NYC’s Most Iconic Restaurants That Are Still Worth The Visit – UPDATED
eatingmynyc / March 3, 2024
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New York has so many restaurant openings these days, it’s almost hard to keep track of them all. But, sometimes the best restaurants are the ones that have truly stood the test of time. We’re rounding up the most iconic New York restaurants that have been around forever, that you definitely should go back to time and time again.
Katz’s Delicatessen
PC: @nymagKatz’s Deli has been an iconic NYC establishment for over 100 years now, feeding New Yorker’s and tourists alike around the clock, 24/7. This traditional delicatessen is most famous for their pastrami on rye with melt in your mouth meat that’s been cured for around thirty days. Pair your order with a side of cherry soda and classic potatoes latkes to complete the meal.
Emilio’s Ballato
PC: The InfatuationIf you think of a classic red sauce Italian joint that’s been around for nearly 70 years, you think of Emilio’s Ballato. Since it’s walk-in only, go early in the hopes of getting a table and the chance to try the dishes that Hollywood celebrities and former presidents make sure to eat when they visit New York City – especially the secret menu dishes like the Veal Antonio.
Peter Luger
PC: Johnny PrimeMaybe the oldest spot on this list, Peter Luger’s has been in operation since 1887. In my opinion, it’s the steakhouse to visit in New York – it’s family run, serves incredible porterhouse steaks and sides, and the steak sauce is so good they’ve bottled it. My favorite part is the dessert, which comes with a heaping pile of Schlag. People may have their mixed opinions, but I think its elusive charm makes it the most New York steakhouse there is.
Russ & Daughters
PC: New York MagazineThey’ve been serving traditional Jewish comfort food for over a century out of the Lower East Side spot that first opened in 1914. Now the family run business is on their fourth generation, and they have not only their original location but several others with a more expanded cafe menu and seating options. But, there’s nothing like the classic experience of waiting online at the LES shop for one of their bagel sandwiches alongside the many other locals and tourists doing the same thing.
John’s of Bleecker Street
PC: @thefeastkingsSince 1929 John’s of Bleecker Street has been serving coal fired brick-oven pizza in their original Greenwich Village location. The black and white deco floors give off a retro vibe and the wooden booths covered in graffiti may seem abstract, but you too can contribute to the art at work and carve into the seats.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
PC: Conde NastIn 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor opened their doors on Doyers Street as a tea parlor and bakery where guests lined up for their homemade mooncakes and speciality teas. Now, they are a full Dim Sum restaurant that serves delicious buns and dumplings in a vintage space. They recently opened their second location in Nolita, but the original will always be our favorite.
Grand Central Oyster Bar
PC: @katemedleyGrand Central Station is an iconic destination for tourists and locals alike and the same is true for their renowned oyster bar. The Oyster Bar first opened in 1913 and quickly became a hotspot for fresh oysters and seafood. This large space offers an extensive menu with everything from fresh catches to seafood platters piled high with shrimp and lump crabmeat.
P.J. Clarkes
PC: @PJclarkesAt P.J. Clarkes you’ll find great burgers and beer in a nostalgic ambience. Not only did Buddy Holly propose to his wife here- 5 hours after they met actually-, but great artists like Frank Sinatra and Johnny Mercer frequented this place. Fun fact: rumor has it that Nat King Cole gave the Cadillac Burger it’s name.
Minetta Tavern
PC: Time OutYou know the vibes of this restaurant are spot on when you find out it used to be the local hangout for writers and poets, like Ernest Hemingway, in the 30s. But even better, the food. The bone marrow, the burger, and the soufflee. It gets better and better with each course.
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