Where to Eat in NYC: Iconic Eats You Can’t Miss

Avatar for Katie KinsleyByKatie Kinsley Updated on

Travel With Kinsley contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which means I may receive a cute little commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

New York City is a food lover’s playground. From bagels that’ll ruin you for all other bagels to rooftop cocktails with skyline views, this city has it all.

If you’re planning your trip and wondering where to eat in NYC—whether it’s your first time or your fifth—I’ve rounded up my personal favorites along with some beloved classics that are worth the hype.

Here’s exactly where to eat in NYC (and yes, we’re talking everything from pizza to champagne at The Plaza).

Katie holding a large Carmine’s Italian Restaurant menu. The bold red “Carmine’s” logo on the menu is clearly visible, capturing the excitement of classic Italian dining in New York City.
Carmine’s Italian Restaurant menu

Carmine’s (Times Square)

A total NYC staple for family-style Italian. The portions? Massive. The garlic bread? Dreamy. This is one of those spots where everything comes on platters meant to be shared—and devoured. Great for groups and surprisingly cozy despite the Times Square location.

Exterior of Ellen’s Stardust Diner in New York City, featuring its retro-style signage with bright neon lights and a marquee that reads “Home of the Singing Waitstaff.” The facade captures the diner’s vintage charm, nestled among typical Midtown Manhattan buildings.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Katie and Zack sitting together at a table inside Ellen’s Stardust Diner in New York City, smiling as they enjoy the lively, retro-themed atmosphere. Neon lights and vintage decor surround them, capturing the fun, musical vibe of the iconic eatery.
Katie and Zack inside Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Ellen’s Stardust Diner

If you want dinner and a show but don’t feel like Broadway prices, this retro diner is for you. The servers? Aspiring stars who belt out musical numbers while slinging burgers and milkshakes. It’s touristy, yes—but totally fun and full of heart.

Birthday dinner scene at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in New York City, featuring a dimly lit table with elegant place settings, sizzling steak plates, and a celebratory dessert. The upscale ambiance reflects a special occasion in a classic fine dining setting.
Katie’s birthday dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (Midtown)

I know, I know—it’s a chain. But the Midtown location of Ruth’s Chris is perfect for a special occasion like a birthday dinner. It’s elegant, the service is stellar, and the sizzling steaks come out hot enough to make you swoon. Don’t skip the creamed spinach.

Zack at the Frying Pan in New York City, smiling while holding a plate of food on the historic docked ship-turned-bar. The casual outdoor setting includes weathered decking, nautical details, and waterfront views in the background.
Zack at the Frying Pan

The Frying Pan (Pier 66)

A floating bar on a historic boat docked on the Hudson? Yes, please. The Frying Pan serves up casual drinks and seafood with unbeatable views of the sunset over the water. Great for a laid-back afternoon or evening with friends.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (Brooklyn)

This place is legendary. Located under the Brooklyn Bridge, Grimaldi’s does coal-fired, thin-crust pizza the old-school way. This is one of our favorite pizza places in the DFW area, too.

Pro tip: walk the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan and make Grimaldi’s your reward on the other side.

Crispy golden fish fry served with fries and lemon wedges at The Perfect Pint in New York City. The dish is plated on a white dish, with a pint of beer nearby, capturing a hearty pub-style meal in a cozy Midtown atmosphere.
Crispy golden fish fry served with fries

The Perfect Pint (Midtown)

Swing by this Irish pub for a casual bite and order the fish fry—it’s underrated and so, so good. It’s also got a relaxed rooftop and plenty of TVs if you want to catch a game with your Guinness.

Katie holding half a bagel from Leo’s Bagels up toward the morning sun, with the water shimmering in the background. The soft glow highlights the fresh, chewy bagel and creates a peaceful NYC waterfront breakfast moment.
Leo’s Bagels

Leo’s Bagels (Financial District)

You haven’t had a real bagel until you’ve had one in NYC. Leo’s in FiDi makes a mean classic—chewy, warm, and piled high with schmear. Try an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, and you’ll understand why locals are picky about their bagels.

Fresh Margherita pizza at Pazza Notte in New York City, topped with vibrant tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. The thin, crispy crust is slightly charred, served hot on a white plate in a cozy Italian restaurant setting.
Fresh Margherita pizza at Pazza Notte

Pazza Notte (Midtown)

Pizza AND martinis. What more could you want? Pazza Notte is a great casual dinner spot near Central Park with cozy vibes, generous portions, and a pizza menu that’s packed with flavor (and cheese). The truffle fries are also a must.

