584 Best Restaurants in New York City, New York

The modern Austrian menu at Kurt Gutenbrunner's lovely, light-filled, neighborhood restaurant has a strong emphasis on Austrian tradition and urban New York attitude. It's hard to argue with such dishes as Wiener schnitzel with potato-cucumber salad and lingonberries or venison goulash with spaetzle and Brussels sprouts, and the fare is often lighter than you'd think Austrian food would be. Desserts do Vienna proud: apple-walnut strudel is served with apple sorbet. The atmosphere is casual but sophisticated—perfect for either a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This buzzy bistro has a menu of upscale comfort food, a comely crowd, and diffused lighting that gives the space an aura of old fashioned glamor. Stop in for a cocktail after a day in Fort Greene Park, or come for a seasonal repast courtesy of Walter's raw bar, market-fresh veggies, and satisfying main dishes—including the popular 7 ounce signature burger.

Since 1946, this classic bakery has been satisfying the UES sweet tooth with traditional black-and-white cookies, fresh berry tarts, special occasion cakes, and more. Try to avoid midafternoon, when parents and nannies line up with kids from nearby P.S. 6 for after-school treats. Sidewalk seating is limited. A satellite location is open in Hudson Yards.

Taiwan's independence from China may be up for political debate, but there's no doubt that its cuisine stands on its own—and that fare shines at Win Son. Popular dinner menu items include danzi mian (a noodle soup with pork and prawns) and "fly’s head," a mix of minced pork and chili. Brunch favorites include dan bing (a Taiwanese crepe with eggs). The no-reservations policy for parties under six translates to long wait times, so arrive before opening (11 am weekend brunch, 5:30 pm dinner)—or kill time waiting at Win Son Bakery across the street.

A destination for those who know and love food and celebrate diversity, Yatenga serves traditional French bistro fare. With menu items prepared by a star chef and served by genuinely welcoming wait staff, this rustic-chic eatery is perfect for happy hour or dinner. For your main, the chef Gambas special (made with creamy macaroni bechamel, garlic sauce, and large shrimp) or the steak sandwich are sure to delight. Pair either with the signature Yatenga cocktail. Then after your meal, head next door for live entertainment at Shrine.

It doesn't get more old-school than this tiny café that's been serving fresh knishes—the hearty, hand-sized Eastern European pastry—since 1910. You can't go wrong with classic versions filled with potato or kasha (buckwheat) but there are also creative interpretations, with jalapeño and cheddar or garlic and onion, as well as sweet versions like blueberry and cheese.

Don't expect smoked fish sliced to order or the full smorgasbord of items that are sold beyond the appetizing counter in the legendary gourmet food shop next door. What you get here is a fast-track Zabar's taste experience to take out or to eat at small tables, for breakfast or lunch. Choose from prewrapped bagels and lox (smoked salmon) and cream cheese, a selection of sandwiches and grilled-to-order paninis, pastries, soups, and, of course cups of hot coffee, all made with items from the nearby shop.

With painted murals, bricked archways, and seating on two floors, Zero Otto Nove's original location channels motifs from a Tuscan grotto, even though their cuisine leans toward central and southern Italy, in addition to Italian-American classics. Try a wood-oven-fired pizza, or pasta dishes, including mafalde noodles with broccoli rabe, and rigatoni with butternut square puree and porcini mushrooms. There's another outpost in the Flatiron District.

With an emphasis on presentation, the dishes at Zuma are authentically Japanese yet not bound by tradition, and designed to be shared at the table. You can choose sushi or items prepared on the robata grill, or, should you arrive on an empty stomach and with an adventurous spirit, go big—try the signature omakase ($135), with the chef's choice of multiple dishes such as grilled scallops with pickled plum and shiso (an herb). Sip on a raspberry and passion fruit martini, or try a Japanese beer. For dessert, the Zuma deluxe platter with molten lava cake and exotic fruit won’t disappoint. Expect bold, intense flavors, and exceptional service in a restaurant where the dress of your fellow diners may be as trendy as the food.