Blue Ribbon Brasserie is an obligatory stop for food connoisseurs in the city. While the wildly popular restaurant now has several locations, the flagship location will always hold a special place in New Yorkers' hearts, particularly fans of the late-night dining scene. Blue Ribbon Brasserie welcomes diners until the early hours of the morning, creating a warm and welcoming ambience with low lighting and details like velvet upholstery. Sample the best comfort food you've ever eaten, savor remarkably fresh seafood, and enjoy classic mains like the hangar steak with wild mushrooms or roasted duck club. There's something to be said for American dishes done right at Blue Ribbon Brasserie.
In 1986, sibling owners Maguy and Gilbert Le Coze opened Le Bernardin in New York after finding phenomenal success with their flagship restaurant in Paris, established in 1972. The duo won numerous accolades at the helm of this culinary destination, and it has continued to thrive under Chef Éric Ripert after Gilbert’s tragic demise in 1994. Seafood has been the inspiration behind the menu at Le Bernardin since its conception. The tasting menu takes diners through courses filled with delicacies like Osetra caviar, Dungeness crab, Lobster Tail, and Black Bass. Moreover, an extensive collection of around 900 wines complements every dish to perfection. Patrons can also enjoy delectable small plates and handcrafted cocktails from their eclectic lounge. The restaurant offers spaces for private events too.
For more than a 100 years, this huge cafeteria-style Jewish deli has been delighting New Yorkers with their pastrami and brisket sandwiches alongside their scrumptious "kosher-style" meals. The humble eatery, with Formica tables lined up in rows, may not be the ideal place to take a date (unless you want to remind him or her of eating in a school lunchroom), but if you are craving a giant sandwich served with perfect pickles or a couple of kosher hot dogs, there is perhaps no better place than Katz's in the city. There is table service, but most people take a ticket at the door and give it to the counterman when placing their order; they then pay on the way out.
Located near the waterfront in Brooklyn, the now legendary Grimaldi's offers excellent pizzas. Cooked in a brick oven, the crusts emerge crispy and pleasantly charred. The toppings always consist of only the freshest ingredients, including their delectable sausage, vegetables and mozzarella cheese. No reservations are taken, so be prepared to wait outside along with hordes of faithful customers, who consider this to be the best pizza in New York City.
Located in the Time Warner Centre at New York City’s Columbus Circle, Masa is a perfect choice for sushi lovers. With no fixed menu to offer to its guests, the owner and the head Chef Masayoshi Takayama decides on every single dish served here. These dishes are prepared using the freshest local ingredients and fish mostly sourced from Japan. To add on, this restaurant holds a spot in the prestigious Michelin guide and is also known to be one of the most expensive restaurants in the world. With its elegant wooden interiors and impeccable service this place offers an incredible dining experience to its patrons. Reservations in advance are mandatory as they accept a limited number of guests.
This elegant restaurant is an all rounder. The ambiance is soft and perfect for fine dining. Staff and service is very professional and attentive. While dining here, do not miss out on trying out from the wide selection of about 500 wines available from around the globe. Known for its Pastas, some of the other dishes worth trying are Burrata, Fiocchi con Formaggio with pear and the Pollo alla Martini. Also, host a private event or gathering here, the catering is great. Visit the website for more information.
Sitting in the heart of the Theater District, this friendly Italian restaurant was established in 1944, and is still going strong. Traditional Italian cooking and a warm atmosphere ideal for going out with families and friends alike, is what makes Patsy's such a loved establishment. The interiors are done up in mellow hues, with beautiful chandeliers and sconces creating a warm vibe. The artwork and photographs adorning the walls add a nice touch to the proceedings. Signature dishes at Patsy's include Chicken Contadina, Veal Rollatine Marsala and Lobster Fra Diavolo. There's a pre-theater menu as well. Throughout its rich history, the restaurant has been host to numerous celebrities, and its not uncommon to spot one dining beside your table. Check website for more.
This may be the best of the 57th Street theme restaurants. Certainly, it is the most authentic New York City spot on the block, serving old-fashioned favorites like cheese blintzes and a massive roast beef sandwich. It is far more expensive than most diners, but it will save you a trip across the Brooklyn Bridge. It is also thoughtfully decorated with plenty of New York City memorabilia. Try the cheesecake.
The sculpture of a giant nose appearing in the window of this spot will let you know you are in the right place. Located across the street from Carnegie Hall, Trattoria Dell’Arte is one of Manhattan's best places to enjoy antipasti and thin-crust pizzas. The pumpkin-colored dining room is bright and beautiful, and the food, service and ambience are all good. It is often crowded, but worth the wait. Try the grilled vegetable platter, veal chop parmigiana or the grilled shrimp. Check website for details.
If you love chicken, Yakitori Totto ('yakitori' meaning grilled chicken) is for you. Start with their skewer appetizers and Japanese or Korean vodka served with a real grapefruit half, and then move on to the chicken served in uncountable ways. Your order will be taken on Palm Pilot in this upscale restaurant and don't forget to try the apricot kernel panna cotta before you leave.
If you're on a romantic date, this is your best bet. Delicious food, great drinks and the perfect ambiance you are sure to have a great evening. Most people dine at Nocello after watching a play at one of the many theatres located close by. The menu consists of Italian food and the deserts are exceptional. Don't forget to inform the restaurant in advance, if it's a special occasion. You'll get a table in a corner and other special arrangements will also be made.
Located on West 55th Street, The Original Soupman, as its name suggests, is known for its delicious varieties of soups. Headed by Ali Yenageh, this is the first restaurant of the many chains. Must try on the menu includes their signature Lobster Bisque, Clam Chowder and Lobster Roll. The restaurant gained popularity when it featured on NBC's Seinfield. The restaurant has been a participant in many social causes and is a big part of the Hurricane Sandy Relief Help.