When it comes to the city that never sleeps—New York City—there are endless mouthwatering pics to take everywhere you turn. From street meat carts to Michelin 3-star restaurants, there’s obviously no shortage of dishes to Instagram, but knowing where to go and what to snap is half the battle. There are dim sum gems, ramen havens, instantly recognizable burgers (and burger joints), pizza parlors so famous they’re now taking over airports, macaroni mainstays and yes, even slushies served in floating unicorns. In a world full of like-obsessed eaters, it’s shoot first, eat next and this list of the 50 best restaurants in New York City will show you exactly where to dine for a highly Instagrammable meal.
The 50 Most Instagrammable, Best Restaurants & Dishes in New York City
Fusilli Mac & Cheese at Smyth Tavern
Many visitors flock to Smyth Tribeca for its affordable accommodations, downtown address and late-night lounge, Galerie Bar, but whether you’re staying here or not, a Smyth Tavern dining experience is a must—for this mac and cheese alone. Some even tout it as one of the top 10 macs in the city. Oozing with three kinds of cheese and studded with crispy lardons and toasted breadcrumbs, it’s literally love at first bite when it comes to this retro favorite. We also appreciate the fusilli selection in lieu of an elbow or shell—a noodle you can really sink your fork into for a few heaping twirls. And the Smyth burger with bacon-onion jam, cheese and special sauce… just wow. Get that too, along with the caviar-topped deviled eggs.
Angelina Hot Chocolate at L’Avenue at Saks
L’Avenue at Saks is a brilliant concept. Who doesn’t want to sink into a cozy banquette, fresh off a day of shopping, surrounded by NYC’s glitterati in a posh, Philippe Starck-designed setting? We for sure, do. And while the genius of Paris-born L’Avenue’s Manhattan outpost lies in its cuisine trifecta (French, Italian, Asian influences), some of the most ‘grammable dishes are the drinks and desserts. Take their S’Aks S’Mores for example. Chocolate mousse, toasted marshmallow and graham cracker ice cream are layered to perfection with a chocolate disc covering the glass, only to melt into the s’mores, breaking the seal once more molten chocolate is poured on top. Then there’s the decadent hot chocolate, thanks to their Angelina pop-up that’s onsite through December. The famous Parisian cafe holds center court by the host stand with old-fashioned hot chocolate, eclairs and Angelina’s special tea, which would obviously make the perfect holiday gift.
Arthur & Sons Spicy Rigatoni
Everyone has their favorites when it comes to one of New York’s most polarizing kinds of pasta—spicy rigatoni—but we’re going on record that Chef Joe Isidori’s version might be the best in the city. Given the highly competitive category, his restaurant Arthur & Sons is a part of (a red sauce joint with old-school NY vibes), it’s worth being said that they hit it out of the park with every dish, spicy riggies included. And don’t you dare leave without sampling the Eggplant Stack alla Arturo’s, Macaroni Alla Tartufo, Veal Parmigiana and Spumoni My Way.
Ladurée’s Macaron Towers
Channel your inner Emily in Paris at Ladurée for a fancy French brunch (or afternoon tea) complete with flaky, buttery quiches, crisp salads overflowing with garden-fresh veggies, triple-decker club sandwiches and towering tiers of macarons. The confectionary delights are really why you go to Ladurée—that and the dreamy garden out back under a canopy of flowering cherry blossom trees—but all of their desserts are just as decadent and delicious as they are ‘grammable. Coffees, cocktails and flutes of bubbles are also par for the course when at this Parisian tea salon and restaurant.
CUT by Wolfgang Puck’s Whole Maine Lobster with Red Thai Curry
With a name like CUT, it’s fair to assume the Wagyu ribeyes and bone-in tomahawks are what you order when you visit celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck’s steakhouse in the posh Four Seasons Downtown. And you would be right—in addition to one particular lobster dish that’s mind-blowing, thanks to a red Thai curry sauce and the perfect mound of jasmine rice. It’s saucy, brothy, fragrant goodness you’ll want to drink straight from the bowl, with a craft cocktail from the bar to wash it down of course. And if you happen to be staying at the Tribeca hotspot hotel, you don’t have to venture far to savor more of NYC’s greatest culinary hits—they have a rotating chef series where some of the city’s biggest names like Danny Meyer and Leah Cohen lend their signature dishes to the in-room dining menu each month.
Momoya SoHo’s Chef Tasting Bento Box
When it comes to Manhattan’s sushi superstars, Momoysa SoHo ranks at the top of our list for their stunning bento boxes consisting of nine mini chirashi bowls of the chef’s choosing. Designed to explore all textures and tastes, the Momoya Box is a curated selection of the finest sashimi, nigiri, uni, roe and fresh fish delights, nestled amongst shiso leaves, sliced pickles and more accoutrements to impress the senses. Equally appealing are their craft cocktails, sakes and starters—our favorites being the tuna tortilla with caper mayo, Wagyu crispy rice bites and spicy scallop-shrimp roll with sweet potato matchsticks on top.
Bar Pasquale’s Sicilian Burrata Slices
Bar Pasquale is the newest restaurant opening from the Delicious Hospitality Group (which includes NYC favorites like Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records), but the vibe here is straight Sicilian. Save plenty of room for the crispy artichokes, those sfizione-style square slices, homemade pasta (we’re partial to the Casarecce with Sicilian Pork and Pistachio Lumache) and pistachio cannoli, which is pure perfection. A robust wine list also highlights varietals from Mount Edna and there are many quaffable cocktails to choose from with unique takes on Italian classics.
Red Wine Braised Octopus and Bone Marrow Fusilli at Marea
There are few pasta dishes more notorious in NYC than Marea’s Red Wine Braised Octopus and Bone Marrow Fusilli. One bite and you’ll understand why celebs, locals and tourists flock to the marble-walled bar once the doors open at the coastal Italian darling of Columbus Circle. The Michelin-starred landmark is famous for a few things: Executive Chef Lauren DeSteno’s Lobster Astice with Burrata, the corn-filled ravioli with black truffles and chanterelles that only graces plates during the summer season and whole fish preparations like pan-seared Dover sole and Mediterranean sea bass baked in salt. There’s just nothing like the Central Park icon for a dinner you’ll long remember after you depart.
