One thing you have to do when traveling to NYC is try the array of amazing restaurants. This list is definitely going to be bias, because I have my own personal preferences. Nonetheless, I wish you eat only the best, hence this section of the New York City guide. I also know that people travel with different budgets, so I selected different price-range-options to suit you. Here are some of my favorite restaurants in the whole city – in no particular order.
Sweetgreen: this place has been growing on me each time I go there. It’s a franchise, so you can find several locations throughout the city, and it’s healthy and delicious. You can either make your own salad, or choose from their variety. They make it right in front of you and it’s a great portion.
Pret a Manger: another place you can find easily and all over the island is Pret a Manger. I first tried it in London, almost 10 years ago, and was hooked. They have seriously good options to try. From a hot soup for those cold winter days to great salads and wraps.
Taim: another great, healthy and quick place. Taim is a vegetarian restaurant with the most amazing falafels. Make sure you go off peak time because it tends to get busy at lunch.
Milon Bangladesh: you are in for a treat. If you love Indian food and want to have a unique experience, go to Milon Bangladesh. It’s one of the cheapest places I’ve been to and it’s BYOB – bring your own beverage. What more can we ask for?
Shake Shack: since the first bite I ever took in the summer of 2014, I’m hooked. For a while there I could not have a burger to save my life – don’t have too many – but they are easily the best fast food burger I’ve ever had. The Shroom Burger is good too.
By Chloé: looking for a vegan place? Then this is the place for you. By Chloé has the best vegan burgers, sweet potato fries, beet ketchup and chocolate chip cookies ever. Don’t look any further – especially at Bleecker street, the location is beautiful.
Maman: if you follow me on Instagram, you’ve probably seen me several times at Maman. It’s a french little place, also with several locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, with the best treats. I’ve been stuffing my face with their oat milk honey lavender latte and white chocolate and pretzel cookie. They also have quick and easy meals if you want to eat in or take out.
The Egg Shop: the name says it all. The Egg Shop is a small restaurant, very close to De Maria, where you have only egg focused dishes. My favorite is the dragon bowl and their lemonade.
BoCaphé: this little cozy Vietnamese place has grown fond in my heart. Ever since I was introduced to it, I can safely say it’s one of my go-tos. Albeit quite expensive if you want to have entrées, a proper meal and drink something, but worth it. My pick: their beef and truffle rice bowl. Never fails.
Butcher’s Daughter: this all vegetarian place doesn’t only have a great menu but a beautiful decoration and happy hour. Make sure you try their kale chips pictured below.
Eataly: this huge concept store and restaurant has around 5 or 6 places inside. You can choose from pizza, to pasta, vegetables, fish or meat bar, or just a glass of wine and some cheese. They also have great gelatos and dessert options. Take some time to explore this magnificent gem.
Sauvage: I’ve been there several times now. Mostly because it’s very close to my apartment and for the French vibes. It’s right by the G train (Greenpoint Station). Usually a highly solicited space, very close to Williamsburg. Their avocado toast and aperol spritz is one of the best I’ve had in New York.
Five Leaves: right across the street from Sauvage, Five Leaves is an old favorite. I would say that it’s another place to try an amazing avocado toast or, according to my husband, the burger. If you have a waiting line at brunch, make your way over to the Williamsburg waterfront or the Smorgasburg if it’s spring/summer.
Tacombi: craving tacos and margaritas? Tacombi is the place for you. With over 4 locations in the city, you can never go wrong with their quesadillas and Palomitas – a grapefruit margarita.
Colonia Verde: this little gem in the heart of Brooklyn instantly stole my heart. So much so, that I went two days in a row. It’s a cozy little space that serves Mexican specialties with a touch of contemporary cuisine. I’ve tried several things and recommend them all.
ABC Kitchen: we’ve only been to ABC Kitchen once, but it was enough to know how good it is. It’s not a place you go every week because it’s a bit more expensive than what we’re used to. But it’s a nice place to go for a date or a special evening.
ABCv: belongs to the same group, but is a vegan restaurant. I’ve been there several times, always tried different things and was never disappointed. Try out their juices for a refreshing entrée and do not skip dessert.
Gramercy Tavern: again, a bit pricey, but not something you go everyday. Gramercy Tavern has a sort of gentlemen’s club feel, but all the good food. I had an amazing flatbread as a starter and it was amazing.
Augustine: having friends in the city is a great way to find out about new places. A friend of ours introduced us to Augustine. With a very old New York vibe and feel, we were transported to another decade. Suddenly, I could feel the 20’s vibes, the Gatsby dresses and the cigarette holders. The salmon is beyond good.
The Standard Grill: one of the places we’ve been the most – but actually haven’t been in a while. Known for crazy-busy brunches, great fries and an ice rink during winter, the Standard Grill is at the Standard hotel. Falling on the high line, it’s in the vibrant Meatpacking district. While you wait for your table – there’s always some time – you can browse through the great shops or enjoy the view of the Hudson river.
Bar Bolonat: I feel like this is a very strong statement to make, but Bar Bolonat is my favorite place in the city. I’ve been there around 4/5 times and cannot get enough. The food is indescribable, the drinks are to die for and the ambiance is just freaking awesome. Make sure you get a reservation or, if you forget, go there mid-week, it’s less crowded.
Mu Ramen: located in Long Island City, Mu Ramen is a ramen specialty restaurant. Featured in a lot of guides and the Queens episode of Antony Bourdain, it has one of the best ramen bowls I’ve had. My husband always has the fried chicken, which is made with a delicious stuffing. Go early to make sure you can walk the huge bowl off after.
If you feel like there’s a place you really feel should be featured here, feel free to e-mail me or comment below. This New York City guide is going to be edited as my experience in the city improves.