📍Added in February: In my book, fried fish is meant to be shared, and the one at Fish Cheeks hits every note. Golden batter, fresh herbs, and punchy nam jim sauce invite you to eat with your hands and lean into the mess. I’m all for it. If savory brunch is your lane, tap in. Whether you’re at the NoHo or Williamsburg location, the bold Thai flavors make this dish feel celebratory, communal, and completely worth gathering around with a group of friends.

📍Added in February: For a New Yorker, Rockefeller Center can feel like both a wonder and a tourist trap. Either way, NARO offers a welcome pocket of calm. Tucked rinkside within the storied building, it brings thoughtful, elegant, precise Korean cooking to the city’s core. Recommended dishes include the amberjack and the oyster mushroom bowl. It’s the kind of place I retreat to when I want refinement without fuss, proof that even Midtown can deliver moments of quiet culinary clarity.

📍Added in February: Let the record state that I absolutely love tacos and have been spoiled with frequent trips to Mexico City. Delicious, efficient, and scattered across the city, Los Tacos No. 1 continues to reign as one of NYC’s taco standouts. The adobada remains my go-to: carved, layered, and consistently satisfying. Whether I’m passing through SoHo or grabbing a quick bite between plans, it’s a reliable reminder that great tacos don’t require ceremony—just appetite and lots of napkins.

📍Added in February: It’s confirmed that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, which means six more weeks of harsh winter in NYC. The frigid temps turn me inward, and that’s when the occasional delivery becomes self-care. Nourish Thai is one of my comfort constants: pad Thai, tom kha gah, and homestyle specials arriving warm and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that softens a cold evening, grounding me at home when Brooklyn nights are quiet and plans are paused.

📍Added in February: Hot take: a West Indian breakfast reigns supreme. Jen’s, located in Flatbush, is where I go when I want that grounding to start the day. Saltfish with provisions—plantain, yucca, green banana, pumpkin—brings me right back to my grandparents’ kitchen. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and rooted in the tradition of a dense meal that keeps hunger at bay. It’s the kind of meal that reminds me how food can hold memory and place in every bite.

Arden is my go-to happy hour spot on Franklin Avenue in Crown Heights, perfect for a casual pop-in or a longer evening dinner. The hamachi sticky rice on the happy hour menu is a favorite—bright, fresh, and full of texture. For something more filling, the large plates, like the duck, pork chop, soft-shell crabs, and seasonal vegetables, are designed for sharing and full of care. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that’s easy to love and even easier to keep coming back to.

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.

Bon Pâtés is home to Haitian pâtés, one of my favorite handheld bites as of late. Flaky puff pastry envelopes savory fillings like herring, chicken, and beef. They’re instant crowd-pleasers. My personal winners are the spinach-and-onion and cheese versions that are comforting and deeply satisfying. In addition to the Utica Avenue storefront, you can also find them popping up at Little Caribbean retailer Fe Noel—a delicious bonus.

Bong, the jewel box in Crown Heights, serves whole fish with skin that is impossibly crisp, giving way to tender meat that shines when wrapped in lettuce and dragged through tangy Khmer sauces. It made me reconsider herbs, here served in their best form: in bunches, piled onto protein. This dish was a textural playground that I’ve thought about long after, at a neighborhood gem I can’t wait to revisit.

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.

This neighborhood spot is everything you could want in a French bistro. Its charm lies in its simplicity: perfectly executed omelets, buttery croissants, and crisp frites that seem to arrive at the table just when you’re thinking about them. It’s the kind of spot where a leisurely breakfast can turn into lunch, especially if you’re indulging in a second café crème. On weekends, snagging a patio seat feels like winning the New York brunch lottery, so aim to arrive early.

Few things brighten a day like Caffè Panna, where each visit feels like a surprise. The sundaes and scoops rotate constantly, inspired by the season and whatever sparks joy in the kitchen that week. One day it’s peak-strawberry swirls, the next it’s panna-topped affogato magic. My tip? Follow their Instagram to catch the revolving combos. And when asked, always get the panna (whipped cream) on top.

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.

There’s the bodega BEC, and then there’s Chicky’s. Here, mornings feel less like a rush and more like a ritual. Whether you build it on ciabatta, or focaccia, or fluffy brioche, you'll end up with the kind of breakfast sandwich that makes you pause mid-bite. Grab the paper, a coffee, and maybe a pantry re-stock before heading to an outdoor bench to watch Bed-Stuy wake up. It’s an elevated corner store with all the charm of the neighborhood.

