New York City is a culinary paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to iconic street food. With thousands of restaurants, choosing where to eat can be overwhelming. At MyCityTop10, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 restaurants in NYC based on real reviews, expert recommendations, and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover the best eats in the Big Apple.
1. Le Bernardin – World-Class Seafood Fine Dining
📍 Location: Midtown
⭐ *Rating: 4.8/5 (Google Reviews)*
Helmed by Chef Eric Ripert, Le Bernardin is a three-Michelin-starred seafood haven. Known for its exquisite French-inspired dishes, this restaurant offers an unparalleled fine dining experience.
Must-Try: Tuna Foie Gras, Lobster Risotto
2. Per Se – Elegant Modern American Cuisine
📍 Location: Columbus Circle
⭐ *Rating: 4.7/5*
Thomas Keller’s Per Se is one of NYC’s most prestigious dining destinations. The nine-course tasting menu showcases seasonal ingredients with flawless execution.
Must-Try: Oysters and Pearls, Butter-Poached Lobster
3. Katz’s Delicatessen – Iconic NYC Pastrami
📍 Location: Lower East Side
⭐ *Rating: 4.6/5*
A New York institution since 1888, Katz’s Deli serves the best pastrami sandwiches in the city. The massive, juicy sandwiches are a must-try for any visitor.
Must-Try: Pastrami on Rye, Matzo Ball Soup
4. Peter Luger Steak House – Best Steak in NYC
📍 Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
⭐ *Rating: 4.5/5*
Famous for its dry-aged steaks, Peter Luger has been a New York staple since 1887. The porterhouse steak, served sizzling in butter, is legendary.
Must-Try: Porterhouse Steak, Creamed Spinach
5. I Sodi – Authentic Italian Comfort Food
📍 Location: West Village
⭐ *Rating: 4.7/5*
This intimate Italian trattoria serves rustic Tuscan dishes in a cozy setting. The handmade pasta and flavorful sauces make it a local favorite.
Must-Try: Cacio e Pepe, Ricotta Gnudi
6. Eleven Madison Park – Plant-Based Fine Dining
📍 Location: Flatiron District
⭐ *Rating: 4.6/5*
After shifting to a fully plant-based menu, Eleven Madison Park (3 Michelin stars) continues to impress with its innovative, sustainable dishes.
Must-Try: Tofu with Truffle, Sunflower Seed Tart
7. Joe’s Pizza – Classic NYC Slice
📍 Location: Greenwich Village
⭐ *Rating: 4.5/5*
No NYC food list is complete without Joe’s Pizza, serving some of the best thin-crust slices since 1975. A perfect late-night bite.
Must-Try: Plain Cheese Slice, Pepperoni Pizza
8. Cosme – Modern Mexican Masterpiece
📍 Location: Flatiron District
⭐ *Rating: 4.7/5*
Chef Enrique Olvera’s Cosme offers elevated Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and artistic presentation.
Must-Try: Duck Carnitas, Husk Meringue
9. Russ & Daughters – Legendary Jewish Appetizing
📍 Location: Lower East Side
⭐ *Rating: 4.6/5*
A century-old gem, Russ & Daughters is famous for its bagels, lox, and caviar. A true taste of New York’s Jewish culinary heritage.
Must-Try: Bagel with Lox, Sturgeon & Cream Cheese
10. Gramercy Tavern – Farm-to-Table Excellence
📍 Location: Flatiron District
⭐ *Rating: 4.7/5*
This beloved NYC restaurant offers a seasonal menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a warm, rustic setting.
Must-Try: Duck Breast, Butterscotch Pudding
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most famous restaurant in NYC?
Katz’s Delicatessen (for pastrami) and Peter Luger (for steak) are iconic must-visits.
2. Which NYC restaurant has the best pizza?
Joe’s Pizza is a classic, while Di Fara (Brooklyn) and Lucali are also top contenders.
3. Where can I find the best fine dining in NYC?
Le Bernardin, Per Se, and Eleven Madison Park are among the best Michelin-starred options.
4. What is the best budget-friendly restaurant in NYC?
Joe’s Pizza and Halal Guys offer delicious, affordable eats.
Final Thoughts
From legendary delis to Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy, NYC’s dining scene is unmatched. This MyCityTop10 guide ensures you experience the best of the Big Apple’s culinary wonders.
Which restaurant will you try first? Let us know in the comments!