Truffle Fries at Dowling’s at The Carlyle
There are certain restaurants you go to for the food, others for the cocktails, a select handful for people-watching and the most prized spots in NYC for all three. Welcome to Dowling’s at The Carlyle where breakfast is beautiful, dinner exquisite and the two-course power lunch is alive and very well. Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique (formerly of 21 Club) is doing big things back in the kitchen, churning out throwback dishes like Steak Diane and Murray’s roasted chicken with Périgord sauce, but there are also chops, pastas and an impressive array of sides to choose from (such as English peas and mint butter, creamed spinach gratin and truffle fries). Most often you’ll see the upper crust of the Upper East Side noshing on burgers and martinis though, which is really the only way to do Dowling’s right.
American Bar’s Chopped Salad
Of all the salads in NYC, a few are more popularized by Instagram than others. Like, say, American Bar’s Chopped Salad for example and their Peanut Chicken Salad. Even social star Serena Kerrigan is a mega fan, to the point where you can order their chopped “SFK-style, with a Negroni on the side.” It’s hard to play favorites at American Bar though, especially when the Brussels sprouts, carrot and avocado salad drizzled with peanut dressing and tossed with shredded chicken is next level. And then there’s the pigs in a blanket, spinach-artichoke dip and chicken schnitzel to contend with. Let’s just say we get why this is one of the West Village’s most desired resys to get—and gram.
Ai Fiori’s Trofie Nero
There’s no shortage of stunning, photogenic dining rooms in New York City, and Ai Fiori at The Langham, New York is at the top of the list, thanks to their grand-scale floral installations that change with the seasons—just like their pasta. However one that will never go off menu is the Trofie Nero, a Ligurian crustacean ragù of scallops and sepia-spiced breadcrumbs that gets better with every twirl.
Zuma’s Deluxe Dessert Platter
Zuma may be best known for their rock shrimp tempura, black miso cod wrapped in hoba leaf, avant-garde omakase and sushi rolls, but make sure you save room for cocktails and desserts. Their artisan tipples are made for Insta with branded large-format ice cubes, smoke and other eccentricities worked into the mix, and dessert may as well be the first course, since you need the most room for a plateau of sorbets, chawan mushi (exotic fruits), yuzu cheesecake, molten chocolate cake and a pecan sundae with roasted sweet potato and banana milk ice cream. Seriously, go with a group, make a day (or night) out of the tasting and try something new—you’ll be so pleased you did.
The Stanford White Burger at The Lambs Club
Who wouldn’t want to tuck into this beauty, smothered in Gruyère cheese and topped with pickled onion and Dijonnaise? Executive Chef Michael White (who has taken over the reins at the Midtown beacon) might be the pasta whisper from his days spent dreaming up some of NYC’s most memorable noodles at Marea, Ai Fiori and Osteria Morini, but he does a serious White Burger that’s worthy of gramming, then devouring. Other notable newbies at The Lambs Club include an almost too pretty to eat steak tartare dotted with crème fraiche, microgreens and a cornichon fan, plus fluke with kumquats, fresno chilies, basil. Pasta is obviously alive and well here with two standout stars: agnolotti with ricotta, ramps, artichokes, olives and orecchiette with lobster, scallops, clams, spicy tomato sauce. Order both; go home happy and don’t forget an ice-cold martini (or two) for good measure.
Piccola Cucina’s Cacio e Pepe
Many would describe Piccola Cucina as a Sicilian house of noodle worship with flawless hits like Cacio e Pepe, Fusilli with Langoustine and Burrata and Green Tagliatelle with Wild Boar Ragù and Black Truffles, but they also have a table-side tiramisu that’s one of the best in the city. And all the focaccias. And all the frittos—you can never go wrong with Mozzarella in Carrozza (gently-fried mozzarella cheese in between two slices of bread) that’s pure bliss in every bite. Visit their Uptown address, or one of two Soho spots, and prepare to be inducted into the Piccola fans for life group.
Double Trouble Waffle at Wafels & Dinges
Wafels & Dinges serves up photo-worthy Belgian waffles topped with delicious dinges (Flemish for “whatchamacallits”) at their NYC locations in Herald Square and Bryant Park! Enjoy curated crowd favorites like the Throwdown, which famously took down celebrity Chef Bobby Flay’s take on the hit show Throwdown! With Bobby Flay, the Baconana or the Double Trouble (stuffed with ice cream inside and covered with Nutella). For anyone inspired to create their own masterpiece, you can DIY your waffle with Wafels & Dinges’ 16 unique toppings, like Belgian chocolate fudge, dulce de leche imported from Argentina, scratch-made whipped cream—even bacon!
Popular’s Peruvian Ceviches and Sticky Prawns
Acclaimed Chef Diego Muñoz rose to success (and the top of the World’s Best Restaurants list) with Astrid y Gastón in Lima, Peru and now his NYC ode to his homeland can be found at POPULAR, in Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel. With an adjoining Cantina & Pisco Bar, open-format kitchen boasting top-of-the-line wood-fire ovens and glass cases carrying fresh catch of the day, you’ll feel instantly transported to South America. As to be expected, all of the ceviches are outstanding, but his hearts of palm and avocado ceviche with tiger’s milk is not to be overlooked. As for the wok side of the menu, you should head straight for the sticky prawns over a bed of chow mein and toasted peanuts, then follow that up with authentic Lomo Saltado for two. The extensive wine list is overflowing with worldly selects, the Pisco Sours are unparalleled and the lush jungle motif makes you feel tucked away from the rest of the bustling city outside.
Clocktower’s Shepherd’s Pie
Welcome back, Clocktower! The Michelin-starred British restaurant temporarily closed during COVID but has finally reopened its doors (and ovens). Plan to be in NYC over St. Patrick’s Day? Their braised lamb shepherd’s pie is calling your name. In the mood for the best scotch egg in town? Look no further than Chef Jason Atherton’s near-perfect version with walnut ketchup. More signatures you’ll want to sink your teeth into include tandoori chicken with coconut basmati rice and obviously fish and chips or the beef Wellington.
