Which restaurant in Midtown is the best?
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Looking for the best restaurants in Midtown Manhattan? Then you’ve come to the right place – because I’ll show you the hottest Italian, Mexican, French and American places where New Yorkers hang out. The choice of restaurants in Midtown is huge – so there’s bound to be something for you!
To help you quickly and easily see which spot is near you, find all of Midtown’s restaurants on an interactive map.
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!
My Favorite Restaurants in Midtown
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01
Añejo
Mexican Restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen
Our Highlight
Añejo is a classy yet fun and casual Mexican restaurant with modern small plates and innovative cocktails. This restaurant was created by the Top Chef season 7 contestant, Angelo Sosa. So, it’s no surprise Añejo is a culinary work of art and is even Michelin recommended for the best Mezcal bars in NYC. You must try the unique ‘Traviesa Montelobos’ with Mezcal, fresh grapefruit, lime, Fresno infused agave, Aperol, and spicy salt when visiting.
Each small plate is a flavorful culinary experience, but their top dishes include the tender and smoky ‘octopus plate’ and the ‘Drunken Lamb Barbacoa.’ These plates are modern but include elements of Mexican food that bring your taste buds for a ride.
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02
Brooklyn Diner
American Restaurant in Theatre District
Our Highlight
Even if the name doesn’t suggest it, the diner is really close to Times Square! The Brooklyn Diner is a diner like it is in a book: both from the outside and the inside. Try the pastrami or the French toast.
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03
Empire Diner
American Restaurant in Chelsea
Our Highlight
This American Diner in Chelsea is an icon of NYC – you can’t miss it, because a beautiful graffiti decorates the building. And it is only a few meters away from the High Line!
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04
Gayle’s Broadway Rose
American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Gayle’s Broadway Rose features singing waiters and waitresses that will sing classic and modern Broadway hits to you while you indulge yourself in a delicious and fancy-looking milkshake.
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05
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
La Pecora Bianca, which translates to “The White Sheep” in Italian is a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dishes. Their ingredients are locally sourced letting them “shine”.
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06
La Pecora Bianca
Italian Restaurant in Flatiron District
Our Highlight
La Pecora Bianca, which translates to “The White Sheep” in Italian is a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table dishes. Their ingredients are locally sourced letting them “shine”.
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07
Los Tacos No. 1
Mexican Restaurant in Theatre District
Our Highlight
Los Tacos No. 1 in Times Square is rightly very popular: in the “standing snack bar” everything revolves around tacos & quesadillas. Wonderfully traditional, cheap and really delicious. What’s special about it? The handmade tacos taste like in Mexico, because instead of wheat flour (as it is unfortunately often done for cost reasons) real corn flour is used for production. My tip: Take the tacos with grilled cactus!
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08
Serafina Broadway
Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
I love the restaurants of Serafina! There are now more than 10 spots in New York where you can enjoy great Italian food. The pizza is legendary, each of the Serafina restaurants is beautifully styled and offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The burrata and heart-shaped lobster ravioli are unbelievably delicious. I’ve had several pizzas, all of which were delicious. I highly recommend both the simple Margherita pizza and the Portofino pizza with pesto & pine nuts!
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09
A Taste of Magic
American Restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen
When it’s the Halloween season, there’s no shortage of witches, wizards, and warlocks wandering about. That’s why A Taste of Magic is one of our favorite ways to celebrate Halloween in NYC.
This traveling experience takes place at restaurants around New York, bringing the thrills and intrigue of close-up magic to some of the city’s finest dining. Plus, it’s a family-friendly, all-ages way to get into the season. Each ticket includes the magic acts, the dinner, and the entertainment, and the two seating times (5pm and 8pm) fit perfectly for those packed New York schedules.
Their current shows take place at Docks, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, and Gossip. You can find out more about A Taste of Magic and make reservations for yourself at the official page.
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10
ABC Kitchen
American Restaurant in Gramercy
The ABC Kitchen serves Slow Food – the opposite of fast food and a declaration of love for our planet. Only the freshest ingredients, supplied by local farmers, are put on the plate. The dishes change seasonally and are free of pesticides, antibiotics, hormones and genetic engineering. The prices are more than reasonable for the quality of the ingredients and the service.
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11
ABCV
Vegetarian Restaurant in Gramercy
ABCV is a plant-based restaurant that features many vegan dishes, in addition to being fully vegetarian. The spot is decorated elegantly but with a modern twist. There are golden chandeliers, among other handing lights, that provide lighting from above. And the space features many light, pastel colors.
Although ABCV serves everything from ice cream to tomato soup, they’re often praised for their dips. Their green hummus, in particular, seems to be a fan favorite and it is served with whole-grain pita.
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12
ANA Bar & Eatery
Other Restaurants in Hudson Yards
ANA’s at Hudson Yards offers something for everyone. You can have a delicious breakfast including fresh coffee and pastries or enjoy a nice lunch meal with farm-to-table foods or pizza.
