Updated: (January 2025)
My 30 favorite restaurants in NYC. Still sticking to Brooklyn and Manhattan as these are the two boroughs tourists and I mostly frequent. I live too far from the interesting parts of Queens, and the Bronx. Only rule as usual is $10-100 per person. Meaning nothing that should cost over $100 or under $10 per person. That covers roughly 99% of sit downs in NYC. An affordable list for the people, by the people (Ok, by one person, but you get the idea). Congrats to the winners!
Manhattan
Pure Thai Cookhouse
LumLum may be giving it a run for its money as the top Thai in “Little Bangkok” 9th ave, but I still think Pure Thai is the best one. Its tiny. If you blink you may miss it. I used to go here when they were called Pure Thai Shophouse until two lawyers from Chipotle showed up demanding a name change (long story with a happy ending). There is no curry of every color on this menu like its competitors, but a nice selection of regional specialties like the Ratchaburi with pork, crab and dry handmade noodles made in the “shophouse” like corner inside. The ribs are usually a hit. Papaya salad, jungle curry fried rice, and the always reliable fiery pork with curry paste. And as with any place, if there’s one dessert on the menu, get it. Coconut sticky rice with pumpkin custard is the bomb (and better than LumLum’s version). 766 9th Avenue (51st)
Tia Pol
West Chelsea is known for some of the city’s best Spanish Tapas for some reason, and Tia Pol, one of the originals, is leading the pack. You can probably play Six Degrees of Tia Pol with the number of related Tapas spots in the area and all over town. This is the perfect spot to bring your mother in law as its dark and noisy. Especially if you MIL is into squid ink rice, best I’ve had in this city. Octopus salad, Patatas Bravas, shrimp with garlic are all dependable, and so are the Bocadillos (sandwiches) for lunch. This is as fun as it can get in Little Barcelona (it will catch on) The excellent Salinas is another good one in the area. 205 10th Ave (23rd)
Rezdora
This list is heavy on the Italian for a reason, but if I have to pick just one, it would probably be Rezdora. Its the closest we have to Emilia Romagna cooking, arguably the tastiest of the 20 regions (though Piedmont may want a word). More specifically much of the inspiration comes from Modena, perhaps the most underrated Italian gem as far as food goes. It didnt take long for Rezdora to earn a Michelin Star, so its a bit more popular than when I first recommended it. No point for me to recommend specific dishes here as you cant really go wrong, especially with the pastas. 27 E 20th St (Broadway
Milu
A good and refreshing example of what happens when students of fine dining open a fast-casual place instead of another pricy joint. Essentially an Eleven Madison Park and Shake Sack love child created by ex EMP chefs. The draw is cleverly crafted Asian bowls that includes quality rice, greens and a protein. I sort of settled on the Szechuan style chicken, but everything else I tried except for the duck last time was solid. As far the cheap eats go it doenst get much better than this. 333 Park Ave S (25th)
Anton’s
Another very solid Italian(ish) in a very competitive Italian heavy West Village. When places a such start opening for lunch you know they are doing something right. After being in charge of the kitchens at Maialino and Marta, Nick Anderer finally left Union Square Hospitality Group to open his own place. That means an ingredient driven menu with some focus on nostalgia, like the Bucatini Baczynsky with ham from the ageless Baczynsky meat shop in East Village. Even the simpler dishes like Spinach-ricotta Ravioli are not to be missed due to the high degree of execution and attention to detail. 570 Hudson (W 11th)
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Opening a Neapolitan style pizzeria in the heart of Manhattan these days requires some major Bombolone. We got plenty of great ones there, while not enough in the outer boroughs. But da Michele might very well be the most well rounded Italian of the bunch. Not only you got a fantastic thin, plus size Neapolitan, you got a large comfortable setting, and a full menu that includes proper Arancini, crafty pastas, and even a killer Caesar salad. 2 Bank St (Greenwich)
Song’ e Napule
