15 Places to Eat and Drink in NYC
New York City is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from historic taverns and charming cafés to rooftop bars and over-the-top desserts. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a regular in the city, these fun places to eat in NYC will make your trip even more memorable. Here are 15 delicious destinations to check out — each one serving great food and unforgettable vibes.
Great Spots for Coffee or Breakfast
Ralph’s Coffee at Ralph Lauren
888 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021
Start your day the stylish way at Ralph’s Coffee, nestled inside select Ralph Lauren stores in NYC. It’s equal parts café and fashion statement, with rich espresso, buttery pastries, and luxe interiors that feel straight out of a designer’s dream. If you’re looking for a delicious coffee shop in Manhattan, this is the perfect caffeine fix with a side of class. It has cute outdoor seating but it’s seat yourself outside so it gets busy.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Iced Latte with Almond Milk and an Extra Shot of Espresso
Remi Flowers and Cafe
130 William St, New York, NY 10038
If you’re all about beautiful spaces and light bites, Remi Flowers and Cafe is your dream spot. This café doubles as a flower boutique, creating a colorful and serene environment perfect for sipping lattes and nibbling on pastries. It’s consistently ranked as one of the cutest cafes in NYC for brunch. Their flowers are incredible, so make sure you treat yourself to a bouquet. They also have lovely gifts that combine both flowers and coffee.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Iced Lavender Latte with Almond Milk & a Pistachio Loaf
Sip on a Great Cocktail
Skyglass Rooftop Bar at Archer Hotel
47 W 38th St 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10018
My favorite spot to have a cocktail with an unbelievable view is at Skyglass Rooftop Bar, perched atop the Archer Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. With panoramic city views, craft cocktails, and small plates, it’s one of the best rooftop bars in NYC. Whether you’re visiting in summer or bundled up with heaters in winter, the atmosphere here is always unforgettable. It is also the perfect spot to go for a drink before seeing a Broadway show.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Tiramisu Espresso-Tini (Bumbu crème, Absolut Vanilia, white chocolate liqueur, espresso) and a Tequila Honeycrisp (Tres Agaves Reposado Tequila, Spiced Apple Cider, Lemon, Honey)
I’ve also had their Skyglass Burger (Topped with Pork Belly, Runny Egg, Sharp White Cheddar, Arugula, Tomato, Caramelized Shallot Demi-Glace. I asked for no bun and they did a great job replacing it with lots of toppings.)
Bar Fiorentino
101 Liberty St 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10007
Bar Fiorentino offers the charm of an upscale Italian trattoria with a modern Manhattan twist. Located in Midtown, it serves up handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and expertly mixed cocktails in a warm, moody atmosphere. This gem will have you dreaming of Florence by dessert. It is conveniently located in Eataly, so you can do a little shopping after your meal.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
I was in Eataly for a cooking class so we came in for a drink. I had a refreshing Limoncello Spritz.
The Flatiron Room
37 W 26th St, New York, NY 10010
For a cozy, classy night out, head to The Flatiron Room, a whiskey lounge with over 1,000 bottles and a rich, jazzy vibe. Whether you’re trying a whiskey flight or tucking into their gourmet mac & cheese, it’s one of the top spots in NYC for live music and craft cocktails. They had a great jazz band the night we were there.
Take a peek at their Instagram.
What did I have?
I had a glass (or two…lol) of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Have a Delicious Meal
YAO Modern Cantonese Cuisine
Nestled in the Financial District, YAO Modern Cantonese Cuisine redefines upscale Cantonese food in NYC. Chef-owner Kenny Leung and co-owner Thomas Tang (the minds behind August Gatherings) offer stunning dishes—each crafted with modern finesse. The restaurant has a sleek, zen-inspired interior that will immediately set the tone for your meal.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Summer’s Kiss (Tequila, Blood Orange Juice, Grapefruit Liqueur, Lime Juice, Curacao Liqueur, Dehydrated Blood Orange Wheel)
Shrimp Dumplings
Black Truffle Oyster Noodles
Sushi Lab
For sushi lovers seeking innovation and skyline views, Sushi Lab is a standout choice in Midtown and the East Village. At the Midtown rooftop location (atop the Sanctuary Hotel on 47th Street), you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and seasonal omakase while perched in a covered garden terrace with city views. The room is stunning. I suggest sitting at the bar to watch the sushi chefs work their magic.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Ichigo Margarita (Tequila, Triple Sec, Strawberry, Lime Juice)
Spicy Hotate (Scallop, Spicy Crab, Cucumber, Crispy Potato, Miso Aioli)
Oscar Wilde NYC
Quirky, theatrical, and loaded with Victorian flair, Oscar Wilde NYC will make you feel like you’re in part bar, part museum. Think: 19th-century antiques, velvet seats, and cocktails with names like “The Picture of Dorian Gray.” Just try to be in this restaurant without taking a picture…I dare you.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Truffle Gnocchi (Porcini Duxelle Brown Butter Cream, Fried Sage, Chives & Parmesan Cheese)
Gatsby’s Landing Times Square
Looking for a stylish escape from the chaos of Times Square? Gatsby’s Landing offers an elegant yet approachable dining experience with a touch of old-school glam. The menu features upscale American cuisine with Mediterranean influences — think fresh seafood, premium steaks, and creative cocktails. With its Art Deco vibes and polished service, it’s one of the best restaurants in Times Square for a classy dinner before or after a Broadway show. Bonus: the outdoor patio is a great spot for people-watching in the heart of the city.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Limoncello French Martini (Limoncello, Cassis, Pineapple Juice)
Lemon Charred Octopus (Chickpeas, Fingerling Potato, Spicy Marinara)
London & Martin Co.