Dolores brings the flavors of coastal Mexico to Bed-Stuy with dishes that beg to be shared. The aguachile verde campechano is a standout: bright, spicy, and layered with seafood. It tastes like a beach day in every bite. Don’t skip the El Rey short-rib taco, served on a warm flour tortilla. Bonus: Dolores opens at 4 p.m., ideal for parents or anyone craving an unhurried dinner. While early hours are a benefit, I highly recommend making a reservation to secure your seat.

Estela is a quintessential New York City restaurant that makes me feel like a grown-up. It’s also a spot I suggest when making an impression is the objective, thanks to the intimate lighting, downtown location, and thoughtful menu. Without a doubt, you must order the endive salad with walnuts, anchovies, and Ubriaco Rosso, a beautiful cow’s milk cheese. Go here when you want to celebrate a milestone, have a girls’ night, or spend a little more than you otherwise might.

Fried Dumpling is a Chinatown classic. This tiny, cash-only space is one of the best deals in the city: five dumplings for a few bucks, crisped on the bottom, juicy inside, and gone too quickly. It’s the ideal no-frills snack between errands, whether you’re serving jury duty at the courthouse nearby or introducing someone to the magic of NYC food culture. Grab two orders; you’ll thank me later.

Queens knows how to deliver on regional specialties, and Fuskahouse—a Bangladeshi street-food cart—proves it. Their namesake fuska (pani puri)—perfectly crisp shells filled with spiced potatoes, tangy tamarind water, and, my personal favorite topping, shredded egg—are an instant hit for first-timers and regulars alike. Go with friends and order generously; the menu is made for sharing and experimenting.

Since I moved to Brooklyn, a trip into Manhattan can feel like a bit of a field trip, but Gramercy Tavern is always worth it. I celebrated my 34th birthday here last year, indulging in their vibrant summer menu featuring a generous seafood tower and perfectly cooked vegetables fresh from the nearby greenmarket. The experience felt truly special, thanks to the warm service, spacious dining room, and dishes that beautifully highlight seasonal ingredients.

Operating daily starting at sundown, this cash-only cart outside of the Grand Street subway station specializes in mouthwatering yakitori—grilled skewers. The husband-and-wife duo use real charcoal to char mushrooms, meats, and shrimp. If you can handle some heat, opt for the spicy lamb or beef tendon skewers. Don’t miss the enoki mushrooms, available with or without bacon, a delightful addition to your carnivorous selection.

At some point over the last few years, the smash burger craze swelled across the menus of New York City. (I’ve enjoyed my fair share.) When it comes to burgers, Hamburger America takes a studied, classic approach. Think smashed patties, crispy edges, American cheese, and no frills. It’s a love letter to regional burger styles with zero pretension and 100% satisfaction. Pop in and enjoy a respite from the heat at the lunch counter, or grab a few to go.

Hillstone was a favorite of mine back in Central Florida, where I grew up, and it’s one of the few things that has followed me into my NYC life. Find a bar seat at lunch, start with a sushi roll, then commit to the cheeseburger—one of my favorites in Manhattan—where the patty-to-sauce-to-bread ratio should be studied. Sure, it’s great for a business lunch, but it’s also perfect for an uninterrupted afternoon with a good book or a productive catch-up on emails.

Inga’s Bar is the kind of place that makes the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood feel like home. It’s equal parts cozy and confident, with a menu that rewards regulars and first-timers alike. The burger is a standout, but I also love the seasonal crudo and classic cocktails. Come for a casual dinner that easily turns into a lingering night, or grab a seat at the bar solo and enjoy the comfort of a familiar spot—even on your first visit.

Kabawa feels like the home of a favorite uncle: music up, conversations flowing, and plates that leave you deeply satisfied. I came here over the holidays and immediately felt at ease. Caribbean flavors take their rightful seat through a thoughtful three-course tasting highlighting cassava, tamarind, coconut, and shrimp. My standout was the cobia, lacquered in tamarind and nestled in an allium-forward sauce that was as vibrant on the plate as it was on the palate.

Yes, Lei is a wine bar, but it’s also one of the most exciting recent openings to warm up winter dining. Cold nights don’t stand a chance against comforting dishes like pillowy gnocchi with lamb or the now-Instagram-famous celtuce. The menu strikes that sweet spot between cozy and cool, making it easy to linger over a bottle and a few shared plates. Come for the wine; stay for the food that quietly steals the show.

New to Fort Greene, Los Burritos Juárez has quickly become a favorite. The homemade flour tortillas are the true star: soft, pillowy, and the perfect wrap for hearty fillings. Whether you go classic with chicken mole or try one of the specials, each burrito feels like a warm hug. A much-needed addition to the neighborhood’s lineup, this spot proves that sometimes the best meals come wrapped in foil. Grab your order to go, then head to Fort Greene Park and enjoy.

