The 34 best restaurants in NYC right now

What is it? 2022's buzziest restaurant is as good as you’ve heard, maybe even better. It follows Bronx-raised chef Kwame Onwuachi's D.C. restaurants, Top Chef season and James Beard Award. 

Why we love it: Its ethereal space, where sunshine streams in by day, and light fixtures fashioned after clouds are suspended overhead, is as comfortable as it is cooly grand. Its Afro-Caribbean-influenced menu lists one stunner after another, and its short rib pastrami is New York City’s can’t-miss dish. 

Time Out tip: If you stand outside right when the doors open, it is still possible to get a seat at the bar. 

Address: 10 Lincoln Center Plaza

Opening hours: Tues–Sat, 4pm–10pm; Closed Sun and Mon 

What is it? A mecca for live fire and dry-aged fish from Tomer Blechman. 

Why we love it: Skeletal remains of whole fish hang above the grill at Theodora, giving you a strong indication of what’s to come. The third from Blechman—following a very successful Miss Ada and Nili—earned a rightful spot on our best restaurants of 2024 list for its fish preparation, the Whole Butterflied Trout being one of the best of ‘em.

Time Out tip: While the fish is the star, the bread and its accompanying dips easily receive best supporting actor.

Address: 7 Greene Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:30–10pm; Fri–Sun, 5–10pm

What is it? A New York City classic among New York City classics, Gramercy Tavern is both a special occasion destination and an every day, but better, kind of place. It’s the special sort of spot where you arrange to go after you’ve become engaged, or simply slip into to escape a sudden rain.

Why we love it: Big night out atmosphere crackles in the dining room in the back and the tavern space up front, with a bar that feels like the place to be. The dining room’s $175 five-course tasting, which presently includes Arctic char and roasted duck breast, is splendid for a splurge, or you can order à la carte in the (also lovely) tavern section, where every main is $38 or less. 

Time Out tip: There are eight dessert options, so always, always order one. The seasonal sundae is always a favorite.

Address: 42 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003

Opening hours: The Tavern: Daily, 11:30am–10:30pm; The Dining Room: Sun–Thu 5–9:30pm; Fri, Sat, 5pm-10pm

What is it? Per Se alum chef Sungchul Shim’s $145 nine-course tasting of skewers inspired by Korean royal court cuisine. A sool pairing is also available for $105.

Why we love it: Kochi first opened in 2019 and was subsequently awarded a Michelin star. Ordering everything on the menu is usually relegated to daydreams, but at Kochi, it’s possible. Courses include items like charcoal-grilled Spanish mackerel and braised short rib.

Time Out tip: Reservations are on OpenTable and Resy for convenience. 

Address: 652 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5pm–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

What is it? Hav & Mar tells the story of Marcus Samuelsson’s heritage, from the food it serves down to the name itself (“hav” translates to “ocean” in Swedish, while “mar” is Amharic for “honey,” the official language of Ethiopia).

Why we love it: Much like his Harlem main stay, the vibes are always up at Hav & Mar. But this neighborhood restaurant has a finer touch, thanks to chef Fariyal Abdullahi. The unreal Hav Bread Basket must always be ordered (if available) and the pick a few plates of seafood, be it raw or cooked.

Time Out tip: If you really can't decide what to get, you can let the chef decide for $95. 

Address: 245 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001

Opening hours: Sun, Mon 5–9pm; Tue–Sat 5–10pm

What is it? A follow-up to the sibling taqueria Greenpoint (aka Taqueria Ramirez), Carnitas Ramirez created its own buzz with its whole pig cookery, easily making our best new restaurant of 2024 list.

Why we love it: Carnitas Ramirez is all about the pig. We are talking snout, tails, ovaries—the whole gamut. And if that wasn’t enough, you can top any taco with chicharrons.

Time Out tip: Peep the mirror near the front to learn the break down of the pig and then order accordingly. 

