The 100 Best Restaurants in Lower Manhattan

04/25/2023 in
The 100 Best Restaurants in Lower Manhattan

Here they are! The 100 best restaurants in Lower Manhattan — well, at least, these are 100 restaurants in Lower Manhattan. You see, the Downtown Alliance believes all the places that reside across our dining landscape are excellent each in their own way and warrant as many repeat visits as one can handle. But some people enjoy ranking things, and far be it from us to keep our eateries from getting the shine they deserve.

These restaurants run the gamut from sidewalk shacks to Michelin-starred brasseries, with every conceivable cuisine imaginable from one menu to the next. We’ve got high-end cocktail bars and Revolutionary-era taverns, cobblestoned dining patios and sky-high vistas, decades-old diners and celebrated newcomers. Have a look at our forest — and if you happen to be the New York Times’ restaurant critic, come pay us another visit.

American

Behind the scenes at Temple Court inside the Beekman Hotel (5 Beekman St.).
  1. The Bar Room at the Beekman

The brunch menu is especially the thing to do here: Every Saturday and Sunday, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., you can score top dishes such as brioche French toast, smoked whitefish benedict and duck confit hash inside Tom Colicchio’s ritzy haunt. Keep an eye out for Colicchio’s signature Wagyu burger as well, with black truffle pecorino and crispy fingerling potatoes.  

  1. Church & Dey

This American brasserie offers an eclectic menu featuring regional cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The restaurant is located on the third floor of the Millennium hotel and boasts dramatic views of the World Trade Center site. (55 Church St., 3rd floor)

  1. Crown Shy

The Michelin-starred Crown Shy, helmed by Chef James Kent, is a fine-dining destination, serving up seasonal American fare inside an elegant, 16-foot-ceiling space in Art Deco gem 70 Pine. Reservations are recommended. (70 Pine St.)

  1. Fraunces Tavern

Fraunces Tavern shares its home with the historic Fraunces Tavern Museum and features Irish food with a new American flare. The signature Porterhouse steak, chops and seafood are staples on the menu. Music fans can enjoy the upstairs piano bar and live music on weekends. (54 Pearl St.)

  1. Industry Kitchen

With a chic, industrial atmosphere and floor-to- ceiling windows, this eatery is steps away from the water’s edge and affords epic views of the Brooklyn Bridge. The modern American cuisine is complemented by craft beers and signature cocktails. (70 South St.)

  1. Malibu Farm 

Diners can enjoy farm-to-table Southern Californian dishes shaped by a straightforward philosophy at this friendly Pier 17 spot. While not strictly vegetarian, diners will find dishes on both the all-day and brunch menus that are largely driven by whole grains, veggies and fruits. (89 South St., Pier 17)

  1. The Malt House

This sleek, modern tavern pairs classic American fare with craft beers (they also serve wine and cocktails). Based on locally sourced ingredients, the robust menu includes Buttermilk Bites, grilled steak sandwiches, pasta dishes and zucchini fries. (9 Maiden Ln.)

  1. Manhatta

Perched 60 floors up, Manhatta is the party you’ll want to return to night after night with its deep collection of international wines and spirits and a relaxed dinner menu set in the heart of Lower Manhattan. (28 Liberty St., 60th floor)

  1. ONE Dine

It should go without saying that the restaurant atop New York’s tallest building has impeccable views, but let’s say it again: the view at ONE Dine is outstanding. You can opt for all-inclusive dinner and lunch packages, along with group reservations and a la carte dining; menu items include steaks, burgers, fish entrees and a hefty collection of salads, to name a few. (117 West St. at One World Observatory)

  1. Overstory 

Located above celebrated newcomer SAGA, this elegant cocktail bar offers delicately crafted drinks. Pair your libation with incredible views of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. (70 Pine St., 64th floor)

  1. SAGA 

Crown Shy’s James Kent and Jeff Katz bring fine dining to the top of Art Deco masterpiece 70 Pine. Come for the sensational multicourse seasonal tasting menu, stay for the exquisite views of Manhattan. (70 Pine St., 63rd floor)

  1. Stout NYC FiDi

You’ll find all the signature Stout NYC favorites at their Lower Manhattan outpost. Office workers enjoy dropping in for lunch or after-work drinks, plus they’ve got bottomless brunch on the weekends. (90 John St.)

