A Local's Guide to Dining Out in NYC

NYC offers an endless amount of incredible eateries and international cuisine. And when they say it’s the city that never sleeps, the food scene is included in that famous slogan.

I’ve lived in New York City for nearly a decade and tried hundreds of great restaurants. The unbeatable food scene truly makes the city impossible to leave.

Below I’ve compiled a list of my top choices for affordable to high-end options without sacrificing quality. So, whether you’re visiting New York City on a budget or are ready to splurge, I’ve got you covered.

Not sure what restaurants are nearby? Use this map to help you find something close to you! Note that some restaurants have multiple locations, but I’ve listed my location of preference.

My Top Picks

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Karczma

I can’t visit Brooklyn without going to Karczma. The inside has a spectacular atmosphere that pays homage to its Polish roots.

The decor is unique, with old country farmhouse wooden benches and tables. The staff are attentive and wear traditional Polish garb. You will feel like you took a trip to Warsaw, not New York City!

The food is reasonably priced for the quality. The white borscht is incredible, and the salmon dish is excellent as well. I’ve been here many times. I recommend the pierogis, potato pancakes, and stuffed mushrooms as a starter.

You can enjoy Central European draft beers and a selection of liquors and delicious cocktails if you’re at the bar.

Casa Enrique

Casa Enrique is a Michelin-star Mexican restaurant and one of the most famous restaurants in New York City. The restaurant opened in 2012 and serves traditional Mexican food from the chef’s home state of Chiapas, Mexico.

The staff are always welcoming and you feel like you’re in someone’s house rather than a New York City eatery. I recommend going on a warm day to enjoy the nearby Gantry State Plaza in Long Island City, one of the best neighborhoods in NYC.

Some dishes I’ve tried are the al pastor tacos (pictured), mole de Piaxtla, ceviche de Pescado, and guacamole. The bartender served me an incredible spicy margarita the last time I was there. Save room for dessert and order the Tres Leches cake. It will blow your mind.

PLANTA Queen

Planta Queen is a vegan Asian restaurant in the heart of NoMad. The inside has plenty of space with a main dining room, bar and lounge, and a separate private dining room.

The lowlight atmosphere and peaceful ambiance make this a personal favorite of mine for some vegetarian options.

I opted for the Crispy Gyoza and chicken bao slider the last time I visited this hidden gem. The Crispy Gyoza has a unique blend of vegetables and spice from the chili that exceeded my expectations.

The spicy tuna tacos, ahi watermelon nigiri, and Japanese sweet potato are honorable mentions, too. The curated cocktail list is equally fantastic with options like the kombucha mojito and my favorite – the lychee martini.

Katz’s Delicatessen

Closeup look of the pastrami sandwich on rye bread — *Katz’s famed pastrami sandwich on rye bread*

Katz’s Delicatessen is a New York City staple on East Houston Street in the Lower East Side. Katz’s has been open since 1888, making it NYC’s oldest deli. Katz’s serves some of the best Jewish comfort food in New York City. The bustling atmosphere and friendly staff bring this place to life.

I visit Katz’s whenever I’m in the Lower East Side. I always feel the warmth from the staff and patrons alike. The matzo ball soup, mini latkes, and corned beef sandwiches are excellent. The portion sizes are huge, so you won’t leave hungry.

You can enjoy the hundreds of photos of famous patrons from the Wu-tang Clan to Barack Obama while you wait for a table (which you will).

Aliada

Aliada is my favorite Greek restaurant in Queens and one of the best places for authentic Greek/Cypriot food in the five boroughs. The ambiance transports you to the Mediterranean Sea with the traditional white walls and island feel. The staff will make you feel like you’re visiting your relatives with their warmth and hospitality.

I have probably tried almost everything on the menu, and the food is magnificent. The roast chicken skewers are charred to perfection, and the falafel is rich in flavor.

Some Greek classics to try are halloumi fries, saganaki, avgolemono soup, refreshing horiatiki salad, calamari, and octopus. The Greek spreads are fantastic if you have a group. The tzatziki and hummus are my favorite.

The wine selection is divine. I usually order a glass of Moschofilero for a fruity, light flavor that compliments the meal. Make sure you have a shot of ouzo after dinner!

