New York
New York City Top 10 Restaurants – Global Culinary Report
Based on restaurant recommendations from over 600 top chefs, restaurateurs and food writers, we bring you the Top 10 restaurants in New York in 2023.
Crowded, competitive and challenging, New York City continues to be on the vanguard of restaurant culture. The city bursts with culinary creativity with food from every corner of the world in every category of restaurants. The full spectrum of restaurants, from quenelle-and-caviar fine dining to biryani and bureks, Ethiopian sambusas and Korean baps, caters to New Yorkers’ ever evolving and endlessly restless tastes.
Our Top 10-list includes everything from casual favorites like Estela and Wildair, to Korean fine diner Atomix and the favorite deli of the New Yorkers, Katz’s Delicatessen. Where once Manhattan was the Mecca of food, now the scene is multipolar, with each of the boroughs vying for primacy. In a city with over eight million hungry inhabitants, food culture is as entrenched in New York City as the subway system or the city grid.
Estela
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47 E Houston St 1st floor
47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012, USA
Estela is an intimate downtown bistro run by chef Ignacio Mattos, offering bold dishes paired with natural wines. The restaurant is known for its well-executed small dishes, with a menu that might seem simple at first glance but is packed with diverse flavors and textures. A highlight of the Estela experience is the extensive wine list and the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both leisurely brunches and thrilling dinners.
Recommended by
Well executed and thoughtful small dishes by Ignacio Mattos and great vibe in Nolita. Estela in Nolita has been open for almost 10 years, but it’s still one of my favorites on the New York dining scene. The kitchen, led by Ignacio Mattos, is doing amazing small dishes, kind of tapas style. It's well executed, thoughtful and looks very simple, but there's so many different flavors and textures going on in the same dish. And also a really good wine list, and the vibe is great. I would always order the endive salad and also the beef tartare with sunchokes is amazing.
Wildair
142 Orchard St
142 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Wildair is a relaxed wine bar, known for its fun wines and inventive bar food, including notable dishes like the potato cake with uni and jalapeno relish. The establishment is an offshoot of Contra, offering a casual yet refined atmosphere perfect for those seeking a laid-back setting with high-quality food and drinks. With an emphasis on natural wines and creative small plates, Wildair has become a popular spot for those who appreciate simple, clever food paired with exciting wines.
Recommended by
Perfect blend of casual and refined, with a good selection of natural wines and inventive bar food.Wildair is the perfect blend of casual and refined, with a good selection of natural wines and inventive bar food that will leave your taste buds singing. Owned and operated by the team behind Contra, this charming wine bar is recommended for those seeking great food and drinks in a laid-back setting. Don’t miss the potato cake with uni and jalapeño relish - it’s seriously delicious.
Llama San
359 6th Ave
359 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014, USA
Llama San is a restaurant specializing in Peruvian fusion cuisine, known for its flavorful dishes and particularly its ceviche, which is highly recommended by customers. It's a spot often underrated, yet consistently delivers on taste and quality. They are open for dinner seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Thai Diner
186 Mott St
186 Mott St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Thai Diner is a casual eatery where Thai and American cuisines blend in an unexpected yet delightful manner. The restaurant offers a variety of inventive, playful, yet approachable dishes, with the egg sandwich with cheese, sai oua herbal sausage, and Thai basil wrapped in roti being a standout. While it respects Thai traditions, Thai Diner is known for its fun twists on classic Thai dishes, making it a must-visit for lunch.
Recommended by
Thai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai DinerThai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai Diner. With a menu full of inventive and playful dishes that are still approachable, this casual eatery is a standout in the crowded New York City food scene. Don’t miss out on the heavenly egg sandwich with cheese, sai oua herbal sausage and Thai basil wrapped in roti. One of my favorite brunch items in town!
ATOMIX
104 E 30th St
104 E 30th St, New York, NY 10016, USA
ATOMIX is a restaurant that offers an elevated tasting menu inspired by Korean traditions, crafted by Junghyun and Ellia Park. The restaurant is known for its modern interpretation of Korean cuisine, with each dish presented on a beautifully designed card that lists its ingredients, origin, and meaning. With a counter that seats only 14 people, the restaurant provides a personal and intimate dining experience while showcasing the skills of Chef JP Park and the exceptional hospitality of Ellia Park.
Recommended by
Another power couple I think are doing amazing stuff is Ellia and JP Park. They've been very brave to go outside Korea and start a little restaurant empire in New York and what they've achieved has not been easy. The flavors and everything else is perfect in their restaurant. I really believe they are one-of-a-kind.
