If you’re planning a fancy date night or just want a cozy spot to hang with friends and family, Midtown’s got you covered.
Quick Recommendations: Butter and Kochi
Every restaurant on this list brings something special to the table – and yes, the food is just as good as you’d hope.
So let’s get into it. Here are the best Midtown NYC restaurants worth checking out.
1. Butter
Stepping into the plush elegance of Midtown’s Butter, you’re immediately enveloped by an ambiance that marries sophistication with comfort.
The Gnocchi “Mac & Cheese” is a divine revolution of a classic, featuring ethereally light gnocchi enveloped in a sumptuously creamy cheese sauce, redefining comfort food.
Meanwhile, the Smoked Double-Cut Heritage Pork Chop, with its tender, juicy cut and a side of perfectly roasted garnet yams, promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that splendidly rounds out an exquisite dining venture.
What to order: Gnocchi “Mac & Cheese”, Smoked Double-Cut Heritage Pork Chop, Grilled White Cloud Cauliflower
Address: 70 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
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2. Kochi
For those intrigued by the allure of modern Korean flavors, Kochi presents a nine-course tasting menu that artfully weaves tradition with culinary innovation.
The A5 Wagyu, known for its buttery texture, provides an almost ethereal dining experience, while the duck option impresses with its tenderness, complemented by black garlic truffle and barley risotto.
Situated in a cozy yet chic setting, Kochi is fine dining without the stiff formalities, ideal for a relaxed yet sophisticated outing.
What to order: Duck or A5 Wagyu, Halibut, Ice Cream
Address: 652 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036
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3. The Modern
The Modern offers a two-Michelin-starred dining experience that perfectly marries art with culinary innovation.
For an intimate peek into haute cuisine, the Kitchen Table experience provides an unobstructed view of the kitchen’s dynamism, accompanied by an exclusive tasting menu crafted by Executive Chef Thomas Allan.
For ala carte, don’t miss the ‘Eggs On Eggs On Eggs,’ a dish that artfully layers poached eggs with caviar and pickled shallots on crunchy brioche, exemplifying the restaurant’s mastery of texture and flavor.
What to order: Eggs On Eggs On Eggs, The Kitchen Table Experience
Address: 9 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
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4. Empellon
Bask in warmth of Empellón’s autumn-hued setting, where Mexican flavors embraces upscale American cuisine.
Begin your culinary adventure with their Guacamole with Seven Salsas, each escalating in heat for an exciting taste.
Their Fish Tempura Tacos is lauded for their succulent fish and addictive tartar sauce.
Cap off the meal with the visually deceptive and delightful Avocado dessert—a whimsical creation of avocado-lime puree, mimicking its namesake fruit, set on a refreshing bed of Mexican shaved ice and eucalyptus yogurt.
What to order: Guacamole with Seven Salsas, Fish Tempura Tacos, Avocado
Address: 510 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022
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5. SESAMO
At Sesamo, you’re about to experience next-level Italian taste.
A fantastic choice is the Duck Ragu Rigatoni, a fusion of confit duck and aromatic garam masala in a savory tomato base.
As you enjoy the intimate ambiance, consider indulging in the unique Black Tea Crème Brûlée for dessert, where smoky tea nuances elevate the classic custard.
With each bite, Sesamo proves that innovative flavor pairings can create a core memory.
What to order: Duck Ragu Rigatoni, Black Tea Creme Brûlée, Burrata
Address: 764 10th Ave, New York, NY 10019
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6. Hutong New York
Immerse yourself in the glamour of the 1920s at Hutong, where Northern Chinese cuisine takes center stage.
Their art deco style is a nod to the theatrical presentation of dishes like the Whole Flaming Duck, which is flambeed with Chinese rose wine to enhance its crispy skin.
For dessert, the Bao & Soy Milk is sweet with a white chocolate shell filled with sesame mousse and caramel.
What to order: Roasted Peking Duck, Bao & Soy Milk, Wagyu Beef Millefeuille, Kou Shui Chicken
Address: 731 Lexington Avenue, Inside Beacon Courtyard, New York, NY 10022
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7. STK Steakhouse Midtown NYC
STK Steakhouse Midtown NYC captivates with its chic, high-energy atmosphere.
The filet, when served with truffle butter, offers a taste of decadence, while the roasted lamb rack with rosemary jus underscores a commitment to flavorful finesse.
You will definitely enjoy the Wagyu Burger, a premium treat paired with caramelized onions. Not a fan of steak? Then the Lobster Tails says hi.
What to order: Filet, Filet with Lobster Tail, Wagyu Burger & Fries
Address: 1114 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10036
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8. The Halal Guys
Halal Guys is famous for their robust flavors and unbeatable prices.
