The Ultimate List of the Best Restaurants in NYC

From Italian food at the mall to birria tacos, head to these NYC restaurants this summer.

Bad Roman
Bad Roman | Photo by Lanna Apisukh for Thrillist
Bad Roman | Photo by Lanna Apisukh for Thrillist

Summer is here, and after you’ve planned a city escape via public transportation, it’s time to book a table at one of the hottest new restaurants in town.

In addition to classics like old-school joints, bucket list foods, and places for omakase sushi or Italian food, there’s no shortage of food options around here. And alongside celebrated favorites like Eleven Madison Park, Momofuku Ssam Bar, and Gage & Tollner, exciting new hotspots continue to help maintain our city’s standing as one of the best dining destinations out there.

From the West Village and Crown Heights to Williamsburg and Chinatown, no matter your preferred ambiance, there’s an option for everyone on this list. Here are the 20 best new restaurants to eat at in NYC right now.

Bad Roman
Bad Roman | Photo by Lanna Apisukh for Thrillist

Bad Roman

Columbus Circle
$$$$

This latest stunner from Quality Branded—the restaurant group behind some of the city’s top spots (think Don Angie, Quality Eats, and Zou Zou’s)—has got all of the city abuzz. Located at The Shops at Columbus Circle and overlooking Central Park, Bad Roman serves up contemporary Italian dishes within a gorgeous and spacious dining room featuring playful design elements that are as fun as the creative menu. Signature dishes include starters like the Black Truffle Honey Whipped Ricotta and ‘Roni Cups & Ranch; as well as raw bar items, house-made pastas, seafood, and more. Pair it with innovative cocktails like the Tequila Granita (tequila, Calabrian honey, and habanero shaved ice).

Available for Reservations
Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi
Shawarma Roasted Chicken | Photo courtesy of Tatiana

Tatiana

Lincoln Center
$$$$

For the acclaimed restaurateur and author, Kwame Onwuachi, Tatiana marks the Bronx native’s first NYC restaurant. Named after his sister and helmed in collaboration with chef de cuisine Kamat Newman, the menu is rooted in flavors of Afro Caribbean cooking, the American South, and New York City. New menu items include the Andouille Sausage with Creole mustard; Cornbread & Cod with smoked jerk cod; Curried Snow Crab; and Shawarma Roasted Chicken with turmeric lamb rice. Dessert options like Strawberry Shortcake made with strawberry sorbet are a must.

Available for Reservations
Mesiba
Head-On Prawns at Mesiba | Photo by Liz Clayman

Mesiba

Williamsburg
$$$$

Located on the ground floor of the Moxy Brooklyn Williamsburg and as part of Bar Lab Hospitality (Broken Shaker), at Mesiba, chef Eli Bulli offers Eastern Mediterranean flavors of the Levant. The eye-catching dining room is spacious with high ceilings and plants, and features a cool design aesthetic that’s also showcased in the branded staff wardrobe. Dining here is all about shareable plates with signatures like Eli’s Baba Ganoush 2.0, Mushroom Shawarma, Charred Octopus, and the namesake mesiba in varieties like Lamb Neck.

Available for Reservations
Birria-Landia
Birria-Landia | Photo by Tae Yoon for Thrillist

Birria-Landia

Lower East Side
$$$$

Founded in Jackson Heights in 2019 by brothers José and Jesús Moreno—who’ve worked at spots like Lupa, Parm, and Del Posto—the food-truck empire of Birria-Landia is steadily taking over each NYC borough, with locations now in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan. The Lower East side set of wheels at the cross section of East Houston and First Avenue is the latest addition, and what you’re here for is the signature Birria, a Tijuana-style beef combo of brisket, shank, and top round that’s been cooked for 5 hours. It’s available in Tacos, Tostadas, and Mulita—all of which should be dipped in the Consome broth of the same Birria flavor.

