Best of 15 restaurants in Lower East Side NYC
Lower East Side, a vibrant neighborhood in NYC, is a foodie's paradise with its diverse range of restaurants. From traditional Jewish delis to trendy farm-to-table eateries, restaurants in Lower East Side NYC offer a melting pot of flavors and cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for classic comfort food or exotic dishes, you'll find it all in this bustling area. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other in restaurants in Lower East Side NYC.
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1. Essex
NYC's Original Bottomless Brunch Party.
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This brunch spot is a standout with its offering of bottomless mimosas and delightful food options. The upbeat atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of a DJ, provides a fun-filled dining experience. However, the music can be quite loud.
Ideal for groups, this establishment boasts an lively ambiance. The oyster happy hour is a popular attraction, and the contemporary cuisine has earned numerous awards. The quality of the food and drink is sure to impress.
This brunch spot is a standout with its offering of bottomless mimosas and delightful food options. The upbeat atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of a DJ, provides a fun-filled dining experience. However, the music can be quite loud.
Ideal for groups, this establishment boasts an lively ambiance. The oyster happy hour is a popular attraction, and the contemporary cuisine has earned numerous awards. The quality of the food and drink is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Lena L.E.S
A taste of Basque region in NYC.
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The bar at this establishment offers a variety of delicious and well-crafted drinks. The bartenders are skilled and approachable, creating a convivial ambiance for patrons to savor their beverages. The cocktails are made with top-notch ingredients, resulting in robust and satisfying flavors.
Dining at Lena's was a delightful experience, with Matin providing excellent hospitality. Attentive and friendly, he made sure we felt welcome and well taken care of. The tuna and beef tartar were particularly noteworthy, as they were incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor. Lena's is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and enjoyable meal.
The bar at this establishment offers a variety of delicious and well-crafted drinks. The bartenders are skilled and approachable, creating a convivial ambiance for patrons to savor their beverages. The cocktails are made with top-notch ingredients, resulting in robust and satisfying flavors.
Dining at Lena's was a delightful experience, with Matin providing excellent hospitality. Attentive and friendly, he made sure we felt welcome and well taken care of. The tuna and beef tartar were particularly noteworthy, as they were incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor. Lena's is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Taverna Di Bacco in Lower East Side
Homemade pasta and fresh seafood in a rustic setting
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A dining experience at Chef Mauricio's restaurant is not to be missed. The cozy and unassuming location on Ludlow Street is easy to miss, but the authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality make it worth seeking out. During our first visit, we tried some of the a la carte options and were impressed by the homemade flavors. However, it was our second visit, when we opted for the chef's choice menu, that truly blew us away. The thoughtfully curated selection of small bites showcased an incredible range of flavors and textures. We left feeling completely satisfied and already planning our next visit.
For a special occasion, Chef Mauricio's restaurant is an excellent choice. During our visit for a birthday celebration, the staff went above and beyond to make the evening memorable. The five course tasting menu was truly exceptional, with each dish demonstrating the chef's passion for food and attention to detail. From the appetizer to the dessert, every bite was delicious and satisfying. The intimate and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the exceptional service and cuisine, make this restaurant a standout option for any NYC visitor looking for an authentic and unforgettable Italian dining experience.
A dining experience at Chef Mauricio's restaurant is not to be missed. The cozy and unassuming location on Ludlow Street is easy to miss, but the authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality make it worth seeking out. During our first visit, we tried some of the a la carte options and were impressed by the homemade flavors. However, it was our second visit, when we opted for the chef's choice menu, that truly blew us away. The thoughtfully curated selection of small bites showcased an incredible range of flavors and textures. We left feeling completely satisfied and already planning our next visit.
For a special occasion, Chef Mauricio's restaurant is an excellent choice. During our visit for a birthday celebration, the staff went above and beyond to make the evening memorable. The five course tasting menu was truly exceptional, with each dish demonstrating the chef's passion for food and attention to detail. From the appetizer to the dessert, every bite was delicious and satisfying. The intimate and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the exceptional service and cuisine, make this restaurant a standout option for any NYC visitor looking for an authentic and unforgettable Italian dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Freemans
Colonial American Tavern with artisanal cocktails
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Nestled in Manhattan's Lower East Side, Freemans transports guests to a bygone era with its colonial American tavern setting. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, providing a welcome contrast to the busy city outside. Freemans' cuisine is characterized by its simplicity, rusticity, and deep respect for Old World traditions. The menu features dishes such as chicken and waffles, Norwegian Benedict, bacon wrapped dates, and mac and cheese, all crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The skilled bartenders at Freemans are known for their creativity and expertise in crafting unique artisanal cocktails. With a focus on classic American spirits and fresh juices, these libations are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The staff at Freemans are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, providing excellent service that enhances the overall dining experience. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a date night or a lively gathering place with friends, Freemans is the perfect destination.