Katie Kinsley standing outside Fraunces Tavern in New York City, a historic brick building with classic colonial architecture and American flags hanging above the entrance. The scene captures the charm and significance of one of NYC’s oldest landmarks.
Katie outside Fraunces Tavern
Street corner view of the Fraunces Tavern sign in New York City, hanging from a black wrought iron bracket with gold lettering on a deep red background. The historic signage stands out against the brick facade, marking one of NYC’s oldest and most storied establishments. Historical plaque outside Fraunces Tavern in New York City, detailing the building’s significance in American history, including its role during the Revolutionary War. Mounted on the brick exterior, the plaque honors the site as a landmark tied to George Washington and early U.S. history.
Zack and Katie smiling in a selfie taken inside Fraunces Tavern in New York City, with warm lighting and colonial-style decor visible in the background. The historic ambiance adds a rich, vintage feel to their cheerful moment together.
Zack and Katie inside Fraunces Tavern

Fraunces Tavern (Financial District)

Step into history and order a cocktail where George Washington once gave a farewell speech. This bar/restaurant is part museum, part pub, and all kinds of cool. Grab a Manhattan or a glass of wine and enjoy the colonial charm.

Katie Kinsley outside Harry’s NYC, standing near the entrance of the sleek, modern restaurant tucked into the Financial District. The facade features clean lines and subtle signage, blending contemporary style with the area’s historic vibe.
Katie outside Harry’s Bar
Elegant cocktail served at Harry’s Bar in Manhattan, presented in a classic coupe glass on a polished bar surface. The dim lighting and refined atmosphere reflect the upscale, timeless vibe of this Financial District staple. Interior of Harry’s Bar in New York City, showcasing a sleek, upscale dining space with dark wood accents, leather seating, and soft ambient lighting. The refined atmosphere reflects the bar’s classic New York elegance and Financial District prestige.
Zack and Katie taking a selfie inside Harry’s Bar in New York City, smiling with the bar’s warm lighting and elegant interior as their backdrop. The cozy ambiance and polished décor highlight the upscale vibe of this downtown favorite.
Zack and Katie inside Harry’s Bar

Harry’s Bar (Stone Street)

Tucked into the cobblestone lanes of Stone Street, Harry’s is perfect for a stylish date night or upscale lunch. Great steaks, craft cocktails, and a historic setting make this one of the FiDi’s more refined gems. While I never got to visit when I was in Venice, NYC is just the perfect replacement!

Glass of champagne held up inside The Plaza Hotel in New York City, with elegant chandeliers and ornate décor in the blurred background. The sparkling drink captures the luxurious, celebratory atmosphere of this iconic landmark.
Champagne Room at The Plaza Hotel

Champagne at The Plaza

Go full Gossip Girl and treat yourself to champagne at The Champagne Bar inside The Plaza Hotel. It’s a splurge, but if you’re celebrating (or just pretending to be fancy for the day), it’s totally worth it. Bonus points for wearing something cute and taking photos in the lobby.

Interior of The Dead Rabbit bar in New York City, featuring warm wood-paneled walls, vintage décor, and shelves lined with bottles behind the bar. The cozy, dimly lit space captures the old-world charm and speakeasy vibe of this acclaimed downtown pub.

Dead Rabbit Bar

Award-winning cocktails served in a cozy Irish pub setting in the Financial District.

Katie standing outside Milk Bar bakery in New York City, holding a soft-serve ice cream and a printed menu, with the shop’s playful signage and urban backdrop behind her.
Milk Bar bakery

Dessert Stops Worth the Sugar Rush

Milk Bar – Cereal Milk soft serve, Compost Cookies, and crack pie (now “Milk Bar Pie”)—this place is famous for a reason.

Katie holding a classic Magnolia Bakery cupcake outside the NBC Studios in New York City
Magnolia Bakery cupcake

Magnolia Bakery – The banana pudding is legendary. Grab a cup and stroll through Central Park for the full effect.

Where to Eat in NYC: Other NYC Food Favorites You Might Love

  • Prince Street Pizza – For a slice with crispy pepperoni cups that people literally line up for.
  • Katz’s Delicatessen – Iconic pastrami sandwiches. Messy, meaty, and totally worth it.
  • Russ & Daughters – Classic Jewish deli with legendary lox and bagels.
  • Joe’s Pizza – Fast, delicious, and straight-up NYC slice perfection.
  • Jajaja Mexicana – A plant-based Mexican spot that’s both trendy and seriously flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite in between sightseeing or sitting down for a once-in-a-lifetime dinner, New York City’s food scene doesn’t disappoint. These are the spots I keep coming back to, and I hope they help you plan some delicious moments of your own.

Don’t forget to pack stretchy pants. 😉

Planning your trip to NYC? Check out my posts on:

Like this post? Share it on Pinterest!

Where to Eat in NYC Pin 1 Where to Eat in NYC Pin 2
Avatar for Katie Kinsley

Katie Kinsley shares guides, tips, and itineraries to inspire stress-free travel adventures worldwide.