Address: 210 East 3rd St, New York, NY 10009

Opening hours: Wed, Thu noon–9pm; Fri, Sat noon–10pm; Sun noon–6pm

What is it? At once an emblem of Old New York and a relative newcomer, Gage & Tollner was revived well over a century after first opening at this location in 1892. A trio of Brooklyn hospitality pros, including chef Sohui Kim, reopened the august institution to quick acclaim in 2021. 

Why we love it: G&T’s landmarked interior, which hosted several unrelated businesses before its latest unveiling, is beautiful: enveloped in crimson velvet, gilded and appointed with towering mirrors to reflect all its splendor. The menus are terrific, too, abundant with steaks, chops, seafood towers, sensational fried chicken and best-in-class desserts. The weekend lunch service makes the tough-to-book Brooklyn jewel a bit easier to get into, and G&T has recently started offering its sensational pastries for pre-order. 

Time Out tip: One of Brooklyn's finest cocktail clubs sits a staircase above the restaurant. Of course, we are talking about Sunken Harbor Club. We highly recommend a visit.

Address: 372 Fulton St, 2nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri–Sun, 11am–10pm 

What is it? A Fort Greene bistro run by the powerhouses Gabriel Stulman and April Bloomfield. 

Why we love it: Chilled martinis. Veggies that sway with the season. And a roast chicken that helped solidify its spot as one of the best new restaurants of 2023. 

Time Out tip: While it's been nearly two years since its opening, it is just as difficult to snag a table. But once you do, know that the wait will be worth it. 

Address: 228 DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn

Opening hours: Wed 11:30am–2pm, 5–10pm; Thu, Fri 11:30am–2pm, 5–10:30pm; Sat 10am–2pm, 5–10:30pm; Sun 10am–2pm, 5–10pm

What is it? This cozy Italian restaurant, run by the chef power couple of Jody Williams and Rita Sodi, is a rustic, sophisticated and heart-swelling gem.

Why we love it: The simple food—towering insalata verde, hearty chopped steak and any of the soul-satisfying pastas—makes this Village favorite a place where everyone wants to be a regular. 

Time Out tip: Make a note to visit in the summer when the tables spill out onto the sidewalk and Aperol Spritzes are aplenty. 

Address: 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–11pm; Fri–Sun, 10am-11pm

What is it? Another win from the Unapologetic Foods crew, Semma brings the rural cuisine of Southern India to Greenwich Village. The Michelin Guide is also a fan, as are James Beard Awards who awarded chef Vijay Kumar with Best Chef: New York State in 2025. 

Why we love it: The menu journeys through Vijay Kumar’s upbringing in Tamil, India, many dishes of which have been unseen in the States. The fragrant and fall-apart lamb found in the Attu Kari Sukka is enough to keep you (and us) coming back time and time again.

Time Out tip: While the gunpowder dosas are reason enough to visit, the tamarind-laced snail dish Nathai Piratta should be added to your starters.

Address: 60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011

Opening hours: Mon–Sat 5–10pm

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What is it? Sam Yoo's high-end steakhouse near Rockefeller Center. 

Why we love it: Sam Yoo is able to combine the best of both worlds at his subterranean steakhouse—the good times of a Korean barbecue and the meticulous attention to detail that we've come to love him for. Cold shrimps are poached in dashi and served with chojang for dipping, while proteins that run the gamut of lamb, pork belly and short rib are marinated in ssamjang, soy and jaeyook. Even the martini is shaken with a little kimchi brine, sourced straight from Yoo's father.

Time Out tip: The Black Bass "Naengmyum" Crudo is easily one of the best appetizers we have tasted in awhile (and we sure taste a lot). So chilled that lemon zest-laden ice chips are a feature, the crudo keeps it even more interesting with pops of mustard oil and chives. 

Address: 16 W 48th St Lower Level, New York, NY 10036

Opening hours: Mon–Sat 5–11pm

What is it? Chef Junghyun Park’s array of modern Korean small plates are presented in four courses for a set price of $75. 