Nestled in Manhattan's Lower East Side, Freemans transports guests to a bygone era with its colonial American tavern setting. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, providing a welcome contrast to the busy city outside. Freemans' cuisine is characterized by its simplicity, rusticity, and deep respect for Old World traditions. The menu features dishes such as chicken and waffles, Norwegian Benedict, bacon wrapped dates, and mac and cheese, all crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The skilled bartenders at Freemans are known for their creativity and expertise in crafting unique artisanal cocktails. With a focus on classic American spirits and fresh juices, these libations are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The staff at Freemans are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, providing excellent service that enhances the overall dining experience. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a date night or a lively gathering place with friends, Freemans is the perfect destination.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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5. Trapizzino
Iconic Roman street food in the heart of NYC.
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The sandwich has been hailed as one of the best dishes in New York, receiving high praise from even the most discerning of eaters, including a young food enthusiast. This sandwich stand has gained a reputation for delivering exceptional food, service, and a memorable dining experience.
The Pollo al Cacciatore, Polpetta al Sugo, and Zighiní dishes showcase the establishment's commitment to quality and flavor. The Pollo al Cacciatore, a traditional Italian dish, boasts tender chicken with a rich tomato and herb sauce. The Polpetta al Sugo presents juicy meatballs in a tomato and garlic sauce that elevates the humble meatball to new heights. Finally, the Zighiní offers a spicy beef stew that delivers a punch of flavor while retaining its tender texture, all skillfully nestled within fresh, soft bread.
The sandwich has been hailed as one of the best dishes in New York, receiving high praise from even the most discerning of eaters, including a young food enthusiast. This sandwich stand has gained a reputation for delivering exceptional food, service, and a memorable dining experience.
The Pollo al Cacciatore, Polpetta al Sugo, and Zighiní dishes showcase the establishment's commitment to quality and flavor. The Pollo al Cacciatore, a traditional Italian dish, boasts tender chicken with a rich tomato and herb sauce. The Polpetta al Sugo presents juicy meatballs in a tomato and garlic sauce that elevates the humble meatball to new heights. Finally, the Zighiní offers a spicy beef stew that delivers a punch of flavor while retaining its tender texture, all skillfully nestled within fresh, soft bread.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
6. Sixty Three Clinton
Elevated seasonal dishes with global influences
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The restaurant's tasting menu, led by Chef Samuel Clonts, is a delightful and unexpected surprise. It features a series of small, individual dishes that are delicious on their own, but when paired with the right meal, they truly shine. The flavors and textures of each dish have been carefully crafted to create a harmonious and satisfying experience for the diners.
The wine list is also impressive, with a range of options that have been selected to complement the dishes on the menu. Whether you prefer red, white, or sparkling, there is something for everyone. The servers are knowledgeable and can offer expert advice on which wine to order throughout the meal. With its delicious food, expertly selected wines, and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
The restaurant's tasting menu, led by Chef Samuel Clonts, is a delightful and unexpected surprise. It features a series of small, individual dishes that are delicious on their own, but when paired with the right meal, they truly shine. The flavors and textures of each dish have been carefully crafted to create a harmonious and satisfying experience for the diners.
The wine list is also impressive, with a range of options that have been selected to complement the dishes on the menu. Whether you prefer red, white, or sparkling, there is something for everyone. The servers are knowledgeable and can offer expert advice on which wine to order throughout the meal. With its delicious food, expertly selected wines, and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegan Options
7. Le French Diner
Authentic French cuisine in a cozy bistro setting
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The steak tartare and hangar steak are two standout dishes at this establishment. Diners are certain to enjoy the vibrant energy that permeates the restaurant, while being consistently impressed by the quality of the food. The restaurant provides an ideal setting for a romantic date night or a small, intimate gathering.
The culinary offerings are a definite highlight of the dining experience, with particular acclaim going to dishes such as steak, lamb, steak tartare, and arctic char. The exceptional food and lively atmosphere combine to create a memorable meal. Whether seeking a romantic evening out or a small celebration, this restaurant is sure to impress.
