Top 10 Best New York Restaurants

The top 10 best New York restaurants according to TripAdvisor, Yelp, and OpenTable are Peter Luger, Carmine’s, Anchor Bar, Texas de Brazil, Melting Pot, Mission BBQ, Benjamin Steakhouse, Mulberry Italian Ristorante, Piccola Cucina Estiatorio, and Francesca's Cucina. The state of New York offers iconic dishes such as pizza, bagels, pastrami, cheesecake, and buffalo wings. Lombardi’s, the first pizzeria in the United States, opened in Manhattan’s Little Italy in 1905. The original buffalo wings were invented in Buffalo, NY in 1964. Beyond these classics, New York City boasts a remarkable array of 94 different national cuisines, earning the title of the #1 city in the world for food diversity.
The state’s reputation as a food haven is deeply tied to its role as a melting pot of cultures. Neighborhoods like Chinatown, Harlem, and Little Italy are some of the best places to eat in New York, as they exemplify the rich diversity that the state is known for, offering authentic dishes that reflect many cultural roots.
New York is a state in the Northeastern United States, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, New England, Canada, and the Great Lakes. This proximity to diverse resources and regional influences enrich the state’s food scene. The state’s vibrant and multi-cultural scene is shaped by ethnic neighborhoods and historical influences, making it a top-tier destination for food enthusiasts. New York is a global culinary powerhouse and the best restaurants in New York offer cuisines from all over the world.
The top New York restaurants are listed below:

- 118 Item Prices
- $31.85 Average Item Price
Description:
Carmine's is an iconic Italian family-style restaurant chain that serves traditional comfort food in generous portions.
Type of Restaurant:
Italian family-style restaurant
Type of Food:
Italian cuisine
Signature Dish:
Penne alla Vodka, Eggplant Parmigiana, Chicken Parmigiana, Meatballs, Bread Pudding
Location:
Times Square NYC, Upper West Side NYC
Special Feature:
Vibrant atmosphere, large portions and communal tables
What Makes It Special:
Carmine's combines timeless Italian recipes with a welcoming yet elegant setting, making it one of the best Italian restaurants in New York.
How It Stands Apart:
Generous portions, vibrant setting
Operating Hours:
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Price:
Starts at $30 per person

- 97 Item Prices
- $30.81 Average Item Price
Description:
Benjamin Steakhouse is an upscale restaurant specializing in USDA dry-aged prime beef, seafood dishes, and an extensive wine list.
Type of Restaurant:
Steakhouse
Type of Food:
USDA dry aged prime beef steaks
Signature Dish:
Ribeye Steak, Tomahawk Steak, Filet Mignon, and Rack of Lamb, Benjamin Salad
Location:
52 E 41st Street, New York, NY 10017
Special Feature:
Extensive wine list, in-house dry aging process
What Makes It Special:
Excellent service, beautiful ambiance and premium steaks
How It Stands Apart:
Top-notch steaks, excellent service and inviting atmosphere
Operating Hours:
Monday through Saturday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Price:
Starts at $50 per person

- 44 Item Prices
- $15.35 Average Item Price
Description:
Mulberry Italian Ristorante is a beloved neighborhood eatery in Buffalo known for house-made pasta and Italian specialties.
Type of Restaurant:
Italian fine dining
Type of Food:
Italian cuisine
Signature Dish:
Meatball Lasagna, Mulberry Meatball, Cannoli,
Location:
64 Jackson Ave, Lackawanna, NY 14218
Special Feature:
High-quality Italian cuisine, combined with a warm atmosphere with walls adorned in photos and memorabilia
What Makes It Special:
Outstanding small family-owned old school Italian restaurant.
How It Stands Apart:
Reasonable prices for tasty and filling Italian cuisine and the service is always excellent.
Operating Hours:
Mondays through Saturdays 11:30 AM to 2:30PM, and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Price:
$25 to $35 per person