While da Michele is a family favorite Pizzeria with fantastic pizza, Song’ e Napule might just be the best pizza in the purest form. Always light, bright and fantastic raw material. Although I’ve been singing its praises for years now (ever since a Gelato owner from Milan told me about it), shame on me for only including it on the guide now (2024). The main issue I had before was that the place was too tiny. But not only they opened new locations in UWS and NJ, they expended the original post. The name has nothing to do with songs (“I’m from Naples” in Neapolitan dialect). The only singing you’ll hear is by baby angels while munching on the Diavola. 146 W Houston St (MacDougal)
Jeju Noodle Bar
I hope you listened to me before the Michelin star, higher prices and crowds, although its been fairly popular ever since it opened in 2017 pretty much. They also now require ressies which makes them a bit less accessible. I’m risking having too much Korean or Korean inspired on the list (update: I removed some so no longer true). This may be a reflection on my taste or the current state of NYC dining, but at the same time, they all so very different. Jeju is stylish, playful, while dishing out flavor packed stuff. While the kitchen specializes in Ramyun, the Korean Ramen, its best to order it as part of the Tasting Menu, one of the better values in town (assuming they still offer it). 679 Greenwich St (Christopher)
Balaboosta
The “perfect housewife” is also the perfect marriage between Einat Admony’s flagship and sexier little sister Bar Bolonat. Its like the “Best of” one of America’s most celebrated Israeli chefs. Her range will make you question whether you are eating Middle Eastern, Italian, or Chinese (Yemenite Soup Dumplings, anyone?). Try the Hummus, eggplant, Kebabs, and Short Rib. 611 Hudson St ( 12th/Jane)
Leitao
Probably my favorite discovery in 2024 (so far). This is the most ambitious Portuguese menu I’ve ever seen in NYC. Owner from Braga doing all sorts of wizardry. Even some of the drinks like Porto Tonic are Portuguese inspired. The signature Peri Peri Chicken will dazzle alright. But I wouldnt skip the butterflied seabass, the sensational falling off the bones Porco Preto, and any of the Octopus dishes (The salad especially). Oh and did I mention they also have a Francesinha. If you never had a Francesinha in Porto yet you havent lived life to the fullest. This is the closest you’ll get in NYC. 547 Hudson St (Perry)
Via Carota
This has quickly become a West Village institution and one of the most well rounded Italian in the entire city. No reservations makes a place like this much more accessible. The most I waited for a table is about 20 minutes. The same menu for lunch and dinner is greatly appreciated (and somewhat rare for places like this), and the many daily specials make it even more interesting. Although many of staples like the Cacio e pepe, chicken, and the sick Funghi with smoked Scamorza makes ordering specials here virtually impossible. 51 Grove st (Bleecker)
Foxface Natural
I cant think of another story like Foxface Natural. From a little sandwich shop, the size of a hers and hers closet, to a dare I say inventive Michelin caliber stuff. All the stars essentially aligned when David Santos of EWZ old fave Louro joined the team. I cant even tell you what to try as it probably wont be on the menu when you go. But if you followed Foxface and Louro closely you’d learn to expect the unexpected, except top notch ingredients and highly skilled execution. 189 Avenue A (12th st).
Hearth
An EV staple that’s consistent while constantly evolving. Marco Canora seems to have found the right formula, creating a menu that is essentially for everyone… Meat freaks, health conscious, pescatarians, vegetarians, vegans, accountants, everyone. Some of the old classics like the Rigatoni and Gnocchi, and the impressive Spatchcock chicken are joined by new classics like Cecina and Rabbit. And that wine bible is still perhaps the NYC wine list to beat. Canora is also the founder of Brodo, the attached bone broth kiosk which is the absolute best way to pass the day before Colonoscopy. 403 E 12th St (1st ave)
Claude
A Z-list no brainer. I just follow Josh Pinsky wherever he goes since the Momofuku Nishi days. He called the cops on me a few times, but after a while he got used to it. Claud feels like a Momofuku support club for fans and staff, and like Momofuku, its hard to categorize the place. From the Foie Gras to simply cooked shrimp, to the expertly cooked Halibut, your taste buds will thank you. 90 E 10th St (3rd/4th)
Fiaschetteria “Pistoia”