Atlantic Grill’s Spaghetti all’Astice
NYC restaurant icon Atlantic Grill is getting a major facelift and menu refresh under new leadership from Monte Carlo Hospitality Group and celebrated Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore. After an eight-month revitalization, Atlantic Grill continues to offer the freshest seafood and highest quality meats, now with a touch of Chef Antonio’s Mediterranean influence. Evidence: his prized Spaghetti all’Astice (Lobster Spaghetti). The wine list focuses on American varietals (with a few European and South American all-stars mixed in) and is complemented by a concise list of six signature cocktails ranging from a spicy margarita to a Negroni Americano.
Black Bass en Croûte at The Fulton
The Fulton is Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s waterfront jewel at Pier 17 in NYC’s Seaport District. With the Brooklyn Bridge as their backdrop and a sprawling open-air patio for a dining room, there’s no better Seaport spot for an epic lunch, dinner or brunch with views for days. Menu highlights include King Crab Lettuce Cups with Avocado and Yuzu, Longevity Noodles with Glazed Maine Lobster and Long Island Fluke in Habanero Vinaigrette, but it’s the Bass en Croute baked in pastry crust with tomato consommé and béarnaise that’s really the reason to go—and take all the pics.
Portale’s Lumache with Bolognese Bianco
Heaven is a place on earth after one bite of Portale’s Lumache Bolognese Bianco with black truffles and Parmigiano. You’ll be so hooked, you may need to make this a weekly reservation. All of the house-made pastas are pretty extraordinary (like the Cavatelli Arrabbiata with cilantro pesto and agnolotti with ricotta, pancetta, chanterelle, spring onions), but really it’s all about the lumache. And the ambiance. And the outstanding wine list. And the pure NYC magic that happens inside these walls. Reservations are waiting…
Cecconi’s Artisan Pizzas
Nestled on the edge of the East River, with striking views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, sits the posh DUMBO House that’s not exactly easy to enter unless you happen to be a member. Luckily, one doesn’t need to belong to Soho House in order to dine downstairs at the ever-charming Cecconi’s. You can find wood-fired pizzas like this Parma ham, rocket, tomato and stracciatella signature, along with fresh pastas, mouthwatering cicchettis and all the Italian cocktails.
Miss Lily’s Jerk Ramen
Laid-back Caribbean cafe Miss Lily’s was an overnight sensation when it opened in 2011 and ever since, it’s become a worldwide phenomenon with an NYC location in the East Village, outposts and rum bars in Dubai and Jamaica at Skylark Negril Beach Resort and meal kits available nationwide through Goldbelly. There’s just something about slurping jerk ramen at their island oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle that never gets old though.
Penelope’s Nutella French Toast
There are no words for Penelope’s Nutella French Toast with warm chocolate hazelnut drizzle, except gimme. PS, the Murray Hill cornerstone does all-day breakfast (well, at least until 4 p.m.) so there’s no reason this brunch item couldn’t double as dessert.
Electric Burrito’s French Fry-Stuffed Burritos
For Southern Cali-style bomb burritos, head to Electric Burrito in the East Village. This tiny spot on St. Mark’s is bursting with big flavor—and burritos stuffed with your choice of guac, salsa, crema or french fries. Need another reason to be convinced? The breakfast burritos are even more addictive, especially the Hot Rod with bacon, carne asada, beans and orange sauce). Life as you know it will never be the same.
Wicked Jane’s Salmon in Bonito Broth
New Jersey chef and restaurateur, Zod Arifai, opened his newest New York City restaurant Wicked Jane to much fanfare and 5-star reviews prior to the pandemic. Then they had to close. One year later they’ve reopened their doors with à la carte samplings off the original multi-course tasting menu and yes, the Lightly Cooked Salmon with rice purée and bonito broth is still coming in hot. As is the duck breast with red cabbage, turnip and a fig red wine emulsion. Curious foodies and wine lovers take note.
Craft Cocktails at Harriett’s Rooftop
City dwellers flock to 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s Rooftop for Harriet’s handcrafted cocktails, just as much as they do for the pool scene alone. Book a daybed and relax with boozy tipples like their Zero Waste Daquiri, Yuzu + Shiso Mojito or Al Pastor Pineapple Infused-Tequila libation. And definitely don’t sleep on the Chicken Karaage and Okonomiyaki-Style Tots.
STK’s Truffle Butter-Topped Steaks
It’s hard to go back to basic steaks once you’ve had filet dripping in truffle butter with a mountain of shaved truffles on top. STK NYC Rooftop is the place to go for a serious steakhouse dinner, but whatever you do, start the night with their next-level shellfish platter and end it with a Bag o’ Donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar.
Loulou’s The World Is Yours Cocktail
Loulou Petit Bistro & Speakeasy is a new French eatery in the heart of Chelsea, with a fast-growing rep for innovative cocktails. There’s the ‘Mexican Stiletto’ served in a glass bird with a straw and ‘Valentini’ in a see-through heart, but this crystal ball beauty might be our favorite. Empress Gin, Heaven Sake Junmai, Crème de Pêche and edible flowers combine for liquid greatness in the prettiest of ways, but be forewarned: fortunes not included.
Gia’s Mussel Pasta
Gia just opened its doors on Bowery Street last month, but they’ve already become a Noho neighborhood go-to for standout dishes like octopus with lardo, new potato, black garlic and ’nduja, plus squid ink spaghetti with mussels, Benton’s ham and bottarga. A wood-burning pizza oven in the back pair exceptionally well with the Amalfi Coast lemon plates and you obviously have to end your meal with two scoops of boozy, homemade gelato—opt for Sambuca, Rum Raisin or Amaretto Crunch—and an Espresso Martini for good measure.
Le Crocodile’s Roast Chicken with Frites
Frenchy hotspot Le Crocodile (and New York Times three-star brasserie) is notorious for their roast chicken. Like maybe the best chicken ever, kind of chicken. Glazed in herb jus and served with the most perfectly golden, crispy frites, you’ll consider taking up residency in the boutique Wythe Hotel just for this chicken. And maybe for the Jonah crab with avocado and ice cream-filled profiteroles, too.
The Mark’s ‘Haute’ Dogs
The fanciest hot dog stand in NYC? We’d say so. But then again, everything The Mark does is extra, including these gourmet, grass-fed, beef ‘Haute’ Dogs by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, served with special Kimchi relish. Inside The Mark Restaurant, the Black Truffle Pizza is equally as ‘grammable.