The Wesley
Red Room at The Wesley | Photo by Eric Medsker

The Wesley

West Village
$$$$

At this gorgeous project helmed by chef Santiago Astudillo (Le Bernardin, Daniel), The Wesley’s vegetable-centric (and dairy-free) menu also offers a select number of stellar meat options. Within separate dining spaces with names like the Red Room or Blonde Room, go for signature seasonal and produce-driven plates such as the Mushroom Ceviche with coconut leche de tigre, Artichoke Pasta with saffron cashew cream, and Amish Chicken Roulade with Brazilian chili oil. For drinks, bar expert Gabriel Maldonado (Jean-Georges, Le Coucou) whips up house cocktails and zero-proof creations while the wine selection spotlights organic, vegan, and women-led producers.

Available for Reservations
Kru
KRU | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

KRU

Williamsburg
$$$$

Growing up in north central Thailand within a restaurant family had chef Ohm Suansilphong immersed in kitchens from an early age. And after stints that include Nahm (Bangkok) before eventually co-founding the NoHo favorite, Fish Cheeks—where he’s currently still a partner—Suansilphong has now teamed up with his wife, Kiki Supap, for KRU: a hotspot offering modern takes on old Thai recipes once designated for the country’s royal family. In a moody dining room, the incorporation of elements discovered in historical texts from the 19th century, in addition to an overall masterful command of Thai cuisine, make for an exciting meal here. Must-try dishes include the Cauliflower “PLA” with Scallop; “LON” with Crabmeat; “Kaeng Pa” Beef Tongue; and Rice Omelette that’s especially great for balancing out any spice.

Available for Reservations
Barbuto
Barbuto | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Barbuto

West Village
$$$$

For fans of the previous Washington Street location that operated for more than 15 years, the Horatio Street reboot of Barbuto in the West Village offers many familiar comforts. The newer nearby space featuring an industrial aesthetic offers a seasonal Italian- and California-inspired menu that includes plenty of chef Jonathan Waxman’s classics. Enjoy faves like the Polpettone; Insalata Di Cavolo; JW Gnocchi; JW Potatoes; and famous JW Pollo Al Forno. With sunlight pouring in from the floor-to-ceiling windows and the Hudson River as a backdrop, it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy the warm weather.

Available for Reservations
Bonnie’s
Bonnie’s | Photo by Jutharat Pinyodoonyachet for Thrillist

Bonnie’s

Williamsburg
$$$$

This Cantonese American restaurant in Williamsburg has become one of the most coveted reservations in town. Named after his mother, at Bonnie’s, Brooklyn native chef Calvin Eng (Nom Wah, Win Son) offers his own interpretation of Cantonese cuisine along with recipes inspired from his childhood. From updated versions of American classics Hup to Ha of honey walnut shrimp, to the must-try Fuyu Cacio e Pepe Mein or even his own rendition of a McRib, a meal here—served on classic blue and white porcelain flatware—will easily be the highlight of your week.

Available for Reservations
Breakfast by Salt’s Cure
Breakfast by Salt’s Cure | Photo by Tae Yoon for Thrillist

Breakfast by Salt’s Cure

Carroll Gardens
$$$$

The routine at this Los Angeles-born breakfast spot is simple: hop in line, order at the counter, find a seat, and then marvel at how amazing the signature Oatmeal Griddle Cakes are (sans syrup, and don’t even ask). After making their NYC debut with a West Village flagship, the Carroll Gardens location marks Breakfast by Salt’s Cure’s second Big Apple branch. Head there between 8 am–2 pm from Wednesdays to Sundays for griddle pancakes that are sweet, thin, and crispy edged and available in options like The OG, Banana Nut, Chocolate Chip, and more. From sandwiches and the Cheeseburger to combination Plates or their version of bacon (aka the Picnic Ham), the entirety of the concise menu is also excellent.

Casa Carmen
Pollo con mole Xico at Casa Carmen | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Casa Carmen

Tribeca
$$$$

This Tribeca restaurant is the first stateside venture for the Ramirez Degollado family, whose senior figure, the renowned Mexican cook, Carmen “Titita” Ramirez Degollado—aka the “matriarch of Mexican flavor”—has run the Mexico City-based El Bajío empire for over 50 years. At Casa Carmen, the brother duo and co-owners, Santiago and Sebastian, work in collaboration with two head chefs and a team of “mayoras” (esteemed elder women) who oversee the menu and its signature dishes like the Panuchos Yucateros and Pollo con mole Xico. Here, the gorgeous 2,500-square-foot, 105-seat space is divided into a bar area and main dining room, and the interior’s aesthetic draws inspiration from earth-toned, stucco-walled haciendas.