At 4:00 PM the place turns into a perfect happy hour spot for everyone who likes signature cocktails, wine, craft beers on tap and pizza.
This year ANA Bar & Eatery hosts a Super Bowl watch party where you can treat yourself at the unique market buffet of buffalo wings, Mac & cheese bites and other tasty food.
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13
Aqua Boil
Sea Food Restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen
Aqua Boil is a Hell’s Kitchen restaurant that you will want to plan on dining at AFTER your Broadway experience. This casual Cajun-inspired place is going to leave you messy, but that’s such a good thing. It’s a fun and vibrant place where you choose your catch from a bounty of seafood like crawfish, mussels, or even a whole Dungeness crab. You then choose your sauce and heat level of spices. You’ll love every messy bite of this interactive eating experience. Reservations are limited, but the waitlist may be an alternative.
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14
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
Italian Restaurant in Chelsea
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza was founded in 2008 and serves big slices with creamy toppings.
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15
Avra Rockefeller Center
Other Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
Avra, located in the heart of Rockefeller Center in NYC, is a culinary tribute to the rich traditions of Greek cuisine. Inspired by the family’s idyllic memories of feasting on freshly caught seafood and garden-fresh produce in Nafpaktos, Greece, Avra was born out of a desire to bring those authentic flavors to New York. With a commitment to simplicity and the use of the finest ingredients, Avra offers an exquisite dining experience that reflects the essence of Greek culinary traditions.
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16
Bacall’s Family Steakhouse
Steak Restaurant in Theatre District
Bacall’s Family Steakhouse is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in NYC, known for its delicious steaks and romantic ambiance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bacall’s is the perfect spot for a special dinner with your loved one.
The restaurant offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all cooked to perfection and served with your choice of sides. In addition to the steaks, Bacall’s also has a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and pan-seared salmon, as well as vegetarian options.
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17
Basta Pasta
Italian Restaurant in Gramercy
Spaghetti pasta inside a cheese wheel. Close-up.
The restaurant is clean and elegant in style, has an open kitchen and offers a relaxed atmosphere. As the name suggests, they serve great pasta dishes – excitingly combined with Japanese cuisine (for example, pasta with shitake mushrooms) and with great sauces. All organic and homemade, of course.
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18
Benjamin Steakhouse
Steak Restaurant in Murray Hill
Located in the heart of Midtown East, Benjamin Prime is a sleek and modern steakhouse that is an excellent choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner in New York City. The restaurant features stylish and sophisticated decor, with dark wood accents, leather banquettes, and dim lighting that creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere.
Regarding NYC Valentine’s Day restaurants 2022, Benjamin Prime typically offers a special menu featuring a variety of high-quality steaks and other meat dishes and a selection of seafood and vegetarian options. The restaurant is known for its excellent wine list, which includes a wide range of red wines that are carefully chosen to pair with the menu.
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19
Bill’s Bar and Burger
Burger Spot in Midtown Manhattan
This bar is one of the places that are one of our little highlights in NYC. As the name suggests, you can get tasty burgers and excellent beer here. The list of beers that are drafted or bottled is as long as the list of burgers. And all this at a fair price.
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20
Black Iron Burger Midtown
Burger Spot in Midtown Manhattan
Black Iron Burger is a well known burger restaurant that can be found several times in New York.
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21
Blossom
Vegetarian Restaurant in Chelsea
The Blossom is a vegan restaurant chain. It was founded with the aim of bringing vegan food to a creative, new and delicious level.
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22
Bocca di Bacco
Italian Restaurant in Chelsea
What could be better than a brunch restaurant steps away from the lush greenery of the High Line that also offers a two-hour bottomless drink special for your weekend afternoon feasting? Say hello to Bocca di Bacco!
Take your pick from champagne, sangria, Bellinis, mimosas, screwdrivers, or Bloody Marys to sip on as you dive into their delicious Ham and Cheddar Cheese Frittata. And the icing on the cake? A welcome shot that greets you at the door! With its unique offerings, Bocca di Bacco truly redefines the Chelsea brunch experience!
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23
Bocca di Bacco (Theater District)
Italian Restaurant in Theatre District
Perhaps you’ll run into a few celebrities at Bocca di Bacco, but even if not, you’ll love the experience before or after your Broadway play. The creative Italian cuisine you’ll find here indulges with homemade pastas as well as meats and seafood. Wine lovers will absolutely adore the vast selection that includes 500 bottles from the most renowned wineries in Italy. It is most assuredly one of the best Italian restaurants that you won’t want to miss while in New York.
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24
Boqueria NYC
Spanish Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
If you are looking for Spanish cuisine, the Boqueria in New York is a great option. With four branches in New York City (in Midtown, Flatiron, Upper East Side and SoHo), the Spanish restaurant and tapas bar Boqueria has successfully brought many culinary traditions from Barcelona to New York City in recent years.
