I dream about impressively crispy tahdig, beautifully herby ghormeh sabzi, mast o khiar with the perfect texture, and decadently sweet fesenjan.

I’m from Atlanta, which has a pretty robust Persian community and a big Persian food scene, and I feel like New York City doesn’t have enough Persian restaurants. (For what it’s worth, I’ve extensively discussed this with my Persian friends, and they agree.)

When I used to live in the Upper East Side, I ordered Ravagh almost once a week. I still remember sitting on the floor with takeout containers on the night I moved into my first solo apartment, and my love for the restaurant has endured. I ate there last night, and it was delicious and magical. But I want more options. When I moved back to Brooklyn, I found that Persian takeout doesn’t really exist in the area. Upon coming to this heartbreaking realization, I started cooking fesenjan and ghormeh sabzi at home.

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I went to Sofreh last summer and enjoyed it a lot, but it’s not convenient enough to be my local spot, and of course, they don’t do takeout. Masquerade in Williamsburg is solid, too, and it turns into a dance party at night. I’ve heard great things about Eyval, but haven’t been able to lock down a reservation yet. That doesn’t mean I won’t keep trying. As a young intern in New York, I remember going to a Persian restaurant near Union Square — I can’t seem to remember the name, but I believe it was Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar — because I was desperately craving my comfort food. I need to revisit it because it’s been more than a decade since I’ve been there.

I have some Persian cookbooks I rely on to cook at home. The Saffron Tales by Yasmin Khan (her Substack is ) and Maman and Me by are my favorites. And while I love the feeling of cooking Persian food at home, stirring a stew and filling my kitchen with delicious smells, I really think we need more Persian restaurants in New York. It’s embarrassing that we don’t have more.

I've been thinking about this for years. Why is it so hard to find Persian food in a city that has everything? I chatted with Roya about the lack of Persian restaurants in New York. Here’s what she had to say.

Eyval and Sofreh are my absolute standouts and favorites anywhere in the world honestly. Nothing compares!

I was sad to hear Nasrin’s Kitchen closed recently. At the same time, I am SO intrigued and excited by Iranian spots popping up all over, from Houston to LA. I think the movement is happening a lot quicker outside New York and that’s likely because the restaurant business in the city is absolutely brutal. It’s a hard place to succeed regardless of your background. There were places like Cafe Nadery and Taste of Persia that came together scrappily and beautifully: Taste of Persia started as an ash-e reshte stand in a holiday market, then a catering business, then a corner of a slice shop. But year on year rent increases and the competitiveness of the industry forced them to close.

I want more Iranian restaurants everywhere, and I want them in New York, of course, but these upstarts will have to come with an immense amount of funding and backing! I’ve been asked often if I’d start my own venture, but I can’t fathom “making it” in a place I call home without a ton of monetary support at my disposal, which is pretty sad. There are interesting pop-ups, however, and that could be a model to test-and-learn! I still have hope. I think more young people in the community are breaking out of traditional paths and pursuing careers in hospitality and food — and maybe that means in ten years’ time, we’ll be seeing a lot more khoreshts on restaurant tables and in takeaways.

In the meantime, if I ever find myself in the Upper East Side in the afternoon or evening, I will insist on going to Ravagh to dine in or pick up takeout. And I’ll keep cooking from Maman and Me while I wait for more Persian restaurants to pop up. Oh, and if you find yourself in Atlanta any time soon, hit me up for restaurant recommendations.

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Thanks for being here. Let’s eat.

There’s a version of “family-friendly restaurant” that sounds dreadful when you don’t have kids of your own yet. Admittedly, when you’re thinking about eating dinner out, opting for somewhere that’s known to cater to kids and babies can feel like a concession. Ziggy’s Roman Cafe in DUMBO defies all of that.

Going out to dinner while pregnant has become a whole calculation, especially since I was recently diagnosed with gestational diabetes. (Don’t feel bad for me, it’s really not that bad.) But it has to really be worth it. Worth the extra time it takes me to pick out an outfit that actually looks decent, worth thinking through transportation logistics, worth the mental math of carb counting so my sugar doesn’t go insane. And my pregnancy experience has come with having an aversion to so many foods, but I’ll be ready for a summer comeback tour filled with oysters and sushi.

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In any case, pregnancy has made me a little bit pickier — less tolerant of mediocre food and super loud environments, for example. At the moment, it’s not fun for me to feel like I’m going on a date with the couple sitting next to me, although I’m sure my fondness for that will come back this summer and fall. My standards and desires have changed because my bandwidth has gone down, and I only have patience for a place that’s worth the effort it takes to get there.

Ziggy’s earned it.

The restaurant is the brainchild of hospitality PR vet Helen Zhang and her husband Igor Hadzismajlovic, co-founder of Employees Only. They wanted to fill a specific gap in the neighborhood, building somewhere welcoming enough for kids without feeling like a sacrifice for the adults. And they nailed it: 25-foot ceilings on the ground floor, a mezzanine with its own bar and soft play elements upstairs, and a rotating art collection that includes artwork made by neighborhood kids.

But what impressed me most was what the space doesn’t do. The downstairs dining area still feels elevated and intentional, rather than being designed around an absence. It’s cool and laidback in the way that only comes from actually caring about every detail. It shows in the little artichoke drawing on the menu, the restaurant’s fun dragon logo and the cozy booths that feel private but not isolated. You can feel the thought that went into every little thing, and that’s hard to pull off.

The service matched it. Everyone was incredibly kind. Attentive without hovering, warm without being performative. It was the kind of energy that makes you exhale without quite knowing why, which is maybe the thing I need most right now.

We ordered a lot. The “Suppli” Sticks are heavenly. Think arancini meets grown-up mozzarella sticks, a sentence I mean as the highest compliment. The spaghetti al limone is bright and unfussy, the kind of pasta dish that seems simple until you try to make it yourself and realize how much precision it actually takes. The meatballs were perfect, and they came with a delicious sourdough. The bucatini all’amatriciana. The artichokes. All of it felt like comfort food that was made by people who know what they’re doing.

The pizza looked great, but I’ll have to get it next time. Our server recommended the tartufo pizza, and we will absolutely be back, which is possibly the best endorsement I can give a restaurant right now.

Ziggy’s manages to feel like a neighborhood spot and a real restaurant at the same time, the kind of place that takes care of you without making a production of it.

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When I heard that the Wegmans Astor Place location was opening a sushi restaurant called Next Door, I was intrigued — especially after a New York sushi restaurant accused the grocery chain of completely stealing its concept and trade secrets.

So when the Wegmans team invited me to come for dinner, I immediately said yes and texted my friend to see if she wanted to join me as a plus one.

Walking up to a grocery store for a fine dining experience definitely feels unusual and kind of funny, but I’m a big fan of mixing things up, and I enjoyed feeling a little bit confused.

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I got there super early. I was coming from uptown and I decided I’d rather be early than late. (And what does “on time” even mean when you live in New York?) I sat at the bar, ordered a club soda and the host encouraged me to take out my laptop if I wanted to. I took him at face value, cranked out a little bit of work, and only felt a little strange while doing it. But maybe that’s because I was sitting in a grocery store’s sushi restaurant. Plus, I was the only person sitting at the bar, and I didn’t want to ruin the dinner vibe with my work energy.

Once Julie arrived, they sat us in a booth that’s intended for at least four people, so there was plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a bunch of food.

But first, let’s step back for a minute. When I approached the restaurant itself, located inside of the Wegmans Astor Place store, the font made me giggle, but most people probably wouldn’t think twice about it. I’m just a font nerd. And the gold details on the door were the cherry on top. You can tell they’re going for something fun and elevated. But is it worth the hype and money? Read on.

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We’re all yearning for the early 2000s. It was a simpler time, really. And while low-rise jeans and crop tops have been back for quite some time, the real comeback I’m excited about has nothing to do with fashion. Suddenly, frozen yogurt is everywhere again, and I’m here for it. The New York Times covered fro-yo this week, focusing on the 30-year-old CEO’s attempt to convince people that the dessert is still cool. And with the rise of GLP-1s, it’s no surprise that the dessert is making a comeback.

Halli Sigel, Brooklyn resident and co-founder of Quincy, put it perfectly: “I think fro-yo is having a moment because it’s deeply nostalgic, especially for us millennials . People are seeking little escapes every day and there’s nothing more magical than getting to pick your own toppings after filling a giant cup of three different flavors. Everyone is now seeing what our generation saw 10+ years ago.”

For Grub Street, Rachel Sugar (the perfect food writer name) wrote about the return of fro-yo, saying, “This is the timeless appeal of yogurt. It is indulgence without punishment, goodness without suffering.”