Cafe China

A black squared plate with vegetable potstickers and sauce with chopsticks — *Vegetable pot sticker*s

A bowl of cold noodles from Cafe China — *cold noodles*

Cafe China offers a variety of classic Sichuan dishes with everything from noodle soups to cold appetizers, fried rice, incredible cocktails, and traditional desserts.

The vegetable pot stickers (pictured) are my favorite appetizer on the menu. The Japanese pumpkin cake I had here was a nice blend of pumpkin and red bean that I hadn’t tasted before.

The quality of the dining experience at Cafe China is on another level. The staff are very attentive, and the atmosphere is inviting through and through. The interior has a beautiful Chinese aesthetic that intensifies the appeal.

Additionally, the seating is spacious, with extra room on the upper level. This is a great location in Midtown to accommodate a crowd if you have a large party. In a sea of Asian restaurants, Cafe China is one of my favorites.

Cafe Triskell

A plate with butter & sugar crepe — *Butter & sugar crepe*

Cafe Triskell is a hidden gem in Astoria. It’s also one of the best French restaurants you’ll find in the city. Cafe Triskell is a fantastic place for brunch, but you should expect to wait, especially with a large party. The inside is tiny, but there is outdoor seating. The restaurant is only twenty minutes from Midtown.

Chef and owner Philippe Fallait cooks the food himself, and you can feel his passion for his craft by the first-rate quality. Cafe Triskell offers a complete sensory experience with a range of delicious French dishes, from escargot to savory crepes.

The French toast is served on a skewer and paired with a tantalizing berry compote and maple syrup. I love the traditional Croque Monsieur. The coffee is brewed fresh and delicious. The crepes are seriously incredible, too!

Kiki’s

Kiki’s is my favorite Lower East Side restaurant and serves some of the best Greek food in New York City. The dimly lit dining area has a cozy atmosphere, with two bars in the front and back and another dining room across the street.

The food is mind-blowingly delicious, with affordable fare that rivals some of the top-rated Greek food in the city. My favorites are the saganaki, horiatiki salad, moussaka plate, and lamb chops. Niko’s vanilla cheesecake is a fantastic dessert with a thick graham crust and fresh strawberry sauce.

A unique note about this restaurant is that it used to be an old Chinese printing shop. The owners kept the original signage, so you could miss it if you’re not careful. Although the line going around the corner will likely assure you that you’re in the right place.

Botte Bar

I’m a regular at Botte Bar — an underrated Italian restaurant that started in Astoria, Queens. I would argue they serve some of the best Italian fare in New York City!

The Astoria location is small and cozy, with friendly bartenders and outdoor seating that’s perfect on a nice day. Whether you’re craving pizza, pasta, or appetizers, Botte Bar serves exceptionally delicious dishes.

The burrata, meat & cheese board, and meatballs (pictured) are delectable. The tagliatelle alla bolognese is my favorite pasta dish, but the fettuccine al pesto and rigatoni alla vodka never disappoint. The menu recently expanded to include pizza and creative poultry dishes, too.

You can’t enjoy Italian food without a glass of wine; I recommend the house Pinot Noir or Malbec for red. The best news? The restaurant has Manhattan and Brooklyn locations if you can’t make it to Astoria.

RH Rooftop Restaurant New York

A wooden board with grapes, brie cheese with jam, and a bottle of rosé on the table at RH Rooftop — *Brie cheese with jam appetizer and bottle of crisp rosé*

View of the chandelier at the entrance to the RH Rooftop Restaurant — *Gorgeous entrance to rooftop restaurant*

RH Rooftop Restaurant in the Meatpacking District is one of the best in the city for a glamorous fine-dining experience. The interior is stunning, with high-ceiling chandeliers, greenery, and indoor waterfalls.

This is the perfect spot to impress a date or have a dinner party with friends and family with an exclusive feel. The food is fantastic and the friendly service will make you feel like an A-lister.

The lobster roll, charred ribeye steak, and salmon were top-tier entrees when I last visited. My group opted for the Délice de Bourgogne Cheese appetizer, and it was also delectable. The restaurant has an extensive wine list, so I highly recommend ordering a bottle for the table.