- 96 Item Prices
- $10.08 Average Item Price
Description:
Anchor Bar is the home of the original Buffalo Wings, serving classic American fare with its world-famous wings. Created in 1964 by Teressa Bellissimo, the wings feature a secret sauce that has gained global acclaim and accompanied by celery and bleu cheese, making Anchor Bar a favorite among locals and tourists.
Type of Restaurant:
Restaurant and Bar
Type of Food:
Italian American
Signature Dish:
World Famous Wings, Sampler Platter, Buffalo Chicken Salad, Spaghetti & Meatballs
Location:
Buffalo, Buffalo Airport, Darienlake, Williamsville, Amherst NY
Special Feature:
Home of the original Buffalo Wings
What Makes It Special:
Anchor Bar is where the beloved Buffalo Wings was first invented.
How It Stands Apart:
The wings feature a secret sauce that has gained global acclaim and accompanied by celery and bleu cheese
Operating Hours:
Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday until 10:00 PM, and Sunday until 9:00 PM.
Price:
Starts at $20 per person

- 60 Item Prices
- $24.57 Average Item Price
Description: Peter Luger has been rated the top steakhouse in New York and is synonymous with excellence in USDA Prime beef.
Type of Restaurant:
Steakhouse
Type of Food:
USDA Prime Beef
Signature Dish:
Porterhouse Steak, Luger Burger, Creamed Spinach
Location:
Brooklyn and Great Neck, NY
Special Feature:
Peter Luger restaurant features a no-frills German beer hall setting.
What Makes It Special:
On-site dry-aging, owners curate the meat daily at the market
How It Stands Apart:
Peter Luger's waiters cut the premium quality steaks at the guest's table.
Operating Hours:
11:45 AM to 9:15 PM in Brooklyn, NY
11:45 AM to 9:45 PM in Great Neck, NY
Price:
Prices start at $80 per person.

- 38 Item Prices
- $7.49 Average Item Price
Description: Mission BBQ is a fast-casual barbecue restaurant specializing in American smoked meats like North Carolina pulled pork, Texas-inspired brisket, and baby-back ribs.
Type of Restaurant:
BBQ Restaurant
Type of Food:
BBQ
Signature Dish:
North Carolina Pulled Pork, Texas-inspired Brisket, and Baby-Back Ribs with Maggie's Mac-N-Cheese
Location:
Albany and Henrietta NY
Special Feature:
On-site smoking process for up to 16 hours daily
What Makes It Special:
Authentic barbecue experience
How It Stands Apart:
Offers three regional barbecue styles and homemade sauces, Mission BBQ pays homage to classic traditions
Operating Hours:
Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
Price:
Starts at $10 per person


- 66 Item Prices
- $9.81 Average Item Price
Description:
Texas de Brazil combines the traditions of Brazilian churrasco with Texas hospitality. This Brazilian steakhouse features a variety of cuts, including Picanha, Brazilian Sausage, Lamb Chops, and Filet Mignon.
Type of Restaurant:
Brazilian Steakhouse
Type of Food:
Churrasco
Signature Dish:
Picanha, Brazilian Sausage, Lamb Chops, and Filet Mignon
Location:
Yonkers, Rochester, Albany, Buffalo, Lake Grove, Syracuse
Special Feature:
Guests enjoy unlimited servings of freshly grilled meats carved tableside.
What Makes It Special:
The fusion of Brazilian cuisine and Texan generosity creates a unique dining experience at Texas de Brazil.
How It Stands Apart:
Guests enjoy unlimited servings of freshly grilled premium meats.
Operating Hours:
Opens 5:00 PM on weekdays and 3:00 PM on weekends.
Price:
Stars at $53 per person

- 85 Item Prices
- $19.46 Average Item Price
Description:
Piccola Cucina Estiatorio offers an authentic Sicilian dining experience inspired by the Etna Fish Market in Catania, Sicily. The menu focuses on Sicilian cuisine, including fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and vibrant salads.
Type of Restaurant:
Mediterranean
Type of Food:
Sicilian and Greek cuisine
Signature Dish:
Insalata Piccola Cucina, Bucatini cacio e pepe, Burrata, Tagliatelle Verdi
Location:
75 Thompson Street, New York, NY, near Soho
Special Feature:
Wine cellar, fresh fish selections
What Makes It Special:
Wine cellar, fresh fish selections
How It Stands Apart:
The restaurant’s signature dishes include fresh fish selections chosen directly by guests and an extensive wine list complemented by a wine cellar.
Operating Hours:
Daily 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Price:
Price per person is $30