I couldn’t agree more. So without further ado, here’s a guide to New York City’s fro-yo comeback.

The Cool Older Sister: Mimi’s

Soho

The brainchild of Australians Amber Linz and Saul Katz, Mimi’s became an instant hit when it officially opened in Soho this summer. They have a massive toppings bar — complete with Swedish candy, fresh fruit and cookie dough — and the team is focused on creating a vibe with curated playlists and plants throughout the space. Emma Orlow wrote about Mimi’s for Eater in July.

The Icon: Forty Carrots

Bloomingdale’s, Upper East Side

Forty Carrots opened on the seventh floor of Bloomingdale’s on 59th Street in 1975, introducing New Yorkers to frozen yogurt. They know what they’re doing, which is why they only serve four flavors: plain, chocolate, coffee and peanut butter. It’s thick, tart and creamy — exactly how frozen yogurt should be — making it a cult-favorite for shoppers and New Yorkers who know it exists. Now there’s a location at the Soho Bloomingdale’s store, too. They put the toppings on for you, so don’t expect to have the opportunity to go crazy. Forty Carrots sells salads, smoothies and sandwiches, too, but everyone’s there for the fro-yo.

The Greek Girl: Culture

Park Slope + West Village

As a big tart lover (my obsession with lemons runs deep), I fell in love with Culture the first time I had it. Now I can’t go to Park Slope without stopping there for fro-yo. The piña colada flavor is light and excellent, and you can’t go wrong with plain tart yogurt. Culture is all about staying fresh and local. The team makes the frozen yogurt in-house, which makes me love the spot even more. They also manufacture and strain the yogurt and serve it as fresh yogurt.

The Upper East Sider: Butterfield Market

Upper East Side

Gourmet grocery store Butterfield doubles as a frozen yogurt destination. Since 1915, Butterfield has been one of the Upper East Side's bougie markets of choice, and their walk-up fro-yo windows are basically neighborhood institutions at this point. Their frozen yogurt tastes more like soft serve, which makes it even better. Four flavors: plain, chocolate, peanut butter, and coffee, just like Forty Carrots. Pro tip: If there's a line at the outdoor window (and there will be), just head inside and order there because nobody seems to realize you can do that.

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The Nostalgia Pick: Pinkberry

Locations across the city

I had Pinkberry for the first time when I went to LA with my grandparents in 2008, and it holds a special place in my heart. At the time, they asked you for your name when you ordered. My grandpa gave them his name (Ron) and they wrote down Ryan, so it took us forever to realize our order was ready, and we had a good belly laugh about it. I miss him deeply. Anyway, Pinkberry made a comeback in my life after a 2022 trip to LA. Is it special? Not really. Is it reliable? Yes. Does it make me happy? Also yes. I usually keep it simple and opt for the classic tart flavor with strawberries and chocolate chips.

The Classic: 16 Handles

Locations across the city, with a new one in Cobble Hill

16 Handles is synonymous with New York fro-yo culture. It’s the perfect place to go in pajamas with your friends when a craving hits you, as long as you don’t mind braving the crowds of kids. The sample cups are elite, and don’t hate me for saying this, but if you fill up on enough of them, you don’t have to go too hard in the paint on your full serving. The best part, of course, is that there are so many flavors and you have control over your fro-yo portions and toppings. 16 Handles has plenty of options, so it’s easy to go crazy (in the best way, of course).

The Pistachio Princess: Madison Fare

Upper East Side

Madison Fare has become an unexpected frozen yogurt destination since adding the treat to their menu last summer. Chef Amin Kinana initially introduced fro-yo to boost business during the slow season, but he was surprised by the overwhelming response. The shop serves fro-yo with creative toppings like Pistachio Knafeh.

The Topping Heaven: Downtown Yogurt

Tribeca + The Oculus

If you’re a fan of self-serve, you love having a lot of options and you really want to go crazy with toppings, Downtown Yogurt is ideal. It’s pretty similar to 16 Handles, but they have more than 50 toppings and wild flavors. Pretty straightforward but still impressive.

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Thanks for reading Extra Credit. Tell me about your go-to spot, and go grab some fro-yo. You deserve it.

Ask a New Yorker about the best pizza in the city and you'll get a passionate, detailed response. I asked people who really know pizza to share their go-to spots, and the answers are all over the map — from beloved classics to trendy spots and $8 happy hour personal pies to slices worth waiting in line for.

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As one pizza-lover said, “It’s such a hot debate these days. It used to just be about the place on the corner or the spot that’s still open at 3am.” Oh, and please enjoy the photos of some of their beautiful faces. Don’t yell at me if there isn’t pizza in the photo (or if the pizza doesn’t match up with the spot they recommended).

Now dive in and enjoy. You’ll want to save this and come back to it. 🍕

F&F, Carroll Gardens

It's the perfect combo of thin with lightly puffy and chewy crust around the edges with the right amount of char. All of the pizzas are good, but I love the Cacio e Pepe and Partanna. Only downside is it's giant, so if there are leftovers, the box is not fitting in your fridge.
— Delaney

The sheer effort of getting in makes the pizza taste that much better. They have sausage and sage pizza (a play off their famous pasta dish next door) and a clam pie so good that when we ordered just one of many pies for a family party before our wedding, everyone loved it so much that my frugal father tossed me a $100 bill and said: “Get two more.”
— Julie

Juliana’s, Dumbo

It's pretty sentimental to me! I first discovered this place in college when the upperclassmen would order this pizza for any celebration for our house. I love sitting in Brooklyn Bridge Park with a group of friends, a great bottle or super-chilled light beers, and maybe a card game or two. Their white pizza is fab and their margherita pizza is a fan fave too. You can call for pick up to skip the line too!
— Abena

Seany Pizza, Rockaway

Seany pizza is just delicious. The crust is perfect. It's sourdough crust naturally leavened so it's got life and love in it and it's all handmade cooked in his fire breathing oven. You could go classic margherita, but I love the one called Call the Fire Dept with spicy soppressata fresh mozzarella, pepperoni and pickled jalapeño and you eat it on the boardwalk in the sunshine looking at the ocean with a cold beer and there's nothing better. And Sean is the nicest guy ever,
— Andrea

Best Pizza, Williamsburg

The white pizza is just so good, and the sesame on the crust is just perfect. They also have an arugula salad I adore.
— Jenn

Pizza Wagon, Bay Ridge

The best Sicilian pie in NYC. A Bay Ridge classic!
— Arianna

John's of Bleecker, West Village

I love the fashion of Italian and New York style pizza. It's flavorful, delicious and best enjoyed hot right in the shop!
— Ale

Chrissy’s, Greenpoint

If I wanna go for a whole pie, Chrissy's in Greenpoint. Hands down.
— Sara

Fini Pizza, Williamsburg

Obsessed with their white pie with lemons — it's my dream slice.
— Caroline

Luigi's Pizza, Park Slope

You walk in and see them proofing the dough and know it's gonna be good. Pizza everywhere in NYC is good, but I can confidently say that Luigi's is the best in Brooklyn with a dash of late night nostalgia in addition to its fresh toppings and variety.
— Reid

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L'Industrie, Williamsburg

Perfect crust, zero flop factor, high quality cheese, sauce isn’t too sweet. Perfect slice and/or pie.
— Xan

To me it's the perfect New York slice and experience. The ingredients are top tier and crust is the perfect crunch. They also use a perfect amount of cheese to sauce in my opinion and include additional pies that don't over power but complement just right while giving variety.
— Joe

The freshness is unbeatable and the size of the pies is worth the price! I’ll eat leftovers for 2-3 days and it still tastes just as good as the day I bought it.
— Emily

Roey’s, West Village

Roey‘s happy hour has an $8 personal pie, and they have a killer spritz. There’s often a long queue before 4 o’clock so be prepared to wait.
— Amanda

Fellini, West Village

Fellini has very cute decor, and it’s perfect for a first date. One of my friends takes all her first app dates there. It doesn’t mean you need to share your pizza though.
— Amanda

Lucia, Soho

With a rich history in Brooklyn dating back to the 1970s, Lucia is my personal favorite at the moment. The crust is chewy and delicious with a variety of flavors that has me coming back multiple times a week! It helps that the Soho location is right next to my office. For lunch or a pre-dinner snack, you can’t go wrong.
— Scott

Fornino, Brooklyn Bridge Park

They offer great service and a gluten free pizza that is such a good pie, you'll question whether they actually gave you the gluten free one. But don't worry, they did.
— Chris

Hands down, the best. Might be the best gluten-free pizza I have ever had.
— Gordon

Because I'm lactose intolerant, my pizza taste is based on where the best dairy free cheese is and as of right now, the one that tastes the best to me is Fornino at Pier 6.
— Delilah

