I’ve been eating my way around NYC for work and pleasure for the better part of a decade; these are the spots I’m loving at the moment. Check back monthly for updates. Photo: Nora Varcho
Less📍 Added in November: Bridges in Chinatown is a sexy downtown spot, perfect for dinner before a night out or an uninterrupted catch-up with friends. The menu is a playground for rich and unexpected flavors that will have you feeling adventurous rather than overwhelmed. Start with sardines with anchovies and peppers, then move to the comté tart—a savory masterpiece with nutty French cheese, chanterelles, and a buttery crust. Pair it with a glass of wine and soak in the chic, intimate atmosphere.
📍 Added in November: Lucali is the ultimate test of NYC’s “waiting in line is worth it” mentality. Known for its legendary pies and massive calzones, this Brooklyn pizzeria has earned its place as a city institution. It’s BYOB, so grab a bottle of wine while you wait for your table. The simplicity of the menu—thin-crust pizzas, calzones, fresh basil—is what keeps people coming back. Whether you’re here for a casual night out or a special occasion, the wait is part of the experience.
📍 Added in November: This iconic Meatpacking brasserie pulses with energy from the moment you walk in. The vibe is quintessentially New York—bustling, lively, and perfect for a celebratory meal. The menu leans into French classics, so if your whole table opts for the steak frites, you won’t be mad about it. It’s a signature dish for a reason: crispy fries, perfectly cooked steak, and rich sauce. A meal at Pastis feels like a lively, indulgent escape right in the heart of the city.
📍 Added in November: This cozy Prospect Heights spot offers dishes that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of China’s Fujian province. Must-tries include the delicate dumplings and comforting soups, but the real standout is the shareable short ribs and ban ban noodle, a beef version of classic dan dan noodles. Call ahead if you’re thinking of popping in.
📍 Added in November: Long Island Bar in Cobble Hill serves up retro charm alongside a standout food menu. The diner-style setting is cozy, and while the cocktails get plenty of attention, the food deserves equal praise. Their cheeseburger and fries are essential, but the fried clams with tartar sauce are another must-try. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a snack to share with friends, the menu hits all the right notes for comfort food with a touch of nostalgia.
I’m a new Crown Heights resident, and Agi’s Counter is my go-to café to kick off a midweek morning. Start your day with their dill-and-cheddar sandwich, a savory masterpiece featuring a perfect fried egg, mayo, and a shave of Alpine cheddar. Don’t miss the bakery counter, where you’ll find spanakopita babka—a marriage of the classic Greek spinach pie and the twisty, sweet layered bread. Agi’s is closed Monday and Tuesday, so plan a visit during the back half of the week.
This all-day Mexican eatery is great for a casual lunch at the bar or catching up with friends for happy hour. The easygoing vibe doesn’t compromise on flavor. Here, I like to order for the table. Begin with the chicken soup, a broth balanced with fresh cilantro and mixed veggies. Tack on the cheese quesadilla and add mushrooms, then wrap up with the pork al pastor gringa, a fun, shareable entrée. What’s a Mexican meal without churros for dessert? You know what to do.
The M60 bus isn’t just for a trip to LaGuardia. It’s what I take from Harlem to venture to this Greek establishment in Astoria. My go-to order of lemon potatoes, gigantes—butter beans baked with parsley and tomato—and grilled octopus or a whole fish won’t steer you wrong. The large dining room is where residents gather for family dinners, after-church fellowship, and celebrations. As such, there are well-priced prix fixe options ideal for big groups. Otherwise, a walk-in will get you sorted.
Pre-theater dining hits a new high at Café Chelsea, breathing fresh life into Midtown West. This bistro, located right next to the iconic Hotel Chelsea, exudes grown-up-in-NYC vibes. Amid French classics, the ravioles du Dauphiné shine: a sheet of ravioli with Comté cheese, cracked pepper, and olive oil. Begin here, add steak frites or the chicken and a crisp glass of wine, and cap it with a chocolate soufflé, then it’s off to Broadway.
Headed to a picnic? Invited to a potluck? Hosting a party? Order Charles. A Harlem staple, this pan-fried chicken spot remains my soul food kryptonite. The owner, Charles Gabriel, has mastered a signature recipe that’s over 30 years old and makes for crispy, well-seasoned chicken every time. Go for the pan-fried chicken plate, served with three of your preferred pieces, two Southern sides, and corn bread.