- 55 Item Prices
- $21.28 Average Item Price
Description:
Francesca's Cucina is a Syracuse dining institution for over a decade, specializing in classic Italian dishes and homemade desserts.
Type of Restaurant:
Italian
Type of Food:
Italian
Signature Dish:
Eggplant Rollatini, Cheese Ravioli, Mussels Francesca, and Homemade Gnocchi
Location:
541-45 North Salina Street, Syracuse, NY
Special Feature:
The restaurant is known for its warm ambiance and dedication to traditional recipes
What Makes It Special:
Authentic Italian dishes made from traditional age-old recipes.
How It Stands Apart:
Francesca's is a staple in the local dining scene in Syracuse.
Operating Hours:
Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 9:00 PM and Friday through Saturday from 4:00 to 10:00 PM.
Price:
Price ranges from $20 to $30 per person

- 31 Item Prices
- $14.85 Average Item Price
Description: The Melting Pot delivers a unique fondue-centric dining experience, where patrons can enjoy artisan cheese, fresh salads, savory entrées, and indulgent desserts.
Type of Restaurant:
Fondue Special Eatery
Type of Food:
Fondue
Signature Dish:
Cheese Fondue, Charcuterie Board, Entree Fondue, Chocolate Fondue
Location:
Farmingdale, Buffalo, and White Plains, NY
Special Feature:
Fondue experience
What Makes It Special:
The Melting Pot is the original fondue restaurant where guests can enjoy several fondue cooking styles.
How It Stands Apart:
Fondue dining in an intimate atmosphere
Operating Hours:
Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Price:
Price range is from $30 to $50 per person
What Food is New York Famous For?
New York is famous for iconic foods such as pizza, pastrami on rye, cheesecake, buffalo wings, bagels, and egg creams. These have become synonymous with the state’s rich culinary heritage and attract food tourists from around the world. Pizza is considered the best food in New York, with Lombardi’s in Manhattan’s Little Italy marking the birthplace of the American pizzeria in 1905.
Immigrant communities have introduced techniques and recipes that define the local food culture, such as pastrami curing, bagel boiling, and pizza making. Buffalo wings, created at Anchor Bar in Buffalo, revolutionized snack culture. New York cheesecake, with its dense texture and rich flavor, became a dessert icon. Egg creams, a soda fountain staple, reflect the state’s nostalgia for classic beverages. Neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem are home to some of the best restaurants in NYC and offer an authentic experience, showcasing traditional recipes passed down through generations.
What is New York’s Official Dish?
New York does not have an official state dish. However, NY officially recognizes the apple muffin as the state muffin and yogurt as the state snack. The apple muffin was adopted by New York in 1987 and became a state symbol through the efforts of students. Apples are central to New York's agricultural identity, with over a billion pounds produced annually. Top varieties include Crispin, Empire, and Honeycrisp. Apple muffins have a moist texture, a sweet-tart flavor from fresh apples, and a golden-brown crust dusted with cinnamon or sugar. Yogurt became the state snack in 2014 and New York is the nation's top producer of Greek yogurt.
What is the Average Cost of a Meal in New York?
The average cost of a meal in New York varies depending on the type of restaurant. At an inexpensive restaurant, a single meal costs around $30. Mid-range establishments offer three-course meals for two people at an average of $130. Luxury dining experiences can cost between $125 and $390 per person, depending on the restaurant and menu. Notable restaurants offering fine dining in NYC examples include Daniel, offering four courses for $188, Jean-Georges with six courses at $268, Le Bernardin at $198 for four courses, and Per Se with a nine-course menu priced at $390 per person.
What are the Most Popular Fast-Food Restaurants in New York?
The most popular fast food restaurants in New York are listed below:
- Shake Shack: Known for premium burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and creamy milkshakes; originated in Madison Square Park.
- Nathan’s Famous: Iconic for hot dogs and crinkle-cut fries; founded in Coney Island in 1916.
- Jollibee: Filipino fast-food chain famous for fried chicken (Chickenjoy), sweet-style spaghetti, and peach mango pie.
