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Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in New York (Currently Open)

If you’re planning a trip to New York City or simply want to experience the best of its legendary dining scene, this guide brings you a curated list of the most recognizable, time-tested, and still-operating restaurants in NYC. These are the places where locals and visitors alike go to savour a slice of culinary history—so pull up a chair and enjoy the journey.

Why these restaurants matter

New York’s food scene is vast and ever-changing, but some restaurants transcend the trends. The names below combine enduring reputation, cultural significance and consistent service. They’re household names for a reason. As the city evolves around them, they offer stability, heritage and an experience you’ll remember.

1. Katz’s Delicatessen – Iconic pastrami on rye

Since 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side has served generations of New Yorkers and tourists with its towering pastrami sandwiches and old-school deli vibe. The walls are lined with photos of famous patrons and the very table in the movie When Harry Met Sally… gets a nod from diners. Katz’s Delicatessen+2Nice Guy Tours+2
What makes it special: artisan-cured meats, a lively communal space, and a piece of NYC history at every turn.
Tip if you go: Expect a line during peak hours; come early or off-peak if you’d like quicker service.

2. Peter Luger Steak House – The Brooklyn porterhouse legend

Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Peter Luger Steak House opened in 1887 and has been a benchmark for classic New York steak culture ever since. It is famous for its USDA Prime beef, dry-aged in house, and no-fuss, old-school approach. Peter Luger Steak House+1
What makes it special: an atmosphere rooted in tradition, the legendary porterhouse for two, and an experience that evokes another era.
Tip if you go: Reservations are a must for dinner. Also note: the Brooklyn branch has its own character and history.

3. Le Bernardin – Seafood refinement in Midtown

For fine dining and seafood excellence, Le Bernardin stands among the greats. Founded in Paris and relocated to New York in 1986, it has consistently been rated among the world’s best restaurants. Le Bernardin+2Wikipedia+2
What makes it special: exquisite seafood, elegant service, and a menu that respects the ingredient above all.
Tip if you go: Dress smart-casual, reserve early, and be prepared for a high-end meal with tasting menus.

4. Russ & Daughters – A Lower East Side appetizing legend

Opening its doors in 1914, Russ & Daughters is the quintessential place for smoked fish, bagels, caviar and that old-New-York appetizing store vibe. Russ & Daughters+1
What makes it special: the history of Jewish immigrant food culture, exceptional quality and a sense of place rooted in the city’s evolution.
Tip if you go: Grab a bagel with lox and pickled herring, and linger in the store for the ambiance.

5. Carbone – Glamorous Italian-American steakhouse & red-sauce joint

Since its 2013 opening in Greenwich Village, Carbone has become one of the most talked-about restaurants in New York. It pays homage to mid-century Italian-American classics with a chic, modern twist. Wikipedia+1
What makes it special: bold red-sauce classics, stylish decor, and a level of celebrity-ridden buzz that still translates to genuine dining quality.
Tip if you go: Book well in advance. Many dishes are shareable, making it a fun choice for groups.

6. Café Boulud – French luxury with a New York touch

Located on the Upper East Side, Café Boulud opened under the celebrated chef Daniel Boulud and offers refined French cuisine in an elegant setting. Wikipedia
What makes it special: polished service, classic French dishes with seasonal flair, and a relaxed luxury feel.
Tip if you go: For a more relaxed experience, consider lunch; dinners tend to be more formal.

7. Marea – Italian seafood at Central Park South

Marea opened in 2009 and quickly became a name in NYC dining circles for its exceptional Italian seafood, and remains a destination for special-occasion dining. Wikipedia
What makes it special: upscale, refined, and focused on flavor and ambiance.
Tip if you go: Ideal for anniversaries or important dinners; menu pricing reflects that.

8. Torrisi – Modern Italian dining in Nolita

Though younger than many on this list, Torrisi (opened 2022 in its current form) has made a big imprint for its inventive Italian cuisine in the Puck Building area. Wikipedia
What makes it special: fresh, inventive dishes, a stylish environment and the energy of a new icon in NYC dining.
Tip if you go: Try the tasting menu if available; it’s an opportunity to explore the chef’s vision.

9. Theodora – Brooklyn gem with gourmet fire-focused cuisine

In Brooklyn’s Fort Greene neighborhood, Theodora offers an elevated dining experience with live-fire cooking and thoughtfully curated dishes. Time Out Worldwide
What makes it special: strong local roots, creative menus and a destination worth venturing outside Manhattan for.
Tip if you go: It’s more relaxed than ultra-formal restaurants; dress smart but comfortable works.

10. Gage & Tollner – A revived Old-New-York icon in Brooklyn

Originally opened in 1892, Gage & Tollner was recently revived and now stands as a Brooklyn institution offering rich tradition combined with modern hospitality. Time Out Worldwide
What makes it special: deep historical roots, a beautifully restored interior, and an experience that evokes the golden era of New York dining.
Tip if you go: Make time for the ambiance; the wood-paneled dining room, vintage decor and service make it memorable beyond the food.

What to look out for & how to plan accordingly

  • Book as early as possible: Many of these destinations fill up far in advance, especially on weekends.

  • Dress appropriately: Some spots are relaxed, others expect business-casual or better.

  • Consider budgets: From classic deli staples to luxe multi-course tasting menus, there’s a wide range.

  • Explore beyond Manhattan: Brooklyn (Peter Luger, Gage & Tollner, Theodora) offers gems too—worth venturing for.

  • Reserve with purpose: Whether you’re celebrating, travelling or simply exploring, pick a spot that fits your mood.

Final thoughts

New York’s dining landscape is always evolving, yet these ten restaurants stand firm as beacons of culinary excellence, culture and history in the city. Each one offers not just a meal, but an experience enriched with story, legacy and taste. Whether you’re a local looking to revisit an old favorite or a tourist eager to sample something legendary, these destinations deliver.