New York is one of my favorite cities to visit because of the vibrant and diverse food scene. It seems like every corner of the city is filled with restaurants worth trying. I have been to New York a lot over the past few years and tried many different places. Here are 7 spots I would revisit:
1. Family Meal at Blue Hill - Greenwich Village
This is my favorite dining experience I've had in New York so far. The tasting menu was $145 per person, and definitely worth it. The dishes are served family-style with generous portions, so we left feeling completely stuffed—which I feel like can be a rarity for a tasting menu experience. Our meal was incredible, and what I loved most was that all the ingredients are locally sourced from the restaurant’s farm in upstate New York. This makes every dish feel special, and fresh. It's the perfect place for a memorable, farm-to-table dining experience.
2. Little Owl - West Village
We visited Little Owl in December for breakfast, and the restaurant was so cozy, and perfect for a chilly New York morning. We tried a few savory dishes and shared the French toast—everything tasted great. They also offer plenty of Mexican-inspired options, like breakfast enchiladas. It's definitely a must-visit for a cozy breakfast in the heart of West Village.
3. Il Mulino - Downtown (West 3rd)
Il Mulino Downtown on West 3rd Street offered that timeless Italian dining experience with white tablecloths and waiters in bow ties. I think the restaurant felt both elegant and traditional. The service was top-notch, giving you a true taste of classic Italian hospitality, and of course the pasta dishes were great.
4. Nom Wah Tea Parlor - Chinatown
I have made my way to Nom Wah the past five times I have been in the city, so that should be a great indication of how much I love this restaurant. Nom Wah in Chinatown was the first dim sum and dumpling restaurant to open in the city back in 1920, and is still serving up delicious food. The prices are very affordable and the portions are huge. It's a great spot to go with friends for a casual dinner. During the summer, we loved relaxing on the street-side patio. Nom Wah usually always has a line and does not take reservations, so make sure to cut out some additional time to wait.
Barb Leung
5. Mama's TOO! - Upper West Side
I had seen Mama's TOO! online many times before going to the city and knew I had to try it. This small shop on the Upper West Side is best known for their sandwiches and pizza, and both did not disappoint. There is very limited seating and it's quite busy, so I think it's a great place to pick up food and take out.
6. Kazu Nori: The Original Hand Roll Bar - NoMad
KazuNori Hand Roll Bar is one of my go-to spots for lunch whenever I’m in the city. There are a few locations in the city, but the NoMad location was my favorite. For $35, you get six amazing hand rolls that taste fresh and the nori they use melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of place that keeps me coming back trip after trip.
Menus
7. Rigor Hill Market - Tribeca
Rigor Hill Market in Tribeca is a cozy, minimalist coffee and pastry shop with a lot to offer. I loved their coffee and thought their pastries were good, making it an ideal spot to start the day. They also sell fresh produce, which adds a unique touch to the usual coffee shop experience.