Be sure to make a reservation if you plan on going on the weekend.

Murphy’s Sports Bar

Murphy’s Sports Bar in Astoria, Queens is a new establishment that’s quickly becoming one of the most popular hangouts in the area. This is my top pick for sports fans, with everything from UFC to football playing on game nights. The indoor space has plenty of space for large groups.

I was pleasantly surprised by the tastiness and creativity behind the menu when I recently visited for brunch. I enjoyed a traditional Irish breakfast and it tasted authentic.

The bar also serves delicious wings to enjoy during game nights. There are plenty of outdoor tables to bring a group of friends during the spring and summer.

Cheeseboat

If you find yourself in Williamsburg and craving Eastern European cuisine, I cannot recommend Cheeseboat enough. A family-owned Georgian restaurant, the food is unique and exceptionally tasty. They have a Hell’s Kitchen location with the same menu if you can’t make it to Brooklyn, though.

The Magic Mushroom Cheeseboat (pictured) and the Honeycomb Brie Cheeseboat are a perfect combination of savory and sweet. The Ukrainian borscht is also delicious and the perfect choice for a cold day.

I can’t wait to return soon to try more on the menu. Cheeseboat might be my top choice in NYC for Eastern European food!

Taverna Kyclades

Taverna Kyclades is one of the more well-known and popular Greek restaurants, but for good reason. You can enjoy the cuisine in Bayside, Astoria, or the East Village.

Be ready to wait in a line, though! All three locations are popular and almost always require a wait. This being said, Taverna Kyclades never disappoints with some of the tastiest Greek food that will transport you straight to Mykonos. The quality is exceptional for the price.

The salmon steak entree is big enough for two people to share, and the small Greek salad is filling enough for three people. If you’re a seafood fan, Taverna Kyclades will win you over.

More Best Restaurants in NYC

V{IV}

A plate of basil fried rice with grilled chicken from V{IV} — *Basil fried rice with grilled chicken – my favorite dish!*

V{IV} is my favorite Thai restaurant in Manhattan. V{IV} has neon lights, velvet seating, and a fascinating display of ceiling decor (this included a dragon when I was last there). It’s located in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of New York.

The basil fried rice with grilled vegetables or chicken is my go-to dish. I will warn you, it’s spicy! The crispy silverside fish paired with a sweet chili sauce is delectable if you’re a fan of fried fish. Another honorable mention is the tom yum soup with vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option. Come hungry because the portions are large!

Cafe Mogador

Cafe Mogador specializes in crafting unique Moroccan dishes in the heart of the East Village. There’s also a second location in Williamsburg if you’re trekking into Brooklyn. The food and atmosphere at Cafe Mogador make you feel like you’re at home, not out in New York City.

The menu has incredible offerings like the chicken and lamb shank tagine, two of my favorite entrees. The Pamplemousse Fizz and Elderflower Rosemary Spritz are succulent cocktails to pair with your meal.

The Mezze menu has delicious vegetarian options and small plates to share if you have a group. The brunch menu is exceptional, too. The Middle Eastern breakfast is my favorite.

Cafe Mogador is a popular Lower East Side destination, so plan ahead for seating! The place is packed even earlier in the week.

Suprema Provisions

The Suprema burger with melted cheese and roasted brussel sprouts balsamic glaze on the wooden board — *Suprema burger with a side of roasted brussel sprouts and balsamic glaze*

Suprema Provisions should be your top pick if you’re in the West Village and looking for a top-rated burger and delicious Italian food. I was impressed with the warm ambiance, top-tier service, and quality of the food.

You’ll have plenty of room to bring a large group or party with the restaurant’s large dining room and comfortable bar seating. The drink menu offers signature, non-alcoholic, and classic cocktails.

The menu has many Italian-style offerings. However, I opted to try the top-rated Suprema burger paired with a pinot noir. It was delicious!

Kashkaval Garden

Kashkaval Garden is a perfect choice for Mediterranean food with a Balkan flare in Manhattan. The restaurant is located in NYC’s Hell’s Kitchen and offers tapas-style dishes for a large group.