While so many Italian establishments bill themselves as “Tuscan”, “Roman”, “Venetian”, and eventually get sucked into a multitude of regional offerings, Pistoia only knows how to do one thing; Pistoian food! The family owns a restaurant in Pistoia, near Florence, Tuscany, and for the most part replicating some of the same Tuscan specialties in Alphabet City. Good luck finding Pici and Pappa Con Pomodoro (A Tuscan classic of stale bread in tomato soup) on the same menu anywhere else in NYC. From the staff, to the menu, and wine, its as authentic as it gets in NYC. Now also in West Village 647 E 11th St (Ave C)
Pig and Khao
Probably a top 5 for me. “Top Chef” Leah Cohen quietly continues to dazzle with brilliant Southeast Asian creations, adding dishes seemingly by the day. Classics like the Sizzling Sisig (third generation Sisig with pork head and egg), and Khao Soi are there to stay. But on a recent visit, its the newer stuff like a spicy Thai mushroom salad, Malaysian fried chicken, and corn that left me speechless. 68 Clinton St (Rivington)
Pinch Chinese
Take a break from Armani Exchanging in Soho and relax in this quirky elevated Chinese. Its an offshoot of Din Tai Fung, a popular Taiwanese Dumplings chain. The Dumplings reign supreme alright but dont miss out on the ribs, Dan Dan Noodles, Snow Crab, the sensational whole chicken, and one of the most celebrated Peking Duck’s in the city. Not to mention the great lunch specials (that sweet cauliflower!) A serious looking crew behind the glass (like watching surgeons doing brain surgery) is balanced by humor all over the place. 177 Prince st (Thompson)
Raoul’s
A solid old school French bistro that’s both popular and often forgotten at the same. In some ways similar to Minetta Tavern nearby. Entertaining New Yorkers for over 50 years, and settled into a haute(ish) destination with a great cocktail menu (try the Aviation). Raoul’s burger is widely considered among the best in the city, and their Steak au Poivre might be the undisputed city champ. Its pricy, but large enough to share.
Thai Diner
Uncle Boons 2.0 is now as popular as Uncle Boons 1.0, though much more comfortable and arguably even better. Its hard to pass by without seeing people waiting outside, though if you come off hours (like 4pm) you should be golden. Speaking of golden, try the Disco Fries, Coconut Sundae, egg sandwich, crab fried rice, but honestly you cant go wrong here. The only dish that didnt quite do it for me was the Green Curry with braised beef, but thats just a testament to the rest of the menu. Check out this Thai Diner Survival Guide for more tips. 186 Mott St (Kenmare)
Wayan
Cedric Vongerichten (Jean-Georges’ son) latest in food heaven NoLita is a Tour de Force. Aided by his Indonesian wife Ochi, Wayan dishes out all sorts of complex bold flavors. The menu features Indonesian inspired recipes utilizing French techniques. Try the Satays, Sashimi, Clams, Yellow Chicken, and do not leave without slurping on those sick Lobster Noodles. One of the most exciting new openings of 2019. 20 Spring St
19 Cleveland
My favorite Israeli/Middle Eastern in NYC these days. It’s the perfect bridge between haute and casual. You can still get some killer falafel and hummus (a la sister Nish Nush), but also craftier items like eggplant carpaccio, and fish Shawarma. Even items from other parts of the world, like Spatzl with lobster, fried calamari are solid. Great for brunch and dinner. 19 Cleveland Pl (Kenmare)
Nish Nush
This is another fast-casual quicky, and my favorite Falafel in the city. I used to bike to this place 30 minutes when I worked in Hell’s Kitchen. Thats 30 minutes there, and 40 minutes back after a full tummy. It may not bring you a Ratatouille moment but its probably the closest to a typical Falafeleria (is this a word?) in Tel Aviv. I’m partial to this location rather than the newer one in FiDi. The freshness here including the fluffy pitas is a difference maker. You can also have a very good Sabich, Hummus among many other things. The menu expended over the years making it easier to include Nish Nush on this list. 88 Reade (Church)
Brooklyn
Kashkar Cafe