Katz's Delicatessen
205 E Houston St
205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Katz's Delicatessen, a renowned NYC deli, is famed for its colossal pastrami on rye, often regarded as a city staple. This iconic establishment has been serving up quintessential Jewish comfort food for over a century, with a menu that includes a rich matzo ball soup and crunchy pickles. Despite the long wait, customers consistently recommend the Pastrami Reuben, describing it as an unforgettable sandwich experience.
Recommended by
Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best.For over a century, this iconic restaurant has been serving up New York City’s quintessential Jewish comfort food. Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best. Tourist trap or not, this is a pretty damn good sandwich. Other items on the menu include the corned beef sandwich, a rich matzo ball soup, and crunchy pickles.
Fini Pizza
305 Bedford Ave
305 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA
Fini Pizza is a down-to-earth slice shop located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, known for its delicious New York style pizzas. The restaurant, owned by Sean Feeney, prides itself on classic, yet distinctive pizzas, with the tomato pie being a crowd favorite. With a simple and welcoming atmosphere, Fini Pizza is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic New York pizza experience.
Recommended by
My favorite tomato pie in the city. A NYC slice joint with a twist.Fini Pizza in Williamsburg is owned by Sean Feeney and is just awesome in many ways. It’s your NYC slice joint, but with a twist. They’re not trying to be fancy or innovative, just delicious and New York proud. Their tomato pie is the best in the city.
Balthazar
80 Spring St
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Balthazar is a renowned all-day brasserie serving traditional French cuisine seven days a week. Known for its bustling atmosphere and charming interiors, it offers a casual bistro menu with an American twist, including fresh seafood, shellfish, and pastries baked daily. With a reputation as an iconic institution in SoHo, it's advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity.
Recommended by
Iconic bistro of SoHoBaltazar has been my favourite in SoHo for almost 20 years, and in the full restaurant you may think everybody else thinks the same. It is always totally fully booked, A French bistro with an American twist, it is an extremely charming place. You can also sit outside but inside is the true charm of bubbling, almost noisy discussion. Famous for its oysters and typical French casual bistro menu. A classic institution - a must in SoHo. Book well in advance.
The Noortwyck
289 Bleecker St
289 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, USA
The Noortwyck is a relaxed dining spot known for its exceptional food and expansive wine list. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience without the unnecessary frills, focusing on excellent service and a charming atmosphere. Reservations can be made directly through their website, ensuring a seamless dining experience.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman is a contemporary French-Viennese eatery where renowned Chef Markus Glocker skillfully combines Parisian creativity with Viennese tradition. The menu offers indulgent dishes such as cheese soufflé with cheddar and mushrooms, an incredible Schnitzel, and roasted duck. The restaurant's atmosphere is reminiscent of the lively buzz of Secessionist-era European cafes, making it a special addition to the dining scene.
Recommended by
Estela
47 E Houston St 1st floor
47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012, USA
Estela is an intimate downtown bistro run by chef Ignacio Mattos, offering bold dishes paired with natural wines. The restaurant is known for its well-executed small dishes, with a menu that might seem simple at first glance but is packed with diverse flavors and textures. A highlight of the Estela experience is the extensive wine list and the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both leisurely brunches and thrilling dinners.
Recommended by
Well executed and thoughtful small dishes by Ignacio Mattos and great vibe in Nolita. Estela in Nolita has been open for almost 10 years, but it’s still one of my favorites on the New York dining scene. The kitchen, led by Ignacio Mattos, is doing amazing small dishes, kind of tapas style. It's well executed, thoughtful and looks very simple, but there's so many different flavors and textures going on in the same dish. And also a really good wine list, and the vibe is great. I would always order the endive salad and also the beef tartare with sunchokes is amazing.
Wildair
142 Orchard St
142 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Wildair is a relaxed wine bar, known for its fun wines and inventive bar food, including notable dishes like the potato cake with uni and jalapeno relish. The establishment is an offshoot of Contra, offering a casual yet refined atmosphere perfect for those seeking a laid-back setting with high-quality food and drinks. With an emphasis on natural wines and creative small plates, Wildair has become a popular spot for those who appreciate simple, clever food paired with exciting wines.
Recommended by
Perfect blend of casual and refined, with a good selection of natural wines and inventive bar food.Wildair is the perfect blend of casual and refined, with a good selection of natural wines and inventive bar food that will leave your taste buds singing. Owned and operated by the team behind Contra, this charming wine bar is recommended for those seeking great food and drinks in a laid-back setting. Don’t miss the potato cake with uni and jalapeño relish - it’s seriously delicious.
Llama San
359 6th Ave
359 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014, USA
Llama San is a restaurant specializing in Peruvian fusion cuisine, known for its flavorful dishes and particularly its ceviche, which is highly recommended by customers. It's a spot often underrated, yet consistently delivers on taste and quality. They are open for dinner seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Thai Diner
186 Mott St
186 Mott St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Thai Diner is a casual eatery where Thai and American cuisines blend in an unexpected yet delightful manner. The restaurant offers a variety of inventive, playful, yet approachable dishes, with the egg sandwich with cheese, sai oua herbal sausage, and Thai basil wrapped in roti being a standout. While it respects Thai traditions, Thai Diner is known for its fun twists on classic Thai dishes, making it a must-visit for lunch.