The Mediterranean appetizers, cheese fondue, and charcuterie board are excellent. The lamb and chicken skewers are flavorful, and the mushroom bulgur complements the meal.

The front of Kashkaval Garden has a few tables in a narrow space, but the restaurant has more room in the back. I recommend making a reservation if you’re with a group. The back room has a cozy garden feel, and the service was warm and attentive the entire time I was there.

Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde is in the heart of Manhattan and has an unbeatable atmosphere. It’s one of New York City’s most popular restaurants. The inside has a massive dining room and New York City’s longest bar at 118.5 feet (source).

What makes Oscar Wilde unique is its famous decorations. The best time of year to visit is during the holiday season for an impressive display of Santa Claus, lights, and giant candy canes. If you have children, they will love it!

The food is a nice mix of traditional American cuisine, including wings, sandwiches, and burgers. The inside can be very busy, so expect to wait if you don’t have a reservation, especially during the holidays.

Arepa Lady (Jackson Heights)

Closeup look of the carne arepa from Arepa Lady — *Delicious carne arepa*

Arepa Lady in Jackson Heights is my go-to for traditional Colombian cuisine. The restaurant has three locations in Queens and Brooklyn, operated by the same owners. The quality of each location is always exceptional. This is my top choice for affordable, high-quality food in an inviting setting.

My favorite thing about Arepa Lady is the history behind its start. Maria Piedad Cano is the original “Arepa Lady” and began selling her food underneath the 7 train in Queens before her expansion. (Source)

The mouth-watering dishes include chorizo, tender sirloin, and cheese arepas, among my favorites. The sweet plantains are equally delicious. My Colombian friends have even told me that Arepa Lady feels like home-cooked food (in case you needed a seal of approval!).

Estiatorio Milos (Hudson Yards)

View of the Vessel and the skyscrapers from the outdoor seating area of Estiatorio Milos — *View of the Vessel from the stunning outdoor seating area*

Esiatario Milos in Hudson Yards offers high-end Greek dining with stunning views of lower Manhattan and the Hudson River. The dining room is large and can easily host big groups and parties. The large windows make the ambiance exceptional with views of the Hudson River and gorgeous sunsets.

The food is on the pricier side, but you’re treated to exceptional Mediterranean food and five-star service. My group opted for the lamb chops, Dover sole, halibut, octopus, and lobster with Greek lemon potatoes the last time I went. Everything was incredible, but the lobster was a favorite!

Esiatario Milos offers a $45 lunch special Monday through Friday. This includes an appetizer, main dish, and dessert. This is reasonably priced for the quality. The restaurant has locations globally, but you can’t beat the Hudson Yard views!

Addictive NYC

An avocado salad on the plate in Addictive — *Refreshing and light avocado salad*

Addictive NYC is a Spanish tapas-style restaurant in Midtown Manhattan near Times Square, which is one of the best places to stay in NYC for first-timers. The food is fantastic and it’s quieter during the day compared to nearby eateries. This is a great choice for couples and small groups with its medium-sized dining room.

The exceptional wine bar cannot be understated for its quality. I was so impressed to find it in Midtown! The selection is extensive and the Cabernet Franc was the best I’ve ever had.

The tapas style makes Addictive NYC convenient for patrons to share dishes and enjoy the delectable appetizers. The avocado salad was as delicious as it is pretty (pictured), and the Table de Queso and Carne are filling and tasty. If you’re a fan of gouda cheese, I recommend the membrillo con queso.

Boucherie

I think Boucherie in the West Village is one of the best French restaurants in all of New York City. This authentic spot has two locations in New York City, one in the West Village and another in Union Square.

Boucherie is the ultimate spot for a date night. It has a dining room that opens up to the street during the spring and summer, which are some of the best times to visit NYC. The second floor offers private dining and an outdoor cafe.

You can enjoy this French brasserie for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with a broad menu from omelets to dry-aged steaks and heavenly foie gras. The French onion soup is a favorite of mine, and the steak frites are addictive. My friends love the Omelette au Choix for brunch. Make sure to try the absinthe cocktails if you’re feeling adventurous!

