12 can’t-miss New York restaurants
New York is such a big town it would be impossible to get to every restaurant on a single trip or maybe even a lifetime. Finding your new favorite lunch spot off the beaten path or the best noodle shop in town is always a rush, especially when you can recommend your favorites and be the hero to other travelers. Explore some of these unique restaurants we’ve personally tested and maybe you’ll find your new favorite place for a bite.
Midtown
Eataly NYC Flatiron
Enjoy a meal at one of Eataly’s many Italian eateries, then stop by the market side to shop for fresh Italian ingredients and delicacies to cook a fantastic meal at home.
miss Korea BBQ
Explore traditional Korean dishes or even cook your food at the table, a unique experience to try with friends and family.
Beer Culture
The selection of beer is fantastic and the food is somehow even better. The burger and pretzels won’t disappoint.
Minamoto Kitchen
Get your sweet tooth on at Minamoto Kitchen, where you’ll find traditional Japanese snacks to munch on. If you like anything green tea flavored, this is the sweet shop for you.
Chinatown & Lower East Side
Grotta Azzurra
In a sea of restaurants in Little Italy, Grotta Azzurra offers some of the best food in a warm, cozy setting that instantly takes you away to Italy. It’s always a good time for an espresso.
Scarr’s Pizza
Cheap comfort food is best found in a hole-in-the-wall restaurant like Scarr’s Pizza. Squeeze your way in and grab big, greasy slices topped with fresh ingredients.
Pho Vietnam
You can fill up for under $8 with a big bowl from Pho Vietnam, perfect for cold nights or spicy cravings.
Black Cat LES
Charming, cozy coffee shop by day, popular comedy and open mic spot by night. Stop by for coffee and a show at Black Cat any time.
Two-Bit’s Retro Arcade
Light on food but not on food, this barcade has a great selection of beers and classic arcade cabinets from pinball to shooters.
Essex Street Market
The bad news is Osaka Grub has closed, our top pick for Japanese comfort food. The good news is Essex Street Market still has plenty of restaurants to choose from, including Mediterranean, French, and Italian food.
Brooklyn & Williamsburg
Pies ‘n Thighs
Fun fact: this popular breakfast spot often has a line before it first opens. It’s that good. Don’t let its divey looks scare you off or you’ll miss the best chicken biscuit you’ve ever had and donuts the size of your head.
Barcade
The best arcade in New York is hidden away near Williamsburg. Retro gamers can enjoy an incredible selection of classic arcade machines will they sip local and imported suds.
Know a hidden gem we missed? Send us your tip in a comment and we’ll add it to our rounds to investigate.
