Best Restaurants in Midtown East, NYC: Midtown East is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in New York City, offering a broad range of dining experiences. From fine dining to casual eateries, this area is home to some of the city’s best restaurants. If you’re looking for great food and a memorable dining experience, here’s a list of ten outstanding restaurants in Midtown East.
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1. La Grande Boucherie
La Grande Boucherie, a French-inspired brasserie, is an elegant and vibrant dining spot in Midtown East. With its impressive decor featuring vintage chandeliers, classic wood accents, and luxurious booths, this restaurant transports diners to the golden age of French dining. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, perfect for both romantic dinners and group celebrations. La Grande Boucherie is particularly known for its top-notch French cuisine with a focus on meats, seafood, and decadent pastries. It is one of the best restaurants in Midtown East, NYC
Their specialities include classic French dishes such as escargots, foie gras, and a signature côte de boeuf. The menu offers a variety of French classics with modern twists, and their wine list is extensive, featuring both Old and New World options. A must-try dish is the “Chateaubriand for Two,” a perfectly cooked tenderloin served with rich sauces and sides. For dessert, indulge in their soufflé or the crème brûlée.
| Dish | Description |
| Chateaubriand for Two | A tender and juicy steak served with rich sauces and sides. |
| Escargots | A classic French dish of snails served in garlic butter. |
| Crème Brûlée | A rich, creamy dessert with a perfectly caramelised top. |
2. Angelina Bakery NYC
Angelina Bakery is a charming, upscale bakery and café that brings the best of French patisserie to Midtown East. The bakery exudes a warm and inviting ambience with rustic wooden tables and soft lighting, making it a perfect place for a cosy breakfast or afternoon tea. Known for its elegant pastries and cakes, Angelina is a haven for dessert lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Their speciality is the signature Mont Blanc, a delicate chestnut cream dessert that has gained cult status. Other must-try items of this best restaurant in Midtown East, NYC include buttery croissants, rich chocolate eclairs, and seasonal fruit tarts. They also serve a variety of sandwiches and quiches for those looking for a light lunch or brunch. Paired with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing iced latte, Angelina Bakery is a perfect spot to relax and indulge in a sweet treat.
| Dish | Description |
| Mont Blanc | A chestnut cream dessert, the bakery’s signature offering. |
| Croissants | Flaky, buttery, and freshly baked – a perfect start to any morning. |
| Fruit Tarts | Seasonal fruit atop a buttery crust with smooth pastry cream. |
3. Quality Meats
Quality Meats is a modern steakhouse that sets itself apart with its stylish, contemporary interior and exceptional cuts of meat. The restaurant’s minimalist design includes sleek leather seating and a spacious dining room that provides a sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere. With a focus on top-tier steaks and seafood, Quality Meats is a popular choice for both casual diners and those looking for a luxurious night out.
This best restaurant in Midtown East, NYC serves up classic steakhouse fare, but what sets them apart is their commitment to quality. Must-try dishes include the bone-in ribeye, the dry-aged steaks, and their decadent truffle macaroni and cheese. For seafood lovers, the lobster bisque is a standout. Quality Meats also offers unique sides like bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes with foie gras. If you’re in the mood for something truly indulgent, finish off your meal with the signature quality cake.
| Dish | Description |
| Bone-in Ribeye | A perfectly cooked steak with rich marbling and a smoky flavour. |
| Truffle Mac & Cheese | Creamy macaroni and cheese with truffle, a luxurious take on a classic. |
| Quality Cake | A rich, decadent dessert that provides the perfect ending to your meal. |
4. The Smith
The Smith is a stylish American brasserie that delivers a contemporary take on classic comfort food. The atmosphere is lively and casual, with rustic wood interiors, large windows, and an open kitchen that adds an interactive element to the dining experience. It’s the ideal spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner with friends or family, offering a wide variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
The Smith is known for its American favourites, with a few standout dishes like French toast, mac and cheese, and their famous burger. The roasted chicken is another must-try, served with crispy skin and tender meat. The cocktail menu features creative concoctions, and the wine list offers a variety of affordable options. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, The Smith guarantees a satisfying experience.
| Dish | Description |
| French Toast | Thick slices of French toast topped with fresh fruits and maple syrup. |
| Mac and Cheese | Creamy, cheesy macaroni with a crispy top – a comfort food classic. |
| Roasted Chicken | A perfectly roasted bird with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. |
5. Little Collins
Little Collins is a hidden gem in Midtown East that blends Australian café culture with New York’s vibrant dining scene. The restaurant boasts a cosy, relaxed atmosphere with a minimalist interior that features light wood accents and a welcoming vibe. Known for its fresh ingredients and simple yet flavourful dishes, Little Collins is perfect for those seeking a laid-back but high-quality meal.
