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Ready to take a bite out of New York? Hope you've come hungry. In a city where creativity is expressed in innumerable ways, the food scene takes center stage, with literally thousands of chances to taste what Gotham is all about. Whether lining up at street stands, gobbling down legendary deli and diner grub, or chasing a coveted reservation at the latest celebrity-chef venue, New Yorkers are a demanding yet appreciative audience.
Every neighborhood offers temptations high, low, and in between, meaning there's truly something for every taste, whim, and budget. No matter how you approach dining out here, it's hard to go wrong. Planning a day of shopping among the glittering flagship boutiques along 5th and Madison Avenues? Stop into one of the Upper East Side's storied restaurants for a repast among the "ladies who lunch." Clubbing in the Meatpacking District? Tuck into a meal at eateries as trendy as their patrons. Craving authentic ethnic? From food trucks to hidden joints, there are almost more choices than there are appetites. Recent years have also seen entire food categories, from ramen to meatballs to mac 'n' cheese, riffed upon and fetishized, and at many restaurants you find an almost religious reverence for seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.
And don't forget—New York is still home to more celebrity chefs than any other city. Your chances of running into your favorite cookbook author, Food Network celeb, or paparazzi-friendly chef are high, adding even more star wattage to a restaurant scene with an already through-the-roof glamour quotient. Newfound economic realities, however, have revived appreciation for value, meaning you can tap into wallet-friendly choices at every level of the food chain. Rest assured, this city does its part to satisfy your appetite. Ready, set, eat.
Entering this restaurant is like walking into the dressy stateroom of a modern luxury ocean liner, a perfect setting for some of the most vivid and delicious seafood in town. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out north and west, and the arrestingly designed raw bar backed with Mediterranean-hue ceramics serves stunningly fresh choices including gorgeous oysters. Expect to find a contemporary menu with enticing appetizers, whole fish, live Maine lobsters, and an impressive vegetarian section.
"Handsome" is the keyword for this steak house, inspired by classic New York City butcher shops in its use of stainless steel and white marble, as well as its prime cuts. Sit at the bar to peruse the extensive menu of wines and single-malt scotches, or sip a classic martini among the suited expense-account crowd; then retire to the dining room for memorable fare including fresh seafood and sophisticated riffs on classics like filet mignon and prime rib. The grilled bacon, peanut butter, and jalapeño starter is a must for any first-timer. The wine list emphasizes the big, bold reds that perfectly accompany succulent steaks, and the bar pours a few favorite cocktails on tap, including the Quality Mule and Spicy Margarita.
Head to this Broadway institution to drink in vintage Midtown Manhattan at the compact front bar room or to experience the classic dining room and its reliable Italian and American dishes. Enjoy Sardi's famous wall decor, too: framed caricatures of theater, film, music, and TV stars past and present. Supper and à la carte menus work well for pre- and posttheater dining, each listing plenty of meat and seafood as well as some vegetarian choices and daily specials.
The bi-level eatery at this bustling Mexican cantina just off Broadway has a festive vibe, with several seating options: bar, balcony, main dining room, and ceviche bar. Foodies flock here for three types of guacamole (traditional, fruited, and spicy), well-executed ceviches, Mexico City–style tacos with Negra Modelo–braised brisket, and quesadillas with black truffle and huitlacoche (a corn fungus known as “the Mexican truffle”). There's an extensive tequila selection—upward of 100 brands. Another Toloache location is on the Upper East Side. Reservations are recommended, especially around pretheater dinner time.
Located near MoMA and Central Park, Wagamama is a beloved London import that prizes simple, nourishing Japanese fare built on authentic flavors. Ramen, stir-fried noodles, rice dishes, and an enticing selection of shareable appetizers are filling and reliably delicious. Fresh juices are tasty on their own, or as ingredients in zingy cocktails. The large dining room (with long bench tables or booths) is a welcome escape, as are the outdoor terrace and roomy bar serving excellent weekday happy hour deals on sake, wine, and small bites.
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