Before St. Louis
New York.
25 spots, ranked. 25/25 written up
When I lived in New York City, this was the short list — the places I actually went back to, not the ones that were having a moment. The ones that were worth the train.
I still get back from time to time, so this one keeps growing. It's ranked the same way as everything else here: against itself, honestly, with the places I'd send you to first at the top.
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1
Italian
Rezdôra
Rezdôra is one of the two Michelin-starred Italian spots in the city, alongside Torrisi. I can’t get over how incredible everything is here, whether you go for the tasting menu or stick to a la carte. This place holds se…
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2
Italian
I Sodi
I Sodi has the best lasagna in the city, right up there with Don Angie. I miss the old vibes from their smaller location, but it’s still a fantastic spot for a meal with friends, family, or a date night.
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3
Steak
4 Charles Prime Rib
4 Charles Prime Rib is one of the toughest reservations in New York, but it’s worth the hype. The food, service, and overall experience are incredible. If you want to go, try for a weekend brunch reservation or be ready …
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4
Italian
Don Angie
Don Angie's circular lasagna is awesome, and the overall vibe is super trendy. It strikes a great balance. you can come here for a special occasion or just for a casual meal.
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5
Italian
Torrisi
Torrisi is one of New York’s only Michelin-starred Italian restaurants, and it lives up to the hype. From the appetizers to the pastas and cocktails, everything is on point. Pro tip: they reserve bar seats for groups of …
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6
Italian
I Cavallini
I Cavallini is a newer gem that serves an overall phenomenal meal with unique and memorable flavors. The farfalle with Calabrian chili and breadcrumbs is especially incredible. The pasta pieces are so large I had to cut …
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7
American
Gramercy Tavern
Gramercy Tavern is a gem from Danny Meyer (Saint Louis legend!), with a casual front room and a Michelin-starred tasting menu in the back. The casual bar has an incredible burger, which is definitely worth the visit. Bot…
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8
Sushi
Sekai Omakase
Sekai Omakase is my first-ever omakase experience, and it’s a traditional spot serving high-quality sushi. Everything was fresh and beautifully prepared.
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9
Asian
Tempura Matsui
Tempura Matsui offers a unique dining experience that stands out, especially for a Midwest guy like myself. The atmosphere is very formal and super quiet, which feels a bit intense. I went for lunch, and while the portio…
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10
French
Per Se
Per Se is a Thomas Keller restaurant, so you know it’s a big deal. It's definitely a splurge for special occasions, but if you're looking to experience fine dining at least once in your life, this place should be on your…
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11
Korean
COTE Flatiron
COTE in Flatiron is a Michelin-starred Korean BBQ spot that serves some of the best cuts of beef I've had. The atmosphere is super trendy, complete with music and cocktails, making it a lively place for groups. It's a fu…
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12
Italian
Forsythia NYC
A fantastic Italian spot. What is even better is that Forsythia was created by a St. Louis local! Their tasting menu is a steal at under $100, and everything is fresh and delicious. It's perfect for a special occasion. …
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13
Mediterranean
Theodora
I checked out Theodora, a new Brooklyn spot that uses special Josper grills from Spain to add some serious flavor. The octopus and corn ribs are fantastic, and the pita bread is a must-try. It's a solid addition to the d…
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14
Pizza
Lucali
Lucali is one of the best pizza spots in the city, but getting there can be a trek if you live north of Carroll Gardens. No reservations mean long lines on weekends, so I recommend arriving before 4 pm to snag your spot.…
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15
Sushi
Rosella
Rosella is a cozy sushi spot in East Village with a great vibe and two counter spaces. The high-quality sushi and awesome service make it feel intimate, and the prices are solid for what you get. I let the staff choose o…
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16
American
Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi
I have a blast at Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi. The upbeat vibe and loud music set the stage for a fun night out. It's definitely not the place for a quiet dinner with the folks. I loved the chicken dish, but honestly, ever…
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17
BBQ
Hometown Bar-B-Que
Hometown Bar-B-Que serves some of the best BBQ I’ve had in NYC, and it even holds its own against Midwest BBQ—dare I say it’s better? The Korean sticky ribs are absolutely incredible. It’s a bit of a trek to Red Hook wit…
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18
Asian
Torishin
If you're into trying all the different parts of a chicken, Torishin is the place to go! From chicken heart to chicken liver, it's definitely an experience. The food is great, making it worth the adventure.
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19
Mediterranean
Laser Wolf Brooklyn
Laser Wolf Brooklyn is my go-to for quality food and a great vibe, especially for larger groups. The pita bread and dips are a must, and the wings never let me down. Plus, they end the meal with ice cream and have frozen…
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20
Steak
Wolfgang's Steakhouse - Park Avenue New York City
Wolfgang's Steakhouse is my favorite traditional steakhouse in the city. If you're in Manhattan and craving a porterhouse for two, this is the place to go. It's got that Peter Luger's vibe, as it is their sister restaura…
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21
Sushi
KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar
KazuNori has the best sushi for the price in NYC. The warm hand rolls for lunch are incredible, and you can't beat the value. I always recommend this spot for anyone craving top-notch sushi without the omakase price tag.…
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22
Steak
Quality Meats
Quality Meats is my favorite trendy steakhouse in NYC. It's the ideal spot for a special occasion or a fun night out with friends.
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23
Sushi
konban NYC
Konban has that Japanese izakaya vibe with a trendy twist. It’s one of the best meals I’ve had in NYC, and since it’s not "social media famous," getting a table is not that hard. I loved the corn, shishito peppers, and a…
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24
Sandwiches
Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's always hits the spot. It's a classic tourist spot, but the pastrami is the best I've ever had. I usually want to go for lunch, but the portions are huge. you'll definitely need a nap afterward. The half sandwich w…
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25
Breakfast
Clinton St. Baking Company
Clinton St. Baking Company is my favorite breakfast spot in the city. Their pancakes always hit the spot, but honestly, everything on the menu is incredible. They also whip up great burgers and shakes if you're in the mo…