  1. Temple Court

A major highlight of Tom Colicchio’s Temple Court is its location — a stunning 1883 landmark building, complete with a nine-level atrium and a pyramid skylight. Take in your surroundings and dine on a menu of classic American dishes like stuffed rabbit loin and New York strip steak made with seasonal, straight-from-the-farm ingredients. (5 Beekman St. at the Beekman Hotel)

  1. Treadwell Park

The downtown iteration of this casual beer spot boasts a lengthy rotating selection of craft and import brews, along with bar bites, burgers and other classic American fare. (301 South End Ave.)

  1. Trinity Place Bar & Restaurant 

Set in a former bank vault, Trinity Place offers patrons the opportunity to dine next to 35-ton vault doors dating back to 1904. With a variety of updated American and continental favorites, this establishment is a draw for both tourists and locals. (115 Broadway)

  1. The View at Battery Park

Formally known as the Battery Gardens Restaurant, this waterfront spot is conveniently located between the SeaGlass Carousel and the Staten Island Ferry’s Whitehall Terminal. Its two-floor space offers commanding views of New York Harbor, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, or you can enjoy your meal or a drink at their separate outdoor bar and beer garden featuring craft beers. (1 Battery Pl.)

Barbecue 

At Blue Smoke (255 Vesey St.), the time for Texas beef brisket is always right now.
  1. Blue Smoke

Barbecue joint Blue Smoke is steeped in the culinary traditions of the American South — so many mouth-watering dishes to choose from. (255 Vesey St. at Brookfield Place)

  1. Route 66 Smokehouse 

With a nod to “the Mother Road,” Route 66 Smokehouse serves up delicious BBQ made sweeter by an impressive all-American whiskey list and a 20-tap lineup of American craft beers. (79 Pearl St.)

Cafes/Coffee Shops 

Wattle Cafe’s (19 Rector St.) brunch awaits.
  1. Hole in the Wall

This culinary oasis offers an ever-changing menu that’s influenced by in-season ingredients — and that extends far beyond your average avocado toast! It’s the perfect location to conduct a power lunch or to enjoy a weekend brunch. (15 Cliff St.)

  1. Wattle Cafe

Wattle Cafe is owned by Australia native Ana Ivkosic, who has kept this lovely independent spot going and going. Try their superfood waffles with a cup of any of their first-rate coffee blends. (19 Rector St.)

Chinese

The spicy cumin lamb hand-ripped noodles might be Xi’an’s (8 Liberty Pl.) most celebrated dish.
  1. House of the Red Pearl

Surreptitiously located behind an Asian boutique at Jean-Georges’ Tin Building, this clandestine curtain- covered fine dining restaurant serves the famed chef’s take on Chinese-inspired dishes. Retro decor, including velvet-upholstered banquettes and booths, rounds out the restaurant’s campy, yet elevated vibe. (96 South St. at the Tin Building)

  1. No. 1 Chinese Restaurant

This area staple serves up traditional Chinese dishes at affordable prices for both a takeout and eat-in crowd. (10 South William St.)

  1. St. George Tavern

Located in a former Syrian Catholic Church built in 1812, this sizable restaurant has two floors, two bars and even two menus. One menu features traditional American fare including burgers, steaks and wings, while the other menu is under the name Jiangnan Chinese Cuisine and offers spicy Shanghai-inspired cuisine. (103 Washington St.)

  1. Xi’an Famous Foods

Xi’an calls itself “famous for a reason,” and the reason is its tantalizingly saucy, irresistibly tasty menu of dumplings, noodles and salads that have attracted an almost cult-like following. Pro-tip: do it properly and order everything actually spicy, but don’t wear a white shirt when you eat it, because you’re going to want to slurp that sauce. (8 Liberty Pl.)