The menu features a range of brunch-inspired items, such as avocado toast, poached eggs, and banana bread. The coffee is expertly brewed, and the smoothie bowls are a popular choice for a healthy, refreshing option. For something heartier, the Australian-style meat pies are a must-try. Their lunch specials, like the chicken schnitzel sandwich and the beetroot salad, are crowd favourites. Little Collins is a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal or grab a quick bite on the go.
| Dish | Description |
| Avocado Toast | A healthy, flavourful dish with mashed avocado, poached eggs, and sourdough. |
| Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich | A crispy, breaded chicken sandwich with fresh greens and a tangy sauce. |
| Beetroot Salad | A fresh and vibrant salad with roasted beets, goat cheese, and greens. |
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6. Park Avenue Tavern
Park Avenue Tavern is a vibrant gastropub offering a chic yet casual atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks, a weekend brunch, or a night out with friends. The restaurant has a rustic, industrial vibe with dark wood and exposed brick, paired with a lively bar scene. The menu features a blend of classic American comfort food with a modern twist.
The standout dishes at Park Avenue Tavern include their famous truffle fries, tender short ribs, and the delicious tuna tartare. For a hearty meal, their burger served with a side of crispy fries, is a favourite. The drink menu is extensive, featuring craft beers, creative cocktails, and a selection of wines. With its laid-back atmosphere and flavourful dishes, Park Avenue Tavern is perfect for a relaxed evening out.
| Dish | Description |
| Truffle Fries | Crispy fries tossed in truffle oil are a flavourful and addictive snack. |
| Short Ribs | Tender and flavourful short ribs slow-cooked to perfection. |
| Tuna Tartare | Fresh tuna, avocado, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing appetiser. |
7. Tanner Smith’s
Tanner Smiths offers an upscale, speakeasy-inspired experience in the heart of Midtown East. The restaurant features dim lighting, vintage décor, and a cosy yet stylish atmosphere that makes it perfect for date nights or intimate gatherings. The cocktail menu is crafted with care, featuring expertly mixed drinks with creative twists.
In addition to its stellar drink offerings, Tanner Smiths serves a diverse menu of American fare with international influences. The roasted chicken and braised short ribs are popular choices, as well as the freshly shucked oysters. Their craft cocktails pair perfectly with their shareable small plates, like the truffle fries and crab cakes. If you’re looking for something indulgent, the chocolate lava cake is a must-try for dessert.
| Dish | Description |
| Roasted Chicken | A flavourful, tender chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. |
| Truffle Fries | A perfect accompaniment to any dish, crispy and full of flavour. |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | A decadent, molten chocolate cake served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. |
8. Spice Symphony
Spice Symphony is a vibrant and elegant restaurant offering a contemporary take on Indian cuisine. The dining room is tastefully decorated with rich, warm colours and intricate patterns, creating an inviting and luxurious atmosphere. Spice Symphony is known for its flavourful, aromatic dishes and innovative presentations.
Some of the must-try dishes include the lamb rogan josh, butter chicken, and tandoori lamb chops, which are cooked to perfection. For a lighter option, the shrimp masala is a flavourful and spicy choice. Spice Symphony also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, including the paneer tikka and the vegetable biryani. The wine list offers a great selection of options, and its dessert menu includes indulgent treats like the gulab jamun.
| Dish | Description |
| Lamb Rogan Josh | Tender lamb in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. |
| Butter Chicken | A creamy, spiced chicken dish that is rich in flavour. |
| Gulab Jamun | Fried dough balls soaked in sweet syrup, a popular Indian dessert. |
9. Soba Totto
Soba Totto is a cosy Japanese restaurant specialising in soba noodles and other traditional dishes. Located in Midtown East, it offers a serene atmosphere with simple, modern décor and an intimate dining setting. The restaurant’s focus is on serving fresh, hand-made soba, made from buckwheat flour and served with a variety of toppings and dipping sauces.
