Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Midtown
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies in Midtown
1. Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant
Beneath Grand Central’s Guastavino-tiled arches, this century-old seafood hall serves pristine oysters, pan roasts, and chowders at marble counters and white-clothed tables.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a time-capsule New York dining room where commuters, travelers, and locals converge for briny bivalves and classic seafood done right.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday lunch or late afternoon to dodge pre-theater and rush-hour crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a stool at the counter for faster seating and order the rich, peppery oyster pan roast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the nostalgic setting and impeccably fresh oysters; some note the din adds to the Grand Central buzz.
2. The Modern
MoMA’s sleek, Michelin-starred restaurant marries museum-caliber design with contemporary American cooking, either as a refined tasting or a lively à la carte Bar Room experience.
✓ Why Go:
Artful plates, polished service, and a serene view of the sculpture garden make this a quintessential Midtown splurge for serious eaters.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early dinner for a calmer room and smoother reservations.
✓ Insider Tip:
If you can’t snag a dining room table, the Bar Room’s à la carte menu offers many signatures with more spontaneity.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners rave about precision, balance, and hospitality that feels special without stuffiness.
3. Le Bernardin
The city’s temple of seafood pairs pristine ingredients with French technique in an elegant room just steps from the theater district.
✓ Why Go:
For food lovers, it’s a benchmark experience—impeccable fish cookery, seamless pacing, and a deep wine list that flatters delicate flavors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday midday or early evening for a quieter feel and more reservation options.
✓ Insider Tip:
The lounge is more flexible for walk-ins and a shorter menu while still showcasing the kitchen’s finesse.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests call it a once-in-a-lifetime meal with flawless service; price is steep but widely deemed worth it for a celebration.
4. Keens Steakhouse
A Midtown original since 1885, Keens is famed for its legendary mutton chop, classic sides, and ceilings hung with an astonishing clay-pipe collection.
✓ Why Go:
It’s steakhouse Americana with personality—perfect when you want a hearty, old-New York feast after a day of Midtown sightseeing.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak pre-theater crush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the mutton chop and ask to be seated in one of the wood-paneled rooms for the full historic vibe.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the robust flavors and nostalgic atmosphere; portions are generous and the service is classic and attentive.
5. Gabriel Kreuther
Across from Bryant Park, this elegant Alsatian-inspired dining room delivers inventive, deeply flavorful dishes in a calm, contemporary space.
✓ Why Go:
It blends European warmth with New York polish—ideal for foodies seeking meticulous technique without a stiff vibe.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evening reservations midweek for a more relaxed pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
The lounge offers an excellent tarte flambée and cocktails; save room for chocolates from the adjoining shop.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight gracious service, nuanced flavors, and a feeling of understated luxury.
6. Urbanspace Vanderbilt
A busy food hall near Grand Central featuring rotating vendors—from pizza and noodles to burgers and global street food—under one stylish roof.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the easiest way to sample multiple New York favorites in a single stop, especially with a group of mixed cravings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-afternoon (3–5 pm) for shorter lines; avoid weekday lunch rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Do a progressive meal: share small bites from two or three stalls before settling on a main.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the variety and quality-to-price value; seating fills quickly but turnover is fast.
7. Per Se
Overlooking Central Park from Columbus Circle, this destination delivers polished tasting menus in a serene dining room with skyline views.
✓ Why Go:
For milestone meals, it’s a pinnacle of service, technique, and wine expertise right at the edge of Midtown’s cultural hub.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening to catch sunset light over the park.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a window table when booking; plan extra time to explore The Shops at Columbus Circle before or after.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests describe a cocoon of hospitality and precision—expensive, yes, but unforgettable for special occasions.
8. Ess-a-Bagel
A Midtown East institution turning out hulking, hand-rolled bagels with abundant schmears and smoked fish that satisfy classic New York cravings.
✓ Why Go:
Bagels are a must in NYC, and this shop’s chewy-crusty rings and generous fillings make for a perfect breakfast or grab-and-go lunch.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Go early morning to beat the line or mid-afternoon after the rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick your bagel and schmear first, then add fixings; take it to nearby Greenacre Park for a peaceful bite.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers call it a quintessential New York bite; lines move quickly and portions are hefty.
9. Totto Ramen
A cozy Hell’s Kitchen nook ladling rich, chicken-based broths and springy noodles—perfect fuel between museums and shows.
✓ Why Go:
It’s one of Midtown’s most satisfying slurp stops, with deep flavors and a buzzy, ramen-ya atmosphere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or late night to avoid peak dinner lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for kaedama (extra noodles) if you’ve still got broth; the spicy rayu adds a mellow heat.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans love the broth’s depth and the quick, efficient service; space is tight but worth the wait.
10. Los Tacos No. 1 (Times Square)
Tijuana-style tacos crafted on fresh, hand-pressed tortillas served at a lively counter just off Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
It’s quick, authentic, and wildly flavorful—ideal for a fast, high-impact Midtown bite between sights.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-afternoon for shorter lines; late night is lively but crowded.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the adobada with pineapple and eat standing at the counter for the freshest, just-off-the-plancha experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers rave about the tortillas and salsas; standing-room bustle feels quintessentially NYC.