Available for Reservations
Chino Grande
Chino Grande | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Chino Grande

Williamsburg
$$$$

Not only are you set for a fantastic dinner here, but your after-meal plans now include raucous karaoke just steps away from your table. At Chino Grande, partners Josh Ku (Win Son, Win Son Bakery), Erica Hall (Win Son), and Paul Cacici, (co-owner of Carmenta’s) offer Asian- and Latin American-inspired dishes at a chill neighborhood spot that transforms into a karaoke saloon after hours (and not the private room kind, but the together-in-the-dining-room sort). Menu highlights include the Barramundi Ceviche; Beef Tartare & Toast: skewer options in Swordfish, Chicken Thigh, Beef, and Eggplant: Buttermilk Fried Chicken; and Hawaiian Miso Kampachi. And be sure to order the Banana Miso Custard for dessert to, you know, help warm those vocal chords.

Available for Reservations
Dept Of Culture
Dept Of Culture | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Dept Of Culture

Bed-Stuy
$$$$

This intimate experience hosts up to 16 guests via a large communal table and counter seats and transports diners to a ‘70s/’80s dinner party inside a home in North-Central Nigeria. At Dept of Culture, chef and owner Ayo Balogun’s four-course prix fixe also includes heartfelt stories about his family and childhood as records from legendary Nigerian artists like Ebenezer Obey play in the background. While the BYOB menu’s offerings rotates regularly, previous dishes include the sweat-inducing Eja tutu ati oshuka cilantro (red snapper pepper soup); Wara ati obe (cheese cooked in stew); Iyan ati egusi pelu eja alaran ati efo (pounded yam, fermented melon seeds, smoked fish); and Dodo ati ice cream (with caramelized plantain). Reservations are required and can be made via its website.

Emmett’s On Grove
Emmett’s On Grove | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Emmett’s On Grove

West Village
$$$$

Whether it’s to catch up with your besties or discuss business deals, on top of great food, dining out should always be fun—and this West Village restaurant checks off all the boxes. As the sibling eatery to the Chicago-style pizza spot, Emmett’s, at Emmett’s on Grove, what you’ll be ordering up is the tavern-style thin crust pizza along with a menu inspired by Italian American fare. Within the playful space that features a Midwestern vibe with rustic wood and a skylight in the main dining room, highlights include signature items like the Crispy Olives, Caesar Salad, Spaghetti & Meatballs, an off-menu Chicago-inspired burger, and Baby Back Ribs.

Available for Reservations
Gee’s Caribbean
Gee’s Caribbean | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Gee’s Caribbean

Crown Heights
$$$$

This Caribbean eatery in Crown Heights is operated by some of the former team members of the legendary Gloria’s (now closed). At Gee’s, table service isn’t offered but the no-frills spot does have a few tables to enjoy your food on-site. Arriving in takeout containers dense with heavy portions, signature dishes include entrees like Stewed Oxtail, Curry Beef, and Jerk Chicken served with sides like Pumpkin, Callaloo, or Macaroni Salad. Breakfast items, soups, vegan options, and an assortment of roti in offerings like Curry Conch or Bhaji are also available.

The Noortwyck
The Noortwyck | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

The Noortwyck

West Village
$$$$

Industry veterans chef Andrew Quinn (Hibiscus in London) and wine expert Cedric Nicaise (Aureole) helped Eleven Madison Park achieve some of the world’s top food and wine accolades during their coinciding stints there. And the duo have now joined forces to open The Noortwyck, a New American restaurant with fine dining-level food—but with the comforts of a neighborhood gem to frequent regularly. The seasonal menu features ingredients from local purveyors, and breads, pastas, and butchery done in-house that can all be paired with over 250 wines curated by Nicaise, along with cocktails. Popular dishes include the Seeded Parker House roll; Fluke Crudo; Torteloni with mussels; BBQ Duck Breast; and Skrei Cod with navy beans.

