu features a variety of tacos, including carne asada, adobada, and nopal, all made with freshly grilled meat and topped with flavorful salsas and toppings.

Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

New York-style pizza is a beloved culinary icon of the city, characterized by its thin and crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. The simplicity and quality of the ingredients have earned it a loyal following worldwide.

The quintessential New York breakfast features a chewy bagel topped with cream cheese, velvety smoked salmon, capers, and red onion. Sample this delight at Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel.

This rice-based dish, or kabsa as it is also known (meaning ‘pressed’ in Arabic), originated in Saudi Arabia but has been adopted by many countries within the Middle East. Combining basmati rice with meat – lamb, chicken or seafood – soaked in delicious spices. Al Harees is a dish of celebration, street food and a home-cooked comfort dish.

The city has countless hot dog stands and carts, serving grilled or boiled dogs on a bun with various toppings, including sauerkraut, onions, mustard, and ketchup. The hot dog has become synonymous with NYC street food—a must-try for visitors looking to experience the city’s culinary culture.