Why we love it: Tasting menus are one of the best ways to sample as much as possible, but some are too rigid and prohibitively expensive. Park’s prix-fixe has stayed at the more affordable price of $75, a fixture since it opened in 2016. It is best experienced with another diner so you can trade bites of the plump and sweet shrimp hidden under a white kimchi broth and the squash, a soft and sweet interior encased in a sticky caramelized exterior. The double-fried chicken with its sizable gochujang and peanut dipping sauce is well worth the $28 add-on. 

Time Out tip:  While the dessert is not included in the coursed option, Atoboy's Granita is one of the most interesting finales in the city. The shaved ice dessert uses Sujeonggwa, a popular Korean cinnamon drink, which gives a creamy, brown-sugary taste. It all sits atop a creamy spread of yogurt and bits of Burrata for a bite that is savory and oh, so sweet. 

Address: 43 East 28th St, New York, NY 10016

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5–9pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

What is it? Incredible omakase from Jiro Dreams of Sushi’s chef Daisuke Nakazawa.

Why we love it: This city’s full of expensive omakase, and Sushi Nakazawa has all the exquisite quality and reverent ambiance of its tip-top price peers for a slightly less account-clearing sum. It is not unexpected to see $300+ chef’s selections at NYC’s best sushi restaurants, but reservations at Nakazawa’s counter are $190 for about 20 palate-changing courses like fatty tuna, sea urchin and yellowtail. It’s $160 in the peaceful dining room, and perfect sake pairings are $90. 

Time Out tip: Private dining up to 16 can be had here as well.

Address: 23 Commerce St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Daily 11:45am–2pm; 5–10pm

What is it? Translating to “driver’s restaurant,” Kisa pays homage to the roadside diners that catered to taxi drivers in Korea in the ‘80s.

Why we love it: Served baek ban-style, the traditional meal consists of your choice of protein, alongside rice, soup, and banchan. Even better, each platter tops out at $32. 

Time Out tip: The lunch deal is just as nice with bubbling bowls of Gamjatang and a breaded pork cutlet, Donkatsu, that don't go above $20. 

Address: 205 Allen St, New York, NY 10002

Opening hours: Tue–Sun 11am–2:30pm, 5–10:30pm

What is it? Michelin-starred Oxomoco (from the team behind Speedy Romeo) focuses on wood-fired dishes. Taco options include beet “chorizo," fish and lamb varieties.

Why we love it: The food is serious and the atmosphere is buoyant and the whole place is a lot of fun. Case in point: Oxomoco has frozen drinks on its cocktail list, which many restaurants of this caliber can’t even. 

Time Out tip: The Tuna Tostada is one of the best items on the menu. 

Address: 128 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Opening hours: Brunch: Mon–Fri noon–3pm; Sat, Sun 11am–3pm;  Daily dinner: 5:30–10pm

What is it? A small dinner party like restaurant that spotlights Nigerian cuisine. 

Why we love it: Chef Ayo Balogun began hosting a pop-up dinner series influenced by convivial dining experiences in Nigeria. His restaurant in Bed Stuy, Dept of Culture, is modeled similarly, with just 16 spots mostly around one communal table (a few are at the kitchen-facing counter). Balogun walks you through each course, telling the story of his upbringing. 

Time Out tip: The restaurant is BYOB, so bring a bottle and share with new friends. 

Address: 327 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 6pm and 8:30pm seatings

What is it? The latest from Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli of Don Angie fame.

Why we love it: The couple traveled through the coasts of Italy here, and had some serious fun while doing it. Crab and mortadella dip comes in a ceramic crab with Ritz crackers for the eating and the mussels stuffed 'nduja have a wonderful squirt of lemon aioli that implore you to spoon out each and every bit.