Socarrat Paella Bar’s Langosta Paella
Fact: No one can compete with Socarrat Paella Bar’s Langosta Paella. There we said it. Crispy caramelized rice cooked with love in a fragrant sofrito and served piled high with lobster, calamari, shrimp, scallops, peppers, tomatoes and more…we dare you to find a more Insta-worthy taste of Spain in Manhattan.
Catch Steak’s Snickers Baked Alaska
This is not a drill: Catch Steak’s Snickers Baked Alaska has toasted meringue, warm caramel peanut filling, chocolate cake and flaming whiskey—and yet it’s somehow gluten-free.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza Artichoke Slice
Run, don’t walk, to Artichoke Basille’s Pizza for their namesake slice, which has artichoke hearts, spinach, that good-good cream sauce, mozzarella and pecorino romano cheese. Arguably one of the most famous pizzas in all of Manhattan, the original East Village location has since expanded to eighteen hugely successful outposts in California, Arizona and New Jersey.
The Osprey’s Locally-Sourced Fare
In keeping with the eco-posh theme of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, their in-house restaurant The Osprey serves stunning dishes and drinks sourced straight from the garden. Try the rhubarb gimlet, broccoli rabe pesto pasta and Elote Risotto, with grilled summer corn and locally-foraged garlic scapes.
Sadelle’s Bagels & Lox Tower
You know you’ve achieved bonafide New Yorker status when instead of witnessing Sadelle’s brunch-worthy lox towers splashed across your feed, you’re actually there, in the flesh, indulging in a plateaux-style smorgasbord of smoked salmon with all the fixings.
HOWM’s Coquito and Churros
You can find HOWM Cocina & Cocktails at The Rooftop at Selina Chelsea, a Mesoamerican restaurant helmed by Chef Byron Peñafiel of Bilboquet and Rotisserie Georgette fame. The innovative mixology program was created by Beverage Director Daniel Bedoya and features an ever-changing lineup of cool cocktails, but it’s their highly Instagrammable puppy brunch that brings all the dawgs to the yard. That and their coquito/churros combo that was made to be photographed.
Momofuku Ssäm Bar’s Country Ham
Momofuku Ssäm Bar is a given on any NYC restaurant legends list, especially when you’re ordering house specialties like their bone marrow, topped with country ham and XO marmalade sauce. But then again, you really can’t go wrong with anything there—the food or the photos.
Casa Limone’s Bolognetta Pizza
Can’t make it to Sicily at the moment? A reservation at Casa Limone in NYC’s midtown is the next best thing. Dripping with floral canopies and lemon accents, you’ll swear you’ve just touched down in Southern Italy after walking through their doors. Their house-fired pizzas (like this Bolognetta beauty with mortadella, burrata and pistachios) strike the perfect balance between cheesy and chewy and the pasta will blow you away—order the Timballo di Pasta, Ravioli Casa Limone and Pasta Tartufata. Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore, Casa Limone is his North American debut and open for a light Italian breakfast, a leisurely lunch, aperitivo hour and a very Dolce Vita-inspired dinner.
Los Mariscos’ Fried Fish Tacos
The debate over NYC’s best tacos can literally start a war. So, we’re just going to leave this pic right here and say indoor food truck Los Mariscos makes some pretty major tacos and you should get involved—on or off Insta.
Jing Fong’s Dim Sum
As one of Chinatown’s most notable dim sum spots, Jing Fong is worth braving the banquet hall kitsch to get to the tasties on their carts, like Pan-fried pork and chive dumplings, fried shrimp balls with wonton strips, steamed BBQ roast Pork Buns, black sesame rolls and so many more treasures.
Taiyaki’s Waffle Cones & Unicorn Floats
Taiyaki is a Japanese fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard, but this NYC hot spot has taken the meaning to a whole new level with their Insta famous menu of fishy waffle cones and slushies in floating unicorn cup holders.
The Clam’s Fried Clam and Lobster Sliders
You obviously go to The Clam for their Fried Clam and Lobster Sliders, but this West Village favorite has a whole menu built around playful clam dishes. Also order the clam dip with zesty potato chips, Spaghetti and Clams in spicy tomato sauce and Maine Lobster arancini with Meyer lemon aioli. No clams in this one per se, but just too good to pass up. Their sidewalk seating is also dreamy on a crisp fall night.
Dirty French’s Bananas Foster French Toast
Dirty French’s supreme French Toast Fosters brunch dish is giving us #weekendgoals for life. Go there, get it, snap a pic and marvel at the beauty of this Major Food Group gem.
Don Angie’s Lasagna Pinwheels
Don Angie’s pinwheel-style casserole situation that made lasagna cool again—thanks to husband-wife team Scott Tacinelli and Angie Rito. A do-not-miss when in the West Village.
DŌ’s Confectionary Delights
People will literally stand in line forever to get a scoop of DŌ’s cookie dough masterpieces like this S’mores gem piled high with Hershey’s chocolate bars, toasted marshmallows and Graham Cracker bites.
Isabelle’s Osteria’s Lumache with Pork Ragu
NYC has no shortage of pastabilities, but one we can’t get enough of is Isabelle’s Osteria’s Lumache with Pork Ragu. Beautiful, glistening shells in a meaty sauce accented by lemon and rosemary, then dolloped with whipped ricotta? We can see why all the food influencers come here to ‘gram it. Also making us hungry for more: Ricotta Agnolotti with Spring Vegetables and a layered mushroom lasagna of gargantuan proportions.
Beauty & Essex’s Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings
There’s no better tomato soup and grilled cheese pairing in New York City than Beauty & Essex’s dumplings oozing with grilled cheese, floating atop tomato soup. The best of both worlds in individual soup-sized portions! One taste and you’re hooked.
