New York City is a dream destination for food lovers. With its melting pot of cultures, iconic culinary history, and world-renowned chefs, the city offers an endless array of dining experiences. But among the thousands of eateries, there are a few legendary restaurants that truly define the flavor of NYC.
In this guide, we explore 10 of the most famous restaurants in New York City—places that are not just worth visiting, but unforgettable. Whether you’re craving old-school Italian, legendary steaks, or Michelin-starred perfection, these spots promise to leave you with a satisfied stomach and unforgettable memories.
1. Katz’s Delicatessen
Location: Lower East Side
Established: 1888
Famous Dish: Pastrami on Rye
Katz’s is more than just a deli—it’s a New York institution. Known worldwide for its towering pastrami sandwiches, this no-frills eatery has been serving classic Jewish deli fare for over 135 years. The meat is hand-carved to order and piled high between slices of rye bread with mustard.
Why visit? It’s nostalgic, authentic, and a true taste of NYC history. Plus, you’ll recognize it from the iconic scene in When Harry Met Sally.
2. Le Bernardin
Location: Midtown
Established: 1986 (originally from Paris, 1972)
Famous Dish: Tuna Tartare
Three Michelin stars, countless awards, and a reputation for seafood excellence make Le Bernardin a bucket-list destination for fine dining enthusiasts. Chef Eric Ripert’s refined French techniques and flawless execution keep this restaurant at the top of NYC’s culinary scene.
Why visit? It’s luxury on a plate. If you want to experience world-class seafood in an elegant setting, this is your spot.
3. Peter Luger Steak House
Location: Brooklyn (Williamsburg)
Established: 1887
Famous Dish: Porterhouse Steak
This legendary steakhouse has been sizzling since the 19th century. Peter Luger is famed for its dry-aged beef, particularly the porterhouse for two. Served with a side of Luger’s house steak sauce and crisp German-style potatoes, it’s a carnivore’s dream.
Why visit? Old-school service, wood-paneled charm, and steaks that melt in your mouth—this is New York steak at its finest.
4. Carbone
Location: Greenwich Village
Established: 2013
Famous Dish: Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
Carbone channels 1950s New York Italian glamour with red leather banquettes and tuxedoed waiters. The menu is full of elevated red-sauce classics, but the Spicy Rigatoni Vodka is the undeniable star. Creamy, spicy, and impossibly satisfying.
Why visit? It’s vintage New York meets modern luxury—and the pasta is truly unforgettable.
5. Russ & Daughters Café
Location: Lower East Side
Established: 2014 (shop since 1914)
Famous Dish: Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese
What began as a smoked fish shop over a century ago now includes a charming café. Russ & Daughters is beloved for its hand-sliced smoked salmon, silky cream cheese, and fresh bagels. It’s the perfect place for a classic New York brunch.
Why visit? Jewish comfort food done to perfection, in a beautifully nostalgic setting.
6. Eleven Madison Park
Location: Flatiron District
Established: 1998
Famous Dish: Plant-based tasting menu
One of the few restaurants to hold a spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Eleven Madison Park recently transformed its entire menu to be 100% plant-based. Chef Daniel Humm delivers a fine dining experience that is innovative, elegant, and thought-provoking.
Why visit? For a luxury tasting experience that challenges your expectations of what plant-based cuisine can be.
7. Sylvia’s Restaurant
Location: Harlem
Established: 1962
Famous Dish: Chicken and Waffles
Founded by the “Queen of Soul Food,” Sylvia Woods, this Harlem favorite has been dishing out comforting Southern classics for generations. The chicken is crispy and tender, the waffles are warm and fluffy, and the vibe is always welcoming.
Why visit? Soul food with soul—it’s flavorful, filling, and rich with cultural heritage.
8. Momofuku Noodle Bar
Location: East Village
Established: 2004
Famous Dish: Pork Belly Ramen
David Chang’s original Momofuku location kickstarted a new wave of casual fine dining. The Pork Belly Ramen, with rich broth, silky noodles, and tender meat, remains the ultimate comfort food with a modern twist.
Why visit? Trendy, bold, and flavor-forward—it’s a taste of modern New York culinary creativity.
9. Balthazar
Location: SoHo
Established: 1997
Famous Dish: Steak Frites
This bustling French brasserie is where New Yorkers go to feel like Parisians. Balthazar offers everything from oysters and escargot to duck confit and their ultra-popular steak frites. The bakery next door is also top-tier.
Why visit? Classic French elegance and bustling city charm wrapped into one beloved eatery.
10. The Halal Guys
Location: Midtown
Established: 1990 (as a food cart)
Famous Dish: Chicken and Gyro Platter
Originally a street cart, The Halal Guys turned simple halal food into a global phenomenon. Their famous platter of chicken and beef gyro over rice, topped with pita and the signature white sauce, hits the spot day or night.
Why visit? It’s affordable, fast, and full of flavor—a New York street food staple that delivers every time.
Conclusion: Where to Start Your Culinary Journey
New York City isn’t just a place—it’s a feast. Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale tasting menu or a grab-and-go gyro, these restaurants represent the heart and soul of NYC’s dining culture. Every bite tells a story, and every visit is a chance to savor something iconic.
So bring your appetite and start checking these legendary restaurants off your list. Your taste buds will thank you.