  1. Yip’s

The walkup noodle buffet serves generous portions of classics like spicy garlic chicken, fried chicken wings, wonton soup and teriyaki shrimp. And the budget-conscious will be happy to know that it’s possible to leave here with a steaming plate of two entrees — served with rice or lo mein — plus a side order for less than $15 altogether. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (18 Beaver St.) 

Cuban

  1. Havana Social

Restaurant and bar Havana Social brings a slice of Cuba to Stone Street, offering a menu full of Cuban specialties and delicacies. Dig into tostones, ceviches, hefty meat-and-seafood entrees paired with rice and beans, Cubano sandwiches and a list of classic desserts (including churros). Wash your meal down with mojitos, margaritas and other cocktails, with beer and wine available as well. Havana Social has an impressive outdoor seating area in addition to a festive indoor space, so you can dine al fresco in the warmer months. (21 South William St.)

Delis

West Bank Gourmet’s (21 West St.) reliably reliable Philly cheesesteak will not disappoint.
  1. The Little Shop

This unassuming bodega at the Seaport has all the bottles of soy sauce and olive oil, the packs of chips and dried pasta, your little heart desires. And so much more: Behind a sliding door in the back isn’t a storage room. At 5 p.m. the space opens up into a candle-lit bar, serving up all types of delicious concoctions in cut-glass tumblers to friends and neighbors safely hidden away from public view. It was almost tempting to keep this little gem to ourselves.

  1. West Bank Gourmet

Sandwiches named after celebrities are a New York tradition, but few do it as well as West Bank Gourmet (21 West Street). Sometimes they also cost nearly $20, but not here. The low-key shop and deli counter really delivers when it comes to sandwiches options, offering hot and cold delights for a workday lunch or a to-go treat for taking to one of the nearby parks, all at a great value.  

Diners

  1. George’s

This seven-decade-old Lower Manhattan staple was rebuilt and expanded after its original location was destroyed in the September 11th attacks, and it’s still a local go-to. Known for its big portions and friendly staff, George’s offers a substantial menu bursting with variety — from waffles to triple-decker club sandwiches to half-pound burgers to a dizzying array of omelets. (89 Greenwich St.)

  1. Pearl Street Diner

This 50-plus-year-old diner specializes in the classics: burgers, breakfasts, soups and more. Friendly staff, hearty grub and — most importantly! — strong coffee have earned Pearl many regular customers over the years. (212 Pearl St.)

  1. Squires Diner

If you’re looking for an old-school diner situation, Squires dishes up all the classics, with omelets, pancakes, burgers and more on the menu. (80 Beekman St.)

French

La Parisienne (9 Maiden Ln.) favorites include a savory burrata, among several other staples inside this hidden gem.
  1. L’Appart

L’Appart is a unique take on fine dining, offering the personal experience of an intimate dinner party at a chef’s apartment with only 28 seats. Executive Chef Nicolas “Nico” Abello serves a French-inspired menu that changes daily to embrace market availability and seasonality, ensuring no two visits are alike. This intimate upscale spot is located inside Brookfield Place’s Le District and requires reservations. (225 Liberty St.)

  1. La Marchande

This French restaurant and brasserie is helmed by Michelin-starred chef John Fraser, and offers diners an upscale, yet modern experience. Oysters and seafood towers round out elevated meat and fish dishes, plus there’s a hefty cocktail, wine and champagne list if you’re looking to pair your meal with something sparkly. (88 Wall St., Wall Street Hotel)

  1. La Parisienne Cafe

Run by husband/wife team Adrian and Julie Bruyère, La Parisienne serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. The menu is irresistible — favorites include a savory burrata, rich brioche French toast, their staple croque madame, avocado toast (a morning-commuter standby) and a sweet and creamy Paris-Brest. (9 Maiden Ln.)

  1. Le Gratin

Chef Daniel Boulud’s new spot, Le Gratin, debuted at the Beekman in May 2022. Inspired by the lively ambiance and warm service of the bouchons and bistros in Boulud’s hometown of Lyon, the casual eatery was named after memories of his mother’s gratin recipes, as well as the classics that he learned to make early in his career. (5 Beekman St.)