Black Tap’s Over-the-Top Milk Shakes
Not for the food purists (or lactose intolerant), Black Tap’s insane milkshakes are as candy-coated as they come. The only hard part is eating them fast enough before they start to melt. Next: 14 of the Best Sonoma & Napa Restaurants to Visit Right Now
title: “50 Most Instagrammable Best Restaurants In Nyc” ShowToc: true date: “2022-11-22” author: “Michael Bunch”
When it comes to the city that never sleeps—New York City—there are endless mouthwatering pics to take everywhere you turn. From street meat carts to Michelin 3-star restaurants, there’s obviously no shortage of dishes to Instagram, but knowing where to go and what to snap is half the battle. There are dim sum gems, ramen havens, instantly recognizable burgers (and burger joints), pizza parlors so famous they’re now taking over airports, macaroni mainstays and yes, even slushies served in floating unicorns. In a world full of like-obsessed eaters, it’s shoot first, eat next and this list of the 50 best restaurants in New York City will show you exactly where to dine for a highly Instagrammable meal.
The 50 Most Instagrammable, Best Restaurants & Dishes in New York City
Fusilli Mac & Cheese at Smyth Tavern
Many visitors flock to Smyth Tribeca for its affordable accommodations, downtown address and late-night lounge, Galerie Bar, but whether you’re staying here or not, a Smyth Tavern dining experience is a must—for this mac and cheese alone. Some even tout it as one of the top 10 macs in the city. Oozing with three kinds of cheese and studded with crispy lardons and toasted breadcrumbs, it’s literally love at first bite when it comes to this retro favorite. We also appreciate the fusilli selection in lieu of an elbow or shell—a noodle you can really sink your fork into for a few heaping twirls. And the Smyth burger with bacon-onion jam, cheese and special sauce… just wow. Get that too, along with the caviar-topped deviled eggs.
Angelina Hot Chocolate at L’Avenue at Saks
L’Avenue at Saks is a brilliant concept. Who doesn’t want to sink into a cozy banquette, fresh off a day of shopping, surrounded by NYC’s glitterati in a posh, Philippe Starck-designed setting? We for sure, do. And while the genius of Paris-born L’Avenue’s Manhattan outpost lies in its cuisine trifecta (French, Italian, Asian influences), some of the most ‘grammable dishes are the drinks and desserts. Take their S’Aks S’Mores for example. Chocolate mousse, toasted marshmallow and graham cracker ice cream are layered to perfection with a chocolate disc covering the glass, only to melt into the s’mores, breaking the seal once more molten chocolate is poured on top. Then there’s the decadent hot chocolate, thanks to their Angelina pop-up that’s onsite through December. The famous Parisian cafe holds center court by the host stand with old-fashioned hot chocolate, eclairs and Angelina’s special tea, which would obviously make the perfect holiday gift.
Arthur & Sons Spicy Rigatoni
Everyone has their favorites when it comes to one of New York’s most polarizing kinds of pasta—spicy rigatoni—but we’re going on record that Chef Joe Isidori’s version might be the best in the city. Given the highly competitive category, his restaurant Arthur & Sons is a part of (a red sauce joint with old-school NY vibes), it’s worth being said that they hit it out of the park with every dish, spicy riggies included. And don’t you dare leave without sampling the Eggplant Stack alla Arturo’s, Macaroni Alla Tartufo, Veal Parmigiana and Spumoni My Way.
Ladurée’s Macaron Towers
Channel your inner Emily in Paris at Ladurée for a fancy French brunch (or afternoon tea) complete with flaky, buttery quiches, crisp salads overflowing with garden-fresh veggies, triple-decker club sandwiches and towering tiers of macarons. The confectionary delights are really why you go to Ladurée—that and the dreamy garden out back under a canopy of flowering cherry blossom trees—but all of their desserts are just as decadent and delicious as they are ‘grammable. Coffees, cocktails and flutes of bubbles are also par for the course when at this Parisian tea salon and restaurant.
CUT by Wolfgang Puck’s Whole Maine Lobster with Red Thai Curry
With a name like CUT, it’s fair to assume the Wagyu ribeyes and bone-in tomahawks are what you order when you visit celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck’s steakhouse in the posh Four Seasons Downtown. And you would be right—in addition to one particular lobster dish that’s mind-blowing, thanks to a red Thai curry sauce and the perfect mound of jasmine rice. It’s saucy, brothy, fragrant goodness you’ll want to drink straight from the bowl, with a craft cocktail from the bar to wash it down of course. And if you happen to be staying at the Tribeca hotspot hotel, you don’t have to venture far to savor more of NYC’s greatest culinary hits—they have a rotating chef series where some of the city’s biggest names like Danny Meyer and Leah Cohen lend their signature dishes to the in-room dining menu each month.
Momoya SoHo’s Chef Tasting Bento Box
When it comes to Manhattan’s sushi superstars, Momoysa SoHo ranks at the top of our list for their stunning bento boxes consisting of nine mini chirashi bowls of the chef’s choosing. Designed to explore all textures and tastes, the Momoya Box is a curated selection of the finest sashimi, nigiri, uni, roe and fresh fish delights, nestled amongst shiso leaves, sliced pickles and more accoutrements to impress the senses. Equally appealing are their craft cocktails, sakes and starters—our favorites being the tuna tortilla with caper mayo, Wagyu crispy rice bites and spicy scallop-shrimp roll with sweet potato matchsticks on top.
Bar Pasquale’s Sicilian Burrata Slices
Bar Pasquale is the newest restaurant opening from the Delicious Hospitality Group (which includes NYC favorites like Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records), but the vibe here is straight Sicilian. Save plenty of room for the crispy artichokes, those sfizione-style square slices, homemade pasta (we’re partial to the Casarecce with Sicilian Pork and Pistachio Lumache) and pistachio cannoli, which is pure perfection. A robust wine list also highlights varietals from Mount Edna and there are many quaffable cocktails to choose from with unique takes on Italian classics.
Red Wine Braised Octopus and Bone Marrow Fusilli at Marea
There are few pasta dishes more notorious in NYC than Marea’s Red Wine Braised Octopus and Bone Marrow Fusilli. One bite and you’ll understand why celebs, locals and tourists flock to the marble-walled bar once the doors open at the coastal Italian darling of Columbus Circle. The Michelin-starred landmark is famous for a few things: Executive Chef Lauren DeSteno’s Lobster Astice with Burrata, the corn-filled ravioli with black truffles and chanterelles that only graces plates during the summer season and whole fish preparations like pan-seared Dover sole and Mediterranean sea bass baked in salt. There’s just nothing like the Central Park icon for a dinner you’ll long remember after you depart.
