New York City's top classic restaurants

Navigating New York City’s five boroughs for dining can quickly drain your wallet. While there will always be trends to chase—like rainbow unicorn ramen—there are a few timeless restaurants that have stood the test of time.

These iconic spots are celebrated for their atmosphere, impeccable service, and most of all, their mouthwatering dishes. They've endured fierce competition, maintaining their place at the top.

Some of these venues have even pioneered new culinary trends, introducing innovative flavors and fresh ingredients to the city. While not all have hit the century mark, they’re on track to get there.

Make sure to visit these legendary restaurants the next time you find yourself in New York City:

21 Club

The first thing that catches your eye is a quaint townhouse nestled between Midtown's towering skyscrapers. Iron jockeys adorning the balcony greet visitors, adding a unique charm to this former speakeasy.

Inside, the bar area is filled with a stunning collection of toys and memorabilia, including miniature planes, trains, and cars, which are said to be gifts from past celebrity guests. The impressive wine list speaks volumes about the bar’s serious approach, complemented by a strict dress code and cancellation policy.

This is an excellent option if you're planning to visit the nearby Rockefeller Center. – Isabela Espadas Barrios Leal

21 Club, 21 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019, +1 (212) 582-7200

Bamonte’s

When people think of New York City, they often picture white-tablecloth, red-sauce Italian eateries with dark wood interiors and family-style service. These timeless classics are far from being outdated.

At Bamonte’s, you can step straight into an old-school Italian restaurant that seems lifted from the silver screen. Despite the rapid gentrification of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, it has managed to stay true to its authentic roots.

The service is always flawless, the Yankees game is always on during the season, and the spaghetti and meatballs are always freshly made. The address may be in Brooklyn, but the atmosphere feels like it's from another time. – Lilit Marcus

Bamonte’s, 32 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, +1 (718) 384-8831

Barney Greengrass

Almost every neighborhood in New York City boasts a beloved bagel shop. New Yorkers, as you might know, are obsessed with their bagels and everything that comes with them.

Since 1908, Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side has been serving some of the city’s best bagels and smoked fish, earning its place as a true New York institution.

The range of options is astonishing – it’s not just lox or whitefish, but a diverse selection including sturgeon, pastrami salmon, sable, Nova Scotia salmon, kippered (baked) salmon, and more. – Stacey Lastoe

Barney Greengrass, 541 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, +1 (212) 724-4707

Delmonico’s

Delmonico’s has been around in some form since the 1820s. Recognized as the first fine dining restaurant in the U.S., it’s amassed a long list of groundbreaking achievements – including introducing the first standalone wine list, creating Lobster Newburg and the wedge salad, and coining the term “Baked Alaska,” to name just a few.

Founded by two Swiss brothers, the restaurant has undergone several relocations and changes in ownership throughout the years.

Today, Delmonico’s still maintains some of its classic touches – like the signature steak, the dark wood interior, and the peacock-feather wallpaper – while embracing the modern era with things like special Restaurant Week menus, online reservations, and the neighborhood being known as “FiDi.”

And yes, you can still order the Lobster Newburg. – LM

Delmonico’s, 56 Beaver St, New York, NY 10004, +1 (212) 509-1144

Di Fara

This cash-only pizzeria in Brooklyn attracts visitors from around the world daily. Local regulars might pass by and, if the line – which frequently stretches out the door and down the block – isn’t too long, pop in for a slice of their famous Margherita pizza.

What makes Di Fara’s pizza special is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, a standard set by DeMarco’s daughter, Margaret Miales, who says her family always goes “the extra mile” to source the best possible products.

Thanks to DeMarco’s craftsmanship – at 81, he’s still often behind the counter, tossing dough and topping it with sauce, fresh mozzarella, and all the classic pizza fixings – his pizza has become legendary. If you’re fortunate, you might witness him expertly cutting fresh basil with a pair of scissors, adding the perfect finishing touch to his signature creation. – SL

Di Fara, 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230, +1 (718) 258-1367

Grand Central Oyster Bar

While most train stations are known for quick bites rather than gourmet meals, the Grand Central Oyster Bar inside Grand Central Terminal defies that stereotype by serving such exceptional seafood that even New Yorkers are willing to brave the rush hour crowds for a seat.