Mama’s TOO, Upper West Side

If I want to take things up a notch or get freaky, I like Mama's Too. I particularly like the vodka and cacio e pepe slice, and the caramelized pear for dessert.
— Sara

Montesacro, Williamsburg

Not sure if this counts but Montesacro Pinseria. Pinsa is a light Roman style version of pizza and I dunno why but I just love it. Go for the Casal Bertone because honey on pizza is always the right choice.
— Kyle

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Ace's Pizza, Williamsburg

It's a flavor bomb. It's a filling slice of pizza but it isn't greasy and the dough is excellent. Perfect amount of chew.
— Alex

The pepperoni makes my toes curl. That’s how good it is.
— Lo

Joe's Pizza, West Village

For a simple slice, I'm a tried and true OG Joe's on Carmine girl. Also, for what it’s worth, I feel strongly that one slice is a snack and two is a meal. Possibly three.
— Sara

Great quality and better memories. It is fabulous.
— Sam

Dellarocco's, Brooklyn Heights

The Monnalizza pizza — N'duja Calabrese, Ricotta, Sweet Orange Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Mike's Hot Honey. Hot honey on pizza is the combo I never knew I needed.
— Laurie

Alvo Pizza, Cobble Hill

I'm partial to a new spot by me called Alvo Pizza which has a very saucy slice.
— Ann-Marie

Emmy Squared, East Village

So decadent and reminds me of my early-20s life when that felt like a splurge.
— Emily

Table 87, Brooklyn Heights

It's dependable, crisp and perfect to take guests to.
— Ann-Marie

Prince Street Pizza, Soho

Thick and juicy with the perfect crispy delicious pepperonis and crust to complement.
— Lillian

Two Boots, West Village

A great variety of pizzas, including good vegan options. The overall vibe when you walk in is amazing. Very welcoming and relaxed.
— Donavon

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Do with this what you will, New Yorkers.

Extra Credit: L’Industrie’s spicy salami is the best slice in the city, but I'd much rather bike down Court Street and grab a Hawaiian pizza from Nate's. 90% of the taste at 50% of the hassle.

Thanks for being here. Now go grab a slice.

This story was originally written for Eater.com

Nothing says summer indulgence quite like a seafood tower — and at the moment it seems like they are everywhere. Whether you want to keep it modest or splurge, there are plenty of options in the city, from traditional French plateaux de fruits de mer to modern interpretations of seafood towers with Asian flavors.

This map covers the city’s standout seafood towers, highlighting New York longtime favorites as well as newer spots that have earned recognition for their execution and value. Side note: It is perfectly acceptable — and encouraged — to enjoy a luxurious solid seafood tower during any season.

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Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

This NYC icon has been serving fresh seafood in a memorable space since 1913 and remains one of the best places to eat in Midtown East. The subterranean space inside Grand Central Terminal is nestled under a soaring arched and tiled ceiling, and the environs, complete with massive U-shaped counter seating perfect for dining solo, is so special that the restaurant nabbed the Design Icon Award at the James Beard Awards in 2017. Keep in mind it’s closed Saturday and Sunday.

What you get: Shellfish platters start with eight oysters and can contain two clams, two shrimp, and three mussels. Or go bigger with a half or whole lobster.

Price: $64 to $122.
📍 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA

Cull & Pistol Oyster Bar

Located inside of Chelsea Market, Cull & Pistol is the opposite of a hidden gem, but it’s tried and true, making it perfect for a post-work happy hour or quick bite before a night out. It has snug seating, an oyster bar and a charming exposed brick wall, all the makings of a classic New York seafood spot. And while the All Hands on Deck tower is both beloved and impressive, if you’re riding solo, you can also opt for the sampler, a dozen oysters that includes Cull & Pistol’s full lineup; Double Down, which comes with two dozen oysters; or the Feast of 7 Shellfish, which comes with three oysters, one shrimp, one littleneck clam, one jumbo prawn and, one diver scallop.

What you get: All Hands on Deck comes with six oysters, one shrimp, one jumbo prawn, one diver scallop and half a king crab.

Price: $80.
📍 75 9th Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10011

Oceans New York

Oceans is a classic seafood restaurant with a Japanese focus. It feels traditional and thorough, almost as if it’s always been there, but the spot has been open for less than seven years. With menu items like tuna tartare, dover sole and molten chocolate cake, you know exactly what to expect when you walk through the doors. But how can you complain when you know you can rely on the quality? The three-tier seafood tower is one of the craziest in the city, coming with a wide range of options to choose from. It’s definitely a splurge, which makes it perfect for sharing with a group of friends.

What you get: Oceans La Tour, the restaurant’s signature three-tier tower, comes with oysters, ceviche, tuna gomae, tuna sashimi, jumbo shrimp cocktail, mussels, clams, calamari, peekytoe crab, Alaskan king crab and lobster. The Seafood Tower is two tiers with oysters, mussels, clams, ceviche, tuna sashimi, jumbo shrimp cocktail, calamari and peekytoe crab. You can add lobster at market price to either of the towers.

Price: Oceans La Tour is $195 while the Seafood Tower is $125.
📍 233 Park Avenue South, Manhattan, NY 10003

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Jeffrey's Grocery

Located on a prime corner next to the tiny Christopher Park in the West Village, Jeffrey’s Grocery has been a solid spot for seafood lovers since Gabriel Stulman opened it 15 years ago. The menu has four options for seafood towers – Le Duchess, Le Prince, Le Royale and Le Jeffrey – ranging from $29 to $150. But the seafood feast doesn’t stop there. The towers are the perfect pregame for seafood-focused dishes like the linguine and clams or the lobster spaghetti. There’s also plenty of outdoor seating, ideal for a summer night that’s not too hot and sticky.

What you get: Le Duchess includes two oysters, two littleneck clams, two shrimp, two smoked mussels and albacore conserva. Le Prince includes 10 oysters, four shrimp, four littleneck clams and crab salad. Le Royale includes 12 oysters, six littleneck clams, six shrimp, smoked mussels, lobster salad and ¼ lb of king crab legs. Le Jeffrey includes 16 oysters, eight littlenecks, eight shrimp, smoked mussels, albacore conserva, ½ lb of king crab legs and lobster salad.

Price: Le Duchess, $29. Le Prince, $65. Le Royale, $115. Le Jeffrey, $150. Add an ounce of caviar for $50.
📍 172 Waverly Pl, New York, NY 10014, USA

La Grand Boucherie

Don’t let La Grande Boucherie’s Midtown location trip you up. In fact, it’s part of this spot’s charm. The French restaurant is beautiful, massive, and reliable, and the decor and food will impress out-of-town visitors who begged you to go to a Broadway show. It’s the just-right spot to go for a pre-show early dinner or post-show late dinner (since it doesn’t close until 12 a.m.). The Le Grand seafood tower is the ultimate bonus, capping off the cliché yet beloved New York experience.

What you get: Le Grand comes with a whole lobster, seafood salad, eight pieces of shrimp, eight mixed West and East Coast oysters, eight clams, and eight mussels. Le Petit is a smaller version of the Le Grand, coming with smaller quantities.

Price: Le Grand, $215. Le Petit, $125.
📍 145 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

El Pingüino

Located in Greenpoint along the East River waterfront, El Pingüino is a small Spanish seafood bar that opened its doors in November 2021. Run by chef Nick Padilla, bar director Mike Zorman, and restaurateur John Ortiz, the spot specializes in small plates and tinned fish, but the seafood tower is impressively diverse. And the setting is ideal, with options to sit in the dining room, at the bar or in the outdoor garden.

What you get: 12 oysters, four shrimp, black bass ceviche, scallop aguachile, and Jonah crab salad.

Price: $130.
📍 25 Greenpoint Ave (at West St), New York, NY 11222

Balthazar

Balthazar is synonymous with the old-school New York restaurant scene. Along with its clientele, menu mainstays like the Plateaux de Fruits de Mer help Keith McNally’s French brasserie-style restaurant, which has been around since 1997, maintain its deeply admired status. Available in two sizes, “Le Grand” at $145 and “Le Balthazar” at $195, the seafood platter is the perfect thing to share with friends when you’re looking to splurge, especially during the hot summer months.

What you get: The Le Grand is a two-tier seafood tower, and the Le Balthazar is three tiers. The Le Grand comes with eight oysters, six shrimp, six clams, six mussels, a portion of ceviche, and one half lobster. Le Balthazar comes with more of each item, plus two full lobsters.