Available for Reservations
Oiji Mi
Oiji Mi | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Oiji Mi

Flatiron
$$$$

As chef Brian Kim’s exciting sophomore venture, Oiji Mi showcases high-end, contemporary dining in New York City rooted in a Korean essence—and establishes the restaurateur's compelling next chapter. Within a chic space inspired by old-school Korean homes called “hanoks,” guests can enjoy a 5-course prix-fixe menu or do a la carte ordering in the bar & lounge for signature dishes like the Striped Jack “Hwe,” Chili Lobster Ramyun, and dessert like the Ooyoo Bingsu, a refreshing and fanciful shaved ice treat. And if you see people going in and out of a side door near the kitchen, that would be for BOM, a separate venture featuring an intimate chef’s counter.

Available for Reservations
Semma
Gunpowder dosa at Semma | Photo by Paul McDonough

Semma

Greenwich Village
$$$$

Following the smash success of Dhamaka, chef/partner Chintan Pandya and restaurateur Roni Mazumdar of Unapologetic Foods (Masalawala, Rowdy Rooster, Adda) continue their mission of highlighting Indian cuisine from underrepresented regions of the country with Semma, a spot dedicated to the flavors of Southern India. Inside a vibrant space with design elements honoring the Deccan peninsula, executive chef Vijay Kumar takes inspiration from his upbringing in the state of Tamil Nadu and offers signature items like the Nathai Pirattal, a snail dish with tamarind and kal dosa. Additional standouts include the tender Kudal Varuval made with goat intestines; Goanese Oxtail; and Kanyakumari Nandu Masala for two with dungeness crab, parotta, coconut rice.

Available for Reservations
Uncle Lou 快樂人
Uncle Lou | Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist

Uncle Lou

Chinatown
$$$$

Owned by neighborhood local Louis Wong and specializing in Cantonese cuisine, Uncle Lou encompasses all of our favorite elements for dining out both in Chinatown and at must-try NYC restaurants: great food, a fun space, and large tables with lazy susans that encourage family-style meals. With ingredients sourced from nearby grocers, fishmongers, and butchers, the eatery’s menu is inspired by dishes from first-generation Cantonese immigrants. Signature offerings include the Eggplant in Yuxiang Garlic Sauce, Braised Pork Belly with Mui Choy, Steamed Buffalo Fish with Ginger & Scallion, and the fantastic Homestyle Chenpi Duck.

Wenwen
Wenwen | Photo by Adam Friedlander

Wenwen

Greenpoint
$$$$

At Wenwen, Eric Sze and Andy Chuang of the popular East Village spot, 886, bring their magic to Brooklyn with this sibling eatery serving homestyle Taiwanese comfort foods bold in both flavor and presentation. Named after Sze’s mom, Wenchi, and wife, Wenhui, the airy space also expands to a cozy backroom named “The Alley” and transports diners to the back streets of Taipei. Popular dishes include the Sacha Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken, Lo Ba Beng, and familiar faves like Fly’s Head w/ Lettuce Cups. And you’ll want to go family-style with the four shareable entree options: Whole Striped Bass w/ Fish Paste; Pork Belly & Cuttlefish; You Fan with Nueske bacon and uni; and signature (and very limited) Whole BDSM Fried Chicken.

Available for Reservations
Zou Zou’s
Zou Zou’s | Photo by Noah Fecks

Zou Zou’s

Manhattan West
$$$$

At Zou Zou’s, chef Madeline Sperling (Gramercy Tavern, The Nomad) and executive sous chef Juliana Latif serve Eastern Mediterranean cuisine with eye-catching presentation. At this venture under the same group behind eateries like Don Angie and Smith & Wollensky, the gorgeous space designed by AvroKO features a wonderful smoky scent wafting from a sizable wood-fired oven via its open kitchen. Along with plenty of elbow room, high ceilings, and roomy banquettes, dine on signature items like dips; mezze; the Little Gems salad with roasted grapes (which are served delightfully cold); and Fire-Roasted Leg of Lamb. Afterwards, be sure to grab a drink at their cocktail spot, Chez Zou.

Available for Reservations
Tae Yoon was born and raised in Queens, New York. He is the Senior Editor of East, Local cities and oversees Thrillist New York, Thrillist Boston, Thrillist DC, and Thrillist Philadelphia.