Famous Restaurants in New York: Iconic Places Not to Miss

12/27/2023

We Have Selected for You the Iconic Restaurants of New York

No surprise that the finest dining establishments in the USA are located in New York. This article presents a selection of exceptional venues appreciated by both the local community and tourists. They offer a wide range of cuisines, ensuring satisfaction for every palate and showcasing the culinary eclecticism of the city that never ceases to amaze. Here are some famous restaurants in New York where you can enjoy a delightful break between tourist attractions or end your day on a high note.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For some of these restaurants, booking well in advance is almost obligatory, especially during certain dates and/or peak seasons.

Selection of Must-Try Restaurants in NY (Part I)

Odeon

The Odeon is a New York icon. It's an exceptional place to savor typical city brasserie/bar-and-grill cuisine. Starting with oysters accompanied by a martini is ideal, followed by hamburgers, steak-frites, or well-made omelets. The quality surpasses expectations, which is why everyone hopes that the Odeon never closes. It's a fascinating and timeless venue that continues to delight customers with its culinary excellence and unique charm.

 

• Must-Try: the steak tartare.

Ferdinando's Focacceria

Founded in 1904, Ferdinando's Focacceria is "almost like being in old Sicily before boarding an airplane," according to critic Schiff. This unassuming establishment in Cobble Hill is the city's oldest Sicilian restaurant, frequented by people from all over who come to savor classics like arancini and vastedda, or Sicilian-style sandwiches. For Schiff, "The panelle is delicious and a must-try: crispy chickpea fritters, freshly out of the oil, with the creamiest ricotta you can find."

 

• Must-Try: the panelle.

The Grill

The Grill is a famous New York restaurant that draws inspiration from the city's mid-20th century history, a period when the Seagram Building was constructed, and manners and cuisine were more charming and formal. Among the standout dishes at this Midtown Manhattan restaurant are caviar (served with a variety of accompaniments, including Jidori egg and mini potato pancakes), littleneck clam, avocado crab Louis, and steak tartare.

 

• Must-Try: New York strip.

Wu's Wonton King

A wide range of barbecue options, from glossy ribs to spiced duck, awaits at Wu's Wonton King. The modern dining room hosts tables laden with succulent dishes, while meat is expertly carved at the front counter. Those who book in advance can savor a whole suckling pig, delivered to the table as if it were a true work of art.

 

• Must-Try: the roasted suckling pig.

Balthazar

Balthazar opened its doors in Soho in the spring of 1997. This lively and romantic brasserie, considered one of the best restaurants in New York, offers traditional French cuisine from breakfast to dinner every day, with brunch on weekends. Balthazar provides a wide selection of fresh seafood, as well as bread and pastries baked daily at Balthazar Bakery. This elegant establishment is beloved by stylish travelers and locals alike, including many celebrities.

 

• Must-Try: steak frites

Union Square Café

The Union Square Café, founded by restaurateur Danny Meyer, is the chef's first restaurant. It offers refined American cuisine, comfort food with a touch of elegance, in a casual setting. The menu offers a wide range of dishes, including appetizers like caviar-topped tater tots and main courses like roast duck. Additionally, the restaurant offers a selection of cocktails, including the "dirty appletini" and the "gin and green juice." The lively ambiance of the venue is a definite plus.

 

• Must-Try: USC Seafood platter

Nathan's Famous

Undoubtedly, the best hot dog restaurant in New York is the original location of Nathan's Famous in Coney Island, with a history of over 100 years. After all, what would a trip to the Big Apple be without at least one hot dog? Don't forget to snap a picture of your frankfurter or corn dog under the unmistakable sign of the establishment.

 

• Must-Try: all the hot dogs

Enoteca Maria

Enoteca Maria, a famous New York restaurant, breaks the mold by employing retired grandmothers as chefs to offer authentic culinary experiences. Open only on weekends, with grandmothers from around the world, the restaurant serves unique dishes like Adelina's lasagna and Nina's Odessa salad. The Michelin Guide praises the restaurant for its authenticity and cultural value.

 

• Must-Try: meatballs in tomato sauce with ricotta

Sripraphai

Since 1990, Sripraphai Tipmanee has been the best Thai restaurant in New York. It started with a small Thai bakery in Elmhurst, which over time became the first Sripraphai in Woodside, offering a wide variety of Thai dishes and desserts. The setting is charming, the southern-style Thai food is very spicy, and they have excellent vegetarian options. Among the dishes, the fried watercress salad and the spicy tom-zap soup made with meat, tripe, and liver are highlights.

 

• Must-Try: stir-fried pork with string beans

The famous restaurants in New York: MAP

 

Famous Restaurants - PHOTO GALLERY 

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