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25
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Sea Food Restaurant in Theatre District
Life is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get. – Forrest Gump. We all love him and know his story inside and out. So we know what Bubba Gump means, right? A visit to the restaurant of the same name in Times Square is a must for all fans of Forrest Gump or seafood.
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26
Calle Dao
Other Restaurants in Chelsea
Have you ever eaten a meal that featured a blend of Cuban and Chinese cuisine? If you said no, then you must check out Chelsea’s own Calle Dao. This culinary hotspot is located at 461 W 23rd Street and is your direct ticket to the best boozy brunch in NYC.
Why do I say this? Well, for just $30, you can indulge in 60 minutes of bottomless cocktails with the purchase of an entree. When I stop at Calle Dao, I usually opt for an order of Avocado Toast or a crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich. The energetic vibes and attentive staff ensure that every visit is nothing short of delightful, but make sure to get there long before 4:30 pm because that’s when the last drinks are served!
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27
Carnegie Diner & Cafe
American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Carnegie Diner & Cafe in Midtown is a must-visit, because they feature an all-day brunch menu and unlimited mimosas for less than twenty bucks. Here, you’ll enjoy unique creations like their Peanut Butter & Bacon Pancakes or classy Lobster Benedict.
Situated right across from Carnegie Hall and a stone’s throw from Central Park, it’s a fantastic spot for food and sightseeing. My favorites? Avocado Toast with fresh, smashed avocado and poached eggs, and their Banana Nutella Strawberries Pancakes, a delicious mix of fresh fruits and indulgent Nutella. Or if I’m looking for more classic brunch entrees, I usually go for the breakfast waffle sandwich or fried chicken sandwich.
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28
Chipotle
Mexican Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Chipotle is a famous chain that brought Mexican food to the USA. Although there are many Mexican restaurant options in the Big Apple, it is one of the top low budget restaurants in New York. The menu includes tacos, burritos, quesadillas, burrito bowls and salad bowls. You can find the Mexican restaurant on almost every corner in the city.
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29
Ci Siamo
Italian Restaurant in Hudson Yards
Probably one of the best Italian restaurants in Manhattan is Ci Siamo. With its open kitchen, you can watch the kitchen crew prepare your dishes. Also perfect if you are looking for a romantic restaurant.
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30
Cipriani Dolci
Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Located directly in Grand Central Terminal, Cipriani Dolci is an exceptional Italian restaurant. Opened in March 2002, Cipriani Dolci quickly made a name for itself with great service and an affordable menu. Visually, the restaurant blends in beautifully with the magnificent Grand Central Terminal.
In addition to delicious meals, you can also enjoy great cocktails here.
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31
Cookshop
American Restaurant in Chelsea
Directly from the grill, you’ll get dishes made from fresh and sustainably produced ingredients. But you should expect a waiting time.
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32
Coppelia
Other Restaurants in Chelsea
Ever found yourself craving brunch in the middle of the night? Head over to Coppelia at 207 W 14th St, where brunch is served around the clock! This tasty Latin Diner is a local favorite and whips up a delightful blend of Cuban and American favorites.
Whether it’s the Huevos Rancheros with their vibrant flavors or the extremely delicious Lemon-Ricotta Cheese Pancakes, you’re bound to fall in love with their amazing food. And did I mention the best part? Coppelia offers all this deliciousness at pocket-friendly prices, proving that good food doesn’t have to break the bank!
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33
Cucina 8½
Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Are you searching for the best restaurants in NYC for Valentine’s Day? Look no further than Cucina 8½ in Midtown West! This chic Italian restaurant is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day.
Here, you’ll be tempted by a wide selection of delicious Italian dishes. The menu features a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options, all cooked to perfection and served with the freshest ingredients. Whether you opt for a classic pasta dish or a succulent seafood entree, you can be sure that your meal will be nothing short of extraordinary.
With its delicious food, romantic atmosphere, and excellent service, Cucina 8½ is the perfect spot for a Valentine’s Day dinner in Midtown West. Don’t wait – make your reservation today and treat your loved one to a memorable evening at this chic Italian restaurant.
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34
Cucina Alba
Italian Restaurant in Chelsea
Cucina Alba is an Italian restaurant near the High Line in Chelsea. The refined ambiance and authentic food make you feel like you’re on an Italian getaway in the middle of NYC. Chef Adam Leonti bakes the signature focaccias in a Roman oven before serving them with whipped ricotta.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., you can visit Cucina Alba for brunch. From decadent Italian dishes to classic cocktails, brunch here is a true Italian experience. Among the items on the brunch menu are Eggs Florentine. These are poached eggs served with spinach, polenta and guanciale (Italian bacon). For those with a sweet tooth, the crespelles may be a highlight. They are served with a chocolate hazelnut cream, ricotta and delicious gelato!
The Best Restaurants in Midtown on the map
A map with all restaurants in Midtown can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each restaurant on the map to find out everything you need to know.
