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10 Must-Try Restaurants in New York City Right Now
October 12, 2024, 10:25.32 am ET

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Photo: Ánimo!/Alex Staniloff

Here are some of the top restaurants in New York City right now, offering a range of creative and diverse culinary experiences:

1. Ánimo! (Midtown East) - This Mexican all-day breakfast restaurant by Roberto Levinson features authentic morning dishes like Chilaquiles, Barbacoa and Egg Taco, and Conchas, traditional Mexican sweet breads in a vibrant setting.

2. ACRU (Greenwich Village) – A new hotspot led by Chef Daniel Garwood, from the Atomix team, is blending his Australian roots with a global touch. The menu reflects his culinary journey through kitchens in Sweden, Copenhagen, and South Korea, offering modern, sophisticated flavors in a sleek setting.

3. Nin Hao (Prospect Heights) – This restaurant puts the spotlight on Fujianese cuisine, celebrating the heritage of immigrants who shaped the city's food scene. Expect bold flavors in dishes like Fujianese spicy rouyan wonton, oyster pancakes and reimagined Chinese-American favorites like General Tso’s whole chicken.


Photo: Pecking House

4. Pecking House (Chinatown) – Known for its crispy fried chicken, this casual eatery led by Chef Eric Huang has quickly become a favorite. The second location in the Two Bridges area of Chinatown continues to draw crowds with its flavorful chili chicken sandwiches and creative seasonal sides.

5. Kebabwala (East Village) – Inspired by the vibrant street food scene of Delhi, Kebabwala, from the folks at Unapologetic Foods, serves flame-grilled kebabs in a cozy, fast-casual environment. With its open-flame cooking and punchy flavors, it’s a go-to for lovers of Indian cuisine.

6. YongChuan (Lower East Side) – Offering a menu deeply rooted in Ningbo's seafood tradition, this restaurant brings dishes like Mala Prawns, House Stir-Fried Shredded Eel and spicy Sichuan Lobster, balancing authenticity with creativity.

7. Elbow Bread (Dimes Square) – A must for bread enthusiasts, Elbow Bread offers a variety of baked goods, from artisanal challah to "pletzel," a flatbread topped with onions and poppy seeds. Its inventive bakery concept keeps locals coming back.

8. Pasta Night (Prospect Heights) – Featuring a laid-back Italian-inspired menu, this spot pairs classic pastas with creative desserts and aperitivo hour specials, making it perfect for those seeking both comfort and style in their dining experience.

9. Sea (Chelsea) – A sophisticated Southeast Asian restaurant known for its refined take on dishes like crab fried rice and tom yum noodles. It’s a great choice for date nights or business dinners.


Photo: Kellogg's Diner/Carissa Diaz

10. Kellogg’s Diner (Williamsburg) – A Brooklyn staple, Kellogg’s has returned with a modern twist on its classic menu, offering diner favorites alongside Tex-Mex-inspired dishes like huevos rancheros, queso & chips, and enchiladas.

These restaurants reflect New York City's vibrant and ever-evolving culinary scene, combining both innovation with tradition.


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