NYC is home to an endless amount of restaurants to try. However, some places go above and beyond just mouthwatering fare to create jaw-dropping environments that tantalize more than your taste.
From dramatic pendants suspended in the air to floor-to-ceiling glass windows, we have put together a collection of the most beautiful restaurants in NYC.
1. Thai Villa, Flatiron
Not only does Thai Villa serve some of the best Thai cuisine you can find in the city, but it’s interior is absolutely show-stopping. From gorgeous hanging lanterns to sparkling, ornate decor, you’ll enjoy the perfect ambiance to pair with your delicious dishes. The space has two levels of dining (both equally as gorgeous) and a backlit bar that invites you to sip on one of their uniquely crafted cocktails. Make your reservation on their website here.
Where: 5 E 19th St, New York
2. One if by Land, Two if by Sea, Greenwich Village
Leave your Sundays open for One if by Land, Two if by Sea’s enchanting jazz brunch. Located in a historical carriage house in the Village, you can’t miss out on dreamy music with a mimosa in hand. The gorgeous venue is bathed in candlelight with a stunning baby grand piano, brick fireplace, and a private garden. Book your reservations today.
Where: 17 Barrow St, New York
3. 1803, Tribeca
Transport to New Orleans at this lively restaurant sure to lift your spirits! With vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns decorating the entire space, you’ll forget you’re even in NYC. 1803 serves up Cajun-Creole cuisine like no one else with their Shrimp & Grits, Gumbo, Niçoise Salad, Jambalaya and more. Perfect for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the space even hosts live jazz. See more on their website here.
Where: 82 Reade St, New York
4. Temple Court, FiDi
Tucked inside the luxurious Beekman Hotel, Temple Court comes from American chef and restauranteur, Tom Colicchio. The entire space is gorgeously wrapped in stained-glass windows. Experience fine dining inside this historic space and make sure to check out the bar room for an after dinner drink! See more here.
Where: 5 Beekman St, New York
5. Lamia’s Fish Market, East Village
Immerse yourself in an underwater oasis at this East Village gem. Find curving booths in blue velvet line the walls and beautiful nautical-themed murals and decor decorate the unassumingly large venue. Indulge in their fish-forward menu that will whisk you away to the breezy oceanside. More details here.
Where: 47 Avenue B, New York
6. Tavern on the Green, Central Park
NYC legend, Tavern on the Green has a reputation for its elegant fare, spectacular location, and of course, its dreamy design. Featuring a beautiful garden and courtyard seating during the warmer months, the interior is just as breathtaking. Bask in the sun with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and look out onto Central Park.
Where: W 67th St, New York
7. Le Coucou, SoHo
French fare with a gorgeous atmosphere, oui oui! Beyond having one of the most beautiful bars in NYC, Le Coucou honors European gastronomy by bringing a piece of Paris to NYC. Coming from internationally acclaimed Chef Daniel Rose, savor everything on the menu from the Foie gras poché au Sauternes to the Canette a l’Orange. Find out more on their website.
Where: 138 Lafayette St, New York
8. Grand Banks, Tribeca
This floating oyster bar is one of the city’s most unique restaurants with one of the best waterfront dining destinations around. Located on the Tribeca waterfront, Grand Banks seats their guests aboard the historic deck of a wooden fishing boat. From oysters to caviar, you’ll be sure to taste the freshest fruits de mer gathered sustainably from the East & West coasts. *Seasonal hours
Where: Pier 25 Hudson River Park, New York
9. Peak, Hudson Yards
Dine in the sky at Hudson Yards’ restaurant Peak. This fine establishment boasts stunning 360° skyline views that will have your jaw drop to the floor. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant is 101 floors above and a definite must-visit.
Where: 30 Hudson Yards 101st floor, New York
10. River Cafe, DUMBO
You know you’re in for a stunning view when you dine at the River Cafe. Situated right on the East River, admire the glittering skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from your table. The Michelin Star restaurant offers elevated fare from Scallop Ceviche to Wagyu Steak Tartare. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to try Blandy’s Madeira Dessert Flight and indulge in a variety of petit sweets. See more here.