Price: Le Grand, $145. Le Balthazar, $195.
📍 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Thai Diner

Thai Diner puts a fun Thai twist on the seafood tower with Suvannamaccha’s Offering. The restaurant quickly solidified its reputation as one of the most sought-after reservations with playful dishes you’ll remember long after your meal – and the seafood tower is no exception. The ambiance is simultaneously playful and comforting, keeping around classic dishes like its crab fried rice, a legacy dish from the team’s previous restaurant Uncle Boons.

What you get: Four oysters, scallops in passion fruit nam prik, shrimp cocktail, spicy crab salad with lotus root chips, chili jam, deviled eggs, octopus salad, seafood nam prik, tom yum cocktail, turmeric aioli and tropical fruit

Price: $42.
📍 186 Mott St (at Kenmare), New York, NY 10012

Holywater

The team behind Grand Banks’ newly opened restaurant the Yacht Club, and a range of other bars and restaurants that are either on the water or nautical themed, unsurprisingly runs a seafood-focused Tribeca bar called Holywater. From the second you walk through the boat-inspired door, you’ll feel like you’re inside of someone’s cozy, aquatic dreamland. With mini umbrellas accompanying cocktails and doorframes that will make you question whether or not you’re at sea, this is the perfect place to dive into an impressive seafood tower.

What you get: La Tour comes with two dozen East Coast and West Coast oysters, shrimp and half of a lobster. Celebration tower comes with the oysters, shrimp, lobster, crab dip, octopus conserva, charentaise, and caviar.

Price: La Tour, $145. Celebration Tower, $225.
📍 112 Reade St (at W Broadway), New York, NY 10013

Deux Chats

Deux Chats, run by the team behind Le Dive, Acme, Happiest Hour and the Nines, opened the French brasserie-inspired spot three years ago, focusing on small plates and a raw bar with oysters and seafood towers. With French chandeliers, antique mirrors, and a velvet upholstered seating, it’s both homey and eclectic. It’s a great place for a date or a bite with a small group with a seafood tower that comes in two sizes.

What you get: The Petite tower comes with 12 East Coast oysters, four shrimp cocktail, chilled mussels, and lobster salad. The Grande comes with 16 East Coast oysters, five shrimp cocktail, chilled mussels, smoked trout salad, tuna tataki with ponzu, and lobster salad.

Price: The Petite Tower, $80. The Grande Tower, $145.
📍 27 Broadway (at Broadway), Brooklyn, NY 11249

Gage & Tollner

After shutting down and being brought back to life, Gage and Tollner is the epitome of a classic New York restaurant with an impressive history. Located in downtown Brooklyn, the oyster and chophouse first opened its doors more than 130 years ago. The no-frills menu features traditional, reliable steakhouse dishes like Oysters Rockefeller and wedge salad, so naturally, the seafood towers are gimmick-free and trustworthy, too.

What you get: G&T Seafood Platter comes with a half Maine lobster, half dozen oysters, clams, shrimp cocktails, and garnishes. G&T Seafood Platter Royale comes with a whole Maine lobster, crudo, a dozen oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail, and garnishes.

Price: G&T Seafood Platter, $107. G&T Seafood Platter Royale, $210. Additional 30g of Kaluga Caviar, $290.
📍 372 Fulton St (at Jay St), Brooklyn, NY 10038

Grand Army

Along with its killer happy hour menu (how can you pass up an $8 martini and a $7 hot dog with truffle aioli?) Grand Army has two options for seafood towers, aptly named Lowbrow Tower and Highbrow Tower. The cozy Boerum Hill restaurant, which has been around for a decade, also has a solid wine and beer list and a surprisingly fun bar menu to choose from – after you enjoy your seafood tower, of course. It’s a small but mighty space, perfect for a quick bite with friends or a casual date night.

What you get: The Lowbrow Tower comes with eight oysters, four littleneck clams, four shrimp, and deviled eggs. The Highbrow Tower comes with 12 oysters, six littleneck clams, six shrimp, a lobster roll, and ceviche.

Price: Lowbrow Tower, $65. Highbrow Tower, $110.
📍 336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA

Strange Delight

With only a year under its belt, Strange Delight is, in fact, delightful. Ham El-Waylly, Michael Tuiach, and Louisiana native Anoop Pillarisetti reimagined New Orleans’ legendary oyster houses with subtle nods to the city sprinkled throughout the space. And the team has preserved the celebratory spirit of an oyster house, despite the steep prices that come with opening a restaurant in New York. The tower service comes in three sizes at three different price points, so if you want it all to yourself, it’s totally doable.

What you get: Cold local oysters, shrimp cocktail, shrimp remoulade, smoked fish dip and crudo.

Price: The tower comes in three sizes at $38, $76, and $130.
📍 63 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

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Thanks for being here. 🦪 Now go enjoy some oysters.

I spent the past few weeks talking to bakers across the city and put together this guide to some of the best bakeries in New York.

Six Bakeries Worth Your Time

LÀ LÁ Bakeshop, East Village

The colorful milk buns here — soft spheres filled with taro, pistachio, and matcha — are unlike anything else in the city. That's the point.

"Vietnamese food is so much more than phở and bánh mì," managing partner Tung Pham says. "It's a country of more than 100 million people. And we enjoy cake too."

The Vietnamese Salted Egg Cake is their signature: vanilla chiffon with salted egg yolk sauce, ringed with pork floss, topped with more salted egg crumble. It's Vietnam's most popular cake flavor, but you couldn't find it in New York until now.

Order: The pandan cream foam iced coffee and their durian cakes.

From Lucie, Lower East Side

Lucie Franc de Ferrière got laid off from her art gallery job during the pandemic and started baking for her boyfriend's café. Customers kept coming back.

"I missed my mother's cakes — flavorful, not too sweet, always made with intention," she says. Growing up on a vineyard in southern France, she was surrounded by constant baking. Now she's doing the same thing from a tiny Lower East Side kitchen.

Each cake feels deliberate. She's working on a cookbook.

Order: The carrot cake and chocolate chip cookies.

L'Appartement 4F, Brooklyn Heights & West Village

Ashley and Gautier Coiffard started selling croissants from their apartment. Now they have two locations with lines around the block.

Gautier uses his engineering background to perfect recipes and opts for more butter than traditional croissant recipes call for. The Brooklyn Heights location was born because the community reached out to them directly.

Order: The croissants that made them famous.

Hani's Bakery, Chinatown

The bakery’s co-creator Miro Uskokovic’s mother dreamed of opening a bakery in Yugoslavia. War and cancer intervened. As a child, Miro promised he'd give her the bakery she wanted. This is it. He opened it with his wife Shilpa, and it’s taking off.

His flavor combinations are bold: black poppy seeds with sour cherries, tomatoes with peaches, strawberry with passion fruit. Production starts at 4:30 AM.

Order: The morning buns and a layer cake that speaks to you.

Radio Bakery, Greenpoint

Radio was born during the pandemic when the team couldn't run their restaurant the way they wanted, so they pivoted to takeout and fine-tuned their baking. Now they focus on viennoiserie and focaccia at both of their locations. The Radio Bakery team opened a location in Prospect Heights earlier this year.

"We keep our focus tight and try to be the best at those items," says partner Ben Howell. It's working. Their croissants and fresh focaccia sandwiches have built a devoted following.

Order: Fresh focaccia and croissants.

Birdee Bakery, Williamsburg

Renata Ameni named her bakery after her late mother's nickname for her, “passarinho," which is Portuguese for little bird. Everything here is designed to evoke memories: pepperoni pizza croissants, churro-flavored croissants, homemade goldfish crackers.

Located in the former Domino Sugar refinery, Birdee represents Renata stepping back from her restaurant group role to focus entirely on her own thing.

Order: The churro croissants.

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The Recipe for Success

The common thread among successful bakeries, both new and old, is consistency. As Ashley from L'Appartement 4F puts it: "Branding can be fun and gimmicks can make you go viral, but that doesn't have long lasting effects. If your product is good and remains good, people will come."

These bakers understand that they're building a legacy, and they’re focused on the long haul. They're also filling real gaps — Vietnamese baking, French-style cakes that aren't too sweet, croissants that are made with technique.

And they're creating neighborhood anchors. Good bakeries become third places where people can exist without agenda. At Hani's, you'll see "parents with tiny babies in the early morning hours, quietly decompressing over coffee and cinnamon buns," the bakery’s co-owner Shilpa Uskokovic said.

What’s Next?

Ashley (L'Appartement 4F) — “The New York City bakery scene is going to continue to grow and it makes me so excited. Paris has a bakery on almost every block and I think NYC can afford to have more great bakeries.”

Shilpa (Hani's) — “We might see a lot more regional baking, or bakeries with a very defined sense of place. In much the same way that restaurants that were broadly classified as Indian or Chinese or Thai in the past have given way to hyper regional, specialized establishments that showcase food from Tamil Nadu or Kerala or Northern Thailand or the Sichuan province, I reckon bakeries will follow suit.”

