With decor apropos for a country club, the large wooden bar, oak floors and brass set the stage for serious carnivores at Smith & Wollensky. They have all of the usual cuts from our bovine friend, like filet Mignon, porterhouse, etc. and most portions are large, which will somewhat justify the bill. Most of the side dishes are your traditional standbys such as creamed spinach, baked potatoes and vegetables. For those who abstain from beef, there are fish and chicken dishes available, however most vegetarians need not apply, this is a steakhouse after all! Of the innumerable amount of steak restaurants in the city, this is one of the best.
This pretty restaurant is located behind the New York Public Library and overlooks Bryant Park. There is also a rooftop dining area and patio that feels like a European sidewalk cafe. The kitchen prepares New American cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients. Other attributes include a decent wine list, efficient service and the location couldn't be any better.
One of New York's first great Japanese restaurants, Nippon has attracted a large and loyal clientèle for over 35 years. Kimono-clad waitresses take exquisite care of a split-level dining room and surrounding private rooms. A large menu features combination's of sushi, sashimi, tempura dishes and American favorites like teriyaki. For the brave, fugu is served when in season; it is a blowfish delicacy that needs to be prepared properly to avoid fatal side effects. There are also tasting menus available.
This is where the rich and famous meet for lunch and dinner. Within another landmark, the Sherry-Netherland Hotel, the legendary Cipriani restaurant chain brings its magic to New York. Wood-paneled walls with photographs of Venice and marble floors add an air of elegance. Harry's is certainly expensive, but most would say that with dishes the likes of the Pasta e Fagioli Soup and grilled lamb chops to the outstanding desserts, the costs is well worth it.
Easily the best thin-crusted pizza in the area, this family owned restaurant is extra busy during lunch hour. Since 1985, Lazzara's has been serving workers in the city's Garment District. With 28 different choices available, you should have no trouble finding a topping for your pizza. While Lazzara's does a huge take-out and delivery business, there are always people eating and drinking beer in its sit down dining area.
One of the more expensive restaurants in New York, Hakubai Japanese Restaurant is also one of the most gracious. An unique Kaiseki cuisine has been acclaimed to be "rarefied" and "excellent" by the New York Times. There is also a selection of Japanese tea, plum wine, sake and other beverages. Other dishes from Executive Chef Yukihiro Sato include sushi, sticky rice dishes, noodles, seafood and Kobe beef. The authenticity of the restaurant touches its supreme when the delectable meal is served in porcelain, pottery and lacquer tableware.