Where to Eat in Manhattan, New York: 6 Creator-Picked Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Egusi Dumplings
  Egusi DumplingsA centerpiece dish at what is currently New York’s most coveted reservation. These dumplings feature delicate wrappers filled with blue crab and sea bass, served in a rich egusi (melon seed) stew that pays homage to Chef Onwuachi’s Nigerian heritage and the historic San Juan Hill neighborhood.
• Sturgeon King Platter
  Sturgeon King PlatterAn upscale deli icon since 1929. This platter is the definitive Upper West Side breakfast, featuring buttery sturgeon and Nova Scotia salmon served with cream cheese, onions, capers, and a toasted bagel. It represents the pinnacle of the neighborhood’s Jewish appetizing tradition.
• Red Shrimp with Beurre Blanc
  Red Shrimp with Beurre BlancCreated by Michelin-starred Chef Christophe Bellanca, this dish exemplifies modern French fine dining. It features pristine Carabineros shrimp precisely cooked and paired with a vibrant, silky beurre blanc and seasonal accompaniments, reflecting the restaurant's status as a 2026 James Beard semifinalist.
• Square Slices
  Square SlicesA trending cult favorite that has redefined UWS pizza. These are not standard squares; they feature a highly hydrated, long-fermented dough with a shattered-glass crust. The 'Cacio e Pepe' and 'Poached Pear' slices are particularly sought after by foodies who wait in long lines for this elevated take on a street classic.
• Short Rib Pastrami
  Short Rib PastramiA standout 'Levantine-meets-UWS' dish. This meltingly tender short rib is dry-rubbed with Middle Eastern spices and smoked, served with a modern twist on traditional sides. Dagon has become the neighborhood’s go-to for high-energy, upscale Mediterranean dining.
• Pac-Man Shrimp Dumplings
  Pac-Man Shrimp DumplingsA whimsical yet high-end dim sum staple. These colorful shrimp dumplings are artfully crafted to look like the iconic video game characters, served with a blueberry 'ghost.' Despite the playful presentation, the technique and ingredient quality are top-tier, making them a must-order for the Lincoln Center crowd.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkThe Upper West Side is a residential and cultural district in Manhattan, bounded by Central Park to the east, the Hudson River to the west, 59th Street to the south, and 110th Street to the north. The neighborhood is characterized by its density of late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture, encompassing styles such as Beaux-Arts, Neo-Renaissance, and Art Deco.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit the Upper West Side is during May, June, September, and October, when the mild weather is perfect for "breakfast weather" and strolling through Central Park. These months offer the ideal balance between peak summer crowds and the winter chill, providing comfortable temperatures for outdoor brunching at sidewalk cafes. For a quieter, "cozy cafe" experience.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • MTA Subway (1, 2, 3 and A, B, C Lines) The 1, 2, and 3 trains run along Broadway, while the A, B, and C lines serve Central Park West. Use the 2 or 3 express trains for quick access from Midtown, or the 1, B.
  • MTA Bus System (Crosstown & Longitudinal) The M104, M7, and M11 buses provide north-south travel along major avenues. To travel between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side, use the M79-SBS, M86-SBS.
  • Walking and Biking (Citi Bike) The neighborhood is highly pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks. You can also utilize Citi Bike, NYC's bike-share program, which has numerous docking stations along Broadway and near park entrances.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Utilize the 1, 2, and 3 subway lines along Broadway for rapid north-south travel, or use the M72 and M86 crosstown buses to reach the Upper East Side through Central Park.
  • When walking on busy thoroughfares like Broadway or Amsterdam Avenue.
  • Expect a standard tipping custom of 18% to 22% at sit-down restaurants, and be prepared to pay in cash at iconic local institutions like Barney Greengrass.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • Brasserie Boulud – Chef Daniel Boulud's grand two-story flagship brasserie at Lincoln Center, featuring an all-day menu and French morning classics.
  • Aunt Jenny – A newly opened spot at 108th and Broadway (February 2026) creating buzz for its soft-opening breakfast and casual bites.
• New York City Tourism + Conventions↗
  New York City Tourism + ConventionsThe official destination marketing organization and visitor guide for the five boroughs of New York City, including Manhattan.