Tung (LÀ LÁ) — “We'll continue to see bakeries pop up that focus on cultural memories. We opened specifically because we wanted to share Vietnamese-style cakes.”

Renata (Birdee) — “It's important for new bakeries to establish themselves based on consistency and steadfastness to your vision. In my opinion, chasing trends can be fleeting.”

Kelly (Radio Bakery) — “We are going to see a lot more restaurants opening bakeries and offshoot cafes. Most restaurants can no longer afford pastry chefs. Not to mention, bakeries and cafes have better working hours (and better margins).”

Lucie (From Lucie) — “We’ve been thinking about a sit down space, somewhere people can have a slice of cake, and stay a while. Creating a space that feels like an extension of the warmth and joy behind our cakes is definitely something we’re thinking about for the future.”

The Perfect Bakery Crawl Route

Start: Hani's in Chinatown for morning buns and coffee.

Next: LÀ LÁ in the East Village for milk buns and that pandan coffee.

Then: From Lucie in the Lower East Side for whatever cake you’re in the mood for.

Brooklyn: L'Appartement 4F in Brooklyn Heights for at least one croissant.

End: Radio Bakery in Greenpoint for focaccia or Birdee in Williamsburg for something nostalgic.

The city's bakery scene works because these people take their craft seriously without taking themselves too seriously. They're making good things in neighborhoods that need them. And people are here for it.

I’m melting like butter, but I love writing this newsletter. Thanks for being here. 🥐

In a city where omakase counters seem to pop up overnight, finding a special spot that transports you back to Japan is increasingly rare. Kinjo, located right next to the Adams Street Library in DUMBO, delivers with quiet confidence. A former torpedo factory (wild, I know), the 11-course omakase comes in at $95 per person, which is on the cheaper side compared to comparable spots in the city.

With only 13 seats (my lucky number — don’t judge me), the space is intimate and elevated, offering an experience that stands apart from the city's overcrowded omakase landscape. What makes Kinjo special isn't just the incredibly fresh fish or technical precision — it's the chef’s intention and unique flavors that brought me back to the memorable meals I had in Japan. I was told that “kinjo” means neighborhood in Japanese, and the name felt perfect, as I immediately felt at home when I walked in. Kinjo is elevated, don’t get me wrong, but it also feels like a romantic neighborhood spot that manages to remain a gem.

Some background info: Chef Johnny Huang, formerly of Masa — a Columbus Circle omakase restaurant with three MICHELIN Stars — is both the chef and co-owner of Kinjo. There’s also a thoughtfully curated, izakaya-inspired food menu available in the restaurant’s bar and lounge area, which is overseen by chef Johnny in collaboration with chef Eddie Lee (formerly of Momofuku).

While new spots often chase trends or aesthetics, Kinjo focuses on the elements that matter: exceptional ingredients, perfect rice temperature, and incredible hospitality from the moment you sit down until the moment you pay the check.

I ate at Kinjo when they were still serving the winter omakase menu, but they announced the spring menu this week, and it looks awesome. Here’s what you can expect:

• Marinated King Salmon / Cherry Tomato, Arare, Oba Oil, Sherry Tosazu

• Steamed Tako / Chive, Pickled Spring Onion, Kimchee Vinaigrette

• Kinmedai / Ume Dust

• Shima Aji / Ginger Scallion Paste

• Akami Zuke / Nori

• Zuwaigani / Miso

• Kanpachi / Truffle Pate, Morel

• Aka Ebi / Curry Glaze, Fried Leek

• Toro Caviar Toast / Tofu Bread, Tofu Puree, Takuan

• Suzuki / Shiso Flower, Baby Cilantro, Shiso Salsa Verde

• Dessert: Matcha Mousse / Lemon Curd, Kokuto Syrup, Sakura

First bite: My first bite was the snowcrab dip with nori-dusted kettle chips — a bar item that carried over to the spring menu — and it was a fun way to kick off the meal. I also ordered a non-alc version of the Jasmine highball and immediately loved that there were some non-alc options on the bar menu.

My first omakase bite was memorable, too — gorgeous and delicious anko and ankimo (monkfish and monkfish liver) in kimiponzu (a combo of ponzu and kimizu, informally known as Japanese Hollandaise sauce).

The vibe: I enjoyed kicking off the meal at the bar. The bartender, Matt Carr, was friendly and immediately dove into a conversation about the menu and life in New York. He’s from Minnesota and joked about wanting to move back but missing New York too much. After all, how can you say goodbye to the city that has everything? On top of being fun to chat with, he was clearly tied into the menu, and I loved how knowledgeable and excited he was. I later found out that he occasionally pitches in and helps the chefs at the omakase counter. Pretty cool.

The restaurant itself was super sleek — industrial, but not cold — minimalist and spacious, but the omakase counter still managed to feel incredibly cozy and warm. I felt at home right away, and I attribute that to the fact that Chef Johnny Huang was immediately kind and engaging, walking us through every single course with pure, unadulterated joy and excitement. The seats at the omakase counter are perfectly spaced out, which is great because you don’t feel like you’re on a date with the strangers next to you. You can talk to them if you want to (which I often do), but you don’t have to strike up a conversation if you’re not feeling it.

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Favorite bite: I was genuinely impressed by every single bite, so it’s hard to pick a favorite, but I really fell in love with the scallop with calamansi, charcoal salt and lime zest. It was memorable, and I’ve been dreaming about it ever since. I loved it so much, I ordered another one after the last omaskase course. It was that good. I’m also a sucker for uni, so I ordered another uni, too.

Next bite: I’m eager to try Kinjo’s new spring menu, and the bar menu, in particular, is calling my name. Here are some things I’m dying to try:

• Uni and Ikura Donburi / Hokkaido Uni, Red Caviar, Wasabi Shoyu, Rice

• Morel Yaki Soba / Edamame, Morel Mushrooms, Cabbage (v)

• Bluefin Tuna Donburi / Marinated Tuna, Candied Nori, Wasabi, Rice

Extra Credit: I’m sure you’ve already picked up on this, but don’t skip the bar menu. It shines on its own, and Matt, the bartender, is super helpful and fun to talk to. Kinjo also has an impressive sake menu, but I can’t speak to the specific sakes since I didn’t drink.

And don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with chef Johnny. He’s fantastic. He really walked us through everything and explained that yellowtail is bigger and more fatty in the winter when the water is colder. And while that seems obvious as I’m writing it out, it’s still fun to learn about what you’re eating.

Logistics: Kinjo is open Tuesday-Sunday, with the bar and lounge opening at 5pm. The chef mentioned that there are four omakase seatings on Friday and Saturday (5pm, 6:30pm, 8pm and 9:30pm) and three on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (5:30pm, 7pm and 8:30pm).

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The verdict: I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but this might be the best omakase meal I’ve had in New York. I can’t stop telling people about it, so of course I had to share it with all of you.

Thank you for being here. Happy eating.

Ask any New Yorker for a restaurant recommendation, and you'll likely get more than just a name. You'll get a story. That's why I reached out to my friends and asked them about their favorite spots.

Here, you’ll find real experiences from real diners. From Neil's regular chicken parm order at Café Fiorello to Christine watching Shukette survive the pandemic in her Chelsea neighborhood, these restaurants are part of routines and memories.

The responses showcase honest assessments and specific dishes that define these spots — like Borgo's fried delicata squash, Rezdôra's singular perfect ravioli and the steak au poivre at Raoul's.

Consider this your insider's guide to Manhattan dining (in alphabetical order), vetted by people who know New York. You’re welcome.

