The 35 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, New York, NY 10023

Opening hours: Tue–Sat, 5pm–10pm

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? Per Se alum chef Sungchul Shim first solo project that is still one of the best Korean tastings in the city. 

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, as the nine-course tasting inspired by Korean royal court cuisine runs at $145 per person. Courses lean heavy on fish, and they do so very well, with soy-marinated scallops with a chilled granita and skewers of halibut that swims in a jiri consommé. But surprising no one, chef Shim knows how to handle Wagyu, as the butter-tender bite comes with a generous shaving of truffle, sidekicked by a sumemr squash and cucumber kimchi that brightens the palate inbetween bites.

Time Out tip: The Banana Milk dessert is truly a wonder. Underneath a crunchy shell of chocolate lies an incredibly soft and silky banana ice cream. The soy caramel drizzle brings a salty-sweet oomph, making it one of the best desserts in the city. 

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

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5pm–9:30pm; Fri, 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. During the summer time season, it is a common occurrence to find a pig party outside, as people happily scarf pork-laden tacos and tip back Coronas on the street. 

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 seafood eatery from the famed Marcus Samuelsson. 

Why we love 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). 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) followed by plates of seafood, be it raw or cooked. Recent visits yielded snapper slathered in salsa verde and fiery red, crusted hake on a bed of lentils

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 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, NY 11205

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? A Italian restaurant, run by the chef power couple of Jody Williams and Rita Sodi. 

Why we love it: Much like the other restaurants Jody Williams and Rita Sodi run, I Sodi and Bar Pisellino, in particualr, their mission is a simple one: showcase the beauty in simplicity. Via Carota is one of the best examples, as the rustic, sophisticated trattoria shows the seasons of Sodi's Italian upbringing. The 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? A Michelin-awarded Indian restaurant from the  the Unapologetic Foods crew. 

Why we love it: Semma brings the rural cuisine of Southern India to Greenwich Village. Adding to the sparkling recognition from the Michelin Guide, the James Beard Foundation is clearly also a fan, awarding chef Vijay Kumar with Best Chef: New York State in 2025. That's all to say that happening upon on a table is hard. But if you break through the Resy Notify cycle, you can journey along as Kumar's explores his upbringing Tamil, India, introduces dishes unseen in the States. The ghee-brushed Gunpowder Dosa is a forever order while 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: As a child, Kumar foraged for snails in the paddy fields with his grandparents. He brings that memory home with the Nathai Piratta, a tamarind-laced dish of meaty gastropods that should be added to your starters.

Address: 60 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011

Opening hours: Mon–Sat 5–10pm

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? A culinary mash-up of Thai flavors and American fare is thanks to Ann Redding and Matt Danzer.

Why we love it: Five years in and the corner of Kenmare and Mott Streets are still perpetually packed thanks to the siren call of Thai Diner. Redding infused her Thai upbringing to diner fare, churning out Thai Tea Babka French Toast that gets even sweeter with a touch of the condensed milk syrup and egg sandwiches stuffed with herby sai oua sausages. Looking to share? The Thai Disco Fries smothered in Massaman curry and coconut cream is a dish that will easily be picked clean. 

Time Out tip: A relic of Redding and Danzer's beloved eatery—the Michelin-starred Uncle Boons—lives on as the Uncle Boons Coconut Sundae sits on the dessert menu. Save room for it. 

Address: 186 Mott St, New York, NY 10012

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 8:30am–10:30pm; Thu, Fri 8:30am–11:30pm; Sat 10am–11:30pm; Sun 10am–10pm

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, soft and sweet on the inside 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? 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? 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? 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

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. No, the banchan is no longer on the house if you need refills (minus the kimchi), but to be honest, you'll leave plenty satisfied. But before you roll out with a full belly, stop by the coffee machine at the front for hot cocoa or a black bean latte before taking to the streets. 

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: It's clear Angie Rito and Scot Tacinelli 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. It is all set to an interior that glows limencello yellow in the evenings, making for a cozy late night spot with someone special.  

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. There are two locations in Bed Stuy, about a brisk 25 minute walk from each other, but either is sure to cure what ails you. 

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

Opening hours: Varies by location

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

Opening 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 when it opened, 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? A Palestinian restaurant that's has been a standard-bearer in its category since 1998. 

Why we love it: 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. 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 Scarr's Pizza might seem like a late-night slice shop where the inebriated gather on the outset, this is a pizzeria that cares about its quality. More often than not, owner Scarr Pimentel can be found in the basement on a daily basis, milling his grains to create the perfect base for his pizza. The result? A featherweight pie that’s to die for. Beyond the standard cheese, there are Grandma slices and our favorite, the Hotboi, with jalapenos, pepperoni, and a sticky-sweet drizzle of Mike's Hot Honey. 

Time Out tip: If you want to eat inside, bypass the line and go straight to the host before you order. They won't let you in if you already have pizza in hand.  

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 been 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

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

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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. Service is brisk and the line moves fast, so make sure you know what you want before you hit the coutner. 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