  1. Liberty Bistro

This modern brasserie serves up French cuisine and cocktails on the waterfront. Offering ample outdoor seating in the summer and partially enclosed heated seating in the winter, this patio treats diners to amazing sunset views on the Hudson year-round. (Le District at Brookfield Place)

  1. The Paris Cafe

Many bars and restaurants claim to be historic, but The Paris Cafe is the real deal. Established in 1873, this Seaport staple has hosted everyone from Teddy Roosevelt to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Despite the name, their menu boasts American classics, including fresh seafood, steaks and burgers. (119 South St.)

Greek

The Anassa Taverna (102 North End Ave.) raw bar includes oysters, clams, shrimp and whole fresh fish by the pound.
  1. Anassa Taverna

This Greek eatery is named after “Anassa,” the title bestowed upon the ancient Greek queen of the Mediterranean. Aptly, it strives to curate meals fit for royalty, serving up classic Mediterranean fish and meat dishes in a festive space. They’ve also got a long list of specialty cocktails and plenty of beer and wine options. (102 North End Ave.)

  1. Selene

Newcomer Selene pairs its elegant, open-format space with a menu stocked with highlights from the Greek Islands. The restaurant focuses on fresh fish, seafood, pasta and meat dishes, with highlights including charred octopus, seafood orzo, chicken souvlaki and seared scallops. A $29.95 lunch prix fixe menu, as well as a hefty drinks and takeout menu, round out the dinner options. (11 Hanover Sq.)

  1. Skinos Mediterranean

Attached to the Washington NYC Hotel, Skinos serves Mediterranean-inspired fare in a magnificent two-level space. Pair classic Greek dishes with one or three of their creative cocktails and take in their funky decor, which comes complete with vibrant color-changing lights. (123 Washington St.)

Indian

The boys at Benares (45 Murray St.) are committed to authentic home-cooking — no dabbling in Indian-fusion cuisine here.
  1. Aahar Indian Cuisine

This sleek, atmospheric eatery specializes in North Indian cuisine, with classic dishes like chicken tikka masala, lamb vindaloo and chicken biryani on the menu. (10 Murray St.)

  1. Benares

The chefs at Benares come from different regions of India, making it a bit of a culinary melting pot. That’s certainly to our benefit — tasty dishes include lamb vindaloo and eggplant curry, and you can dine in for lunch. (45 Murray St.)

  1. Mughlai Indian Cuisine

Manhattan chainlet Mughlai Indian Cuisine serves authentic modern Indian food, with options ranging from signature biryani dishes to standbys like chicken tikka masala and saag paneer. (120 Cedar St.)

  1. Raj’s Indian Kitchen

Classic Indian cuisine for dine in or take out, open for both lunch and dinner. (53 Nassau St.)

  1. Tagmo

An intimate Indian restaurant, bar and sweets shop by chef Surbhi Sahni, Tagmo serves plant-forward regional cuisine from across India, the kind rarely found outside of home kitchens. (226 Front St.)

Italian

  1. Antica Ristorante

Formerly known as Ancora, this elegant and popular Italian restaurant offers friendly service along with exquisite pasta dishes, antipasti and more amid a charming atmosphere. (8 Stone St.)

  1. Barbalu

Described by diners as a “hidden gem,” this rustic, cozy eatery in the Seaport delivers with authentic Italian cuisine. The menu brims with tasty options, including rigatoni alla norma and fried chicken breast alla Milanese. (225-227 Front St.)

  1. Carne Mare

Helmed by Chef Andrew Carmellini, this Seaport spot offers diners prime cuts of steak, fine seafood and Italian specialties, in addition to striking views of the Manhattan waterfront and the Brooklyn Bridge. (89 South St., Pier 17)

  1. Da Claudio

White-tiled Italian spot Da Claudio has a great cocktail list, small plates to share and a full-service dining menu featuring locally sourced and imported ingredients. Their fresh homemade pasta is a highlight, though they have gluten-free and whole wheat alternatives as well. (21 Ann St.)

