best classic eateries IN NY
Katz's Delicatessen
205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, United States
Katz’s Delicatessen, an iconic NYC restaurant, has been serving legendary hand-carved pastrami, corned beef, and other deli classics since 1888. Located at 205 E Houston St, New York, NY, this kosher-style delicatessen is a Lower East Side gem. Their corned beef and pastrami are cured using a slower method, resulting in rich flavors without artificial additives. Patrons rave about the pastrami sandwich, matzo ball soup, and crisp-skinned all-beef hot dogs. Katz’s commitment to quality and tradition makes it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic New York experience
Veselka
144 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, United States
Since 1954, Veselka has been a beloved institution in New York City’s East Village. Founded by Ukrainian refugees Volodymyr and Olha Darmochwal, this cozy eatery started as a small newsstand and has since blossomed into a 24-hour gathering place. Locals and visitors alike delight in traditional Ukrainian soul food, including pierogi, stuffed cabbage, potato pancakes, blintzes, and goulash. Now owned by Volodymyr’s grandson, Jason Birchard, Veselka has expanded over its 70-year history and even appeared in notable films. Beyond its culinary acclaim, Veselka remains a vital part of the local Ukrainian community, supporting various causes through donations and community engagement
Gramercy Tavern
42 E 20th St, New York, NY, United States, New York
For more than two decades, Gramercy Tavern has been a cherished New York City institution. Founded by restaurateur Danny Meyer in 1994, this beloved eatery resides in a historic landmark building near Union Square. Chef Michael Anthony’s dynamic, seasonal menu celebrates local farms and purveyors, earning the restaurant nine prestigious James Beard Awards. With its contemporary American cuisine, warm hospitality, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Gramercy Tavern remains a beacon of culinary delight.
Grand Central Oyster Bar
89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States
Grand Central Oyster Bar: Within the historic Grand Central Terminal, this culinary gem has delighted seafood enthusiasts since 1913. Its cavernous, vaulted space exudes timeless elegance, with a curved marble counter that stretches like a tidal wave. Patrons savor briny oysters, plump clams, and succulent lobster bisque, all sourced from pristine waters. The Oyster Bar’s legacy endures, inviting travelers and locals alike to indulge in a maritime feast beneath the iconic celestial ceiling.”
Keens Steakhouse
72 West 36th Street New York NY 10018
Keens Steakhouse, established in 1885, remains a cherished relic in New York City’s Herald Square Theatre District. Once frequented by actors seeking fortification between acts at the neighboring Garrick Theatre, Keens now serves as the sole survivor of its era. Its gigantic mutton chop, flanked by meaty sideburn-like flaps, continues to delight carnivores. The bar, where signature bloody Marys (with balsamic vinegar) flow during happy hour, beckons patrons. And let’s not forget the 90,000 clay pipes hanging from the ceiling—a historic touch that adds to Keens’ allure. Whether you’re savoring prime rib, Dover sole, or the best green salad in town, Keens promises an authentic, timeless dining experience
Peter Luger Steak House
178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States
In 1887, Peter Luger transformed a Brooklyn pool hall and bowling alley, originally known as “Carl Luger’s Café, Billiards and Bowling Alley,” into the iconic Peter Luger Steak House. Owned by German-born Peter Luger, with his nephew Carl as the chef, the restaurant quickly gained popularity. After Peter’s death, Sol Forman, a street lamp worker, purchased the restaurant at auction and restored it to its former glory. Under Forman family management, Peter Luger’s has maintained its status as New York’s top steakhouse since 1984, earning a Michelin Star and becoming an American classic. The family’s meticulous meat selection process ensures that only USDA Prime beef graces the plates at this renowned establishment
Nathan's Famous
569 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205, United States
In 1916, Polish immigrant Nathan Handwerker launched a nickel hot dog stand on Coney Island, using his wife Ida’s secret spice recipe. The original Nathan’s restaurant, situated at the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Brooklyn, New York City, quickly gained fame. Handwerker’s all-beef hot dogs, though not kosher, were dubbed “kosher style.” Undercutting competitors, he charged just five cents per hot dog. Today, Nathan’s Famous operates globally, with restaurants, supermarket products, and millions of devoted fans. Nathan’s legacy endures as the most iconic hot dog brand worldwide.
Lombardi's Pizza
32 Spring Street New York, NY 10012
Since 1905, Gennaro Lombardi has been crafting pizza in the United States, drawing upon the baker’s trade he learned in Naples. Credited with developing New York Style pizza, Lombardi’s establishment became the first pizzeria in the country. Situated in the Little Italy section of Manhattan, Lombardi’s continues to delight patrons with its beautiful, smoky-crusted coal oven-baked pizza. Topped with purist tomato sauce, fresh whole milk mozzarella, and fragrant basil, Lombardi’s remains a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Bamonte's
32 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States
Bamonte’s, a cherished Italian-American restaurant has a rich history dating back to 1900. Founded by immigrant Pasquale Bamonte from Salerno, Italy, the establishment initially served as a banquet hall called Liberty Hall. In the 1920s, Pasquale’s son, Anthony Bamonte, took the reins and renamed it Bamonte’s. For over five decades, Anthony skillfully managed the restaurant, attracting both celebrities and politicians. Notably, it was frequented by mobsters like Frank Costello and Lucky Luciano. In the 1980s, Anthony’s daughter, Nicole Bamonte, joined the family business. To this day, she upholds the tradition of serving classic Italian-American fare, including mouthwatering red sauce dishes like chicken parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs, and lasagna. With its warm ambiance and full bar, Bamonte’s remains a beloved destination for special occasions and celebrations.