Their Combo Platter, a hearty mix of beef gyro and chicken, served over fragrant seasoned rice with crisp lettuce, screams satisfaction from all fronts.
The legendary White Sauce enhances every item, transforming simple dishes into masterpieces.
Whether it’s the queue or the generous portions, each visit to this iconic yellow cart is a deep dive into Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food, complete with their hot sauce for the daring.
What to order: Combo Platter, Chicken Platter, White Sauce
Address: 6th Avenue &, W 53rd St, New York
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9. Totto Ramen Midtown East
Totto Ramen puts its own spin on Japanese comfort food, earning a loyal following with bowls that feel both familiar and fresh.
With slices of fresh tuna laid over warm rice, their Tuna Don is brought to life with a soy-sesame dressing that seals the deal.
If you’re craving something heavier, the Karaage Ramen is the move: crispy, juicy chicken meets a rich, savory broth that delivers both flavor and texture.
What to order: Tuna Don, Karaage Ramen, Spicy Ramen
Address: 248 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022
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10. Peak Restaurant & Bar
Perched high above Midtown, Peak Restaurant & Bar is a top-notch dining destination with stunning vistas that stretch to the Statue of Liberty.
The halibut is everything it should be—flaky, tender, and brightened by fava beans, artichokes, and tomato in a way that feels thoughtful, not fussy.
Then there’s dessert: a deconstructed cheesecake that ditches the usual for something sharper and more refreshing, with almond nougatine, persimmon, and cranberry sorbet
What to order: Hudson Valley Foie Gras, Halibut, Beef Short Rib, Cheesecake, Maine Lobster
Address: 30 Hudson Yards 101st floor, New York, NY 10001
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11. Marea
Marea is where coastal Italian flavors meet Manhattan polish, serving up pristine seafood and hand-crafted pastas in a space that’s as effortlessly chic as its Central Park South address
Their Astice is a standout: sweet lobster, creamy burrata, and this dreamy eggplant mix that pulls it all together.
Not to be outdone, don’t sleep on their Fusilli either. The braised octopus and bone marrow come through with depth and a savory finish that sticks with you.
What to order: Astice, Fusilli, Tiramisu
12. Grand Central Oyster Bar
For seafood lovers wandering through Grand Central, the Oyster Bar is a historical gem that offers a dive into oceanic delights.
Within its iconic setting, characterized by terracotta arches and an old-world charm, you can indulge in exquisitely shucked oysters or the richly satisfying New England Clam Chowder.
The Stews Pan Roast, a creamy concoction of mixed seafood, is a feast for the eyes that echoes the freshness of the sea.
What to order: New England Clam Chowder, Stews Pan Roast, Oysters, Lobster Rolls
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
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13. Los Tacos No.1
At Los Tacos No.1, the authentic taste of Mexico shines right in the heart of Chelsea Market.
The Adobada Taco, with its tender marinated pork and rich spices, is an explosion of flavors in every bite.
For those who favor beef, the Carne Asada combines juicy meat with salsa, wrapped in a soft taco shell for a delicious treat.
Quick service means a swift yet memorable meal – a must-visit for those near Times Square.
What to order: Adobada Taco, Carne Asada
Address: 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
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14. Felice 56
Felice 56 welcomes guests with the essence of the Tuscan countryside, where traditional dishes glow under dimly lit candles.
The Nizzarda di Salmone is a great place to start—a salad with creamy eggs, sun-dried tomatoes, and your choice of seared wild salmon or smoky grilled chicken.
Follow it up with the Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe, tossed in Pecorino Romano, cracked black pepper, and 24-month aged Parmigiano for that salty comfort that never misses.
What to order: Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe, Nizzarda di Salmone, Cavolfiore Al Forno
Address: 15 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
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15. The Original Soup Kitchen
The Original Soup Kitchen is a cozy escape where the soup is always steaming and ready to soothe your soul. Here, “art, not soup.”
The Lobster Bisque is how tender lobster mingles with a creamy, vibrant soup—perfect for bread dipping.
For a spicy treat, the Jambalaya packs a punch with its strong blend of chicken, shrimp, sausage, and Cajun spices.
Does this soup sanctuary sound familiar? It should, as it’s straight out of a Seinfeld episode!
What to order: Lobster Bisque, Jambalaya
Address: 259A W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
We’ve hoped that the list above has helped you make your decision! If you’re looking for the same thing in Brooklyn, we’ve had everything prepared.
Don’t hesitate to check out our Best Restaurants in Brooklyn for further memorable moments!
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How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.