Where: 1 Water St, Brooklyn
11. Aurora Ristorante, Williamsburg
Aurora Ristorante is a green oasis tucked away in Williamsburg. Enjoy their rustic atmosphere with wood finishings, or dine out in their heated garden and be surrounded by blossoming plants and glittering fairy lights. Make your reservation here.
Where: 70 Grand St, Brooklyn
12. Cathédrale, East Village
Located inside the Moxy East Village, Cathédrale is a French-Mediterranean fusion spot that’s design is as elegant as its food. Be blown away by its dreamy and dimly lit dining room that goes as far back as the eye can see. With seemingly endless ceilings and an outdoor dining terrace, it’s no surprise that this restaurant made it on our list. See more here.
Where: 112 E 11th St, New York
13. Grand Central Oyster Bar, Midtown
This NYC landmark is a gorgeous piece of history that’s been serving from an enormous menu of seafood specialities since 1913. Known as the oldest restaurant in Grand Central, you’ll sit beneath the charming curved ceilings as you choose from 25 types of fish and 30 varieties of oysters. They previously closed down operations at the start of the pandemic but they have been back in business since September 2021.
Where: 89 E 42nd St, New York
14. Buddha-Bar, Tribeca
Also found in major cities like Dubai, London, & Prague, Buddha-Bar opened a NYC location last year. The space is ornately decorated with dramatic pendant lights, custom furnishings and a 16-foot glass-hewn Buddha sculpture that steals the show. The menu features Asian fusion dishes and is helmed by Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli, Food Network’s Chopped Champion.
Where: 62 Thomas St, New York
15. Le Crocodile, Williamsburg
You can find this airy, neighborhood brasserie inside the Wythe Hotel. The space is inspired by Chef Partners Jake Leiber and Aidan O’Neal “Parisian and New York favorites.” Book a table for brunch, lunch or dinner and admire the chic design from their tiled floors to their charming bar. More details here.
Where: 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
16. Casa Ora, East Williamsburg
Casa Ora is a beautiful gem that’s an immediate breath of fresh air. Step inside to see vibrant works of art cover the wall, blooming greenery at every corner, and glowing candlelight. Diners can enjoy Venezuelan plates for an intimate culinary experience. See more here.
Where: 148 Meserole St, Brooklyn
17. Veranda, SoHo
This trendy spot tucked off of Grand offers four unique spaces, all impeccably designed. From arched wood ceilings, luxuriously plush seating and even a skylight, each space is uniquely curated for a separate experience. You’ll even be able to dine under the stars beneath their restaurants retractable glass roof. Book a table here.
Where: 23 Grand St, New York
18. Fandi Mata, Williamsburg
Go on a blissful escape to to the Mediterranean at Fandi Mata in Williamsburg. Take in the gorgeous space filled with plants and patterns and make sure to snap your photo on their iconic bright blue staircase. Going for “industrial-chic,” this lively spot is a perfect place to take friends or family. More info here.
Where: 74 Bayard St, Brooklyn
19. Kumi New York, Midtown
Coming straight from Vegas, Kumi New York has made permanent residency on 57th Street inside Le Meridien. Their elevated plating is stunning enough, but it doesn’t stop there. Striking colors, mirrors and tiles open up the venue for an atmosphere that’s truly dazzling. See here.
Where: 120 W. 57th Street, New York
20. Bar Cicchetti, Chelsea
Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani has just opened an exciting new Italian restaurant right here in NYC. Beyond their mouthwatering dishes from grilled octopus to pillowy pizzas, the space is absolutely enthralling with its art deco-inspired design featuring “warm jewel-tones, dark wood, brass and chrome finishes, rich rugs, and velvet texture.” Book here.
Where: 113 W 24th St, New York
Source: secretnyc.co