Top 5 Restaurants in NYC

Expert-curated dining recommendations in New York City, updated for 2025.

2. Eleven Madison Park

★★★★★

Cuisine: Contemporary Plant-Based

Location: Flatiron District

Hours: Tue-Sun: 5:30PM-10PM

Reservations: Required

Website: elevenmadisonpark.com

Highlights

  • Innovative plant-based menu
  • Art Deco setting
  • Theatrical presentation

Considerations

  • Premium pricing
  • Limited menu options

$$$$

3. Gramercy Tavern

★★★★½

Cuisine: New American

Location: Gramercy

Hours: Daily: 11:30AM-10PM

Reservations: Recommended

Website: gramercytavern.com

Highlights

  • Seasonal American cuisine
  • Casual tavern option
  • Excellent wine list

Considerations

  • Busy during peak hours
  • Tavern is first-come-first-served

$$$

4. Peter Luger Steak House

★★★★

Cuisine: Steakhouse

Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Hours: Daily: 11:45AM-9:45PM

Reservations: Required

Website: peterluger.com

Highlights

  • Legendary porterhouse
  • Historic atmosphere
  • Traditional service

Considerations

  • Cash only
  • Limited menu options

$$$$

5. Katz's Delicatessen

★★★★

Cuisine: Jewish Deli

Location: Lower East Side

Hours: Daily: 8AM-10:30PM

Reservations: Not accepted

Website: katzsdelicatessen.com

Highlights

  • Famous pastrami
  • Historic NYC institution
  • Generous portions

Considerations

  • Long lines common
  • Counter service only

$$

Dining Tips for NYC

What to Know

  • NYC Restaurant Week occurs twice yearly
  • Many high-end restaurants offer lunch specials
  • OpenTable reservations often book 30 days out
  • Most venues accessible by subway
  • Outdoor dining available seasonally
  • Check health inspection grades (posted in windows)