How to Discover New York City's Best Restaurants

New York City dining is a heralded experience, with hungry restaurant-goers able to choose from an almost overwhelming array of eateries. While culinary tastes are generally a matter of opinion, the following restaurants are about as close as you can get to sure things on the island of Manhattan.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Sardi’s is an iconic institution famed for its countless framed caricatures of local and international celebrities that cover the walls. Located in the heart of the Theater District at 234, W. 44th Street, the restaurant also serves creative Italian-themed fare that puts a unique touch on some of the classics.

2. Just down the street at 152 W. 44th, Virgil’s BBQ is a high-ceilinged, two-tiered bastion of raucous drinking and dining. The founders established the place after visiting hundreds of barbecue joints in the South, and their research really comes through in the mouthwatering ribs, po’ boys and even seafood like the pan-fried crab cakes.

3. Tavern on the Green is one of America’s most famous restaurants, an enchanting oasis that is at its best from June through September, when its magical garden is open for dining, deejays and dancing. Truth be told, the pricey food has a hard time completely living up to the dazzling surroundings, but the setting is so wonderful it’s still well worth a visit to Central Park’s west side.

4. Diners savoring seafood should head straight to City Crab at 235 Park Avenue South. Amidst a high-ceilinged, comfortably elegant atmosphere, patrons have a cornucopia of seafood treats from which to select—from Maine lobster to Chilean sea bass to Florida mahi mahi.

5. You’ll have to splurge a bit for a visit to Daniel, but the renowned restaurant founded by the legendary Daniel Boulud is an unforgettable dining destination in every respect. Located at 60 E. 65th Street, Daniel serves New French fare that is as imaginative as it is delicious. Butter-poached abalone with a rosemary-vegetable relish, anyone?

6. While you’ll find a gamut of good traditional Chinese restaurants in the city’s lively Chinatown neighborhood, consider Chin Chin at 216 E. 49th for something a bit more spectacular. This hip and happening eatery with a gourmet touch makes a delicacy out of your favorite standbys and even creates a few memorable masterpieces of its own; the Grand Marnier Prawns are about as good as it gets.

7. Family-style dining doesn’t get any better than at Carmine’s, featuring Manhattan locales in both the Theater District (200 W. 44th) and Upper West Side (2450 Broadway). The tasty Southern Italian fare is all about quality that comes in quantity, and the friendly service and vibrant settings only add to the fun.

8. Nobu is a tempting Tribeca establishment that includes Robert De Niro among its co-owners. The innovative institution is located at 105 Hudson Street, and impresses with its dramatic décor—which blends in trees, stones and other natural elements—as well as its "new style" Japanese cuisine.

9. Yet another memorable dining experience can be had at the Water Club, an elegant East River barge with splendid views and excellent "Classic American" fare. The floating establishment is located right on the river by 30th Street, and during the warmer months also features The Crow’s Nest, an open-air bar and eatery on its upper deck.

Tips & Warnings

• Make reservations well in advance when possible at these popular restaurants.
• As in any large metropolis, be cautious when strolling alone and at night.

[DanimalMonster]

on 10/22/2009 Hopefully I will be able to visit NYC soon, thanks for the tips! 5* and recommend.