SAINT

A plate with crispy pork belly with carrot, ginger puree, roasted fennel, and cauliflower — *Crispy pork belly with carrot, ginger puree, roasted fennel, and cauliflower*

SAINT is a lovely speakeasy, bar, and restaurant nestled in the East Village that brings the artistry of the Lower East Side to life.

The beautiful red brick and large Cathedral-style windows invite you into a stunning chandelier dining room. The Speakeasy is equally spectacular, with a candlelit runway bar designed to reimagine The Roaring Twenties.

I tried the Seared Sea Bass and roasted beet salad when I first dined here. My friend had the Oxtail Pappardelle, which they raved about. The second time we went, we shared the pork belly (pictured) and we were both blown away by how tasty it is. We were too full for dessert, but the chocolate espresso martinis made up for that!

Buona Notte

A deep plate with gnocchi and pesto paired with a Pinot Noir on the side — *Mouthwatering gnocchi and pesto paired with a Pinot Noir*

Buona Notte is my favorite Italian restaurant in Little Italy, a must-see neighborhood in New York City’s lower Manhattan. The old-world ambiance is evident once you step in the door, with indoor and outdoor seating and a cozy backyard patio. I recommend sitting outside to enjoy the energetic atmosphere on the streets of Little Italy!

The house-made pastas are all fantastic. The pesto gnocchi (pictured) and rigatoni alla carbonara are my favorite. My friend likes the linguine with Manilla clams, in case you’re a seafood fan. I also recommend sampling a few delicious red wines to pair with your meal.

The service at Buona Notte is fantastic. This restaurant checks all the boxes for a splendid Italian restaurant.

Chip City

Chip City is not a sit-down restaurant, but it deserves an honorary mention as a top dessert destination. The first location opened in 2017 in my neighborhood of Astoria and has now expanded to 30 locations nationwide.

I remember having my first delicious cookie here. I’m not surprised Chip City became a franchise. The store rotates flavors daily and routinely crafts new recipes of top-tier quality. The chocolate chip, Nutella sea salt, and s’mores cookies are heavenly.

You can check Chip City’s social media pages for daily mentions of what they’re serving. I can say with confidence that this will be the best cookie you’ve ever had!

Sant Ambroeus

Sant Ambroeus has locations across the United States and Europe. My favorite location is in the West Village, with the service, ambiance, and quality being consistently flawless.

Italian is a major food group here in New York City, and there is no shortage of options. Sant Ambroeus is perfect for groups and couples looking for a fine dining experience.

The delicious house-made pasta is world-class, and the signature cocktails are impeccable. They also have a large selection of Italian liqueurs for after dinner. Most locations have indoor and outdoor seating and can accommodate a large group.

The Sant Ambroeus Coffee Bar is minutes from Central Park and has delicious options for breakfast as well. Try their incredible ricotta cheesecake if you have a sweet tooth!

FERNS

FERNS in one of my favorite restaurants in the Lower East Side for after-work drinks and appetizers. The atmosphere is super cozy with a dimly lit bar, brick walls, and beautiful stained glass lamps that will catch your eye. The service is always wonderful. You’re treated like an old friend more than a patron.

FERNS offers a fantastic happy hour special between 4:30 and 7:00 pm Tuesday through Friday and all night on Sunday (rare for the area). The menu has ideal portions for small plates if you have a group.

I love getting the deviled eggs and hummus platter (pictured) every time I go! The Caesar salad and fried chicken sandwich are delicious and much craftier than other restaurants. FERNS is great if you’re looking for good food and crafty cocktails.

Los Tacos

🍽️ Mexican | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | Neighborhood: Midtown West

Closeup view of the two wrapped chicken tacos — *Chicken tacos*

View of the selection of sauces and pico de gallo from Los Tacos — *Sauces and pico de gallo*

Los Tacos is great for Mexican fare at an affordable price. The inside brings Mexican street food to life, with six locations in Grand Central, Penn Station, Times Square, Tribeca, Noho, and the Chelsea Market.

All six locations don’t have a formal dining room, so be prepared to eat standing. But the food is divine, and the affordable prices do not compromise quality. I always enjoy the carne asada quesadilla and the pollo asado tacos. The nopal taco is delicious if you’re a vegetarian.

