27 Best restaurants in Midtown Manhattan New York City
Midtown Manhattan in NYC is a bustling hub of activity, and it's home to an impressive array of restaurants. From upscale eateries to cozy cafes, there's something for every palate in this vibrant neighborhood. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, exotic cuisine, or a quick bite on the go, the restaurants in Midtown Manhattan NYC have got you covered. Come and explore the culinary delights of this dynamic area!
- 1. Aquavit
- 2. Hutong New York
- 3. The Modern
- 4. Gabriel Kreuther
- 5. THE GRILL
- 6. Le Bernardin
- 7. Marea
- 8. Kochi
- 9. Sushi 35 West
- 10. Empellon
- 11. La Grenouille
- 12. LittleMad
- 13. Yakitori Totto
- 14. Quality Meats
- 15. Valerie
- 16. P.J. Clarke's
- 17. La Grande Boucherie
- 18. Indian Accent Restaurant, New York
- 19. Hakata TonTon
- 20. KJUN
- 21. OKDONGSIK New York
- 22. Her Name is Han
- 23. Monterey
- 24. Chola
- 25. Fresco by Scotto
- 26. Grand Sichuan Eastern
- 27. Mischa
1. Aquavit
New Nordic cuisine, James Beard Award-winning chef

The Nordic cuisine offered is exceptional, with the tasting menu being a highly recommended experience. The food is skillfully prepared, showcasing the best of Nordic ingredients and flavors. On a recent visit, I opted to eat in the bar area for the first time and found it to be a great decision. The service in this area was attentive and efficient, providing a pleasant dining experience.
Ordering a la carte from the bar area is a great way to sample a variety of dishes. The menu offers a wide selection of dishes, from fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes. The quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs are evident in every dish, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Whether you choose to order from the tasting menu or a la carte, you are sure to be impressed by the delicious and expertly prepared Nordic cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
2. Hutong New York
Housed in a historic courtyard, extensive menu of regional Chinese cuisine

Peking Duck is the star dish at Hutong New York, a modern Chinese restaurant. However, the restaurant falls short in other areas. The service is slow and disorganized, with little regard for proper course order. There are also some delicious dim sum options, but be cautious of dishes marked as spicy.
The food at Hutong New York is generally well-prepared, but there are some issues. Meat dishes can be overly sweet, which may not appeal to all diners. Service is described as deferential but incompetent, with long wait times between courses. While the Peking Duck is a highlight, these issues prevent Hutong New York from meeting expectations.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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3. The Modern
Located in the Museum of Modern Art, Farm-to-table approach, James Beard award-winning chef

The Bar Room at the establishment is a vibrant and engaging space, where guests can enjoy contemporary cuisine created by Chef Thomas Allan. The chef's seasonal dishes are prepared à la carte, offering a variety of options to suit any palate. Both walk-ins and reservations, which can be made up to 28 days in advance, are welcome.
The Modern, on the other hand, is a more refined dining experience, featuring Chef Thomas Allan's contemporary cooking in a beautiful setting. The restaurant overlooks the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden at MoMA, providing a stunning backdrop for any meal. While reservations are recommended, the restaurant also accommodates walk-ins when possible.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. Gabriel Kreuther
French-American fusion cuisine, James Beard Award-winning chef

Begin by discussing the culinary experience, highlighting specific dishes that stood out. The lobster and bison tartare, with its fresh and intriguing mix of seafood and game, was a memorable start. The carbonara, enhanced by the addition of black truffles, was also a highlight. Truffles are known for their unique and distinctive flavor, which adds a touch of luxury to any dish. Their spongy texture is equally distinctive, making them a sought-after ingredient in high-end cuisine.
In the second paragraph, focus on the truffles themselves, describing their flavor and texture in more detail. The subtle yet unmistakable taste of truffles is like no other, with a rich and earthy quality that is both decadent and satisfying. The spongy texture of these gourmet fungi adds an interesting contrast to the dishes they are added to, and their rarity makes them all the more desirable. Overall, the addition of truffles to the tartare and carbonara dishes elevated the meal to new heights, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
5. THE GRILL
Located in the historic Seagram Building

The Grill provides a fine dining experience, featuring excellent food and service. The menu showcases an impressive prime rib, which is a standout dish. Pair your meal with an old fashioned cocktail, known for its strong and perfected flavor.
The Grill is a historically-inspired American chophouse, designed to evoke midcentury New York. The establishment takes its cues from the time the Seagram Building was constructed and the restaurants that were popular during that era. With a focus on history and authenticity, The Grill offers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and nostalgic.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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6. Le Bernardin
Three-Michelin-starred restaurant since 1995, personalized dining experience