The star of the menu is the soba, available in hot and cold preparations. Other must-try dishes at this best restaurant in Midtown East, NYC include the tempura, sushi rolls, and grilled fish. Soba Totto also offers a variety of izakaya-style small plates such as the marinated tofu and the yakitori skewers. For dessert, try the mochi or the seasonal fruit sorbet.
| Dish | Description |
| Soba Noodles | Fresh, hand-made noodles served with a variety of toppings and sauces. |
| Tempura | Lightly battered and fried vegetables and shrimp for a crispy treat. |
| Mochi | A sweet rice dessert, often filled with red bean paste or fruit. |
10. Kaoru
Kaoru is an elegant Japanese restaurant that combines fine dining with traditional sushi. Known for its impeccable service and luxurious ambience, Kaoru offers an intimate and refined atmosphere that is perfect for special occasions. The menu focuses on high-quality sushi, sashimi, and a variety of Japanese-inspired dishes.
Sushi lovers will appreciate the omakase experience, where the chef prepares a selection of dishes based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. The toro (fatty tuna) and uni (sea urchin) are must-tries. Kaoru also offers speciality rolls and a variety of appetisers, including the miso soup and the grilled eel. If you’re in the mood for something unique, try the Wagyu beef or the seared scallops.
| Dish | Description |
| Toro Sushi | Fatty tuna served in a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth style. |
| Uni | Fresh sea urchin, a luxurious and flavourful delicacy. |
| Seared Scallops | Perfectly cooked scallops with a slight char for added flavour. |
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Whether you’re craving French delicacies, Japanese elegance, or modern American comfort food, Midtown East offers an array of culinary delights to satisfy every taste. These ten restaurants are just a small sample of the vibrant dining scene in the area, but they each promise a memorable experience. For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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FAQs
Midtown East offers a wide variety of cuisines, including French, American, Japanese, Indian, and Australian. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic French brasserie, an upscale steakhouse, or a cosy Japanese soba restaurant, you’ll find plenty of diverse options.
Yes, many of the restaurants in Midtown East offer upscale settings and high-quality dishes, making them perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, or business dinners. For example, La Grande Boucherie and Kaoru provide an elegant ambience suitable for intimate celebrations.
Most restaurants in Midtown East, like Spice Symphony and Little Collins, offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Spice Symphony, in particular, has a wide range of vegetarian Indian dishes, while Little Collins offers plant-based options such as avocado toast and beetroot salad.
It’s highly recommended to make reservations, especially during peak dining hours or weekends. Popular spots like La Grande Boucherie, Quality Meats, and The Smith tend to fill up quickly, so reserving ahead can ensure a smooth dining experience.
The price range varies depending on the restaurant. On average, you can expect to pay between USD 30 to USD 80 per person for a main course at upscale restaurants like Quality Meats or Kaoru. More casual spots like Little Collins or The Smith tend to be more affordable, with meals averaging between USD 15 to USD 40 per person.
Yes, several restaurants in Midtown East, such as The Smith and Park Avenue Tavern, are family-friendly. They offer a relaxed atmosphere and have menus that cater to both adults and children, with options like burgers, mac and cheese, and classic comfort foods.
Parking in Midtown East can be challenging, but there are parking garages and valet services available near most of the popular restaurants. Public transportation, such as the subway or buses, is often the best way to get to these dining spots.
Some restaurants, like The Smith and Spice Symphony, offer outdoor seating, especially during the warmer months. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant ahead of time if you prefer dining outside.
Each restaurant has its standout dishes:
– La Grande Boucherie: Chateaubriand for Two and escargots.
– Angelina Bakery: Mont Blanc and croissants.
– Quality Meats: Bone-in ribeye and truffle mac & cheese.
– Spice Symphony: Lamb Rogan Josh and butter chicken.
– Kaoru: Toro sushi and seared scallops.
Many Midtown East restaurants offer gluten-free options or can accommodate gluten-free diets upon request. For example, Soba Totto offers gluten-free soba noodles, and Spice Symphony has a range of gluten-free Indian dishes. Always inform the staff of any dietary restrictions when you arrive to ensure they can cater to your needs.
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