This is where you get your Uyghur fix! A gem like no other on this list, but you will need to schlep there. Kashkar is located in Brighton Beach, a predominately Russian neighborhood except that its becoming less and less Russian and more Uzbek, Georgian, Kazakh. And its reflected by the dining options all over. Uyghur is an Ethnic group living in Eastern and Central Asia including Uzbekistan where Kashkar’s owners are from, and as far as I know Kashkar is one of the first if not the first Uyghur restaurant in NY if not the US. One of the specialties here is the chewy hand pulled Lagman noodles that you can have as soup or dry with meat and veggie stews (try the dry Geiro Lagman). The Kebabs are also solid 1141 Brighton Beach Ave (Brighton Beach)
Indian Table
It may change any week, but nothing short of a triumphant meal or two can replace Indian Table as my favorite Indian in NYC at the moment. Great food, and unlike so many, a name easy to remember and spell. Two of my favorite words in my vocabulary. The other favorites are Pizza and Brouhaha. IT is Goan at its core, so plenty of Goan and hence Portuguese influences throughout the menu, with the talented Eric McCarthy at the helm. Try the Achari Chicken Tikka, Choris Pao, Punjabi Samosas, and any of the curries, like Chicken Chettinad, Butter Chicken (ask if not on the menu), and the Konkan Railway Mutton. 234 Court St (Cobble Hill)
Werkstatt
Probably our favorite overall restaurant in Brooklyn these days. A few years back I didnt add this eclectic Austrian to the list partly due to the location. But now I realize that its the location that makes it so special. You can pretty much draw a line separating Brooklyn’s gentrified with the not so gentrified half and you’ll find Werkstatt positioned smack in the middle. Pair it with a visit to Historic Prospect South, Prospect Park, or Brooklyn Museum. Some come for the Schnitzel, Goulash, and “Best Pretzel in NYC”, but these days I go for the numerous fish specials like Skate wing. Its a severely underrated neighborhood joint that should be the envy of every neighborhood. 509 Coney Island Ave (Flatbush)
Claro
Although Oaxacan by nature, Claro is the closest you’ll get to the full service Mexico City experience in NYC. Its on the higher end, where you can easily surpass the over $100 pp. But perhaps not high enough for Michelin which stripped it from its star. Perhaps the unassuming casual environment had something to do with it. Black Bass with green mole, topped with smoked Trout roe, Mole Negro, and Arroz con Leche are some of the highlights. Although the menu constantly changes. 284 3rd Ave (Gowanus)
Cotra
Around the corner of the previously mentioned (as of this writing) Claro, is another winner, albeit a lot less known and easier to reserve. Cotra is a newish (2023) Izakaya dishing out all sorts of addictive awesomeness, like the aptly named Addictive Cabbage. But you cant really go wrong with any of the smaller plates like the Mochiko Chicken and Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice. Though it may be tough to pass on the Yakiniku Ribeye Steak. 451 Carroll St (Gowanus)
Hometown BBQ
There was a time when finding good BBQ in the city was as difficult as watching a constipated baby. Those days are officially gone. Those that still say that need to come out of the their shell, and go straight to Red Hook. It took me a while to warm up to Hometown, but now I cant get enough of it. Hometown’s quick and growing fame reached a point of a major destination stop and ‘Franklin-esque’ weekend lines. The spare ribs, and the legendary brisket are unmatched. But what sets Hometown apart is the craftiness and execution of the normally secondary items like the super moist chicken, and the addictive sausage. 454 Van Brunt St (Red Hook)
Chuan Tian Xia
It’s beyond time I add our favorite Chinese in Brooklyn, and our traditional Xmas meal. We have a number of favorites in NYC’s largest Chinatown, but this is the place where we feel most at home. Not a case where every dish we ever tried was a slam dunk, but we settled on our favorites while adding new ones from time to time (I’m looking at you Cumin Lamb). Try the String Beans, Cauliflower, Hot and spicy fish fillet, Kung Pao chicken. 5502 7th Ave (Sunset Park)
Lilia
It took me 4 weeks to train my Google to stop showing me results for Ilili (Gourmet Lebanese) whenever I searched for Lilia. Missy Robbins, Barack Obama’s favorite chef in Chicago (when he was a senator) dishes out freakishly good pastas like the Cacio e Perfect Malfadini and Agnolotti. The vegetables all over the app section featuring the best of Union Square Market. Great simple meat dishes, and all sorts of “Little Fish” and “Big Fish” hugging the menu. She must be a PJ Harvey fan. 567 Union Ave (Williamsburg)
Eating With Ziggy 