Avant Garden, East Village

The menu tricks you into thinking it’s basic. Don’t be fooled by the straightforward names – roasted carrot, cauliflower, avocado. Every dish is next-level. The space is cozy, the service is warm, and it’s the kind of place that proves vegan food doesn’t need to pretend to be anything else. Good food is just good food.
— Fiona

Borgo, NoMad

Come for the fried delicata squash — easily the best dish I’ve eaten all winter — and stay for the incredibly warm atmosphere. I mean that both literally (there’s a wood-burning fireplace in the middle of the dining room) and metaphorically (the staff is incredibly kind).
— Dianna

Buvette, West Village

This comes as close to the food excellence in Paris as I’ve found in NYC. So good on the details. Pain Perdu was not too sweet.
— Yashar

Café Chelsea, Chelsea

The French-inspired eatery at the newly renovated Hotel Chelsea may be going viral for its sheet ravioli, but the breakfast service is when the restaurant shines. I always get the omelette (simple yet perfect with just a little bit of herbs and Gruyère) and the coffee is phenomenal.
— Mary

Café Fiorello, Lincoln Square

One of my local go-to spots for a delicious meal and relaxed ambiance. It's consistently delicious, and their chicken parm is thin and crispy. They have a range of antipasto, and their Italian wedding soup is a classic in the winter.
— Neil

Chez Fifi, Upper East Side

Opened by the team behind Sushi Noz, this chic townhouse feels like walking into your cool aunt’s home. Start at the Salon upstairs for a drink and end with the chocolate mousse. Keep an eye out for the unique art scattered throughout the restaurant!
— Arianna

Daddies, West Village

Great casual spot — always reliable, love their pizzas and candied yams.
— Camille

Fiaschetteria Pistoia, East Village

The simple menu means everything is made perfectly. Their spot in the East Village is cozy and intimate, and it’s the best place to grab a bowl of cacio e pepe.
— Rachel

The restaurant started in Italy before opening a few in NYC and their handmade pasta is amazing. My wife and I had our second date there and have gone back many times.
— Tyler

Fish Cheeks, NoHo

I only recently became a seafood person, and I blame Fish Cheeks. The Thai flavors here don’t hold back — big, bright, and unapologetically bold. Their coconut crab curry converted me, the fried fish with garden herb salad sealed the deal, and anything that mixes ginger, chili, and pineapple? I’m in. Add a cocktail, and it’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever hesitated on seafood in the first place.
— Skye

Golden Unicorn, Chinatown

I love it for what it’s not. It’s not new, it doesn’t have great service and you have to eat lunch too early in order to avoid a wait. It simply has great dim sum on several busy floors for a ballroom dining experience.
— Reid

Indochine, NoHo

It’s been in business for more than 40 years, and not only is the food consistently good (not always the case in NYC), but the people-watching is top-notch. You never know who you’ll run into! Beyond that, the staff is perennially chic.
— Andrew

KIKO, Soho

The Dungeness Crab DIY nori wrap appetizer was amazing. Crab shell stuffed with crab, rice, and crab fat mayo. The Berkshire Pork Chop Secreto was also great. Loved building every bite with pork, herbs and pineapple. The martini was literally perfect.
— Steve

Kiki's, Lower East Side

Really good food with a homey neighborhood vibe. Get the house wine.
— Elizabeth

Kong Sihk Tong, Chinatown

Walk in only, prices are superior, no frills in the best possible way. The pineapple bun and the salt and pepper squid are my absolute faves.
— Marissa

Nami Nori, West Village

This tiny temaki spot is completely gluten-free, but you would never know it from the menu or creative combinations that come out of the kitchen. Each hand roll is impeccably crafted. My favorites are the coconut shrimp, which harkens back to a traditional shrimp tempura roll but is kicked up with hints of green curry. Don't miss the cucumber with black sesame paste, spicy lobster salad, and scallop with xo sauce!
— Phoebe

Oiji Mi, Koreatown

They do “upscale” Korean food flawlessly. It’s my go-to place for special occasions, and I love going to the lounge because you can order a la carte.
— Sydney

Extra Credit: I interviewed Oiji Mi’s chef, Brian Kim, for OpenTable.

Okdongsik, Koreatown

I love going here for gomtang. There’s something universal in the simplicity of a masterfully executed bone broth.
— Alex

Pastis, Meatpacking

Beyond the flavors and quality of the food, the ambience is true New York.
— Michael

Pig and Khao, Upper West Side

I've been to the UWS location twice already, and both times, I left totally wowed. The food is absolutely packed with flavor, I can't wait to go back.
— Sophie

Rafael, Upper East Side

I’m obsessed. It's right by my grandmother's apartment — she’s about to turn 100 — and finding an UES brunch spot that’s actually very good (and not just expensive) is always a big task. The food here is phenomenal!
— Emily

Raoul's, Soho

I first went 15 years ago the first time I visited NYC with my dad, and it’s still my favorite today. It feels nostalgic, with a fortune teller upstairs, and the bar is always buzzing with energy. The burger is not worth the hype, but the steak au poivre is my favorite steak in the city, and their profiteroles are FANTASTIC.
— Sydney

Rezdôra, Flatiron

Every single thing on the menu is beyond flawless, but I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you to order these three things: the Cacio e Pepe in Emilia salad, the Uovo Raviolo Di Nino Bergese (a single, BIG, perfect ravioli!), and the olive oil cake. You will be reborn! (Sit at the bar — it’s the coziest! With the sweetest bartenders in town.)
— Rose

Sappe, West Village

My friend Bryan and I are on a mission to find NYC’s spiciest bites. Sappe keeps things exciting, and it’s two blocks away between our respective homes. The pink, retro-funky vibe sets the stage for a menu packed with unexpected dishes and flavors, none of which you’ve probably heard of, but that’s the fun of it. There’s something for everyone (skewers and bites for non-spice folks) plus cocktails that cool things down just enough before you dive back in.
— Julie

Shukette, Chelsea

My favorite, not just because of the incredible food, but also because of the period of time it encapsulates for me — one where I was eagerly awaiting its grand opening just down the block from our old home, nervously wondering if it would survive the worst of COVID, and rejoicing when it finally opened and we could consistently snag a late-night rez.
— Christine

Sixty Three Clinton, Lower East Side

A stellar southwest cuisine inspired tasting menu with generous caviar portions and an even better team. It feels like a friend’s place — but refined (and Michelin-starred). We’ve been going every year for our anniversary, and even when budgets were tight and one of us lost our job, they kept our annual tradition alive with an unforgettable bar experience. We nearly cried.
— Carrie

The Bonnie, Astoria

One of my go-to’s for a weekend brunch or date night. They recently renovated and added some new items to the menu, and the vibe is perfect. Don’t miss out on their pickle martini!
— Caroline

Unlisted, Lower East Side

I love the rooftop bar at the Untitled Hotel for its FLUERE and Free Spirit NA cocktails. They have tasty small bites like ceviche, empanadas, bar nuts and flan. There’s something for everyone, and the patio view spans from downtown to uptown.
— Hilary

Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar, East Village

The food punches so far above its weight. This is an upscale restaurant quality menu hiding out in a neighborhood joint. Tons of seafood options, great service, and you can usually get a table even though it’s always busy.
— Andrew

Via Carota, West Village

Via Carota doesn't try to do anything fancy — they just take high-quality ingredients and prepare them perfectly.
— Jackson

Zaragoza, East Village

I’ve been eating their chorizo tostadas since I moved to the city in 2012, and they always hit. Family-owned, everything tastes homemade, and they usually stay open late on the weekends.
— Luke

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I hope this newsletter made you happy and hungry. 🍝 Thank you for being here.

Consider this your guide to Brooklyn restaurants, brought to you by New Yorkers who have great taste and know what they're talking about. These are the spots my friends love and return to again and again.

Bed-Stuy

Hart's

In most restaurants in the city, a small dining room feels claustrophobic — at Hart’s, it’s an embrace. Hart’s transforms proteins and seasonal produce into something unique and special (yet approachable) in a way that’s distinct from every other restaurant I’ve been to. I’ve literally never had a bad meal there."
— Maya

Winona's

The space has such an inviting and cozy vibe, and the food menu (which changes seasonally) and the wine list are incredible.
— Bianca

Boerum Hill

Rucola

The first time we went to Rucola, we felt pure joy. The food was delicious, the company was even better, and the large plate of olives completely won me over.
— Delilah

Brooklyn Heights

Noodle Pudding

The first time I ate there, I thought to myself, “I want to bring my mom here.” The vibe: Menu is in comic sans, certain meat dishes are claimed as NJ meats (like NJ Pork Chop), and everything is warm (the lights, the food, the people). Being comfortable is super important to me, and this is a very cozy spot.
— Jen

Bushwick

Anchored Inn

The food is insanely good and the vibes are the perfect mix of dive bar, cozy pub and punk/sailor.
— Siobhan

Carroll Gardens

Bar Bête

Fun, cozy vibe and an ever-evolving menu that keeps every visit exciting — it’s truly a hidden gem!
— Ayaka

Cobble Hill

Long Island Bar

They have a very limited menu, but they do everything to perfection, which is why they’ve stood the test of time. Whenever I am craving a burger and a martini, I think of Long Island Bar. There’s a reason there’s usually a wait!
— Kelsey

Yemen Cafe

The lamb melts in your mouth and it’s so flavorful. You get so much food for your money + free tea! It’s casual, warm and welcoming.
— Alison

Greenpoint

Breeze

Super cute Sichuan restaurant with a wabi sabi interior. The food is on par with the heavy hitter Sichuan places in Williamsburg (Antidote, Birds of a Feather), but it’s quieter and not as busy.
— Kyle