The steak tartare and hangar steak are two standout dishes at this establishment. Diners are certain to enjoy the vibrant energy that permeates the restaurant, while being consistently impressed by the quality of the food. The restaurant provides an ideal setting for a romantic date night or a small, intimate gathering.
The culinary offerings are a definite highlight of the dining experience, with particular acclaim going to dishes such as steak, lamb, steak tartare, and arctic char. The exceptional food and lively atmosphere combine to create a memorable meal. Whether seeking a romantic evening out or a small celebration, this restaurant is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
8. Mila's Bistro
Charming French bistro with indoor and outdoor seating.
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Mila's Bistro, located in New York City's vibrant Lower East Side, is a popular destination for those seeking creative cocktails and a lively happy hour atmosphere. The bistro's trendy and inviting ambiance draws in a diverse crowd looking to unwind after a long day.
Guests can enjoy a wide selection of unique and expertly crafted cocktails, made with fresh ingredients and top-shelf spirits. The bistro also offers a menu of delicious small plates and entrees, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a meal. With its friendly service and lively atmosphere, Mila's Bistro is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a memorable night out in New York City.
For more information about Mila's Bistro, including the menu, hours, and location, check out their website or view reviews and ratings from previous visitors. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Mila's Bistro is sure to provide a fun and enjoyable dining experience.
Mila's Bistro, located in New York City's vibrant Lower East Side, is a popular destination for those seeking creative cocktails and a lively happy hour atmosphere. The bistro's trendy and inviting ambiance draws in a diverse crowd looking to unwind after a long day.
Guests can enjoy a wide selection of unique and expertly crafted cocktails, made with fresh ingredients and top-shelf spirits. The bistro also offers a menu of delicious small plates and entrees, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a meal. With its friendly service and lively atmosphere, Mila's Bistro is a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a memorable night out in New York City.
For more information about Mila's Bistro, including the menu, hours, and location, check out their website or view reviews and ratings from previous visitors. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Mila's Bistro is sure to provide a fun and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Kiki's in Lower East Side
Authentic Greek taverna experience in Chinatown
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A very late lunch was enjoyed with a partner, away from the hustle and bustle of childcare. The restaurant offered delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere, with a convenient location. The only reason it did not receive a perfect rating was due to a lingering saffron aftertaste in all three dishes, which was not to the diner's liking.
As a Greek person, the reviewer holds high standards for Greek cuisine. However, they cannot help but commend the authenticity of this Greek taverna tucked away in Chinatown. The flavors were accurately represented, the portions were plentiful, the service was polite, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. The reviewer is already planning to return to this hidden gem.
A very late lunch was enjoyed with a partner, away from the hustle and bustle of childcare. The restaurant offered delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere, with a convenient location. The only reason it did not receive a perfect rating was due to a lingering saffron aftertaste in all three dishes, which was not to the diner's liking.
As a Greek person, the reviewer holds high standards for Greek cuisine. However, they cannot help but commend the authenticity of this Greek taverna tucked away in Chinatown. The flavors were accurately represented, the portions were plentiful, the service was polite, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. The reviewer is already planning to return to this hidden gem.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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10. Douska
Savoring Sushi Excellence with Tradition and Innovation.
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Douska, a popular restaurant in New York City, boasts an original menu filled with delicious offerings. Prices may be slightly higher compared to other establishments, but the quality of the food is excellent. Douska's standout dishes include fresh hand rolls and warming rice bowls.
Douska, a popular restaurant in New York City, boasts an original menu filled with delicious offerings. Prices may be slightly higher compared to other establishments, but the quality of the food is excellent. Douska's standout dishes include fresh hand rolls and warming rice bowls.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. Saigon Social
Elevated and modern approach to traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
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The server's knowledge and recommendations for drinks added a refreshing touch to the dining experience. A wide variety of beverages were available, all presented in an appetizing manner. The overall atmosphere of the establishment was one of friendliness and warmth.
Dining at this establishment proved to be a truly enjoyable experience. The attentive service contributed to a sense of being well taken care of, making guests feel right at home. The dishes served were of excellent quality, with some having a pleasant kick of spice. This is definitely a place to consider for a memorable meal.
The server's knowledge and recommendations for drinks added a refreshing touch to the dining experience. A wide variety of beverages were available, all presented in an appetizing manner. The overall atmosphere of the establishment was one of friendliness and warmth.
Dining at this establishment proved to be a truly enjoyable experience. The attentive service contributed to a sense of being well taken care of, making guests feel right at home. The dishes served were of excellent quality, with some having a pleasant kick of spice. This is definitely a place to consider for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. Les Enfants de Bohème
Classic French bistro with a New York twist.