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.

Miss Lily’s embodies both NYC and Caribbean culture, making it a beloved institution. Their menu is ideal for sharing—and perfect for after-work gatherings or group dining. While most folks opt for jerk chicken, I encourage exploring the menu in full, trying my favorites like curry shrimp or vegetable curry, best enjoyed with an ice-cold Red Stripe. So while we’re counting down the days until consistently warm weather, pop in with coworkers or friends and hold a lime.

If breakfast is your priority, Okonomi is a must-visit for its ichiju-sansai, a traditional Japanese meal featuring a delightful array of fresh fish options like salmon, tuna, and local white fish. Alongside the fish, you’ll get miso soup, steamed rice, and three sides: Savor the vibrant pickled beets, blanched greens, and the standout Japanese sweet potato, my personal favorite. Round off your meal with another cup of freshly brewed hōjicha, and you'll be set to seize the day.

Though it’s tucked on the corner of Saratoga and Decatur in Bed-Stuy, Olmo instantly transported me back to Mexico City. The sous vide steak was a standout, but the biggest surprise was a simple spin on crudités featuring chayote (a mild-flavored squash) and heirloom tomatoes dressed with a fermented-plum-and-tomato vinaigrette: It was fresh, tangy, and unforgettable. This is a neighborhood gem that makes any night feel special.

Yes, Place des Fêtes in Clinton Hill is a wine bar, but the tapas-style bites truly sing. As someone who has embraced the art of a solo dine, I stan ample bar seating, and Place has not one but two high-top bars where guests can observe what’s going down behind the bar and in the kitchen, respectively. On the menu, the sardine toast is one of the best things I’ve eaten this year. Off-menu specials aren’t an afterthought, so leave some room for what’s listed on the chalkboard.

Raku is my udon haven. During the warmer months, I crave the cold kani maze udon, tangled with crab and refreshing in every bite, while the hot bowls are perfect comfort food once the weather turns. The noodles are perfectly chewy, the broths deep and layered. Don’t sleep on the mackerel sushi either: It’s smoky, rich, and the perfect sidekick to any bowl. Raku is cozy, small (reservations are a must), and always satisfying.

Raoul’s is a New York City classic that needs little introduction, especially when it comes to steak frites. Dim lighting, buzzy energy, and a dining room that feels frozen in time set the scene for one of the city’s most iconic plates. The steak arrives exactly how you want it, paired with crisp fries and a sense that you’re participating in a long-standing NYC ritual. Some dishes earn their legend status, and this is one of them.

Risbo, the Parisian rotisserie in Brooklyn, is a beloved spot. The chicken is a flavorful crowd favorite, and then you can plug and play with an array of sides, from French classics like gratin dauphinois to plantains, a nod to the Caribbean influences of the neighborhood. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a relaxed family meal. And with the summer in swing, the outdoor garden is a prime location.

This smashburger spot keeps it simple and gets it right. Choose your own (burger) adventure, or go with one of the set items. The Burger Créole is my move: a juicy patty topped with “pikliz” and “pikliz aioli,” tucked into a perfectly baked brioche bun. It’s familiar yet exciting, with just enough heat and tang to keep things interesting. This is the kind of burger you crave when you want comfort, flavor, and zero overthinking it, proof that classics still win when done well.

I came to Rolo’s on a chilly fall evening with friends, the kind where the air feels crisp and the appetite strong. Their wood-fired chicken and pork shoulder hit that comfort sweet spot, while the house bread and handmade pasta are too good to skip. It’s one of those places that reminds me why dining out matters: great food, easy company, and that glow that makes you want to stay a little longer. Book a four top and toast to the autumnal vibes.

On a hot summer day, all I crave is simple, peak-season freshness. This East Village standout offers just that: a refreshing take on sushi, highlighting local fish. Don’t sleep on the spicy avocado roll (trust me) or seasonal miso soup to start, then move on to the chef’s selection of nigiri and the fish burger. The intimate, minimalist setting is perfect for a date night or a solo dinner at the bar. Be sure to make a reservation as this spot fills up quickly.

As a big fan of dining at a bar seat, it’s no surprise that my loyalty has extended to the lunch counter. S&P revives the magic of a bygone era with tuna melts, egg creams, and perfect grilled cheese. Their pastrami is a strong contender for my New York City favorite; I recommend splitting it with a friend. The vibe is old-school NYC with a touch of downtown cool in the heart of Flatiron. A seat at the counter and a side of perfectly fried onion rings? Say less.