Time Out tip: If you haven’t had the Shrimp Parm, which retains its head before being flattened, fried, and cloaked in a sweet and sour arrabbiata sauce, you most definitely should.

Address: 113 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am–2:30pm, 4:30–10:30pm

What is it? A pretty Israeli restaurant by way of Philadelphia in Williamsburg’s Hoxton hotel.

Why we love it: That K’Far might be better known as Laser Wolf’s related downstairs neighbor is a quirk of the headline cycle. The latter’s nice and lovely, too, on the hotel’s 10th floor. But K’Far is superb on the lobby level, with large dining rooms arranged a few ways and a chicken schnitzel to recall again and again, along with savory baklava, Palestinian lamb tartare, and world-class dorade. 

Time Out tip: There's always an option to get the Egg & Cheese Jerusalem Bagel on the go. 

Address: The Hoxton, 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Opening hours: Breakfast: Daily 8-11am; Lunch: Mon–Fri, 11am–3pm; Dinner: Sun–Wed 5–10:30pm and Thu–Sat, 5–11:30pm; Brunch: Sat and Sun, 11am-3pm

What is it? A sister to Hart's, The Fly and Cervo's. 

Why we love it: Eel Bar is getting all the attention, like the baby of the family should. The bar's interior reads like your cool uncle's downstairs basement, with heavy woods, mirrors and neon lights that power the whole thing. While Cervo's travels through the Iberian peninsula, Eel Bar journeys through the Basque Country and Southern France via pintxos and fried mussels on the half shell.

Time Out tip: Vermouths and wines are by the plenty here. Just ask the knowledgeable servers what's what if you get decision fatigue. 

Address: 252 Broome St, New York, NY 10002

Opening hours: Daily 5:30pm–11pm

What is it? America's first fine dining restaurant is right here in FiDi. 

Why we like it: Delmonico's is a taste of old New York, and when we say it, we mean it. Initially founded in 1827 as a pastry and fine coffee store, the Delmonico brothers flipped the concept into a steakhouse in 1837. Nearing 200 years later, the restaurant remains as a fixture of the scene, consistently serving pristine seafood and top cuts of steak, the tender and juicy Signature Delmonico Ribeye being one of the best of them. 

Time Out tip: The restaurant is credited with creating the Baked Alaska, the Chicken a la Keene and the eggs Benedict, to name a few. They still exist on the menu today, so dive in, fork first, to a bit of history. 

Address: 56 Beaver St, New York, NY 10004

Opening hours: Mon–Thu noon–3pm, 5–10pm; Fri noon–3pm, 5–11pm; Sat 4–10pm; Sun 4–9pm

What is it? An East Asian general store with that specializes in novel takes on congee.

Why we love it: Sure, you wouldn't call it traditional. But who said it needs to be? Maya serves noteworthy congee with additions like quinoa, avocado and other tasty ingredients.

Time Out tip: You can walk away with a congee bowl for less than $10 here, so use your extra coin to peruse the market at the store selling noodles and housemade chili crisp. 

Address: 1013 Fulton Street, Brooklyn and 563 Gates Avenue, Brooklyn

What is it? A tiny, two-table spot owned and operated by chefs from some of NYC’s best (and most expensive!) sushi restaurants for far less cash. 

Why we love it: Even with its slightly hard-to-find, second-floor location and paucity of seats, we will happily take Sushi 35 West’s sensational salmon roe, sea urchin, Spanish mackerel, and striped jack to go for the opportunity to taste exceptionally sourced fish improved by beautiful knifework. 

Time Out tip: A six-piece nigiri and tuna roll set will run you $21.

Address: 232 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 11:30am–9pm; Sat 3:30–9pm

What is it? A vegetarian Ethiopian go-to since 2011.

