Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in New York

Masa, located in the Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle is a thoroughly unique dining experience. There are no windows. There is no menu. You order a specialty cocktail made with top-shelf ingredients, then Chef Masa Takayama, just inches away, goes to work on a three-hour multi-course meal of the most mouthwatering, heart-melting sushi. But the fact that Masa is one of a microscopic few non-French establishments to be awarded The New York Times' coveted four star honors is evidence that being at the chef's mercy can only be a great thing. A step into Bar Masa next door is also worthwhile.

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, named executive chef 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. Patrons can also enjoy delectable small plates and handcrafted cocktails from the lounge if they wish to do so.

The name of this restaurant has nothing to do with actual people named Frankie or Johnnie, in fact the words are old passwords between revelers and managers during Prohibition. 'Frankie' was used at the door, and if the reply was 'Johnnie', the drinking could start. This isn't the original Frankie & Johnnie's (that one is in Times Square), but it still serves USDA Prime Dry Age cuts that are just as delicious as the ones served at the flagship. This location in the Garment District provides classic sides as well like creamed spinach, potatoes and plenty of seafood. A full-bar and wine list are also available.

Park Avenue Autumn is known for serving some delicious American cuisine. After a 22 year old successful business at Manhattan, Michael Stillman reopened Park Avenue at downtown neighborhood. Park Avenue Autumn changes its menu and decor according to the season of the year. The delectable menu is consists of seasonal specialties using fresh and finest quality ingredients. This menu is followed with an impressive beverage list consisting of fine wines, cocktails and more. With its spectacular decor and warm hospitality, Park Avenue Autumn is sure to enhance your dining experience.

Essentially an all-American bistro, Almond serves classic French cuisine ranging from Meatballs, Crostino, Beef and Red Wine Agnolotti and Dry Aged N.Y. Steak. The bistro is a sister concern of a similar one in Bridgehampton. The food is delicious, certainly leading to a finger-licking battle, which is not surprising given the boundless talent of the chefs. The bar is worth a look with its daunting collection of beverages. Dine here and be entranced by the eager to please service, cheerful staff and positive ambience.

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.