Sailor in Fort Greene nails the balance of sweet and savory at brunch. Yes, the French toast is damn good—and you should absolutely get it—but I consider it more of a breakfast dessert. Start with the Turkish eggs, a perfect harmony of salt, fat, acid, and heat, thanks to creamy yogurt, chili oil, sesame seeds, and warm flatbread. And don’t skip the coffee—it’s fresh, strong, and the ideal way to round out the meal.

They say part of healing your inner child is enjoying all the things you loved growing up. Nordic food isn’t a cuisine I’ve had often. Hot dogs, on the other hand, are a different story, and Smør’s Danish hot dog—topped with pickles, remoulade, and crispy onions—is a nostalgic childhood favorite all grown up. It’s the kind of bite that feels both familiar and new, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a walk down memory lane, Danish style.

I came here for my boyfriend’s birthday and was pleasantly surprised by the breadth of folks craving a steak on a Wednesday afternoon. That’s the charm of St. Anselm: casual, familiar, and comforting, yet delivering some of the best steak in Brooklyn. The butcher’s steak with garlic butter has a cult following; the grilled vegetables (enter: runner beans) and sides turn dinner into a feast. This neighborhood spot proves that great meals don’t always need a big occasion.

Next to New York City, New Orleans is one of my favorite food destinations. This charming spot nods to the Crescent City via its menu and is quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite. (Reservations are encouraged.) Consider the fried shrimp sandwich, BBQ shrimp, and seafood tower your Instagrammable holy trinity. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to snap a photo of their bright yellow bathroom: instant endorphin boost.

When I want a dose of nostalgia, I find it at this family-owned and distinctly Harlem ice-cream shop. Flavors like “Harlem Sweeties” tell stories of place and people. I like to come here after dinner, grab a scoop, and sit outside as the city hums, a sweet reminder that small joys are often the best ones. And if you’re eager to take that joy to go, grab a pint: “Family Business” made with citrus, rum, and passionfruit jam is always a win.

Sybil’s is an institution among Guyanese families, including my own, who have long recommended this spot for dishes reminiscent of our mothers’ cooking. Pepper pot—traditionally served on Christmas in Guyana, but available at Sybil’s year-round—is a labor of love; the stew cooks low and slow to tenderize meat like oxtails. There’s limited seating, so take your food to go. Pro tip: If you’re flying into JFK, call in an order (chow mein, fish sandwich, pine tarts) to pick up on your way home.

I’m a breakfast person, and if you aren’t one, I will make it my mission to convert you, with a seat at Thai Diner. The comforting dishes like gingery congee and the herbal sausage breakfast sandwich are what I crave, especially on colder mornings. Arrive early to grab a seat and avoid the usual crowds—trust me, it’s worth it. With its cozy vibe and nostalgic diner decor, starting your day here feels like a warm hug.

I don’t typically gravitate toward the word regular, but in the restaurant world, it’s a sweet sentiment. I’m a regular at The Four Horsemen, where I’ve spent long lunches laughing with friends over the hallmark celery-and-date salad. For my 12th anniversary as a New Yorker, there was no question where I’d celebrate: solo, at the bar, with a dish of herbaceous mussels. Everything on the menu reflects peak-season freshness, so you’re always in for a treat.

Fort Greene is my backdrop for dates, daydreams, and thoughtful hangouts. It’s also home to Thea, a bakery with a cozy vibe that serves hearty, flavorful sandwiches. I recommend the butternut squash with basil and tapenade or the tuna salad toast topped with salsa macha, a favorite Mexican condiment made with crispy bits of toasted chili peppers, garlic, peanuts, and sesame seeds. Grab your order to go and enjoy it in the park nearby.

My mom often reminds me of the importance of keeping a little cash on hand. When it comes to Trinidadian classics,Trinidad Golden Place reigns supreme—and only accepts cash. When you visit, opt for the goat roti; it’s pillowy, spiced, and packed with tender meat. The doubles are a must, and if you visit on a weekend, don’t miss the crab soup special, a hearty dish that’s the definition of comfort in a bowl. It’s no wonder this unassuming spot has a local Caribbean following.

There’s something special about a place that feels like it’s always been there; Vinatería is that for Harlem. Familiar, cozy, and run by a born-and-bred Harlemite, it’s where I go when I pay a visit uptown and want a meal that feels grounded. The black spaghetti is the move and hits all the flavor marks: salty, inky, rich, and totally craveable. Pair it with a glass of wine, and you’ll quickly understand why this spot is a neighborhood favorite.

A pilgrimage to Flushing isn’t complete without White Bear. The legendary wontons in chili oil are the dish everyone talks about—and for good reason. The balance of spice, porky richness, and chewy skin hits every craving at once. This is a tiny counter spot with just a few seats, so I recommend grabbing your wontons to go and enjoying them in the nearby park or while you wander around the bustling neighborhood.