While many of the restaurants in New York City can be described as good, only the best include the following key components: fantastic surroundings, quality service, and above all, incredible food. And with many of these excellent restaurants saturating the NYC landscape, foodies from all over the world flock to the city to experience great dining. However, the enormity of NYC can be a little overwhelming to first-timers in the Big Apple. If you’re new to town and in search for the best places to eat, Imperial Movers put together this list of the top restaurants you need to visit. With years of experience and a plethora of knowledge, this NYC mover knows how to make New York City moving easier!
1. Le Bernardin
Le Bernardin is the perfect restaurant for people who can’t get enough of French cuisine. With an almost a five-star rating on Trip Advisor, this restaurant has an upscale and elegant atmosphere with private dining and dinner reservations. Some of the more popular menu items include the scrumptious caviar, calamari, and filet mignon, making this the perfect spot for an anniversary or first date meal.
2. Blecker Street Pizza
If you’re looking for a casual and family-oriented atmosphere, head on over to Blecker Street Pizza. This famous pizza joint is commonly named the best pizza joint in NYC and menu favorites include authentic Sicilian pizza, chicken and eggplant parmesan, tasty calzones, and much more. And with celebrities such as Ed Norton and Steven Tyler who frequently visit the restaurant, Blecker Street has high ratings from stars, locals, and tourists alike.
3. Russ and Daughter’s Cafe
Treat yourself to weekend brunch at Russ and Daughter’s Cafe where you’ll find quality coffee and a variety of mouth-watering breakfast items such as yummy eggs Benedict and French toast. Not only is the food great, but the lively and modern atmosphere make dining here a delightful experience. Russ and Daughter’s also hosts monthly jazz performances and is open late on the weekends.
4. Jack’s Wife Freda
Jack’s Wife Freda is a welcoming and intimate bistro that’s full of memories and flavor. With unique options such as the matzoh ball soup and other American-Mediterranean dishes, you’re sure to feel right at home in this NYC spot. The restaurant also offers reservation and delivery services and shares its recipes with customers!
5. Shake Shack
If you’re ready for a good old-fashioned burger and fries joint, the Shake Shack is the perfect place to go. With a wide variety of classic shakes, flat-top dogs, delicious burgers, and frozen custard, this spot is guaranteed to brighten up your day with its heavenly menu. Whether you’re dining in or ordering to-go, the Shake Shake is known for its excellent and speedy service.
6. Blue Ribbon Sushi
Blue Ribbon Sushi has a cozy and romantic atmosphere that make it ideal for an NYC date night. Earning countless awards as the best sushi restaurant in the business, Blue Ribbon has fantastic sushi rolls and dishes along with flavorful tea, ice cream, and sake. You can even sit at the cedar wood sushi bar and watch as your food is expertly crafted.
7. Murray’s Cheese Bar
Cheese lovers around the world can unite at Murray’s Cheese Bar, which has everything that a cheese enthusiast could dream of. Whether it’s their tasty cheese plate, homemade macaroni and cheese (made with three different types of cheese), or their signature Murray’s Melt, you’re sure to find a deliciously cheesy dish that meets your fancy on the restaurant’s extensive menu. You can also grab some fun gifts such as tote bags and tees at the restaurant’s shop.