Why we love it: A decade-plus in, Liyuwork Ayalew and Samuel Saverance's Ethiopian cafe is still one of Bushwick's finest. There's an abundance to choose from here: red lentils in berbere sauce, ground split peas simmered with tomato and sautéed crimini mushrooms. And when you need to cool the heat from some of the spicier bites, there's always tangy, housemade injera. Individual orders function like a mini buffet, and Bunna’s shareable quality makes it a delightful date spot. Brunch is also a fine option, with chickpea scrambles and cognac-tinged hibiscus drinks known as Kerkede.

Time Out tip: Slow down during the weekend with Bunna's complimentary Ethiopian coffee ceremony, held on Friday, Saturdays and Sundays at 5pm. 

Address: 1084 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Hours: Mon noon–10pm; Tues 5–10pm; Wed, Thu noon–10pm; Fri noon–11pm; Sat noon–4pm, 5–11pm; Sun noon–4pm, 5–10pm

What is it? “New York City’s first Korean steakhouse"—among the best in both categories. Don't believe us? Its world's best designation may sway you otherwise.

Why we love it: Cote is sleek, stylish and superb, with gleaming, bronzed inset grills to heat all manner of meat at your table. Its butcher’s feast cannot be beat, replete with American Wagyu beef and the requisite cumulous egg soufflé, duo of stews and banchan. 

Time Out tip: Nightcaps start at Undercote, which is found tucked away under COTE. 

Address: 16 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010

Opening hours: 5pm–midnight; COTE To-Go: Daily 5–9pm

What is it? Anthony Mangieri's ode to wood-fired, Neapolitan pies.

Why we love it: Years ago, Anthony Mangieri's Una Pizza Napoletana left for greener pastures (or really, just another coast), as he moved over to San Francisco. But it seems he couldn't escape the lull of New York as he made it back this way in 2018. We clearly don't hold a grudge as his pizzeria has been consistently swamped ever since, with everyone hankering for a taste of his meticulously made Neapolitan pies, always naturally leavened and made with double-zero flour dough. 

Time Out tip: The restaurant's collaborative series, "Una Night Only Series" has invited the likes of Tom Colicchio, Padma Lakshmi and Kwame Onwuachi to sling pies for, you guessed it, one night only. Much like everything here, these pizza parties tend to sell out in a snap, so keep an eye on their Instagram to catch the next in the series. 

Address: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

Opening hours: Thu—Sat 5–9:30pm

What is it? One of best restaurants when it opened in 2020 roundup, Kokomo is a Caribbean restaurant that is all about elevating the genre, from husband and wife team Ria and Kevol Graham.

Why we love it: As we wrote at the time, Kokomo’s wood-fired flatbreads, slow-braised oxtail, and chicken and waffles are all bona fide comfort foods. But fast forward five years, the restaurant is looking to switch it up. With chef Manuel Osorio at the head, Kokomo remixes Caribbean fare with French and Asian flavors. Find this fusion in Ackee & Saltfish Shumai and the Ceviche Negro that trades out leche de tigre with a bright yellow curry with fried and torn pieces of roti to scoop it all up.

Time Out tip: The 100% plant-based steaks is one of the best out there. The soy-based protein is smoked and marinated in dry seasoning, almost mimicking a pastrami in flavor with an undercurrent of jerk seasonings. All things considered, this is a dupe we can certainly get behind. 

Address: 65 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Opening hours: Wed, Thu noon–4pm, 5–10:30pm; Fri, Sat 11am–4pm, 5–11pm; Sun 11am–11pm

What is it? This Middle Eastern destination in Bay Ridge has been a standard-bearer in its category since 1998. Palestinian-born chef-owner Rawia Bishara deftly captures the flavors of her Nazareth childhood—charring eggplants in charcoal, rolling out pita and hand-making savory yogurt. 

Why we love it: Tanoreen’s staying power alone is evidence of its excellence, and it comes up often when you ask locals for restaurant recommendations. Try the variety of silky spreads like lemony labna and smoky baba ganoush.

Time Out tip: Leaving without an order of Knafeh? Yeah, we thought so. Add it to your tab.