The pico de gallo tastes fresh every time I go, and it isn’t overly spicy! Los Tacos offers Mexican sodas to go with your meal. Los Tacos is one of my top picks if you’re looking for delicious fast food.

Jacob’s Pickles

View of the liquor collection at the bar area of Jacob’s Pickles — *Impressive liquor collection*

Jacob’s Pickles serves you Southern hospitality on the Upper West Side. This is one of the few restaurants where the ambiance makes you feel like you took a quick trip to Memphis for the deep-fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits.

If you’re on a diet, avoid this place at all costs. However, the indulgence is well worth it. The food, staff, atmosphere, and drinks are always stellar. If you do want something a bit healthier, the buttermilk fried chicken wedge salad is phenomenal.

The buffalo chicken macaroni & cheese (pictured) is delicious and very filling. All of the buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches my friends have tried are delectable.

The honey chicken and pickles are a crowd-pleaser. The cocktail list is innovative and evokes Southern charm. I also recommend the Jam Jar if you’re a fan of gin!

Ugly Baby

View of the window and the bright orange exterior of Carroll Gardens — *Best Thai diner in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn*

A trip to Carroll Gardens is incomplete without visiting Ugly Baby, one of the most authentic Thai restaurants you’ll find in New York City!

They no longer take reservations, so you may have to wait, especially on nights and weekends. The dining room is narrow, but they have tables to accommodate a large group.

The plates are aesthetically pleasing as well as being sensationally flavorful. Some of my favorite items on the menu are the Penang curry, kang hoh, the khoong muk kai kem, and the pork spare ribs in chili sauce. I’m giving you fair warning that the food is extremely spicy! I suggest getting a Thai iced tea and sticky rice to cool down your pallet.

Bondi Sushi

I recommend checking out Bondi Sushi in Williamsburg if you’re looking for a simple yet delicious sushi menu. The lovely wood bar wraps around the dining room and gives you full access to the chef. The inside is warm with soft blue and white tones that enhance the calm atmosphere.

The food is affordable for the quality. I loved my king salmon sushi (pictured) last time I visited, which is light and delectable. The lean tuna, unagi, and spicy crab were also delicious.

Bondi Sushi offers a happy hour from 3-6 pm Monday through Friday, with $5 handrolls. The Bumble Bee cocktail made with sake feels personalized and is excellent.

Joe’s Pizza

🍽️ Pizzeria | ($) | Website | 📍 Google Maps | Neighborhood: Lower West Side

A slice of plain pizza from Joe’s Pizza — *A delicious slice of plain pizza*

Joe’s Pizza has been a New York City icon since 1975, with five locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Joe’s is a classic that won’t disappoint if you’re hunting for the best pizza at an affordable price.

Whether you go at 4 pm or 4 am, there is a line of people bantering with the incredible staff and grabbing a quick slice. You can get your favorite pizza toppings here, from pepperoni and onions to black olives. I usually get the Sicilian square pie if I’m with a group, and it always comes fresh from the oven.

One of the fascinating things about Joe’s Pizza is that you could run into a celebrity at any moment. If not, you can enjoy the wall of famous faces who have frequented this spot. Peter Parker himself was a delivery boy here in Spider-Man 2!

Absolute Bagels

Absolute Bagels on the Upper West Side is the best place to grab breakfast and a coffee in New York City. The bagels are cooked fresh daily, with ample choices like plain, poppy, sesame, onion, egg, and garlic. Be prepared to wait; the queue is long but moves quickly, and they’re cash only.

The bagels do not shy away from ingredients. I usually make my bagel a breakfast sandwich with condiments from smoked salmon to scallion cream cheese and everything in between. I recommend trying the Thai iced tea to complement your food.

The bagels are the best combination of fluffy, slightly buttery, and chewy I’ve ever had. And I’ve had many! I know you’ll walk away from Absolute Bagels feeling the same way.

Pikine

🍽️ Senegalese | ($$) | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 646-922-7015 | Neighborhood: Harlem

A plate of grilled chicken with onions and a cup of rice — *Grilled chicken with onions*

⚠️ Closure Note: Pikine is temporarily closed until further notice.