The shrimp appetizer and dessert stood out as the highlights of the lunch experience. The sea bass entrée was also a delicious contribution to the meal. Both the appetizer and entrée showcased the restaurant's ability to prepare fresh seafood with excellent flavor and presentation.
The Squid ink Risotto was another exceptional dish. Its presentation was visually appealing, making it a striking addition to the meal. The combination of flavors and textures in the Risotto were skillfully balanced, resulting in a truly enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
7. Marea
Located in the heart of Central Park South

My husband and I, along with another couple, had a wonderful dining experience at a restaurant last night, where we were served by a charismatic waiter named Dave. He was especially attentive to our needs as one of our party had a food allergy, regularly checking in with us and recommending dishes to avoid. We were impressed by his helpful nature and expressed our appreciation throughout the night. The wine selection was excellent, and we particularly enjoyed a few bottles of Greco Di Tufo, an Italian wine that paired well with our seafood dishes.
We were recommended this restaurant by a long-term New Yorker and were lucky to have dressed up, as the restaurant was top-notch in every way. The food was traditional yet modern, the wine list extensive, and the atmosphere upscale. The waitstaff were efficient, friendly, and unobtrusive, making for a perfect dining experience. We were struck by the high level of service and realized how often it is lacking in other establishments. We highly recommend this restaurant, although it is on the pricier side.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
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8. Kochi
Offers vegetarian and vegan options, Naan bread made in-house

Kochi, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Hell's Kitchen, is Chef Shim's first solo project, which opened in late 2019. The restaurant's name, which means "skewer" in Korean, reflects its aim to make traditional Korean flavors accessible in a street food style setting.
At Kochi, diners can expect beautifully presented dishes and impeccable service. The restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys Korean food, with its unique approach to street food and traditional flavors. The combination of accessibility and depth in the Korean flavors presented in Kochi's dishes has made it a standout gem in Hell's Kitchen.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Affordable Nightlife
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9. Sushi 35 West
Authentic Japanese cuisine, dedicated sushi bar

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
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10. Empellon
Casual, upscale Mexican dining with a modern twist

Empellón Taqueria, located in midtown, is a lively restaurant that adds excitement to the usually buttoned-up area. It is a part of Chef Alex Stupak's successful Empellón family and offers contemporary American cuisine with Mexican influences. The vibrant restaurant has received 4.3 stars and 241 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
The menu at Empellón Taqueria showcases bold and innovative flavors, inspired by Mexican culinary traditions. The restaurant is known for its delicious tacos, featuring unique combinations of ingredients that delight customers. The colorful and energetic atmosphere, along with the high-quality food, creates a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's success is a testament to Chef Stupak's talent for combining traditional and contemporary culinary techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. La Grenouille
Iconic French restaurant established in 1962

La Grenouille, a renowned restaurant established in 1962, is known for its classic French cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The current owner, Philippe Masson, carries on the family legacy by creating stunning flower arrangements and delicious dishes. The interior decor of the restaurant is truly remarkable, featuring abundant and captivating flower arrangements on walls and tables. An intimate bar is located at the entrance, and both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
For the most immersive dining experience, I recommend choosing indoor seating to fully enjoy the restaurant's ambiance without external distractions. The quality of food and service is exceptional, making La Grenouille an ideal destination for a special occasion or a memorable meal. The flower arrangements alone make this restaurant worth visiting, elevating the dining experience to new heights of glamour and refinement.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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12. LittleMad
Stylish decor, natural light, and healthy options.

The Korean fusion tasting menu at this establishment offers a solid and creative dining experience, with standout dishes such as the amuse bouche, cold course, and delicious desserts. The beer and wine options are well-curated, complementing the meal nicely. However, the hot entrees were disappointing - the 'special' pork was gristly and lacked flavor, while the lobster did not meet expectations.
The service was acceptable, but the experience was marred by the head chef's behavior. He shouted and swore at one of his kitchen workers in full view of patrons, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. This display of unprofessionalism was unsettling and detracted from the overall positive aspects of the restaurant, such as the quality of the food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. Yakitori Totto
Authentic Japanese yakitori, Charcoal grilled skewers, Wide variety of chicken parts

Yakitori Totto, situated in midtown west, is known for providing a delightful dining experience, characterized by cordial service. However, the space tends to fill up rapidly, making it essential to arrive early or be prepared for a short wait. The restaurant specializes in yakitori, offering a diverse range of skewered meats and vegetables that ensure a memorable meal.
Two dishes stand out among the excellent offerings: the eel over rice and the takoyaki. The eel, meticulously prepared, is served over a bed of rice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The takoyaki, a popular Japanese dish, features bite-sized balls made from a wheat flour-based batter, filled with diced octopus and other ingredients. These delights are perfectly cooked, providing an authentic taste of Japanese street food, elevating the overall yakitori experience at Yakitori Totto.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegan Options
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14. Quality Meats
In-house dry aging, USDA Prime beef, private dining room