Chinta Thai

Each dish comes with its own poem, so you’re in for something special. Order the Supreme Pad Thai with soft shell crab and the Ka Praw Gai.
— Elliot

Nura

The small plates are amazing. They time everything perfectly, so you can really focus on what you’re eating. Every dish was super flavorful but didn’t go overboard.
— Elizabeth

OH MERCY

By day, it's a sunny and airy, almost transient (in a good way) cafe with a personal touch on classic cafe bites. By night, it’s casual, romantic, quiet and petite, with a well-done menu and excellent wine.
— Sarah

Oxomoco

It’s been my favorite for YEARS. Everything about the place is spectacular — the incredible cocktails, the sexy vibe, the phenomenal and creative food. It’s consistently the best restaurant, hands down.
— Samantha

Park Slope

Whisk & Whiskey

A quaint haunt that has a neighborhood BK feel that feels like you’re in someone’s living room. Their whisky flights are delightful and the staff is super knowledgeable. Their bites are few, but they’re well-paired.
— Simone

Prospect Heights

Leland Eating and Drinking House

It’s a neighborhood gem worth the trip, no matter where you’re coming from — and the moment you step inside, you’ll be welcomed like a regular. Their seasonal menu showcases locally and responsibly sourced ingredients, with thoughtful details in every dish (even the butter is house-churned). It’s my go-to spot for a cozy date night or special celebration.
— Darla

Sofreh

Sofreh has remained one of my favorite restaurants since it first opened in 2018. It's a great place to order a couple of things because once you lay eyes on the magic coming out from their kitchen, you'll want to try it all. Even better? They've now got a cafe on Flatbush, where their chai tea and cake yazdi are a welcome treat during these cold, dull winter days.
— Maggie

Williamsburg

Bonnie's

Bonnie’s is amazing because the attention to detail from Calvin and his team is just seen throughout. I love the atmosphere, but I love that I can feel that he cares for his culture and his people.
— Joe

Ensenada

Those cooler and with a later bedtime than me might know Ensenada’s sister spot, the Black Flamingo — a dance club in the basement open on weekend nights. There’s not a bad bite on the menu, from the tostadas to the aguachile to the fish of the day (which comes with a perfect concoction called pineapple butter). Go with friends and share everything on the menu.
— Courtney

Montesacro

I love their focaccia, maybe my favorite bread of all time, and it’s the same dough they use for the pizza crust. Bonus: Because it’s made with a blend of rice, soy, and wheat flour, it’s high in protein and easy to digest! They also have one of my favorite salads EVER, the lattuga romana.
— Jenn

Wei

Delicious, insane value, vibe, music, late night — it has it all.
— Dylan

Thanks for being here. Happy eating. 🩷

At least once a week, someone asks me for a restaurant recommendation, and while I’m happy to oblige, it’s more fun (and useful) to gather intel from people I know, adore and trust.

Every response is a mini love letter to New York. The spot where Carrie and her partner keep their anniversary tradition alive. The place where Julie and Bryan meet for spicy food at a restaurant perfectly situated between their apartments. Emily’s go-to brunch spot with her almost-100-year-old grandmother.

Welcome to your new favorite guide to New York restaurants — complete with overlapping recs (that’s how you know it’s good), two Sydneys and three Andrews.

Hart’s, Bed-Stuy

In most restaurants in the city, a small dining room feels claustrophobic — at Hart’s, it’s an embrace. Hart’s transforms proteins and seasonal produce into something unique and special, elegant yet approachable, in a way that’s distinct from every other restaurant I’ve been to. I’ve literally never had a bad meal there.
— Maya

Chinta Thai, Greenpoint

Each dish comes with its own poem, so you’re in for something special. Order the Supreme Pad Thai with softshell crab and the Ka Praw Gai.
— Elliot

Pig and Khao, Upper West Side

I've been to the UWS location twice already, and both times, I left totally wowed. The food is absolutely packed with flavor, I can't wait to go back.
— Sophie

Oiji Mi, Koreatown

They do “upscale” Korean food flawlessly. It’s my go-to place for special occasions, and I love going to the lounge because you can order a la carte.
— Sydney 

Golden Unicorn, Chinatown

I love it for what it’s not. It’s not new, it doesn’t have great service and you have to eat lunch too early in order to avoid a wait. It simply has great dim sum on several busy floors for a ballroom dining experience.
— Reid  

Fiaschetteria Pistoia, East Village

The simple menu means everything is made perfectly. Their spot in the East Village is cozy and intimate, and it’s the best place to grab a bowl of cacio e pepe.
— Rachel

Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar, East Village

The food punches so far above its weight. This is an upscale restaurant quality menu hiding out in a neighborhood joint. Tons of seafood options, great service, and you can usually get a table even though it’s always busy.
— Andrew  

Sixty Three Clinton, Lower East Side

A stellar southwest cuisine inspired tasting menu with generous caviar portions and an even better team. It feels like a friend’s place — but refined (and Michelin-starred). We’ve been going every year for our anniversary, and even when budgets were tight and one of us lost our job, they kept our annual tradition alive with an unforgettable bar experience. We nearly cried.
— Carrie

Sofreh, Prospect Heights

Sofreh has remained one of my favorite restaurants since it first opened in 2018. It's a great place to order a couple of things because once you lay eyes on the magic coming out from their kitchen, you'll want to try it all. Even better? They've now got a cafe on Flatbush, where their chai tea and cake yazdi are a welcome treat during these cold, dull winter days.
— Maggie  

Sofreh is known for its elegant yet homey take on traditional Persian food. Order the kashke bademjan, the shirazi salad and the catch of the day with herb rice.
— Sophia

Via Carota, West Village

Via Carota doesn't try to do anything fancy — they just take high-quality ingredients and prepare them perfectly.
— Jackson

Rucola, Boerum Hill

The first time we went to Rucola, we felt pure joy. The food was delicious, the company was even better, and the large plate of olives completely won me over.
— Delilah

The Bonnie, Astoria

One of my go-to’s for a weekend brunch or date night. They recently renovated and added some new items to the menu, and the vibes are perfect. Don’t miss out on their pickle martini!
— Caroline

Noodle Pudding, Brooklyn Heights

The first time I ate there, I thought to myself, “I want to bring my mom here.” The vibe: Menu is in comic sans, certain meat dishes are claimed as NJ meats (like NJ Pork Chop), and everything is warm (the lights, the food, the people). Being comfortable is super important to me, and this is a very cozy spot.
— Jen

Leland Eating and Drinking House, Prospect Heights

It’s a neighborhood gem worth the trip, no matter where you’re coming from — and the moment you step inside, you’ll be welcomed like a regular. Their seasonal menu showcases locally and responsibly sourced ingredients, with thoughtful details in every dish (even the butter is house-churned). It’s my go-to spot for a cozy date night or special celebration. We once booked the “secret” wine cellar for a friend’s baby shower!
— Darla  

Lucille’s Coffee & Cocktails, Harlem

It's hip without being pretentious, has simple and delicious brunch, and has a killer pizza kitchen with the best vodka pie we've ever had.
— Lauryn

Buvette, West Village

I just returned from Paris and this comes as close to the food excellence there as I’ve found in NYC. So good on the details. Pain Perdu was not too sweet.
— Yashar 

Llama Inn, Williamsburg

I go for the lomo saltado, but I really stay for the ceviche/tiradito. The sauces are ALWAYS out of this world.
— TraiAnne

Rafael, Upper East Side

I’m obsessed. It's right by my grandmother's apartment — she’s about to turn 100 — and finding an UES brunch spot that’s actually very good (and not just expensive) is always a big task. The food here is phenomenal!
— Emily 

OH MERCY, Greenpoint

By day, it's a sunny and airy, almost transient (in a good way) cafe with a personal touch on classic cafe bites. By night, it’s casual, romantic, quiet and petite, with a well-done menu and excellent wine.
— Sarah  

Ensenada, Williamsburg

Those cooler and with a later bedtime than me might know Ensenada’s sister spot, the Black Flamingo — a dance club in the basement open on weekend nights. There’s not a bad bite on the menu, from the tostadas to the aguachile to the fish of the day (which comes with a perfect concoction called pineapple butter). Go with friends and share everything on the menu.
— Courtney 

Nami Nori, West Village

This tiny temaki spot is completely gluten-free, but you would never know it from the menu or creative combinations that come out of the kitchen. Each hand roll is impeccably crafted. My favorites are the coconut shrimp, which harkens back to a traditional shrimp tempura roll but is kicked up with hints of green curry. Don't miss the cucumber with black sesame paste, spicy lobster salad, and scallop with xo sauce!
— Phoebe  

Anchored Inn, Bushwick

The food is insanely good and the vibes are the perfect mix of dive bar, cozy pub and punk/sailor.
— Siobhan 