Truffle Fries at Dowling’s at The Carlyle
There are certain restaurants you go to for the food, others for the cocktails, a select handful for people-watching and the most prized spots in NYC for all three. Welcome to Dowling’s at The Carlyle where breakfast is beautiful, dinner exquisite and the two-course power lunch is alive and very well. Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique (formerly of 21 Club) is doing big things back in the kitchen, churning out throwback dishes like Steak Diane and Murray’s roasted chicken with Périgord sauce, but there are also chops, pastas and an impressive array of sides to choose from (such as English peas and mint butter, creamed spinach gratin and truffle fries). Most often you’ll see the upper crust of the Upper East Side noshing on burgers and martinis though, which is really the only way to do Dowling’s right.
American Bar’s Chopped Salad
Of all the salads in NYC, a few are more popularized by Instagram than others. Like, say, American Bar’s Chopped Salad for example and their Peanut Chicken Salad. Even social star Serena Kerrigan is a mega fan, to the point where you can order their chopped “SFK-style, with a Negroni on the side.” It’s hard to play favorites at American Bar though, especially when the Brussels sprouts, carrot and avocado salad drizzled with peanut dressing and tossed with shredded chicken is next level. And then there’s the pigs in a blanket, spinach-artichoke dip and chicken schnitzel to contend with. Let’s just say we get why this is one of the West Village’s most desired resys to get—and gram.
Ai Fiori’s Trofie Nero
There’s no shortage of stunning, photogenic dining rooms in New York City, and Ai Fiori at The Langham, New York is at the top of the list, thanks to their grand-scale floral installations that change with the seasons—just like their pasta. However one that will never go off menu is the Trofie Nero, a Ligurian crustacean ragù of scallops and sepia-spiced breadcrumbs that gets better with every twirl.
Zuma’s Deluxe Dessert Platter
Zuma may be best known for their rock shrimp tempura, black miso cod wrapped in hoba leaf, avant-garde omakase and sushi rolls, but make sure you save room for cocktails and desserts. Their artisan tipples are made for Insta with branded large-format ice cubes, smoke and other eccentricities worked into the mix, and dessert may as well be the first course, since you need the most room for a plateau of sorbets, chawan mushi (exotic fruits), yuzu cheesecake, molten chocolate cake and a pecan sundae with roasted sweet potato and banana milk ice cream. Seriously, go with a group, make a day (or night) out of the tasting and try something new—you’ll be so pleased you did.
The Stanford White Burger at The Lambs Club
Who wouldn’t want to tuck into this beauty, smothered in Gruyère cheese and topped with pickled onion and Dijonnaise? Executive Chef Michael White (who has taken over the reins at the Midtown beacon) might be the pasta whisper from his days spent dreaming up some of NYC’s most memorable noodles at Marea, Ai Fiori and Osteria Morini, but he does a serious White Burger that’s worthy of gramming, then devouring. Other notable newbies at The Lambs Club include an almost too pretty to eat steak tartare dotted with crème fraiche, microgreens and a cornichon fan, plus fluke with kumquats, fresno chilies, basil. Pasta is obviously alive and well here with two standout stars: agnolotti with ricotta, ramps, artichokes, olives and orecchiette with lobster, scallops, clams, spicy tomato sauce. Order both; go home happy and don’t forget an ice-cold martini (or two) for good measure.
Piccola Cucina’s Cacio e Pepe
Many would describe Piccola Cucina as a Sicilian house of noodle worship with flawless hits like Cacio e Pepe, Fusilli with Langoustine and Burrata and Green Tagliatelle with Wild Boar Ragù and Black Truffles, but they also have a table-side tiramisu that’s one of the best in the city. And all the focaccias. And all the frittos—you can never go wrong with Mozzarella in Carrozza (gently-fried mozzarella cheese in between two slices of bread) that’s pure bliss in every bite. Visit their Uptown address, or one of two Soho spots, and prepare to be inducted into the Piccola fans for life group.
Double Trouble Waffle at Wafels & Dinges
Wafels & Dinges serves up photo-worthy Belgian waffles topped with delicious dinges (Flemish for “whatchamacallits”) at their NYC locations in Herald Square and Bryant Park! Enjoy curated crowd favorites like the Throwdown, which famously took down celebrity Chef Bobby Flay’s take on the hit show Throwdown! With Bobby Flay, the Baconana or the Double Trouble (stuffed with ice cream inside and covered with Nutella). For anyone inspired to create their own masterpiece, you can DIY your waffle with Wafels & Dinges’ 16 unique toppings, like Belgian chocolate fudge, dulce de leche imported from Argentina, scratch-made whipped cream—even bacon!
Popular’s Peruvian Ceviches and Sticky Prawns
Acclaimed Chef Diego Muñoz rose to success (and the top of the World’s Best Restaurants list) with Astrid y Gastón in Lima, Peru and now his NYC ode to his homeland can be found at POPULAR, in Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel. With an adjoining Cantina & Pisco Bar, open-format kitchen boasting top-of-the-line wood-fire ovens and glass cases carrying fresh catch of the day, you’ll feel instantly transported to South America. As to be expected, all of the ceviches are outstanding, but his hearts of palm and avocado ceviche with tiger’s milk is not to be overlooked. As for the wok side of the menu, you should head straight for the sticky prawns over a bed of chow mein and toasted peanuts, then follow that up with authentic Lomo Saltado for two. The extensive wine list is overflowing with worldly selects, the Pisco Sours are unparalleled and the lush jungle motif makes you feel tucked away from the rest of the bustling city outside.
Clocktower’s Shepherd’s Pie
Welcome back, Clocktower! The Michelin-starred British restaurant temporarily closed during COVID but has finally reopened its doors (and ovens). Plan to be in NYC over St. Patrick’s Day? Their braised lamb shepherd’s pie is calling your name. In the mood for the best scotch egg in town? Look no further than Chef Jason Atherton’s near-perfect version with walnut ketchup. More signatures you’ll want to sink your teeth into include tandoori chicken with coconut basmati rice and obviously fish and chips or the beef Wellington.