- Five Guys: Popular for customizable burgers, hand-cut fries, and complimentary peanuts.
What are the Newest Restaurants in New York?
The newest restaurants in New York, including new restaurants in NYC, are listed below:
- Cocina Consuelo: A Mexican café that evolved from Karina Garcia and Lalo Rodriguez's pandemic supper club, Cocina Consuelo is known for homestyle vibes and standout breakfast items like masa pancakes and tortillas with fried eggs. Located at 130 Hamilton Place, New York, NY 10031.
- Le Veau d’Or: Revamped French bistro from 1937, Le Veau d’Or offers a $125 prix fixe with generous portions. The restaurant is known for red gingham tablecloths and a lively mix of patrons. Located at 129 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022.
- Din Tai Fung: Din Tai Fung is an iconic Taiwanese chain. This is the chain’s very first East Coast location, featuring signature xiao long bao, pork chops with fried rice, dumplings in chili oil, and chocolate xiao long bao. Located at 1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019.
- Kitchen Little: This Buffalo eatery is located in the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church. Kitchen Little specializes in neighborhood kitchen-style lunches and event catering. Located at 875 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222.
- Roseland’s Atlas: Buffalo’s Roseland’s Atlas specializes in international dishes set in the former Providence Social space. Located at 492 Rhode Island St, Buffalo, NY 14213.
- The Bagel Jar: The Bagel Jar is a Hamburg-based bagel shop offering handcrafted bagels with simple, fresh ingredients. Located at 9 E Union St, Hamburg, NY 14075.
- The Roosevelt Room: Known for modern fine dining, The Roosevelt Room features an eclectic menu paired with craft cocktails. Located in Troy, NY.
What is the Most Iconic Restaurant in New York?
The most iconic restaurant in New York is Katz's Delicatessen, NYC's oldest deli. Katz's Delicatessen has been around since 1881. The best-selling item on the menu is the pastrami on rye and Katz's serves 15,000 lb of pastrami weekly. There are many iconic NYC restaurants including Peter Luger, Olio e Più, Monkey Bar, and Gramercy Tavern.
Which Restaurants in New York Serve Vegan Food?
New York offers a diverse selection of restaurants serving vegan food such as Planta Queen, Urban Vegan Kitchen, Willow, The Owl House, and The Red Fern . Planta Queen is known for vegan sushi, often regarded as the best of its kind, and a creative plant-based menu. Urban Vegan Kitchen in New York City offers a wide variety of fresh, flavorful dishes, including the vegan Korean BBQ "wings" and the "Chicken" ranch salad. Willow, located in Chelsea, elevates traditional comfort foods using high-quality plant-based ingredients to create sophisticated vegan bistro dishes. The Owl House in Rochester provides a fine dining experience with a menu catering to vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike. The Red Fern in Rochester, NY is a fully vegan restaurant specializing in allergy-friendly options.
Which Restaurants in New York Serve Gluten-Free Food?
New York offers many dining options for diners looking for gluten-free food including Senza Gluten, Little Beet Table, Hu Kitchen, Las Portas, Saigon Bangkok, The Red Fern, The Owl House, Lento, and Peels on Wheels. In New York City, Senza Gluten specializes in entirely gluten-free Italian cuisine. Little Beet Table focuses on wholesome, gluten-free dishes with a seasonal menu. Hu Kitchen is another NYC favorite, offering health-conscious, gluten-free meals in a casual setting. In Buffalo, Las Portas is known for gluten-free pizzas, while Saigon Bangkok serves delicious gluten-free Asian-inspired options. Rochester features multiple gluten-friendly restaurants, including The Red Fern, a fully vegan eatery with allergy-conscious dishes, The Owl House, offering diverse options for all dietary needs, Lento, focusing on locally sourced ingredients with gluten-free choices, and Peels on Wheels, known for its gluten-free pizza.
Are Restaurants in New York State Healthy?