  1. Etrusca

Newcomer Etrusca offers tasty pastas and delectable secondi courtesy of chef Elisa da Prato, formerly of Bushwick meadery Honey’s. Da Prato is known for incorporating ancient Roman techniques into her cooking, so you can expect some unique twists on Italian classics, in addition to a hefty wine list. (53 Stone St.)

  1. Felice 15 Gold

Located in Gild Hall, this chic restaurant and wine bar offers authentic Tuscan fare and an extensive wine list. (15 Gold St.)

  1. Firenze Ristorante Toscano & Bar

Eataly’s stylish Firenze Ristorante offers authentic Tuscan cuisine along with cocktails and regional wines amid a Florentine-style decor. Pastas and meat dishes round out the menu, plus you’ll find an impressive list of martini drinks. The restaurant is open Tuesdays through Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Eataly Downtown at 4 World Trade Center)

  1. The Frenchman’s Dough

A French take on an Italian restaurant, the Frenchman’s Dough serves freshly made artisanal pizzas and pastas as part of Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s new culinary market. (96 South St. at the Tin Building)

  1. Giardino D’oro

Giardino D’Oro offers an intimate setting for an Italian meal downtown. The pastas are all homemade right on premises, and the wine collection is among the oldest in the city. (5 Gold St.)

  1. Gran Morsi

Named after the Italian word for “bites,” this airy, elegant and friendly trattoria serves bold-flavored, simple dishes. Highlights include the popular Polpette meatballs and a selection of pizzas and pastas. (22 Warren St.)

  1. Il Brigante

With exposed brick walls and a relaxed, welcoming ambience, this rustic Italian trattoria specializes in the authentic regional cuisine of Calabria. The antipasto platters, pasta dishes and seafood specialties feature simple, fresh flavors and unique regional twists. (214 Front St.)

  1. Joseph’s

This cozy, family-oriented restaurant boasts northern Italian cuisine, much of it prepared tableside. It’s known for its hearty portions and is a favorite spot for business lunches. (3 Hanover Sq.)

  1. Kesté Pizza & Vino

This intimate Italian eatery serves up a handsome array of creative and traditional brick-oven pizzas, with toppings running the gamut from classic red sauce and cheese to truffles, meats and even pistachios. (66 Gold St.)

  1. La Pizza & La Pasta

Enjoy Neapolitan pizzas and delectable pasta dishes held to perfect Eataly standards, and pair your meal with a glass of Italian wine. (Eataly Downtown at Westfield World Trade Center)

  1. Osteria del Porto

Cozy Italian wine bar Osteria del Porto presents a fresh approach to the familiar landscape of Italian wine and cuisine. A lengthy pasta list includes standbys like cacio e pepe and linguine alle vongole. (212 Front St.)

  1. Pisillo

The little panini shop that could has all the salty cured meats for all your favorite Italian-combo sandwiches. And they also boast six vegetarian sandwiches. The Campobasso is especially astounding: artichokes marinated into soft, garlicky submission and paired with slabs of smoked mozzarella. (97 Nassau St.) 

  1. Sant Ambroeus

Milanese espresso and cappuccino bar Sant Ambroeus serves up tasty coffees in addition to cornetti, gelato and homemade cakes and cookies. (Brookfield Place)

Japanese

The close quarters at Kuu (20 John St.) get cramped fast, not that anyone minds.
  1. Icca

Michelin star-awarded Sushi Chef Kazushige Suzuki and his team serve up a seasonal and innovative Omakase menu at this Warren Street spot, with fresh beef, fish and produce flown in from Japanese markets. Sit at the Omakase bar and get treated to a meal crafted by Chef Kazu himself; an extensive cocktail and sake list complements the feast. (20 Warren St.)

  1. Kuu Ramen

The charming shoebox of an outpost served downtown throughout the height of Covid, and continues to ladle up savory broth to hungry neighbors. Offerings include pork miso, Okinawa salt or spicy tonkotsu, as preferences for spice and meat naturally vary.