In a city that’s always on the move, the Oyster Bar takes its time and does things the traditional way – from handpicking fresh fish each morning to patiently walking you through the menu, allowing you to take your time to decide without any pressure to rush your order.

Whether you're grabbing a quick bite at the tile-topped bar before catching a Metro-North train to Connecticut or celebrating with friends over a grand dinner, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is perfect for any occasion. But whatever you do, make sure to order the oysters on the half shell. There are many great dishes on the menu, but it’s the simplest ones that truly shine. – LM

Grand Central Oyster Bar, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, +1 (212) 490-6650

Jing Fong

Brunch is practically a sport in New York, and on a quiet corner of Chinatown – arguably the city’s most restaurant-dense neighborhood – you’ll find one of the ultimate brunch destinations: Jing Fong.

When you’re in the mood for dim sum, forget the menu – just wait for the servers pushing carts filled with steaming buns, dumplings, and other Chinese delicacies, and point to what catches your eye. You can’t go wrong with the har gow, or shrimp dumplings – they prepare about 8,000 a week.

Now in its third generation of family ownership and management, the restaurant exudes a warm, fraternal vibe. It’s not uncommon to see longtime regulars spend hours holding court, ordering nothing but a pot of tea.

In a city where diners are often rushed out the moment they’re done eating to make space for the next guest, Jing Fong feels like a nostalgic gem, offering a slower, more relaxed pace. – LM

Jing Fong, 20 Elizabeth St, New York, NY, +1 (212) 964-5256

Katz’s Delicatessen

“I’ll have what she’s having.” With those five words, Katz’s – a Jewish-style deli in the Lower East Side – went from being a beloved local haunt to an iconic international destination.

These days, fans of the classic “When Harry Met Sally” – the film where Meg Ryan delivered that famous line – along with locals, queue up around the block, grabbing paper tickets and ordering pastrami sandwiches as big as a small child.

The matzoh ball soup is a remedy for whatever ails you, particularly if you're battling sleeplessness or jet lag. Open 24 hours on Saturdays, it’s the perfect spot to ease into city life. – LM

Katz’s Delicatessen, 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002, +1 (212) 254-2246

Keens Steakhouse

“Keens has a way with mutton,” as noted in the New York Herald Tribune back in 1949. That sentiment still holds true today, more than 60 years after Keens first opened its doors in the mid-1880s.

A trove of American history, Keens’ ceilings are lined with pipes smoked by some of the world’s most legendary figures, from Einstein to Babe Ruth. Everywhere you look, there are relics, including a playbill from the play “Our American Cousin,” supposedly the one Abraham Lincoln was holding when he was assassinated (though we can’t confirm this story, we love the romance of it).

That said, Keens has also made significant and necessary updates. In August 2019, manager Bonnie Jenkins announced the removal of several pieces from the walls that depicted minstrelsy, blackface, and other offensive racial stereotypes.

Beyond Keens’ distinctive décor, its claim to fame is the legendary mutton chop. This 2-pound, bone-in sheep saddle is simply seasoned with salt, oil, and plenty of heat, then served rare with its own juices, sautéed escarole, shallots, and garlic. The perfect sear creates an irresistible caramelization on the bone and fatty edges, offering a deep, rich, complex flavor that evokes the decadence of a royal feast – a meal fit for Henry VIII.

Keens Steakhouse delivers all the classic steakhouse dishes, and they do so flawlessly. The supersized martinis and house-made bread are standouts – the perfect companions to soak up all the rich, juicy goodness. - Brekke Fletcher

Keens Steakhouse, 72 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018, +1 (212) 947-3636

Lombardi’s

Since opening its doors in 1905, Lombardi’s in NoLita has been getting it right with its coal-fired pizza.