Atlantic Grill’s Spaghetti all’Astice
NYC restaurant icon Atlantic Grill is getting a major facelift and menu refresh under new leadership from Monte Carlo Hospitality Group and celebrated Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore. After an eight-month revitalization, Atlantic Grill continues to offer the freshest seafood and highest quality meats, now with a touch of Chef Antonio’s Mediterranean influence. Evidence: his prized Spaghetti all’Astice (Lobster Spaghetti). The wine list focuses on American varietals (with a few European and South American all-stars mixed in) and is complemented by a concise list of six signature cocktails ranging from a spicy margarita to a Negroni Americano.
Black Bass en Croûte at The Fulton
The Fulton is Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s waterfront jewel at Pier 17 in NYC’s Seaport District. With the Brooklyn Bridge as their backdrop and a sprawling open-air patio for a dining room, there’s no better Seaport spot for an epic lunch, dinner or brunch with views for days. Menu highlights include King Crab Lettuce Cups with Avocado and Yuzu, Longevity Noodles with Glazed Maine Lobster and Long Island Fluke in Habanero Vinaigrette, but it’s the Bass en Croute baked in pastry crust with tomato consommé and béarnaise that’s really the reason to go—and take all the pics.
Portale’s Lumache with Bolognese Bianco
Heaven is a place on earth after one bite of Portale’s Lumache Bolognese Bianco with black truffles and Parmigiano. You’ll be so hooked, you may need to make this a weekly reservation. All of the house-made pastas are pretty extraordinary (like the Cavatelli Arrabbiata with cilantro pesto and agnolotti with ricotta, pancetta, chanterelle, spring onions), but really it’s all about the lumache. And the ambiance. And the outstanding wine list. And the pure NYC magic that happens inside these walls. Reservations are waiting…
Cecconi’s Artisan Pizzas
Nestled on the edge of the East River, with striking views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, sits the posh DUMBO House that’s not exactly easy to enter unless you happen to be a member. Luckily, one doesn’t need to belong to Soho House in order to dine downstairs at the ever-charming Cecconi’s. You can find wood-fired pizzas like this Parma ham, rocket, tomato and stracciatella signature, along with fresh pastas, mouthwatering cicchettis and all the Italian cocktails.
Miss Lily’s Jerk Ramen
Laid-back Caribbean cafe Miss Lily’s was an overnight sensation when it opened in 2011 and ever since, it’s become a worldwide phenomenon with an NYC location in the East Village, outposts and rum bars in Dubai and Jamaica at Skylark Negril Beach Resort and meal kits available nationwide through Goldbelly. There’s just something about slurping jerk ramen at their island oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle that never gets old though.
Penelope’s Nutella French Toast
There are no words for Penelope’s Nutella French Toast with warm chocolate hazelnut drizzle, except gimme. PS, the Murray Hill cornerstone does all-day breakfast (well, at least until 4 p.m.) so there’s no reason this brunch item couldn’t double as dessert.
Electric Burrito’s French Fry-Stuffed Burritos
For Southern Cali-style bomb burritos, head to Electric Burrito in the East Village. This tiny spot on St. Mark’s is bursting with big flavor—and burritos stuffed with your choice of guac, salsa, crema or french fries. Need another reason to be convinced? The breakfast burritos are even more addictive, especially the Hot Rod with bacon, carne asada, beans and orange sauce). Life as you know it will never be the same.
Wicked Jane’s Salmon in Bonito Broth
New Jersey chef and restaurateur, Zod Arifai, opened his newest New York City restaurant Wicked Jane to much fanfare and 5-star reviews prior to the pandemic. Then they had to close. One year later they’ve reopened their doors with à la carte samplings off the original multi-course tasting menu and yes, the Lightly Cooked Salmon with rice purée and bonito broth is still coming in hot. As is the duck breast with red cabbage, turnip and a fig red wine emulsion. Curious foodies and wine lovers take note.
Craft Cocktails at Harriett’s Rooftop
City dwellers flock to 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s Rooftop for Harriet’s handcrafted cocktails, just as much as they do for the pool scene alone. Book a daybed and relax with boozy tipples like their Zero Waste Daquiri, Yuzu + Shiso Mojito or Al Pastor Pineapple Infused-Tequila libation. And definitely don’t sleep on the Chicken Karaage and Okonomiyaki-Style Tots.
STK’s Truffle Butter-Topped Steaks
It’s hard to go back to basic steaks once you’ve had filet dripping in truffle butter with a mountain of shaved truffles on top. STK NYC Rooftop is the place to go for a serious steakhouse dinner, but whatever you do, start the night with their next-level shellfish platter and end it with a Bag o’ Donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar.
Loulou’s The World Is Yours Cocktail
Loulou Petit Bistro & Speakeasy is a new French eatery in the heart of Chelsea, with a fast-growing rep for innovative cocktails. There’s the ‘Mexican Stiletto’ served in a glass bird with a straw and ‘Valentini’ in a see-through heart, but this crystal ball beauty might be our favorite. Empress Gin, Heaven Sake Junmai, Crème de Pêche and edible flowers combine for liquid greatness in the prettiest of ways, but be forewarned: fortunes not included.
Gia’s Mussel Pasta
Gia just opened its doors on Bowery Street last month, but they’ve already become a Noho neighborhood go-to for standout dishes like octopus with lardo, new potato, black garlic and ’nduja, plus squid ink spaghetti with mussels, Benton’s ham and bottarga. A wood-burning pizza oven in the back pair exceptionally well with the Amalfi Coast lemon plates and you obviously have to end your meal with two scoops of boozy, homemade gelato—opt for Sambuca, Rum Raisin or Amaretto Crunch—and an Espresso Martini for good measure.
Le Crocodile’s Roast Chicken with Frites
Frenchy hotspot Le Crocodile (and New York Times three-star brasserie) is notorious for their roast chicken. Like maybe the best chicken ever, kind of chicken. Glazed in herb jus and served with the most perfectly golden, crispy frites, you’ll consider taking up residency in the boutique Wythe Hotel just for this chicken. And maybe for the Jonah crab with avocado and ice cream-filled profiteroles, too.
The Mark’s ‘Haute’ Dogs
The fanciest hot dog stand in NYC? We’d say so. But then again, everything The Mark does is extra, including these gourmet, grass-fed, beef ‘Haute’ Dogs by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, served with special Kimchi relish. Inside The Mark Restaurant, the Black Truffle Pizza is equally as ‘grammable.
