Top 10 Restaurants in New York, New York

New York City’s dining scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending diverse culinary traditions with innovative techniques. From cozy neighborhood bistros to upscale dining establishments, the city offers an unparalleled array of options for food enthusiasts. Here’s a curated list of 10 must-visit restaurants that showcase the best of New York’s gastronomic landscape.

1. Crown Shy

Crown Shy, located in the Financial District, offers an excellent introduction to New York’s upscale dining scene. Opened in 2019 by the late great James Kent, this restaurant combines elegance with accessibility. The sweeping space, with its high ceilings and vibrant atmosphere, sets the stage for a memorable meal. Crown Shy’s menu features standout dishes like the beloved Gruyère fritters, which have been delighting diners since the restaurant’s inception. For those looking to extend their evening, the upstairs bar, Overstory, provides stunning views and expertly crafted cocktails. Crown Shy also hosts guest chefs on some Sundays and offers a unique running club with subsequent Monday dinners, adding to its appeal as a dynamic culinary destination.

Yelp Profile: Crown Shy

2. Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

Tatiana, located in the Upper West Side, is the brainchild of Bronx-raised chef Kwame Onwuachi. Following his successful ventures in Washington D.C., Top Chef appearance, and James Beard award, Onwuachi has created a dining experience that lives up to its considerable hype. The restaurant’s ethereal space, bathed in natural light during the day and illuminated by cloud-like fixtures at night, provides a cool yet comfortable ambiance. Tatiana’s Afro-Caribbean-influenced menu is a parade of culinary stunners, with the short rib pastrami standing out as a must-try dish that embodies the essence of New York’s diverse culinary heritage.

Yelp Profile: Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

3. Dhamaka

Dhamaka, situated in the Lower East Side, was hailed as New York’s best new restaurant of 2021. The Unapologetic Foods team behind this gem focuses on what they call “the forgotten side of India,” offering dishes rarely seen on local menus. While Dhamaka has recently updated much of its menu, favorites like the gurda kapoora (goat kidney, testicles, red onion, and pao) and champaran meat (mutton, garlic, red chili) continue to captivate diners. The success of Dhamaka has led to the opening of other notable venues, including Rowdy Rooster and Masalawala & Sons, further cementing the team’s reputation for innovative Indian cuisine in New York.

Yelp Profile: Dhamaka

4. Gage & Tollner

Gage & Tollner in Downtown Brooklyn represents a fascinating blend of old and new New York. Revived over a century after its original 1892 opening, this historic institution was brought back to life in 2021 by a trio of Brooklyn hospitality professionals, including chef Sohui Kim. The restaurant’s landmarked interior, with its crimson velvet, gilded accents, and towering mirrors, creates a stunning backdrop for an exceptional dining experience. The menu features a delightful array of steaks, chops, seafood towers, and a standout fried chicken dish. The recent addition of weekend lunch service and the availability of their sensational pastries for pre-order have made this Brooklyn jewel more accessible to eager diners.

Yelp Profile: Gage & Tollner

5. Gramercy Tavern

A true New York City classic, Gramercy Tavern in the Flatiron District has long been a go-to for both special occasions and impromptu visits. The restaurant’s dining room and tavern space each offer a unique atmosphere, with the bar area particularly buzzing with energy. In the main dining room, the $168 five-course tasting menu, featuring delights like Arctic char and roasted duck breast, provides a splendid fine dining experience. For those seeking a more casual option, the tavern section offers à la carte selections with mains priced at $38 or less, making Gramercy Tavern accessible for various dining preferences and occasions.

Yelp Profile: Gramercy Tavern

6. Rezdôra

Rezdôra, located in the Flatiron District, is widely regarded as New York City’s best Italian restaurant. Chef Stefano Secchi, who honed his skills at the renowned Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, brings authentic Italian flavors to the heart of Manhattan. While individual plates are available, the $98 regional pasta tasting is the star attraction, offering an exciting culinary journey through Italy’s diverse pasta traditions. Despite its popularity, Rezdôra remains accessible for weekday lunch, providing an opportunity to experience its exceptional cuisine without the challenge of securing a prime-time dinner reservation.

Yelp Profile: Rezdôra

7. Kochi

Kochi, situated in Hell’s Kitchen, offers a unique Korean-inspired dining experience. Chef Sungchul Shim, a Per Se alum, presents a $145 nine-course tasting menu focused on skewers inspired by Korean royal court cuisine. The restaurant, which opened in 2019 and quickly earned a Michelin star, allows diners to sample a wide array of dishes in a single sitting. From charcoal-grilled Spanish mackerel to braised short rib, each course showcases Shim’s culinary expertise. For those interested in enhancing their experience, a sool pairing is available for an additional $105.

Yelp Profile: Kochi

8. Semma

Semma, located in the West Village, is another triumph from the Unapologetic Foods team. This restaurant brings the rural cuisine of Southern India to New York City, earning the distinction of being the only Michelin-starred Indian restaurant in the country. Chef Vijay Kumar’s menu takes diners on a journey through his upbringing in Tamil Nadu, featuring dishes rarely seen in the United States. While the gunpowder dosas are a must-try, adventurous diners should not miss the Nathai Piratta, a tamarind-laced snail dish, or the Attu Kari Sukka, a fragrant and tender lamb preparation.

Yelp Profile: Semma

9. Sushi Nakazawa

Sushi Nakazawa in the West Village offers an exceptional omakase experience from chef Daisuke Nakazawa, known for his appearance in “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” While New York is home to many high-end omakase restaurants, Sushi Nakazawa stands out for its slightly more accessible pricing without compromising on quality. The $180 counter experience includes about 20 exquisite courses featuring delicacies like fatty tuna, sea urchin, and yellowtail. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the dining room offers a $150 option, with sake pairings available for an additional $90.

Yelp Profile: Sushi Nakazawa

10. Untable

Untable, a recent addition to Carroll Gardens, has quickly established itself as New York City’s best new restaurant of 2023. This self-described “unconventional” Thai restaurant offers an exciting dining experience that combines innovative cocktails with outstanding cuisine. Standout dishes include crab croquettes with tom yum purée, tiger shrimp, and the aptly named “what the hell” fried rice, known for its fiery heat. The restaurant’s no-reservations policy adds to its charm, creating a sense of spontaneity and excitement for diners willing to wait for a table at this exceptional new establishment.

Yelp Profile: Untable