The neighborhood has undergone plenty of changes over the past century, but Lombardi’s, often claimed as the first pizzeria in America, has endured as a beloved institution.

At Lombardi’s, you’ll find red-and-white checkered tablecloths, cozy seating, and long waits – depending on when you visit (though they now accept a limited number of reservations).

The pizza recipe here is a legacy from Gennaro Lombardi himself, with roots tracing back to Naples, Italy. Fresh mozzarella over a rich tomato sauce, the classic Margherita is topped with fresh basil and Romano cheese. It’s the pizza to order and a perfect reminder of why New York is home to the world’s best pies. - SL

Lombardi’s, 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, +1 (212) 941-7994

Nathan’s Famous

Not every iconic New York meal requires white tablecloths or fancy waiters. On the corner of Surf and Stilwell in the vibrant Coney Island neighborhood of Brooklyn, you’ll find one of the city’s most beloved bites – a hot dog from Nathan’s Famous.

Grab one of Nathan’s kosher all-beef hot dogs, pair it with a chilled lemonade, and enjoy it while soaking up the sun on the beach or people-watching along the boardwalk.

While Nathan’s has expanded to locations around the world, nothing compares to the original spot, and there’s no better way to enjoy a hot dog than after a thrilling ride on the Cyclone. – LM

Nathan’s Famous, 1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, (718) 333-2202

Pete’s Tavern

Dating back 155 years, Pete’s Tavern claims to be one of the oldest bars in New York still in operation.

Want to feel like a local? Grab a corner table on the patio – if you can get one. It’s the perfect spot for some of the best people-watching in the city, just steps away from Gramercy Park.

The menu is simple yet full of classic Italian-American dishes, including a mouthwatering eggplant parmigiana and homemade lasagna. Pete’s Lager, available exclusively here, is the perfect drink to accompany your meal. – IL

Pete’s Tavern, 129 E 18th St, New York, NY 10003, +1 (212) 473-7676

Peter Luger Steak House

Long-time patrons at this Brooklyn institution chuckle when the waitstaff presents the large rectangular menus – the regulars already know what to order. While the menu has stayed nearly the same since 1950, the restaurant itself, originally Carl Luger’s Cafe and Billiards, has been serving up steaks since 1887.

Steaks and martinis remain the timeless duo at Peter Luger’s, and while that’s all you need for a satisfying meal, the thick-cut bacon appetizer certainly makes it even better.

The dry-aged burgers are exclusively available at lunchtime, and they’re a must-try. Served at the bar, these juicy burgers are topped with thick slices of white onion, and you can add American cheese if you like.

If you can resist the allure of the Porterhouse steak, which Peter Luger is famous for, consider indulging in the Holy Cow Sundae – a perfect treat for those who believe in having a second stomach for dessert. – SL

Peter Luger Steak House, 178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211, +1 (718) 387-7400

Rao’s

Rao’s is the gold standard for classic New York dining, having stood the test of time for nearly 130 years. Famous for its Southern Neapolitan dishes like shrimp fra diavolo and linguine with clams, it remains a coveted dining experience. With only 10 tables, getting a reservation is nearly impossible, but it’s well worth the effort.

The food here is reliably good, but it’s the nostalgic, old-school atmosphere that draws you in – and the satisfaction of actually scoring a seat.

The cozy corner restaurant is adorned with autographed photos of every celebrity imaginable. Baseball fans, especially those loyal to the Yankees and Mets, will find tributes to some of the sport's legends.

Don’t leave without trying the tiramisu for dessert, and take the time to really soak in the ambiance – you might not get another opportunity to experience it. – SL

Rao’s, 455 E 114th St, New York, NY 10029, (212) 722-6709

Randazzo’s Clam Bar

Fried calamari is dropped on our table by a rushed server who quickly retrieves it when we explain we didn’t order it. 'I have too many tables,' she mutters before hustling over to the next table where the dish was actually ordered.