Restaurants in New York State offer a mix of healthy and indulgent options. Many establishments focus on farm-to-table dining, organic ingredients, and diverse cuisines that prioritize balanced meals. New York City alone has over 100 Michelin-starred restaurants, many of which emphasize high-quality seasonal ingredients. A 2022 study by the New York State Department of Health found increasing trends in vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu offerings across the state. However, calorie-dense fast food chains and indulgent dishes remain prevalent.
Is New York a Good Destination for Food?
Yes, New York is a good destination for food. The state is globally renowned for culinary diversity, from New York-style pizzas and bagels to regional specialties like Buffalo wings and Saratoga chips. Restaurants across the state consistently adapt to evolving consumer preferences, incorporating vegan, farm-to-table, and international cuisines. There are lots of food tours, farmers' markets, and culinary experiences such as chocolate-making workshops. The burgeoning food scene also features craft breweries, artisanal bakeries, and innovative fusion dishes.
What are the Famous Cuisines in New York?
The famous cuisines in New York are listed below:
- Italian Cuisine: New York state is known for pizza, pasta, and Italian-American specialties like chicken parmigiana, New York-style pizza, and more.
- Jewish Cuisine: NY Delis serve staples like bagels with lox, pastrami sandwiches, and matzo ball soup.
- Chinese Cuisine: New York is home to some of the country’s best Chinese food, from dim sum in Chinatown to hand-pulled noodles and Peking duck.
- Caribbean Cuisine: There is a strong Caribbean influence in areas like Brooklyn and the Bronx, where jerk chicken, roti, and Jamaican patties are popular.
- Korean Cuisine: Known for Korean BBQ, bibimbap, and innovative fusion dishes. Korean food hubs include Flushing, Queens, and Manhattan's K-Town.
- Mexican Cuisine: New York offers authentic street tacos, tamales, and modern interpretations of traditional dishes in upscale settings.
- Japanese Cuisine: Many places in New York feature sushi, ramen, and izakaya-style dining. New York hosts high-end sushi bars and casual noodle shops.
- American Comfort Food: Regional specialties like Buffalo wings, clam chowder, and barbecue highlight the state’s variety.
- Greek Cuisine: Popular for gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita. Astoria in Queens is a hub for authentic Greek food.
- Indian Cuisine: Indian cuisine NYC and other cities in New York offer diverse options including biryani, tandoori dishes, and street food like chaat, especially in neighborhoods like Jackson Heights.
What Type of Food Does New York Usually Offer?
New York commonly offers a diverse range of cuisines and restaurants frequently serve Italian, Chinese, Jewish, American, and Latin American dishes alongside growing influences from Korean, Japanese, and Mediterranean cuisines. Staples like New York-style pizza, bagels, deli sandwiches, pasta, and tacos dominate menus, while fine dining establishments offer fusion and farm-to-table dishes.
Cooking techniques vary widely, with traditional methods like wood-fired pizza ovens and bagel boiling, as well as modern innovations like sous-vide and molecular gastronomy. Smoked meats, wok cooking for stir-fries, and charcoal grilling are also prevalent.
What Food Do Trendy Places Serve in New York?
Trendy restaurants in New York serve a wide range of dishes including fancy charcuterie boards, prime steaks, brunch entrees, gourmet burgers, cocktails, and appetizers with unique or seasonal ingredients. The best trendy restaurants in NYC are Valerie, The Cabin NYC, Da Andrea, Zou Zou's and Lolita.
Does New York Have a Unique Dish?
Yes, New York has unique dishes such as New York-style pizza, egg creams, and exotic food. The New York-style pizza was created by Italian immigrants and is known for its thin, foldable crust and is commonly served in pizzerias. Egg cream is a must-try for anyone looking for unique dining experiences in NYC. The egg cream was introduced by the Jewish immigrant communities, which combines milk, chocolate syrup, and seltzer and is often served in many establishments such as Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop and Russ & Daughters Cafe. When it comes to exotic food, some of the most unique NYC restaurants offer items like live octopus (Sannakji) in Korean eateries or the Filipino balut (fertilized duck egg) in specialty restaurants.