Quality Meats, a restaurant located in Midtown Manhattan, is known for serving one of the best steaks in New York. The spacious, multi-level establishment has a lively atmosphere and a market-like setting. The menu features a variety of dishes, but the steaks are the main attraction. They are expertly prepared and full of flavor, making Quality Meats a top choice for steak lovers in the city.
GAYOT.com, a reputable source for restaurant reviews, highly recommends Quality Meats. The restaurant's steaks are a standout, but the menu also offers other delicious options. Despite its Midtown location, Quality Meats has a bustling and energetic ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience. The restaurant's focus on high-quality meats and exceptional preparation make it a must-visit destination for any steak lover in New York.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
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15. Valerie
Features a live jazz band on weekends, extensive wine list, and outdoor seating

The cost of visiting this establishment is generally considered expensive, with cocktails priced at $18 or above. Despite the high prices, there is a happy hour option where select drinks are available for $11. This provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the venue's offerings at a more affordable price point.
Service is an area of strength for this establishment, with reviewers noting its quick, efficient, and attentive nature. While many visitors appreciate the level of service, some have noted a slight cold or stand-offish demeanor from staff. Overall, the service experience is positive and helps to enhance visitors' enjoyment of the venue.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- Dinner
- Seasonal Times
16. P.J. Clarke's
Historic location, famous clientele, hand-crafted cocktails

The restaurant offers delicious and standout food that is sure to impress. One highlight is their tomato soup, which tastes remarkably fresh and creamy at the same time. It's a rare find, as tomato soups usually have an overly creamy or artificial flavor. Unfortunately, the restaurant's service and atmosphere do not measure up to the quality of the food. The outdated and unfriendly service detracts from the overall dining experience.
The restaurant is a classic establishment that has been around for a long time. Stepping inside feels like taking a step back in time. While it's great to support these long-standing establishments, this particular restaurant's food and service leave something to be desired. The food, while good, is not exceptional enough to warrant a return visit if the restaurant reopens. And the grumpy service is a definite turn-off for potential customers. Overall, the restaurant's charm and nostalgia are not enough to make up for its shortcomings.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. La Grande Boucherie
French cuisine, dry-aged meats, in-house butcher

The food at this establishment is consistently praised for its fantastic and intense flavors. Many reviewers rave about the excellent wine selection that complements the dishes. However, there are a few exceptions where some diners found the steak to be lacking in taste and the service to be mediocre.
In terms of service, the restaurant generally receives positive feedback, with many guests commending the friendly, quick, and attentive staff. Notably, some reviewers highlight a particular server who went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. The staff's welcoming and gracious attitude is also brought up by some users, further enhancing the overall positive impression of the restaurant's service.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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18. Indian Accent Restaurant, New York
Authentic Indian cuisine in upscale NYC setting

Indian Accent is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Delhi, offering a fine dining experience that combines traditional Indian flavors with a modern twist. The vegetarian tasting menu, paired with wine, is a popular choice, and provides excellent value for money compared to similar quality meals in the US.
However, despite the excellent service and reasonable pricing, the food at Indian Accent fell short of expectations for some visitors. While the dishes were visually appealing and well-presented, the flavors failed to deliver the same wow factor. The restaurant received a rating of 4 out of 5, with high praise for the service, but a slight disappointment with the food, which could have better captured the amazing flavors that Indian cuisine is known for. Overall, Indian Accent offers a unique dining experience, but visitors may want to manage their expectations when it comes to the taste of the dishes.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
19. Hakata TonTon
Offers bowls of ramen with customizable richness levels

The atmosphere at the event was buzzing with energy and excitement. Everyone in attendance seemed to be having a great time, contributing to a positive and enjoyable ambiance.
The food offered at the event was delicious and well-executed. There was a wide variety of options to choose from, including citrus salmon, karage, okonomiyaki, shake ramen, and roasted sesame ice cream. Each dish received high praise from customers for its impressive quality.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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20. KJUN
All-you-can-eat option available

KJUN is a unique eatery that combines Cajun and Korean flavors in a harmonious and delicious way. The fried chicken with gochujang is a must-try, boasting a perfect balance of crispy texture and spicy flavor. The jabchae with squid ink and seafood jjajangmyun are also standout dishes, packed with fresh seafood and bold, fascinating flavors. The friendly and attentive staff, along with the skilled chef Jae Jung, make KJUN a dining experience to remember.
KJUN is truly a hidden gem, offering a unique fusion of Korean and Cajun flavors. Chef Jae Jung is a top alum who masterfully combines these two cuisines to create unexpected and delightful dishes. Highlights from the menu include the boudin balls, chicken liver pate, fried chicken, and tomato kimchi, which all showcase the spot-on flavors and creative spirit of the restaurant. The small, intimate space adds to the hospitable and welcoming atmosphere, making diners feel like they're enjoying a meal with family. Don't miss out on this highly recommended restaurant!
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
21. OKDONGSIK New York
All-you-can-eat option available, On-site kimchi making, Traditional Korean decor