  1. Nobu 

Nobu is synonymous with upscale Japanese food, and it lives up to the rep at its downtown outpost located in the lobby of the Telephone and Telegraph Building. Come for the creative, contemporary twists on classic sushi dishes, stay to take in the impressive architectural detail of one of Lower Manhattan’s landmarked skyscrapers. (195 Broadway)

  1. SUteiShi 

SUteiShi offers diners a “dining fine” experience, i.e. fine dining in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. They’ve got creative options and unique sushi fusions in addition to the classics, plus a drinks menu with wine, beer and sake. (24 Peck Slip)

Korean

  1. GunBae

“Gunbae” means “cheers” in Korean, and this Murray Street BBQ restaurant sure gives Lower Manhattan diners something to cheer about. Skilled grillmasters will whip up mouthwatering dishes for you tableside, or you can grill your meal yourself — tasty bibimbap and hot pots are highlights here. (67 Murray St.)

  1. Momofuku Ssäm Bar

Led by Chef Eunjo Park, the downtown outpost of Momofuku Ssäm offers a mix of classic Ssäm Bar fare (think pork belly buns and spicy rice cakes) and specialty Korean dishes like a haute cuisine Bo Ssäm roasted pork shoulder. Head upstairs after dinner to enjoy a nightcap and sing the night away in the venue’s karaoke rooms. (89 South St., Pier 17)

Latin

  1. Carmen’s Kitchen 

If you’ve noticed long lunchtime lines forming outside on an unassuming storefront on Nassau Street, you’ve probably stumbled upon Carmen’s Kitchen. Since its downtown debut, Carmen’s has netted a cult following among Lower Manhattan lunchers, and for good reason — it serves up tasty chicken, fish, beef and pork dishes along with a slew of sides, all for under $15. (72 Nassau St.)

  1. Ruben’s Empanadas

As the name suggests, this Argentinian eatery offers up fresh, cheap and tasty empanadas from an unassuming storefront. (77 Pearl St.)

Mediterranean

  1. ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant

You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy this Mediterranean restaurant, situated in the center of the Conrad New York Hotel’s 15-story lobby. ATRIO’s specialties include stone-fired pizzas, a lengthy wine list and rich desserts. (103 North End Ave.)

  1. Mezze on the River

Diners at this Battery Park eatery will experience a fresh take on Greek and seafood dishes, courtesy of Executive Chef Antelmo Ambrosio. Shareable mezze plates and tasty seafood entrees complement Mezze’s picturesque seasonal cocktails. You can also take in gorgeous views of the Hudson River, thanks to the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows and two outdoor terraces. (375 South End Ave.)

  1. Schilling Restaurant & Bar 

This casual but stylish restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Eduard Frauneder puts its emphasis squarely on the food. Their menu, a coherent blend of Mediterranean and Austrian dishes, features classics like wiener schnitzel and spatzle along with burgers and a tasty chicken sandwich. For dessert, the strudel can’t be beat. (109 Washington St.)

  1. Warren Peace

Once home to sports bar Warren 77, the retail space at 77 Warren is now Warren Peace, a funky bar and restaurant with a low-key, yet lively vibe. Patrons can enjoy small bites like duck fat parm- garlic fries and tuna carpaccio, or opt for mains like a black-and-blue burger or a mushroom steak. Specialty cocktails with fun names like “Barking at the Moon” and “Wintery Choco Old Fashioned” are also on the menu, as well as wines, beers and spirits. (77 Warren St.)

Mexican

We’re all about the jazzy, roadside-inspired dishes at El Vez (258 Vesey St.)
  1. El Vez

This casual yet contemporary Mexican-American eatery, helmed by restaurateur Stephen Starr, offers an exciting fusion of Mexican and Mexican-American culture. The 300-seat restaurant also has outdoor seating, a large bar, a photo booth and a burrito bar for food on the go. (258 Vesey St.)