Address: 7523 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209

Opening hours: Tue–Sun noon–10pm

What is it? A familial seafood spot on a cozy Queens corner.

Why we love it: If you know anything about Elias Corner for fish, you know that the decades-old local favorite eschews menus in favor of a catch of the day display case. Choose from whole fish, octopus, bivalves and other fantastic sea fare. There’s a nice, breezy side deck in addition to Elias’ homey dining room. 

Time Out tip: There's no menu here, but feel free to ask the staff to help you out. 

Address: 24-02 31st St, Astoria, NY 11102

Opening hours: Wed–Mon 4–10pm

What is it: One of the spots to get a slice in this town (and the world)

Why we love it: While it might seem like a late-night hangout, Scarr's is all about quality. Most often than not, you'll find owner Scarr Pimentel milling his grains in the basement. The result? A featherweight pie that’s to die for.

Time Out tip: If you want to eat inside, bypass the line and go straight to the host to find a seat inside the wood-paneled dining room. 

Address: 35 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

Opening hours: Sun–Thu noon–11pm; Fri, Sat noon–1am

What is it? Since 1962, Sylvia’s has a home for soul in the city.

Why we love it: Sylvia's is home to baked mac and cheese, soul-stirring greens and fried chicken as crispy as they come. While Mrs. Woods passed in 2012, her children and grandchildren keep her spirit alive, each and every day. In 2024, the restaurant finally received its flowers, receiving an America’s Classics Award from the James Beard Foundation. 

Time Out tip: The desserts feature all the Southern hits, from Peach Cobbler to the creamy Banana Pudding. 

Address: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Hours: Sun–Tue 11am–8pm; Wed–Sat 11am–10pm

What is it? A charming neighborhood restaurant on a quaint corner that you might find yourself unexpectedly going out of your way to return to.

Why we love it: A relatively small menu actually allows for myriad combinations, visit after visit. We expect to try them all someday, once we can resist the temptation of Leland’s trout rillette, charred lemon skillet mussels, and whole fried fish. The kitchen also turns out some of the best bread you’ll find in or out of NYC’s finest bakeries. 

Time Out tip: You learn how the sausage gets made by booking one of its butchery classes.

Address: 755 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Opening hours: Vinyl hour: Wed–Fri 1–4pm; Bar service: Daily 4–5pm; Brunch: Sat, Sun 10am–4pm; Dinner: Mon–Thu, Sun 5–10pm; Sun 5–11pm

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What is it? A small, James Beard award-winning Caribbean stop in Bed-Stuy with three specialties: bake, doubles and roti. 

Why we love it: Doubles are the real hit at this Bed-Stuy stalwart. The Trinidadian snacks, which start at $2.50-a-pop, envelop fillings like a savory potato-channa curry in bara. Takeout is always an option, but there are enough tables and chairs for a sit-down and eat. 

Time Out tip: Note, they don't serve roti or lunches on Mondays. 

Address: 1337 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11216

Opening hours: Mon, 6:30am–4pm; Tue–Sat, 6:30am–8pm

What is it? A cart-turned brick-and-mortar restaurant specializing in arepas and other Colombian bites in Jackson Heights.

Why we love it: That titular item abounds, in addition to some of the best South American corn cakes in NYC.

Time Out tip: $35 bottomless brunches include passionfruit sangrias and blackberry margaritas. Check it out on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Address: 77-17 37th Avenue, Jackson Heights and 3439 31st Street, Astoria

What is it? A trailer parked in the Bronx known for its lechón asado. 

Why we love it? Slow-roasted pork, mofongo, and more. Plus, Angel Jimenez's God's Juice is the closest thing we'll see to heaven.

Time Out tip: Bring a lawn chair, a wait is almost always expected. 

Address: 766 East 152nd Street, Bronx, NY 10455

Hours: Sat noon–6pm; Sun 12:30pm–6pm