This is the scene at Randazzo’s on a typical Friday evening: A bustling waterside spot in Sheepshead Bay, beloved by locals for years. After receiving a positive review from Pete Wells of The New York Times in 2013, the word about their red sauce spread even further.

The ambiance isn’t exactly a highlight here – water and sodas arrive in small plastic cups, and red wine (choose from merlot or cabernet) is served in miniature individual bottles. But the food makes up for it: Classic, no-frills Italian-American dishes like shrimp fra diavolo over pasta (linguine or spaghetti) or a 1.5-pound broiled lobster, served with a side of butter. Yes, there’s a bib for that. – SL

Randazzo’s Clam Bar, 2017 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235, +1 (718) 615-0010

The Russian Tea Room

Founded in 1927 by members of the Russian Imperial Ballet, the Russian Tea Room has become an iconic New York City institution.

Nestled in a townhouse on West 57th Street, right next to Carnegie Hall, this legendary venue is a visual and sensory experience – a golden ceiling adorned with vintage tin chandeliers, festive red Christmas balls, and plush crimson banquettes. Antique samovars, Russian paintings, and even works by Picasso elevate the opulence of the space.

The main dining room is perfect for those who love to see and be seen, whether you're indulging in a long, luxurious lunch, enjoying a pre- or post-theater dinner, or, at least once in your life, experiencing its famous afternoon tea, complete with blinis topped with caviar. – BF

The Russian Tea Room, 150 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019, +1 (212) 581-7100

Sripraphai

NYC has seen a boom in Thai restaurants lately (think Ugly Baby, Som Tum Der, and Fish Cheeks), but if you’re after the city’s original taste of Thailand, Woodside remains the go-to neighborhood.

A beloved local fixture since 1990, Sripraphai quickly gained a reputation among food enthusiasts. With over 120 dishes on its massive menu, it stands out for offering a wide range of options, unlike many newcomers who focus on a single regional cuisine.

That said, there are a few standout dishes. Don’t miss the papaya salad or the soft shell crab, especially when enjoying them on the patio during the warmer months. – SL

Sriprahai, 64-13 39th Ave, Woodside, Queens 11317 +1 7188999599

Sylvia’s Restaurant

Some legends are known by a single name: Madonna, Cher, Bruce. And then there's Sylvia.

Founded in 1962, Sylvia Woods’ self-named restaurant became a cornerstone of Harlem, serving up fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and other comforting dishes that truly embody soul food.

What makes a New York classic is as much about the vibe as the food. Sylvia’s isn’t just a local favorite, it’s a Harlem institution where power players, including U.S. presidents, come to gather, pay tribute, and make deals.

Though Sylvia Woods passed away in 2012, her legacy lives on through her restaurant and the street that bears her name. – LM

Sylvia’s Restaurant, 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027, +1 (212) 996-0660

Tavern on the Green

Since 1934, Tavern on the Green has been a fixture in Central Park, originally a sheepfold before being transformed into a popular restaurant. Its idyllic setting made it an immediate favorite, attracting both locals and tourists for life’s milestone events, from grand parties to weddings and film premieres.

During the 1980s, the restaurant became a beloved backdrop for movies capturing the essence of New York, including iconic films like 'Wall Street,' 'Arthur,' and 'Ghostbusters.'

Despite its tumultuous history – including ownership changes, shutdowns, demolition, union conflicts, and various licensing issues – Tavern on the Green has maintained its esteemed reputation without significant tarnish.

The latest version of Tavern on the Green, which reopened in 2014 after a five-year break, embraces a more modern and relaxed atmosphere, complete with a 'Tavern To Go' and a beer garden. While the vibe is casual, the restaurant still captures the charm and elegance of its original form, and its Central Park location ensures every visit remains special. –- BF

Tavern on the Green, Central Park West at 67th St, New York, NY 10023, +1 (212) 877-8684