Socarrat Paella Bar’s Langosta Paella
Fact: No one can compete with Socarrat Paella Bar’s Langosta Paella. There we said it. Crispy caramelized rice cooked with love in a fragrant sofrito and served piled high with lobster, calamari, shrimp, scallops, peppers, tomatoes and more…we dare you to find a more Insta-worthy taste of Spain in Manhattan.
Catch Steak’s Snickers Baked Alaska
This is not a drill: Catch Steak’s Snickers Baked Alaska has toasted meringue, warm caramel peanut filling, chocolate cake and flaming whiskey—and yet it’s somehow gluten-free.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza Artichoke Slice
Run, don’t walk, to Artichoke Basille’s Pizza for their namesake slice, which has artichoke hearts, spinach, that good-good cream sauce, mozzarella and pecorino romano cheese. Arguably one of the most famous pizzas in all of Manhattan, the original East Village location has since expanded to eighteen hugely successful outposts in California, Arizona and New Jersey.
The Osprey’s Locally-Sourced Fare
In keeping with the eco-posh theme of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, their in-house restaurant The Osprey serves stunning dishes and drinks sourced straight from the garden. Try the rhubarb gimlet, broccoli rabe pesto pasta and Elote Risotto, with grilled summer corn and locally-foraged garlic scapes.
Sadelle’s Bagels & Lox Tower
You know you’ve achieved bonafide New Yorker status when instead of witnessing Sadelle’s brunch-worthy lox towers splashed across your feed, you’re actually there, in the flesh, indulging in a plateaux-style smorgasbord of smoked salmon with all the fixings.
HOWM’s Coquito and Churros
You can find HOWM Cocina & Cocktails at The Rooftop at Selina Chelsea, a Mesoamerican restaurant helmed by Chef Byron Peñafiel of Bilboquet and Rotisserie Georgette fame. The innovative mixology program was created by Beverage Director Daniel Bedoya and features an ever-changing lineup of cool cocktails, but it’s their highly Instagrammable puppy brunch that brings all the dawgs to the yard. That and their coquito/churros combo that was made to be photographed.
Momofuku Ssäm Bar’s Country Ham
Momofuku Ssäm Bar is a given on any NYC restaurant legends list, especially when you’re ordering house specialties like their bone marrow, topped with country ham and XO marmalade sauce. But then again, you really can’t go wrong with anything there—the food or the photos.
Casa Limone’s Bolognetta Pizza
Can’t make it to Sicily at the moment? A reservation at Casa Limone in NYC’s midtown is the next best thing. Dripping with floral canopies and lemon accents, you’ll swear you’ve just touched down in Southern Italy after walking through their doors. Their house-fired pizzas (like this Bolognetta beauty with mortadella, burrata and pistachios) strike the perfect balance between cheesy and chewy and the pasta will blow you away—order the Timballo di Pasta, Ravioli Casa Limone and Pasta Tartufata. Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore, Casa Limone is his North American debut and open for a light Italian breakfast, a leisurely lunch, aperitivo hour and a very Dolce Vita-inspired dinner.
Los Mariscos’ Fried Fish Tacos
The debate over NYC’s best tacos can literally start a war. So, we’re just going to leave this pic right here and say indoor food truck Los Mariscos makes some pretty major tacos and you should get involved—on or off Insta.
Jing Fong’s Dim Sum
As one of Chinatown’s most notable dim sum spots, Jing Fong is worth braving the banquet hall kitsch to get to the tasties on their carts, like Pan-fried pork and chive dumplings, fried shrimp balls with wonton strips, steamed BBQ roast Pork Buns, black sesame rolls and so many more treasures.
Taiyaki’s Waffle Cones & Unicorn Floats
Taiyaki is a Japanese fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard, but this NYC hot spot has taken the meaning to a whole new level with their Insta famous menu of fishy waffle cones and slushies in floating unicorn cup holders.
The Clam’s Fried Clam and Lobster Sliders
You obviously go to The Clam for their Fried Clam and Lobster Sliders, but this West Village favorite has a whole menu built around playful clam dishes. Also order the clam dip with zesty potato chips, Spaghetti and Clams in spicy tomato sauce and Maine Lobster arancini with Meyer lemon aioli. No clams in this one per se, but just too good to pass up. Their sidewalk seating is also dreamy on a crisp fall night.
Dirty French’s Bananas Foster French Toast
Dirty French’s supreme French Toast Fosters brunch dish is giving us #weekendgoals for life. Go there, get it, snap a pic and marvel at the beauty of this Major Food Group gem.
Don Angie’s Lasagna Pinwheels
Don Angie’s pinwheel-style casserole situation that made lasagna cool again—thanks to husband-wife team Scott Tacinelli and Angie Rito. A do-not-miss when in the West Village.
DŌ’s Confectionary Delights
People will literally stand in line forever to get a scoop of DŌ’s cookie dough masterpieces like this S’mores gem piled high with Hershey’s chocolate bars, toasted marshmallows and Graham Cracker bites.
Isabelle’s Osteria’s Lumache with Pork Ragu
NYC has no shortage of pastabilities, but one we can’t get enough of is Isabelle’s Osteria’s Lumache with Pork Ragu. Beautiful, glistening shells in a meaty sauce accented by lemon and rosemary, then dolloped with whipped ricotta? We can see why all the food influencers come here to ‘gram it. Also making us hungry for more: Ricotta Agnolotti with Spring Vegetables and a layered mushroom lasagna of gargantuan proportions.
Beauty & Essex’s Grilled Cheese, Smoked Bacon & Tomato Soup Dumplings
There’s no better tomato soup and grilled cheese pairing in New York City than Beauty & Essex’s dumplings oozing with grilled cheese, floating atop tomato soup. The best of both worlds in individual soup-sized portions! One taste and you’re hooked.
Black Tap’s Over-the-Top Milk Shakes
Not for the food purists (or lactose intolerant), Black Tap’s insane milkshakes are as candy-coated as they come. The only hard part is eating them fast enough before they start to melt. Next: 14 of the Best Sonoma & Napa Restaurants to Visit Right Now