  1. Mezcali 

The brainchild of two best friends from Southern California, this picturesque Cali-Mex restaurant features a mix of classic burritos, tacos and quesadillas, in addition to an extensive and creative cocktail list. (83 Maiden Ln.)

  1. Toro Loco

Toro Loco’s funky, Instagram-friendly decor pairs expertly with its upscale Mexican dishes and feisty cocktails. Tacos and tequila drinks are the stars here, in addition to burritos, sandwiches and more. (15 Stone St.)

Middle Eastern

  1. Farida

Offering up an impressive list of Uzbek, Kazakh, Uyghur and Tadjik cuisines, this halal eatery has a long list of pilafs, skewered meats and platters for hungry Lower Manhattan diners. They’ve also got a list of Central Asian wines and funky Eastern decor. (32 Cedar St.)

Pizza

  1. Adrienne’s Pizzabar 

Father-and-son restaurateurs Harry and Peter Poulakakos have teamed up with pizza-maker Nick Angelis to present gourmet Italian specialties in a relaxed setting. The menu offers a variety of casual Italian dishes, including the house specialty — grandma-style pizza. (54 Stone St.)

  1. Inatteso

Meaning “unexpected” in Italian, upscale pizza bar Inatteso plays with regional fare, offering northern Italian dishes with Sicilian influences. (28 West St.)

  1. Sauce & Barrel

The intimate yet casual two floors serves up handmade pizza, pasta, and small plates to share. (97 Washington St.)

Puerto Rican

At Que Chevere (100 Pearl St.), start off with a basket of chips — then move on to the pollo asado.
  1. Que Chevere 

Que Chevere offers PR classics, like pernil, arroz con gandules and mofongo, from the shores of the Lower East Side. (100 Pearl St. at Urbanspace)

Seafood

Seamore’s (250 Vesey St.) serves up fish-shack classics made with hyperlocal, sustainable seafood.
  1. Dorlan’s Tavern & Oyster Bar

Slurp oysters with a cold pint and a heaping side of history at Dorlan’s Tavern & Oyster Bar. The extensive menu offers fish and chips, burgers, chicken tenders, tacos and more. (213 Front St.)

  1. The Fulton

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten brought his signature haute cuisine to the Seaport in 2020, serving up fresh seafood dishes like warm octopus and mozzarella, salmon soaked in brown butter and yellowfin tuna tartare in an upscale, yet inviting space. This dining experience is perfectly paired with a stunning view of the Brooklyn Bridge. (89 South St., Pier 17)

  1. Fulton Fish Co.

Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten brought his signature haute cuisine to the Seaport in 2020, serving up fresh seafood dishes like warm octopus and mozzarella, salmon soaked in brown butter and yellowfin tuna tartare in an upscale, yet inviting space. This dining experience is perfectly paired with a stunning view of the Brooklyn Bridge. (96 South St. at the Tin Building)

  1. Miramar 

A family-owned and -operated Mediterranean seafood restaurant, Miramar offers an upscale menu paired with a waterfront view. Enjoy dishes like Mediterranean Grilled Jumbo Shrimp and Tilapia Almondine under the watchful eye of Lady Liberty, whom patrons will be able to spot from their tables. (21 South End Ave.)

  1. Seamore’s

Fans of good seafood flock to Seamore’s, which serves up 100 percent sustainable, locally sourced ocean fare at accessible price points. Menu items include poke, mussels, fish tacos, sandwiches, burgers and simple seared fish dishes paired with daily sides and a selection of delicious salads. (250 Vesey St.)

Southwestern

  1. Cowgirl SeaHorse

A funky and popular Tex-Mex spot, Cowgirl Seahorse menu is a fun mix of southern and southwestern dishes as well as comfort seafood dishes. It offers an eclectic, whimsical spirit in both the decor, which includes deer antler chandeliers, and its food. (259 Front St.)

Spanish

The Gran Via (57 Stone St.) mussels are served with alioli, espinaler sauce, celery and a wedge of lemon.
  1. Gran Via

The neighborhood’s only tapas bar serves pinchos, tapas, Spanish Wine, beer and refrescos. (57 Stone St.)