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Service at the establishment is often commended by guests for its friendly and professional demeanor. The staff is frequently described as going above and beyond to accommodate guests' needs, contributing to an overall positive experience. However, there have been a few isolated incidents where reviewers mention poor service, although these instances appear to be few and far between.
The beverage selection has received high praise, with many guests raving about the taste and quality of the drinks. Standout options include the Pear Bellini and Espresso Martini, which are both lauded for their unique flavors and elegant presentations. Additionally, the coffee offered is consistently described as smooth and not bitter, providing a satisfying end to a meal or a pick-me-up during the day.
Service at the establishment is often commended by guests for its friendly and professional demeanor. The staff is frequently described as going above and beyond to accommodate guests' needs, contributing to an overall positive experience. However, there have been a few isolated incidents where reviewers mention poor service, although these instances appear to be few and far between.
The beverage selection has received high praise, with many guests raving about the taste and quality of the drinks. Standout options include the Pear Bellini and Espresso Martini, which are both lauded for their unique flavors and elegant presentations. Additionally, the coffee offered is consistently described as smooth and not bitter, providing a satisfying end to a meal or a pick-me-up during the day.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
13. Saluggi's East
Family-friendly sports bar with delicious pizza.
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The pizza at this sports bar and restaurant is truly exceptional, making it a standout establishment in New York. The family-friendly atmosphere and cheerful staff add to its appeal, making it an ideal place to catch a football game and enjoy a pleasant Sunday. The staff's enthusiasm to share nearby attractions only enhances the overall positive experience.
This establishment is a fantastic choice for a pre-cruise dinner, located near Pier 36 in NYC. The drinks are top-notch, and the pizzas and dinners are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. The staff's friendly and accommodating demeanor is noteworthy, particularly the server named Drake who provided excellent service. Overall, it is a highly recommended dining destination in New York City.
The pizza at this sports bar and restaurant is truly exceptional, making it a standout establishment in New York. The family-friendly atmosphere and cheerful staff add to its appeal, making it an ideal place to catch a football game and enjoy a pleasant Sunday. The staff's enthusiasm to share nearby attractions only enhances the overall positive experience.
This establishment is a fantastic choice for a pre-cruise dinner, located near Pier 36 in NYC. The drinks are top-notch, and the pizzas and dinners are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. The staff's friendly and accommodating demeanor is noteworthy, particularly the server named Drake who provided excellent service. Overall, it is a highly recommended dining destination in New York City.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
14. Ernesto's
A Basque Taverna at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge
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This establishment in Brooklyn, situated near the iconic bridges, is a popular choice for many. The interior design features sleek coffee-brown tables, midcentury-modern light fixtures, and a long, marble-top bar, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere. The energy is palpable, thanks to the consistent crowd that frequents the place.
The experience at this venue is consistently excellent, with each visit providing exceptional service, delicious food, and a welcoming staff. The menu offers nuanced and creative dishes that are both sophisticated and flavorful, while the team is known for their kindness and generosity. Overall, it's a fantastic place that leaves a lasting impression on its patrons.
This establishment in Brooklyn, situated near the iconic bridges, is a popular choice for many. The interior design features sleek coffee-brown tables, midcentury-modern light fixtures, and a long, marble-top bar, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere. The energy is palpable, thanks to the consistent crowd that frequents the place.
The experience at this venue is consistently excellent, with each visit providing exceptional service, delicious food, and a welcoming staff. The menu offers nuanced and creative dishes that are both sophisticated and flavorful, while the team is known for their kindness and generosity. Overall, it's a fantastic place that leaves a lasting impression on its patrons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
15. Sons of Essex in Lower East Side
Old school Bowery Boys' atmosphere with a modern twist.
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The chicken sandwich offered is a well-liked menu option, featuring homemade ranch, pickles, and tots on the side. This dish is often compared to a gourmet version of the classic Chik Fil A sandwich.
In terms of service, some customers have reported slow response times. However, the majority of feedback indicates that the service is pleasant and attentive. There are even reports of exceptional service experiences, suggesting that the quality of service can vary, but is generally good.
The chicken sandwich offered is a well-liked menu option, featuring homemade ranch, pickles, and tots on the side. This dish is often compared to a gourmet version of the classic Chik Fil A sandwich.
In terms of service, some customers have reported slow response times. However, the majority of feedback indicates that the service is pleasant and attentive. There are even reports of exceptional service experiences, suggesting that the quality of service can vary, but is generally good.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots