Welcome to the bustling city of New York, a cultural hub and financial center that is also home to some of the world’s most renowned restaurants. A melting pot of cultures and cuisines, the city boasts an impressive culinary scene that has something for everyone.
From historic steakhouses to Michelin-starred dining experiences, each of these ten iconic establishments has left an indelible mark on the city’s gastronomic landscape.
Join me on a journey through the flavors of New York. Let’s together discover signature dishes, culinary philosophies, and the unique charm that defines these famous restaurants.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or an adventurous eater, get ready to digest the culinary wonders that make New York a true paradise for discerning diners.
That is why, to help you narrow down your choices, here are the top 10 most famous restaurants in New York:
1. Keens Steakhouse
A classic New York steakhouse that has been serving up prime cuts since 1885.
This place is known for its mutton chops, which are considered to be some of the best in the city. It is also a popular spot for celebrities and business people.
- Cuisine: Classic American Steakhouse
- Signature Dish: Mutton Chops
- Address: 72 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018
- Contact: +1 212-947-3636
Keens Steakhouse Menu
- Mutton chop
- Prime rib
- Bacon
- Creamed spinach
- Potatoes au gratin
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2. Per Se
A three-Michelin-starred Per Se restaurant by Thomas Keller, one of the most acclaimed chefs in the world. It offers a tasting menu of modern American cuisine. This restaurant is located in a stunning space at the Time Warner Center.
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Signature Dish: Tasting Menu
- Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019
- Contact: +1 212-823-9335
Per Se Menu
- Tasting menu
- Oysters and Pearls
- Salmon Tartare Cone
- Black Truffle Risotto
- Hudson Valley Foie Gras
- Elysian Fields Farm Lamb
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3. Katz’s Delicatessen
A New York institution that has been serving up pastrami and other Jewish deli fare since 1888. It is known for its mile-high sandwiches and theatrical counter service.
A popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Cuisine: Jewish Deli
- Signature Dish: Pastrami Sandwich
- Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
- Contact: +1 212-254-2246
Katz’s Delicatessen Menu
- Pastrami on rye
- Matzo ball soup
- Knishes
- Pickles
- Black and white cookies
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4. Peter Luger Steak House
A Brooklyn institution that has been serving up steak since 1887. It is known for its dry-aged steaks, which are cooked over charcoal. It is one of the no-frills spots with a cash-only policy.
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Signature Dish: Dry-Aged Steak
- Address: 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
- Contact: +1 718-387-7400
Peter Luger Steak House Menu
- Porterhouse steak
- Filet mignon
- Lamb chops
- Creamed spinach
- Potatoes au gratin
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5. Jean-Georges
A four-Michelin-starred restaurant from Jean-Georges Vongerichten, one of the world’s most celebrated chefs. This restaurant offers a tasting menu of French cuisine with Asian influences. It is located in a beautiful space overlooking Central Park.
- Cuisine: French with Asian Influences
- Signature Dish: Tasting Menu
- Address: 1 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023
- Contact: +1 212-299-3900
Jean-Georges Menu
- Egg Caviar
- Lobster Tartine
- Crispy Salmon Sushi
- Warm Chocolate Cake
- Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
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6. Gramercy Tavern
A Michelin-starred Gramercy Tavern restaurant that serves up seasonal American cuisine. It is well known for its farm-to-table ingredients and elegant atmosphere. It is a popular spot for special occasions.
- Cuisine: Seasonal American
- Signature Dish: Chef’s Tasting Menu
- Address: 42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003
- Contact: +1 212-477-0777
Gramercy Tavern Menu
- Tasting menu
- Roasted Chicken
- Seafood Stew
- Braised Lamb Shank
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7. Le Bernardin
A four-Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up French seafood cuisine. This place is known for its impeccably fresh fish and creative dishes and is the most popular spot for fine dining enthusiasts.
- Cuisine: French Seafood
- Signature Dish: Fresh Seafood Platter
- Address: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019
- Contact: +1 212-554-1515
Le Bernardin Menu
- Barely Cooked Scallop
- Poached Halibut
- Lobster Tail
- Black Bass
- Caviar Egg
- Grilled Swordfish
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8. Masa
A three-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant that offers an omakase menu. It is the best place for its exquisite sushi and impeccable service. It is one of the most difficult restaurants to get a reservation at in New York.
- Cuisine: Sushi
- Signature Dish: Omakase Menu
- Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019
- Contact: +1 212-823-9800
Masa Menu
Masa offers an omakase menu, where the chef selects the courses. Therefore, dishes may vary.
9. Daniel
Daniel’s restaurant serves French cuisine. It is famous for its classic dishes and elegant atmosphere. It is also a well-known place for your special occasions.
- Cuisine: French
- Signature Dish: Classic French Cuisine
- Address: 60 E 65th St, New York, NY 10065
- Contact: +1 212-288-0033
Daniel Menu
- Black Truffle Ravioli
- Dover Sole Meunière
- Lobster Thermidor
- Peekytoe Crab Salad
- Roasted Guinea Hen
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10. Sushi Nakazawa
A two-Michelin-starred sushi restaurant that offers an omakase menu. It is one of the top places that are known for its fresh and flavorful sushi and attentive service. Definitely! The whole vibe inspires sushi lovers.
- Cuisine: Sushi
- Signature Dish: Omakase Menu
- Address: 23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014
- Contact: +1 212-924-2212
Sushi Nakazawa Menu
Sushi Nakazawa primarily offers an omakase menu, where the chef selects the courses. Specific dishes may vary.
FAQs:
What are 3 foods New York is famous for?
- New York-style Pizza
- Bagels with Lox and Cream Cheese
- New York Cheesecake
What is the specialty of Katz’s Delicatessen?
Katz’s Delicatessen is renowned for its pastrami sandwiches, a classic Jewish deli offering that has been a favorite of locals and tourists since 1888.
What makes Keens Steakhouse a popular choice among celebrities and business people?
Keens Steakhouse is celebrated for its prime cuts and especially its mutton chops, considered some of the best in the city, making it a preferred destination for discerning diners.
What is the cash-only policy at Peter Luger Steak House?
Peter Luger Steak House operates on a cash-only policy, so be sure to have cash on hand when dining at this iconic Brooklyn establishment.
Are there vegetarian options available at Gramercy Tavern?
Yes, Gramercy Tavern, known for its seasonal American cuisine, offers a variety of vegetarian options to cater to diverse dietary preferences.