Recommended by
Thai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai DinerThai and American cuisine come together in a deliciously unexpected way at Thai Diner. With a menu full of inventive and playful dishes that are still approachable, this casual eatery is a standout in the crowded New York City food scene. Don’t miss out on the heavenly egg sandwich with cheese, sai oua herbal sausage and Thai basil wrapped in roti. One of my favorite brunch items in town!
ATOMIX
104 E 30th St
104 E 30th St, New York, NY 10016, USA
ATOMIX is a restaurant that offers an elevated tasting menu inspired by Korean traditions, crafted by Junghyun and Ellia Park. The restaurant is known for its modern interpretation of Korean cuisine, with each dish presented on a beautifully designed card that lists its ingredients, origin, and meaning. With a counter that seats only 14 people, the restaurant provides a personal and intimate dining experience while showcasing the skills of Chef JP Park and the exceptional hospitality of Ellia Park.
Recommended by
Another power couple I think are doing amazing stuff is Ellia and JP Park. They've been very brave to go outside Korea and start a little restaurant empire in New York and what they've achieved has not been easy. The flavors and everything else is perfect in their restaurant. I really believe they are one-of-a-kind.
Katz's Delicatessen
205 E Houston St
205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Katz's Delicatessen, a renowned NYC deli, is famed for its colossal pastrami on rye, often regarded as a city staple. This iconic establishment has been serving up quintessential Jewish comfort food for over a century, with a menu that includes a rich matzo ball soup and crunchy pickles. Despite the long wait, customers consistently recommend the Pastrami Reuben, describing it as an unforgettable sandwich experience.
Recommended by
Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best.For over a century, this iconic restaurant has been serving up New York City’s quintessential Jewish comfort food. Their signature dish, the colossal pastrami on rye, is often hailed as one of the city’s best. Tourist trap or not, this is a pretty damn good sandwich. Other items on the menu include the corned beef sandwich, a rich matzo ball soup, and crunchy pickles.
Fini Pizza
305 Bedford Ave
305 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA
Fini Pizza is a down-to-earth slice shop located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, known for its delicious New York style pizzas. The restaurant, owned by Sean Feeney, prides itself on classic, yet distinctive pizzas, with the tomato pie being a crowd favorite. With a simple and welcoming atmosphere, Fini Pizza is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic New York pizza experience.
Recommended by
My favorite tomato pie in the city. A NYC slice joint with a twist.Fini Pizza in Williamsburg is owned by Sean Feeney and is just awesome in many ways. It’s your NYC slice joint, but with a twist. They’re not trying to be fancy or innovative, just delicious and New York proud. Their tomato pie is the best in the city.
Balthazar
80 Spring St
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA
Balthazar is a renowned all-day brasserie serving traditional French cuisine seven days a week. Known for its bustling atmosphere and charming interiors, it offers a casual bistro menu with an American twist, including fresh seafood, shellfish, and pastries baked daily. With a reputation as an iconic institution in SoHo, it's advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity.
Recommended by
Iconic bistro of SoHoBaltazar has been my favourite in SoHo for almost 20 years, and in the full restaurant you may think everybody else thinks the same. It is always totally fully booked, A French bistro with an American twist, it is an extremely charming place. You can also sit outside but inside is the true charm of bubbling, almost noisy discussion. Famous for its oysters and typical French casual bistro menu. A classic institution - a must in SoHo. Book well in advance.
The Noortwyck
289 Bleecker St
289 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, USA
The Noortwyck is a relaxed dining spot known for its exceptional food and expansive wine list. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience without the unnecessary frills, focusing on excellent service and a charming atmosphere. Reservations can be made directly through their website, ensuring a seamless dining experience.
Recommended by
Koloman
16 W 29th St
16 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
Koloman is a contemporary French-Viennese eatery where renowned Chef Markus Glocker skillfully combines Parisian creativity with Viennese tradition. The menu offers indulgent dishes such as cheese soufflé with cheddar and mushrooms, an incredible Schnitzel, and roasted duck. The restaurant's atmosphere is reminiscent of the lively buzz of Secessionist-era European cafes, making it a special addition to the dining scene.
Recommended by
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Malgosia Minta
Warsaw-based food writer, photographer and obsessive world traveller.
Adrian Hădean
A Romanian chef and writer with nearly 30 years of experience, Adrian Hădean has been an important figure in the culinary evolution in his country, leading initiatives like Attic Lab and the Social Food NGO.