I stumbled upon Pikine in Harlem and fell in love with the delicious Senegalese food that tasted home-cooked, authentic, and fresh. The service is quick and welcoming, and the place is packed with a bustling atmosphere. There are a few tables indoors, so this is a great choice for a couple or small group.

I opted for the grilled chicken with seasoned onions (pictured) and was not disappointed. The onions had a zesty garlic taste that complimented the grilled chicken superbly.

The portions are large and the food feels filling and healthy. Head uptown and give this place a try if you’re craving West African cuisine in the heart of Harlem!

Sala Astoria

Sala Astoria is quickly becoming one of the best places in Queens for Spanish food. It’s located 20 minutes from Midtown. The entrance is rustic and modern-industrial with high ceilings and a large dining room to accommodate large parties.

My friends and I went here for a birthday party, and the staff was friendly and helpful in giving menu recommendations. The hanger steak was delicious, and we really loved the setas con brie, baked with flavorful wild mushrooms. We opted for the red sangria pitcher, which certainly felt homemade.

Sala Astoria also hosts live shows. My friends and I are planning to revisit for an upcoming Flamenco performance soon!

The Bonnie

The author Niamh Hayes and her friends, smiling for a photo inside the bar — *Niamh and friends at the bar*

The Bonnie in Astoria is one of my favorite neighborhood spots to meet friends. The ambiance is great, the service is always excellent, and they make some of the best cocktails in Queens! The menu offers tasty American-style pub grub that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

The inside is spacious and can accommodate a large crowd. With two bars on both ends of the restaurant, you’ll be served drinks quickly, even on a busy night. The backyard is the perfect place for drinks in the spring and summer.

Smeat & hueso

Smeat & hueso is a restaurant I stumbled upon when trying to plan a last-minute birthday dinner for a friend. Located in Astoria in the borough of Queens, this is a medley of Colombian barbeque dishes with very generous portion sizes.

If you’re familiar with Latin food, you know the dishes are meat-centric. We had a platter of pork, steak, yucca, and tostones, which satisfied a group of six. The ambiance is a cross between a restaurant and a club, so it’s a great pick for celebrating a birthday. The service is fantastic, and the meat is served fresh!

Risbo

The people enjoying inside the Risbo — *Interior is Brooklyn-casual with pillows to sit and group tables*

If you’re in Brooklyn, a trip to Risbo in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens neighborhood is necessary. The food is a stellar mix of casual Parisian meets Brooklyn-style barbeque with reasonable prices for the high quality.

If you need space to accommodate a group, the generous inside seating is a plus. I highly recommend ordering the Risbo platter for $23, which comes with one protein and an array of sides, from hummus to roasted veggies. My vegetarian friend appreciated the ample amount of non-meat options.

If you want comfort food that is healthy, come to Risbo, grab a cushioned seat, or enjoy the beautiful outdoor patio and have no food guilt!

White Bear

Closeup look of the pork dumplings on a recyclable plate — *Pork Dumplings*

Flushing in the borough of Queens will make you feel like you just left New York for Shanghai when you step off the seven train. When you do go, White Bear is the best restaurant to check out for dumplings and spicy wontons with hot sauce.

The small place is easy to miss, but it’s well-known by locals who come here for the best wontons in the five boroughs. The place is cash-only, and it’s as fast casual as you can get in New York City. If you’re traveling on a budget, this is a top choice for food.

Smorgasburg

Global Cuisine | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | Neighborhood: Williamsburg, BK

Smorgasburg is the place you should go if you want to try cuisine from all over the world and can’t make up your mind. Located in Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the food spectacle operates every weekend from April through October.

With over 100 vendors, you can enjoy unique food all in one place, like Ethiopian, Hawaiian, Uyghur-Chinese, and even delicious lobster rolls. I recommend walking around and trying different samples since there’s so much in one place.

There is a separate area for alcohol with tables, but you must be 21+ to enter. However, the park has plenty of tables, so this is a family-friendly activity. This is my top choice for picky or indecisive eaters!

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Thanks for reading my guide to the best NYC restaurants! You can taste anything from anywhere in the world in New York City. It truly is an unbeatable foodie city. Read our guide on NYC travel tips next!