Steakhouse

  1. Brooklyn Chop House

The perfect combination of Asian and steakhouse fare for those who want something truly unique: Treat yourself to a night out with their French onion soup dumplings, array of satays, flavorful dry-aged rib eye steak and hearty salads. (144 Nassau St.)

  1. CUT by Wolfgang Puck

As one would expect from celebrated chef Wolfgang Puck, CUT, located in the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown, offers nothing but the best steak cuts and signature dishes, with rib-eye steaks, sirloins and filet mignons among the options. There’s also private dining available for those looking for an extra-special experience. (99 Church St.)

  1. Harry’s

This Wall Street institution offers steaks, oysters and other American fare in an intimate wood- paneled space, one located in the basement of the historic India Club. Dine in one of the restaurant’s semi-secret nooks and pair your meal with a treat off their extensive wine list. (1 Hanover Sq.)

  1. MarkJoseph Steakhouse

This bustling steakhouse is heaven for carnivores, who come to devour huge steaks, grilled to perfection. (261 Water St.)

  1. Reserve Cut

Reserve Cut’s kosher Asian-French fusion dishes include more than 10 types of prime steak, all sourced from the butcher shop the Prime Cut and dry-aged in the restaurant’s private aging room. Sushi dishes, burgers and other non-steak treats are on the menu as well. (40 Broad St., 2nd floor)

  1. Wall Street Grill

Featuring fine dining with a kosher selection of prime steaks, sustainable fish and crafted cocktails, the restaurant offers two speeds: a relaxed meal in the posh dining room or a more upbeat setting in their rooftop atrium. (128 Pearl St.)

Sushi

  1. Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar

This casual eatery from the Bromberg brothers of Blue Ribbon fame offers expertly prepared traditional Japanese sushi and sashimi along with surf-and-turf grill classics. (84 William St.)

  1. Shikku 

At Shikku, diners are treated to a tasty menu comprising fresh and locally-sourced fish. The restaurant’s black-box design decor includes a 12-seat marble counter; at night, the restaurant transforms into an Izakaya, an informal Japanese bar where diners are invited to enjoy drinks and small snacks. (96 South St. at the Tin Building)

Thai

Tried and true fans of Thai will dig Lil Chef Mama’s (27 Cliff St.) five-spice noodles.
  1. Lil Chef Mama

Don’t let looks fool you: this neighborhood newcomer offers diners a cozy space that is enhanced by scrumptious Thai cuisine. If you’re looking to expand your palate, order one of Mama’s specials. From deep-fried squid (pla mu pad tua) to lightly breaded frog legs (ka kob), you’ll have your pick of unique and flavorful dishes you can’t find anywhere else in the neighborhood.  (27 Cliff St.)

Vietnamese

Vietspot’s (99 Nassau St.) blessed banh mi.
  1. Vietspot

This pho-nomenal grab-and-go offers classics including big bowls of pho to get you through the cold days, along with hearty banh mi sandwiches, vermicelli, dumplings and air-fried vegetable rolls. (99 Nassau St.) 

Vegan/Vegetarian

The Seeds & Weeds (96 South St.) celeriac katsu features fermented quince, mustard and shiso.
  1. Seeds & Weeds

Don’t let the name fool you, though; there are lots of hearty and filling options on the menu at the cozy, rustic new second floor spot inside Jean-Georges’s Tin Building. (96 South St.)

Tags: 100 best restaurants

Related articles

Chart a Course to the Bedford’s New Location on Stone Street
Chart a Course to the Bedford’s New Location on Stone Street

The Bedford has hopped across the East River to open a downtown location.

Hometown, Downtown: Where Sports Fans Root for Their Teams 
Hometown, Downtown: Where Sports Fans Root for Their Teams 

Where to root for everything from New York’s teams to Gaelic athletics.

The "Hidden Gem" Cocktail Bar That Everybody’s Talking About

Unlike the dense Russian historical fiction you Spark Notes-ed in college, you’ll want to take your time soaking up WarrenPeace’s hip and funky vibe.