The best restaurants in New York City to eat around the world

It’s no great hyperbole when New Yorkers describe their city as the capital of the world. As one of the most ethnically diverse urban areas on the globe – with nearly 8.5 million inhabitants speaking more than 700 languages across the different boroughs – every neighbourhood can present a cultural melting pot for the curious visitor. 

This dynamic multiculturalism has also spawned an innovative food scene, constantly evolving, bewildering diners and stunning the world’s top food critics. Life in the Big Apple is centred around sustenance – from food trucks and hot dog stands to fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants. The options may seem endless, and our selection of the best places to eat in New York is just the tip of the iceberg. 

1. Theodora 

Located outside the city in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, Theodora  has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite thanks to its Mediterranean cuisine with a dash of Mexican flavours. The warm, airy space is anchored around the open kitchen’s enchanting live fire, where head chef Tomer Blechman works his magic. Almost everything on the menu is kissed by the flame, with meaty flavours enhanced by days of dry-ageing. Portions are made for sharing, so gather friends, order a selection of large and small plates, and pair it with drinks from a carefully curated list of natural wines or mezcal-forward cocktails.

2. The Dead Rabbit 

Despite sitting on the edge of the financial district, this Irish pub is not your typical banker’s bar. The dark and cosy watering hole serves a traditional but classy take on pub grub – think succulent lamb chops, hearty chicken pot pies and delightfully crisip Scotch eggs. The Dead Rabbit  has won numerous awards for its cocktails, but of course there’s also the option of a perfectly pulled pint for those who enjoy a classic taste of the Emerald Isle.

3. Lilia 

James Beard-winning chef Missy Robbins has made Lilia  stand out among dozens of Italian restaurants in the Big Apple with a daily-changing menu that highlights the freshness of local and seasonal ingredients. Much focus falls on the handmade pasta, but Lilia’s side dishes always manage to steal the spotlight – and this is one way the venue stands apart from its younger sister restaurant Misi. Since its opening in 2016, residents and visitors have long experienced difficulty getting a reservation, but Lilia does set aside some early walk-ins for those who prefer an early dinner. Finish the meal off with soft serve ice cream paired with olive oil – yes, really. 

4. Russian Samovar  

Nothing is more New York than a meal in the theatre district after a Broadway show. The family-owned Russian Samovar  Restaurant and Piano Bar has served an authentic menu of classic dishes for decades; standards include pelmeni dumplings and the imperial fish platter. Definitely go for the food, but stay for the variety of live performances at the piano bar – and the 20 house-infused vodka flavours. 

5. Icca 

Since earning a Michelin star shortly after opening in 2021, Japanese restaurant Icca  has ranked among the city’s most highly sought-after dining experiences. Patrons flock for Kazushige Suzuki’s omakase experience, a work of art showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients, sourced both locally and from Japan – including the bluefin tuna which is flown in daily. For a more intimate experience, take a seat at the counter to watch how the chefs meticulously prepare each dish. Consider the sake pairing, which will undoubtedly enhance the flavours of each course.

6. Yingtao 

Chinese fusion upstart Yingtao  brazenly blends Shanghai, Xi’an and Cantonese cuisine with French fine dining in a manner that quickly attracted note, earning a Michelin star less than a year after its late 2023 opening. The concept leans heavily on ingredients and flavours from the East, crossed with the creativity of modern European kitchens. The inventive tasting menu changes every season, offering eight beautifully crafted courses paired with wine from the cellar.

7. Radio Kwara 

This inconspicuous eatery is easily missed in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill, but the intimate setting and bold menu make up for its unassuming façade. Named after the official broadcasting station of Nigeria’s Kwara state, Radio Kwara  is the second NYC restaurant from Ayo Balogun, who made a splash with earlier outing Dept of Culture. Bursting with flavours, the menu offers diners a chance to try traditional Nigerian dishes with a contemporary twist, including moi moi (a steamed bean pudding) and goat meat pepper soup. Thirsty? Pop next door to Radicle Wine  for a bottle to complement this soulful cuisine.

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