Kimchi mandoo is widely acclaimed for its flavorful filling and non-mushy dumpling skin. This popular dish features a savory mixture inside a delicately prepared dumpling skin that maintains its texture and doesn't become mushy. On the other hand, the dweji gomtang is equally praised for its delightful warm broth and tender, thinly sliced pork. This soup has a soothing effect that complements the melt-in-your-mouth pork pieces.
This establishment specializes in pork gomtang served gukbap-style, and their version is notable for its delicate soup with a light, clear broth. The cooking technique used to prepare this soup results in an exceptionally refined and subtle flavor. Furthermore, the pork in this dish is sliced extremely thin, adding to the overall delicate presentation and taste. Whether you prefer the robust flavors of the kimchi mandoo or the soothing comfort of the pork gomtang, this establishment offers an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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22. Her Name is Han
Authentic Korean cuisine, vegan and gluten-free options

The braised octopus served at the restaurant in RI was fantastic. Its origin added to the satisfying experience. The hot pot dishes were also delicious, making the overall meal enjoyable. The service was quick and attentive, prompting a return visit.
The cream and corn croquettes from Her Name is Han are equally impressive. The creamy and luscious texture of the croquettes was delightful. Once tasted, it is difficult to forget the exquisite flavor, causing one to crave for more.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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23. Monterey
Sustainable seafood options, live music some nights

The service at this establishment was incredibly slow, which took away from the overall dining experience. The fried chicken dish in particular was disappointing and not up to par. On the other hand, there were positive aspects of the meal. The service was quick and accurate, making it a suitable option for a working lunch. Additionally, the fried artichoke appetizer stood out as a truly delicious and exceptional dish.
In summary, the service at this place was a letdown due to its slow pace, while the fried chicken fell short of expectations. However, the service also showed accuracy and efficiency, making it a good choice for a working lunch. Moreover, the fried artichoke appetizer was a highlight, tasting divine and providing a memorable culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Rooftop
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24. Chola
Authentic Indian cuisine in a sophisticated setting

When I want to indulge in a delicious meal despite knowing it might not be the healthiest choice for my body, I often order Chola, a popular Indian delivery option. The Tikka Masala stands out as a particularly noteworthy dish, while the Samosas could use a bit more crispiness, although they are still enjoyable even when delivered. The lunch special is a great value at $9.95, which includes a main dish, rice, dal, and naan. Additionally, Chola is conveniently available on Seamless.
The quality of Chola's delivery service has been especially impressive during the virus period. A recent order placed on Caviar arrived in under 30 minutes, and everything was well-packaged and still piping hot. The portions are generous, and we found that we had leftovers for another night's dinner.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
25. Fresco by Scotto
Live music on select nights, Masterful murals depicting the Italian countryside

Fresco by Scotto is a standout restaurant in New York, known for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The staff at the restaurant are highly accommodating and attentive, ensuring that every diner has a memorable experience. The service is friendly and efficient, with servers going above and beyond to meet the needs of their guests.
The food at Fresco by Scotto is truly exceptional. From the appetizers to the desserts, each dish is carefully crafted with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The presentation is equally impressive, with each plate arriving at the table looking like a work of art. Whether you're in the mood for classic Italian dishes or more adventurous fare, Fresco by Scotto is sure to delight your taste buds.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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26. Grand Sichuan Eastern
Authentic Sichuan flavors in a bustling NYC setting

This restaurant is a must-visit for fans of Sichuan cuisine. The lunch special, which includes Mapo tofu and Parched Chicken, is a great value and offers a delicious taste of the spicy, bold flavors that the restaurant is known for. While the tofu was merely satisfactory, the Parched Chicken was a standout dish – one of the best the reviewer has ever had. The spice level of the food is impressive, making it a great destination for those who enjoy spicy food.
For those looking for a great meal at a good price, this restaurant is a hidden gem. The takeout options are convenient, and the inside dining area is comfortable with a nice, cold air conditioner. The General Chow's chicken and beef with spice were both excellent, offering a balanced and delicious taste of the restaurant's offerings. Whether dining in or taking out, this restaurant is a great choice for a delicious and affordable meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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27. Mischa

Sure, the $29 hot dog has gotten a lot of press for its price (and the fact that it's probably worth it). But Alex Stupak's homage to American food, a departure from his Empellón mini-empire, is good for many dishes, like chopped salad, deviled eggs or kasha varnizkes, and, of course, desserts, like the restaurant's version with apple. cake made with mini sticky buns.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- High-End
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