Matt Peterson in Manhattan, New York: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for New York

Must-try foods in New York

• Goat Curried Patties
  Goat Curried PattiesA signature dish at Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi, the most trending restaurant in Lincoln Center. These elevated patties feature tender, spiced goat meat wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust, representing the chef's Afro-Caribbean roots.
• Seared Scallops with Cauliflower
  Seared Scallops with CauliflowerAt Jean-Georges, a neighborhood crown jewel and top-five NYT-ranked spot in 2026, these scallops are a masterclass in French-American technique, often paired with caper-raisin emulsion for a balance of sweet and savory.
• Cheeseburger and Fries
  Cheeseburger and FriesP.J. Clarke's on Columbus Ave is a local institution where the 'Cadillac' burger remains an iconic choice for theater-goers. It is known for its consistent quality, served in a classic, wood-paneled atmosphere.
• Hand-Pressed Pan Fried Chicken
  Hand-Pressed Pan Fried ChickenCharles Pan-Fried Chicken, located just north of the square, is a legendary soul food destination. The chicken is famously seasoned and fried in large cast-iron skillets for a perfect, non-greasy crunch.
• Antipasto Misto
  Antipasto MistoA must-order at Cafe Fiorello, where the massive vegetable antipasto bar is the star. Locals and opera-goers load up on marinated artichokes, roasted peppers, and specialty cheeses before a show.
• Short Rib Pastrami
  Short Rib PastramiThe Smith remains a bustling hotspot for its lively energy and reliable American fare. Their short rib pastrami, often served with smoked fontina and rye, is a neighborhood favorite for a hearty brunch or dinner.

Trip guide

• About New York
  About New YorkLincoln Square, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is a district defined by its transition from a 19th-century residential area to a mid-20th-century cultural center. Historically, the region was known as San Juan Hill, a densely populated neighborhood that predated the urban renewal projects of the 1950s and 1960s. The current landscape is anchored by the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a 16.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Lincoln Square is during the late spring (May to June) or the holiday season (late November to December) when the neighborhood is most vibrant. While spring offers mild walking weather and seasonal fruit tarts, the winter holidays feature the "Winter's Eve" festival and iconic bakeries like Breads Bakery or Magnolia serving limited-edition babkas and festive pastries. For the best experience.
• Getting around
  Getting around New York

  • Subway The 1 train stops directly at 66th Street–Lincoln Center, providing local service along Broadway. Alternatively, take the A, B, C, D.
  • Bus Numerous MTA bus routes serve the area, including the M5, M7, M10, M11, M20, M66, and M104. These lines offer convenient north-south travel along Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue.
  • Walking and Biking Lincoln Square is highly walkable with wide sidewalks and easy access to Central Park. For local transit, Citi Bike docking stations are located throughout the neighborhood.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Walk on the right side of the sidewalk and step aside completely if you need to stop or check your phone to avoid obstructing the flow of local traffic.
  • Plan to arrive at Lincoln Center at least 30 minutes before showtime, as late seating is often restricted until an appropriate break in the performance.
  • Expect to tip between 18% and 22% at sit-down restaurants, as this is the standard social expectation for service in the neighborhood.
• What’s new
  What’s new in New York

  • The 'Summer of Dance' festival at Lincoln Center, featuring free outdoor contemporary dance performances and community events through August 2026.
  • Breads Bakery's viral 'Lava Cake' Hot Chocolate, a thick, molten chocolate drink trending as a top pairing with their fresh-baked sourdough.
• 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.