Borgo, Nomad

Come for the fried delicata squash — easily the best dish I’ve eaten all winter — and stay for the incredibly warm atmosphere. I mean that both literally (there’s a wood-burning fireplace in the middle of the dining room) and metaphorically (the staff is incredibly kind).
— Dianna  

My favorite restaurant right now is Borgo, Andrew Tarlow’s new midtown spot. I’ve lived near Roman’s, his place in Fort Greene, for years, and it’s always a favorite. But the new Borgo feels more grown up, like your neighborhood spot decided to dress up and have a night on the town. And I can’t wait for the warmer months. Looks like they’re going to have an amazing patio.
— Andrew

KIKO, Soho

The Dungeness Crab DIY nori wrap appetizer was amazing. Crab shell stuffed with crab, rice, and crab fat mayo. The Berkshire Pork Chop Secreto was also great. Loved building every bite with pork, herbs and pineapple. The martini was literally perfect.
— Steve

Winona’s, Bed-Stuy

The space has such an inviting and cozy vibe, and the food menu (which changes seasonally) and the wine list are incredible.
— Bianca

Yemen Cafe, Cobble Hill

The lamb melts in your mouth and it’s so flavorful. You get so much food for your money + free tea! It’s casual, warm and welcoming.
— Alison

Fish Cheeks, Noho

I only recently became a seafood person, and I blame Fish Cheeks. The Thai flavors here don’t hold back — big, bright, and unapologetically bold. Their coconut crab curry converted me, the fried fish with garden herb salad sealed the deal, and anything that mixes ginger, chili, and pineapple? I’m in. Add a cocktail, and it’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever hesitated on seafood in the first place.
— Skye

Montesacro, Williamsburg

I LOVE their focaccia, maybe my favorite bread of all time, and it’s the same dough they use for the pizza crust. Bonus: Because it’s made with a blend of rice, soy, and wheat flour, it’s high in protein and easy to digest! They also have one of my favorite salads EVER, the lattuga romana.
— Jenn

Long Island Bar, Cobble Hill

They have a very limited menu, but they do everything to perfection, which is why they’ve stood the test of time. Whenever I am craving a burger and a martini, I think of Long Island Bar. There’s a reason there’s usually a wait!
— Kelsey

Avant Garden, East Village

The menu tricks you into thinking it’s basic. Don’t be fooled by the straightforward names – roasted carrot, cauliflower, avocado. Every dish is next-level. The space is cozy, the service is warm, and it’s the kind of place that proves vegan food doesn’t need to pretend to be anything else. Good food is just good food.
— Fiona

Kong Sihk Tong, Chinatown

Walk in only, prices are superior, no frills in the best possible way. The pineapple bun and the salt and pepper squid are my absolute faves.
— Marissa

Pastis, Meatpacking District

Beyond the flavors and quality of the food, the ambience is true New York.
— Michael

Breeze, Greenpoint

Super cute Sichuan restaurant with a wabi sabi interior. The food is on par with the heavy hitter Sichuan places in Williamsburg (Antidote, Birds of a Feather), but it’s quieter and not as busy.
— Kyle

Oxomoco, Greenpoint

It’s been my favorite for YEARS. Everything about the place is spectacular — the incredible cocktails, the sexy vibe, the phenomenal and creative food. It’s consistently the best restaurant, hands down.
— Samantha

Indochine, Noho

It’s been in business for more than 40 years, and not only is the food consistently good (not always the case in NYC), but the people-watching is top-notch. You never know who you’ll run into!  Beyond that, the staff is perennially chic.
— Andrew

Zaragoza Mexican Deli, East Village

I’ve been eating their chorizo tostadas since I moved to the city in 2012, and they always hit. Family-owned, everything tastes homemade, and they usually stay open late on the weekends.
— Luke

Whisk & Whiskey Brooklyn Bar and Bakery, Park Slope

A quaint haunt that has a neighborhood BK feel that feels like you’re in someone’s living room. Their whisky flights are delightful and the staff is super knowledgeable. Their bites are few, but they’re well-paired.
— Simone 

Raoul’s, Soho

I first went 15 years ago the first time I visited NYC with my dad, and it’s still my favorite today. It feels nostalgic, with a fortune teller upstairs, and the bar is always buzzing with energy. The burger is not worth the hype, but the steak au poivre is my favorite steak in the city, and their profiteroles are FANTASTIC.
— Sydney

Wei’s, Williamsburg

Delicious, insane value, vibe, music, late night — it has it all.
— Dylan

Bar Bête, Carroll Gardens

Fun, cozy vibe and an ever-evolving menu that keeps every visit exciting — it’s truly a hidden gem!
— Ayaka

Shukette, Chelsea

My favorite, not just because of the incredible food, but also because of the period of time it encapsulates for me — one where I was eagerly awaiting its grand opening just down the block from our old home, nervously wondering if it would survive the worst of COVID, and rejoicing when it finally opened and we could consistently snag a late-night rez.
— Christine

Nura, Greenpoint

The small plates are amazing. They time everything perfectly, so you can really focus on what you’re eating. Every dish was super flavorful but didn’t go overboard.
— Elizabeth

Okdongsik, Koreatown

I love going here for gomtang. There’s something universal in the simplicity of a masterfully executed bone broth.
— Alex

Daddies, West Village

Great casual spot — always reliable, love their pizzas and candied yams.
— Camille

Unlisted, Lower East Side

I love the rooftop bar at the Untitled Hotel for its FLUERE and Free Spirit NA cocktails. They have tasty small bites like ceviche, empanadas, bar nuts and flan. There’s something for everyone, and the patio view spans from downtown to uptown.
— Hilary

Chez Fifi, Upper East Side

Opened by the team behind Sushi Noz, this chic townhouse feels like walking into your cool aunt’s home. Start at the Salon upstairs for a drink and end with the chocolate mousse. Keep an eye out for the unique art scattered throughout the restaurant!
— Arianna

Cafe Fiorello, Lincoln Square

One of my local go-to spots for a delicious meal and relaxed ambiance. It's consistently delicious, and their chicken parm is thin and crispy. They have a range of antipastas, and their Italian wedding soup is a classic in the winter.
— Neil

Café Chelsea, Chelsea

The French-inspired eatery at the newly renovated Hotel Chelsea may be going viral for its sheet ravioli, but the breakfast service is when the restaurant shines. I always get the omelette (simple yet perfect with just a little bit of herbs and Gruyère) and the coffee is phenomenal.
— Mary

Rezdôra, Flatiron

Every single thing on the menu is beyond flawless, but I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you to order these three things: the Cacio e Pepe in Emilia salad, the Uovo Raviolo Di Nino Bergese (a single, BIG, perfect ravioli!), and the olive oil cake. You will be reborn! (Sit at the bar — it’s the coziest! With the sweetest bartenders in town.)
— Rose

Sappe, West Village

My friend Bryan and I are on a mission to find NYC’s spiciest bites. Sappe keeps things exciting, and it’s two blocks away between our respective homes. The pink, retro-funky vibe sets the stage for a menu packed with unexpected dishes and flavors, none of which you’ve probably heard of, but that’s the fun of it. There’s something for everyone (skewers and bites for non-spice folks) plus cocktails that cool things down just enough before you dive back in.
— Julie

As LA recovers from the wildfires, supporting the city’s restaurants is more important than ever. (Disclaimer: I asked New Yorkers to share their favorite spots.)

• Si! Mon, Venice

• Father’s Office, Culver City

• DiDi, West Hollywood

• Javier’s, Century City

• Dunsmoor, Glassell Park

• Tsubaki, Echo Park

• Dan Sung Sa, Koreatown

• Night + Market Sahm, Venice

• Uchi, West Hollywood

• Seco, Silverlake

• Ototo, Echo Park

• Majordomo, Chinatown

Extra Credit: An Ode to Veniero’s by Scott

Oh, home of sweetness, the neighborhood constant and best in taste.
You sit on 11th Street, many years proudly, our east village place.
Your neon glow, a beacon bright,
A century’s warmth welcomes us here day or night.

Through the doors, into a world of new, though much the old.
Then intoxicated with sugarcoated wonderful dreams, a sensory bold.

The scent of this sweet history, powerful and deep,
Melts into air, a converging of sugary streams.

Chocolate windmill cake.
A dessert so divine.
First bite — a light, a love, a smile.
A sugared symphony pulls you into a silky embrace.

Oh, Veniero’s, no dessert does compare.
Your hands still craft what time adores,
Where pastry and art meets tradition’s heart,
And every crumb is savored evermore.

❣️

I hope this newsletter made you happy and hungry. Thank you for being here.