6 Best Restaurants to Visit in NYC

New York City; it’s known for bright lights, cars honking 24/7, and where big-name stars gather for specific events like Fashion Week. It’s also a melting pot; many cultures thrive there, making it a city with cuisines from all over the world and a “foodie’s” dream.

 

If you plan on taking a trip to the “Big Apple” soon, you’ll need to prepare beforehand. Traveling and walking around with luggage can be a stressful experience. You’ve seen NYC depicted in movies before—people hustling and bustling or yelling “fuggedaboutit”—meaning it isn’t the most friendly place.

 

So it would be better to use luggage storage in NYC to avoid hassle while walking around. Once your belongings are secure, next is finding the best restaurants to dine in. If you’re unsure, our guide provides a few suggestions you may find interesting.

 

1. Katz’s Delicatessen

If you’ve seen a TV show or movie centered around NYC, there’s a high chance someone went into a deli and ordered a “pastrami on rye.” It’s one of the most iconic sandwiches and a staple amongst NYC-dwellers.

 

Although there are other options, many New Yorkers will tell you that Katz is the place to get one. It’s been around for over 100 years and still has that old-school NYC feeling when you walk in the door. Yes, sandwiches are their go-to, but you can also enjoy other classics like chicken noodle soup, burgers, or potato latkes.

 

Furthermore, Katz has evolved with the times. So if you fall in love after dining there, you’ll also be able to order it online. They ship nationwide, so you’ll never have to go without your favorites from the famed deli.

2. Au Za’atar

There is food for everyone in NYC, and Au Za’atar ensures it combines traditional Lebanese cuisine with American staples. One of the more popular dishes on the menu is the mezze, an assortment of small plates that comes with homemade flatbread. 

 

Furthermore, it would be a disservice to your tastebuds if you didn’t try the shawarma. It’s chicken, beef, or lamb that’s slow-roasted all day, making the meat tender and juicy. Plus, it’s served on a mountain of french fries that is aesthetically pleasing and tasty.

3. Teranga

Not many tourists know about this West African haven in Harlem, NY. But after you eat here, you’ll definitely recommend it to friends and family. Teranga is a well-known spot by locals because of how it embraces the community but also invites others to dive into the richness of West African culture through its food.

 

Meals come in a plate or bowl and consist of:

 

  • A protein–chicken, fish, or veggie option
  • Rice–Jollof or African red rice
  • Black-eyed peas
  • Plantains

It’s an excellent budget-friendly place if you want to get the bang for your buck. And besides what’s listed above, there are plenty of options for vegetarians and those looking to avoid gluten.

4. Ugly Baby

Seeing the name of this restaurant might turn you off altogether. But we promise that you’ll regret it if you do. Ugly Baby is a popular Thai restaurant in Brooklyn that you may want to tackle with a large group. Why? That’s because you’ll want to try everything on the menu.

 

Depending on your party’s size, Ugly Baby gives you the option to try set menus with the ability to add on anything else that may be appealing. You can try items like curried catfish wrapped in grilled banana leaves or their various assortment of Thai curries. Plus, they have an extensive beer and wine list that will satisfy everyone’s needs.

5. Sylvia’s

You can’t talk about food in NYC without mentioning Sylvia’s. Sylvia Woods, the owner, started this as a small luncheonette in 1962. Now it’s blossomed into one of the most famous establishments in the city.

 

Sylvia’s serves soul food, which is cooking consisting of recipes such as:

 

  • Mac and cheese
  • BBQ ribs
  • Friend chicken
  • Collard greens
  • Black-eyed peas

 

One of the most popular items is chicken and waffles. So if you’re in the mood for some comfort food, this is the place to go. 

6. Peter Luger Steakhouse

While Googling “luggage storage in NYC,” you’ll probably venture into a wormhole looking up information about the area. That search will inevitably lead you to look for a solid steakhouse. Of course, everyone has their own opinions, but the consensus among New Yorkers is that the Peter Luger Steakhouse is the best.

 

It’s been around for over 100 years, so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. All of the beef is dry aged, giving it the succulent taste that’s become a favorite amongst diners. Most people go for the porterhouse steak, which comes presliced on a hot plate and is served with sides like creamed spinach or German fried potatoes.

Try These Restaurants While Visiting NYC

With the number of restaurants available, your taste buds will have a field day while you’re in New York. So to fully enjoy yourself, find luggage storage in NYC, select a few spots from our list, and eat like no tomorrow.