Best Local Eateries in Manhattan by GoTravelDaily

Finally, the definitive list of where locals believe you should eat in Manhattan. Our NYC-based team has shared strong opinions on where to find the best bites and drinks in what many consider the greatest city in the world. This guide focuses solely on Manhattan, perfect for those settling in this vibrant part of New York City. Without further ado, let’s dive into the culinary treasures of Manhattan!

Note: This city prioritizes reservations, so it’s wise to check how far in advance popular restaurant slots open, and to be flexible with your dining times. If you don’t manage to secure a reservation initially, platforms like Resy and OpenTable often provide notifications for last-minute table openings, which occur more frequently than one may think.

Breakfast

Where else but NYC would you start your day with a quintessential bagel? In a city famous for its bagels, consider visiting local favorites like Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side. This classic deli specializes in lox and sturgeon and has stood the test of time. For a varied selection, Tompkins Square Bagels in the East Village offers creative bagel varieties and shmears, perfect for taking across the street to enjoy in Tompkins Square Park.

For those who prefer their bagels on the chewier side, Apollo Bagels or PopUp Bagels (don’t miss the salt bagel!) are fantastic options. However, be prepared for long lines; the wait is worthwhile at these revered establishments.

If you need a break from bagels, indulge in an egg sandwich on a cheddar buttermilk biscuit from Kerber’s Farm in the West Village, designed to fuel your morning exploration of the city.

Coffee and Bakery

While many say America runs on Dunkin’, NYC thrives on local coffee shops that often double as bakeries. In the East Village, grab a Scandinavian pastry and a fabulous coffee from Smør Bakery. If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, their lovely cardamom bun will not disappoint. Not far is Librae Bakery, offering unique seasonal flavors like spinach artichoke cheese dip danishes and chamomile rhubarb scones.

Breads Bakery is a must-visit, with locations throughout the city. Many locals dine here regularly for the superb lattes and delicious pastries, including their popular spinach burekas and sourdough loaves. A long-standing favorite for Columbia students is the Hungarian Pastry Shop in Morningside Heights. Stop by for their famous spinach wheel alongside a robust cup of Hungarian coffee.

Lunch

Forget the average salad chain; lunch in Manhattan is an experience. In the Flatiron District, ditch overpriced salads in favor of a tuna melt, chicken cutlet sandwich, or burger at S&P Lunch. Expect a lively atmosphere with lineup-worthy eats. Alternatively, try a fried chicken sandwich or chicken Caesar wrap from Bobwhite Counter in the East Village or Union Square for something satisfying.

For those in Chinatown, Shanghai 21 is renowned for its soup dumplings, while Great NY Noodletown nearby serves not only noodle dishes but also Cantonese barbecue.

If you venture Uptown, Schaller & Weber offers fantastic German-style deli sandwiches, while Tom’s Restaurant on the West Side presents an iconic diner menu, famously featured in Seinfeld.

Sweet Treats

This segment could easily be titled “Ice Cream or Frozen Treats.” For a refreshing afternoon snack, swing by the froyo window at Butterfield Market for their celebrated mango flavor while taking a stroll through nearby Central Park. The charming Caffè Panna in Gramercy changes its flavors daily and offers delightful sundaes and affogatos, best enjoyed with whipped panna on top.

Aperitivo

Prepare yourself: a drink and a small bite at these locations can easily morph into a full-fledged dinner. Downtown at Bibi Wine Bar, situated on a picturesque block in the East Village, indulge in a bottle of wine and some deviled eggs during their lengthy happy hour. Meanwhile, Demo, a coffee shop by day and wine bar by night in the West Village, serves up delectable dishes alongside its impressive wine list.

Pizza

Pizza deserves its own section when discussing New York City’s culinary landscape. You can categorize pizza into three tiers. The first tier includes your classic dollar slice, ideal for late-night cravings or a quick pickup meal. L’Industrie in Brooklyn is a top choice for these, with another popular option, Scarr’s Pizza, located on the Lower East Side.

The second tier features casual sit-down establishments, like San Matteo on the Upper East Side, known for its excellent red and white pies. Finally, for a gourmet experience, visit Little Charli in the West Village, where fresh ingredients and an upscale atmosphere reign supreme.

Dinner

Dinner in NYC often carries a delightful pressure, but rest assured, the following recommendations will not disappoint. Start Uptown at JG Melon, famed for its burgers—pair one with cottage fries for a fulfilling meal. For Italian fare, visit Uva, known for its delicious ricotta truffle gnocchi.

Head Downtown to try I Sodi for fresh pasta or make your way to Shukette in Chelsea for unique Middle Eastern dishes. The frena and grilled fish served in a cage are must-tries! Don’t miss out on the inventive Southeast Asian cuisine at Pig and Khao, known for its flavorful, shareable dishes.

Bar

The bar scene in New York is diverse and vibrant. For a classic experience, enjoy a martini at Bemelmans Bar, located in the Carlyle Hotel, characterized by its live jazz and elegant atmosphere. Explore the East Village’s Hi-Note, a trendy radio bar with cocktails and live music that provides a unique nightlife experience. If you fancy rooftop bars, NYC has an abundance to choose from.

To keep the energy high, consider dancing at Joyface, where retro decor matches an upbeat disco vibe. Alternatively, check out HiLot nearby, perfect for those looking to enjoy drinks in a retro-inspired setting.