Step into an intimate, upscale atmosphere at London & Martin Co., a sophisticated spot blending British elegance with a New York City vibe. You’ll feel like you just walked in to a British pub. From truffle fries to craft cocktails, every detail here is curated for a memorable night out. This is one of those NYC restaurants that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Royal Cartel (Hornitos tequila, Yuzu, Strawberry Rose Water, Lime, Butterfly Ice, Grilled Pineapple Salt)
L&M Signature Burger (L&M Wagyu Blend, Smoked Gouda, Manchego Cheese, Peach Glazed Bacon)
John’s Pizzeria of Times Square
When you’re in NYC, you’ve got to have some pizza! Don’t miss John’s Pizzeria of Times Square, located at 260 West 44th Street. Housed in a beautifully converted 19th-century church between 7th and 8th Avenues, this spot serves up authentic New York-style pizza baked in high-temperature coal-fired brick ovens—each oven seasoned over time for unique, smoky flavor. It’s perfect for grabbing a whole pie with family or friends before a Broadway show or after exploring Times Square.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did we have?
½ Pepperoni and ½ Spinach, Onion, Tomato
Fraunces Tavern
History buffs and foodies unite at Fraunces Tavern, one of the oldest restaurants in NYC, dating back to 1762. Located in the Financial District, it offers hearty pub fare, craft beers, and Revolutionary War-era ambiance. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to dine in a historic NYC landmark.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Serrano Ham & Burrata Sandwich (Fig Preserve, Baby Arugula)
Hama Sushi
Tucked just a few blocks from Rockefeller Center, Hama Sushi is a Midtown favorite that delivers fresh, high-quality sushi without breaking the bank. With an attentive staff and a vibrant lunch special menu—think classic sashimi, signature rolls, and bento boxes—it’s no surprise diners say the fish here is some of the “finest sushi I have had in New York City”. Expect a cozy vibe, happy hour deals, and sake pairings to match your nigiri—perfect for a casual lunch or early dinner.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Sushi Special (Chef’s Choice)
Save Room for Dessert
Alice’s Tea Cup
102 W 73rd St
Step into a storybook at Alice’s Tea Cup, a whimsical café inspired by Alice in Wonderland. With tiered tea trays, fairy wings for kids, and a cozy vintage feel, it’s easily one of the best themed cafes in NYC. Come for the scones and tea, stay for the charm — it’s especially great for a girls’ brunch or mother-daughter outing. There are a few locations to choose from and you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did we have?
The Madhatter (3 of us split it and still had leftovers)
Serendipity 3
225 E 60th St, New York, NY, 10022
Step into sweet nostalgia at Serendipity 3, the iconic dessert restaurant in NYC that’s been delighting visitors since 1954. This place is famous for the beloved Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. With its kitschy décor—Tiffany lamps, vintage memorabilia, and a retro furniture—Serendipity is as much an immersive experience as it is a dessert destination. Where else can you find a Golden Opulence Sundae that costs $1000!
Take a peek at their Instagram
What did I have?
Frozen Hot Chocolate (of course!). These are big enough to share with a few people.
Final Thoughts: Where to Eat in NYC
NYC is more than just a foodie city — it’s an experience. These restaurants and cafés each bring something special to the table, from stunning rooftop views to historic charm, from whimsical decor to five-star flavor. Whether you’re planning a romantic night out, a Broadway dinner, or just looking for cool places to eat in New York, this list has you covered.
Save this guide, share it with your travel buddies, and bookmark a few for your next trip.
Happy eating in the Big Apple!
* Some of these restaurants have more than one location. the address listed is the location we visited.