The New York Journal · Dining
Best Restaurants in Manhattan, by Neighborhood
Dinner is easier when it sits near your day. Our favorite Manhattan restaurants, grouped by neighborhood.
By Luxury Travel NYC Editorial··5 min read
In brief
- Group dinner with your day: Midtown for theater, Columbus Circle for Lincoln Center, downtown for a relaxed evening.
- Evening traffic is heaviest between 6 and 8 p.m., so build in extra time.
- Confirm dress expectations when you book.
Manhattan dining is easiest to plan by neighborhood. A ten-block trip at 7:30 p.m. can take longer than the first course, so the best restaurant is often the one closest to where your evening already is.
Midtown
Le Bernardin — West 51st Street
Eric Ripert’s celebrated seafood restaurant remains one of the city’s most consistent fine-dining experiences, with precise cooking and exceptionally attentive service. A natural choice before or after a Broadway evening.
Good to know: Prime times go quickly. Jackets are customary for gentlemen — confirm when booking.
The Grill — Park Avenue, Midtown East
Set in the landmark Seagram Building, The Grill is a theatrical, high-ceilinged room with a clubby energy that suits business dinners and big occasions alike.
Good to know: Best for groups and celebrations. The Park Avenue entrance makes it easy for a chauffeur to drop off at the door.
Keens Steakhouse — West 36th Street
An 1885 chophouse with a ceiling of clay pipes and a famous mutton chop. The dark, clubby rooms are among the most atmospheric in Midtown.
Good to know: A characterful choice near Herald Square and an easy drive from the Theater District.
Columbus Circle
Per Se — Columbus Circle
Thomas Keller’s tasting-menu restaurant overlooks Central Park. The experience is leisurely and formal, built for a celebration rather than a quick dinner.
Good to know: Allow a long evening. Columbus Circle is congested at dinnertime, so arrange your arrival and pickup in advance.
Gramercy and Greenwich Village
Gramercy Tavern — Gramercy
A long-running favorite known for seasonal cooking and unusually generous hospitality. It feels special without being stiff, with a walk-in tavern room and a more formal dining room.
Good to know: The front tavern holds some tables for walk-ins, a good fallback if the dining room is full.
Carbone — Greenwich Village
A glamorous, nostalgic take on mid-century Italian-American dining, with tuxedoed waiters, tableside service and a scene that is part of the appeal.
Good to know: One of the hardest reservations in the city; plan well ahead and be flexible on timing. Your hotel concierge may be able to help.
Dante — MacDougal Street, Greenwich Village
A beloved Village café-bar with an Italian aperitivo spirit, known for its Negronis and relaxed, convivial feel.
Good to know: Casual and walk-in friendly, a good counterpoint to a formal dinner elsewhere.
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