Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies near the Empire State Building
Top Things to Do in New York City for Foodies near the Empire State Building
1. Keens Steakhouse
A timeless chophouse famed for mutton chops, prime steaks, and a museum-like collection of clay pipes. Dark-wood dining rooms deliver old New York atmosphere a few blocks from the Empire State Building.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a living slice of culinary history where carnivores can savor perfectly broiled cuts and classic sides in an iconic Midtown setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dinner on weeknights before 6:30 pm or after 9 pm to avoid peak crowds; lunch is quieter and easier to book.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask to see the pipe collection rooms and order the legendary mutton chop with a side of creamed spinach.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the old-school charm, polished service, and consistently top-tier steaks that feel worth the splurge.
2. Jongro BBQ
A Koreatown favorite where charcoal-grilled short ribs, pork belly, and marinated meats sizzle at your table. Vintage Korean decor and lively energy make it a feast for all senses.
✓ Why Go:
For authentic Korean BBQ just two blocks south of the Empire State Building—ideal for groups and late-night cravings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Go right at opening for shortest waits or late evening after 9:30 pm; weekends see long lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the prime beef combo to sample multiple cuts, plus kimchi stew and egg souffle to round out the meal.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the quality-to-price ratio and generous banchan, calling it a must-stop in K-Town.
3. Eataly Flatiron
A vast Italian marketplace with fresh pasta counters, cheese and salumi, gelato, espresso bars, and multiple restaurants under one roof.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a one-stop edible tour of Italy, perfect for grazing or picking up picnic provisions for nearby Madison Square Park.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or mid-afternoons; evenings and weekends are busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head up to the rooftop for seasonal bites and drinks, and don’t skip the focaccia from the bakery counter.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests rave about the variety, fresh ingredients, and the fun of snacking from counter to counter.
4. Eleven Madison Park
A globally renowned, plant-based fine-dining experience overlooking Madison Square Park, pairing inventive courses with pitch-perfect service.
✓ Why Go:
For food lovers seeking boundary-pushing cuisine within a short stroll of the Empire State Building.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Book dinner weeks in advance; earlier seatings are calmer and ideal for savoring the full experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Opt for the beverage pairing or ask the somm for a bespoke by-the-glass progression to complement the menu.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners describe it as a special-occasion standout with imaginative flavors and meticulous attention to detail.
5. Cote Korean Steakhouse
A Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse marrying American dry-aged beef with Korean BBQ flair. Tableside grills and sleek design set the scene.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the gold standard for premium beef tastings and a polished, celebratory night out near NoMad/Flatiron.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Reserve in advance; walk-ins stand a better chance late night after 9:30 pm.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the Butcher’s Feast for a curated progression of cuts with banchan and stews included.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors highlight the attentive pacing and exceptional beef quality as memorable highlights.
6. Best Bagel & Coffee
Hefty, hand-rolled bagels boiled and baked on-site, piled high with classic deli spreads and smoked fish.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quintessential New York breakfast just minutes from the Empire State Building.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive early morning for the freshest selection; lines move quickly but peak after 9 am.
✓ Insider Tip:
Get an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese and Nova lox; ask for it hot from the oven if available.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers applaud the chewy texture, generous portions, and good value for Midtown.
7. NY Pizza Suprema
A classic slice shop near Penn Station known for its crisp crust and quality ingredients, from classic cheese to square Sicilian.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for a fast, authentic New York slice before or after sightseeing at the Empire State Building.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-afternoon between lunch and dinner for the shortest line while pies are still turning over quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the upside-down Sicilian or the pepperoni with cups-and-char slices for maximum crunch.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans call it a ‘destination slice’ worth the short walk and minimal wait.
8. Kalustyan's
A legendary spice, tea, and international grocery emporium in ‘Curry Hill,’ with shelves of global ingredients and a small prepared-food counter.
✓ Why Go:
For food-obsessed travelers who love discovering rare spices, chutneys, and pantry treasures to take home.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday midday for easy browsing; weekends can be snug in the narrow aisles.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head upstairs for fresh samosas, chutneys, and Middle Eastern salads; pick up saffron and specialty peppers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors are delighted by the breadth of selection and friendly guidance from staff.
9. Food Gallery
A multi-level Koreatown food hall with stalls for noodles, katsu, dumplings, bubble tea, and more—great for groups with varied tastes.
✓ Why Go:
It offers a whirlwind sampling of K-Town flavors under one roof, steps from the Empire State Building.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or late night for quicker seating; lunch rush is lively and crowded.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mix and match: grab jjajangmyeon from one stall and hotteok or bubble tea from another for a DIY tasting.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers appreciate the value, variety, and casual vibe perfect for a quick bite.
10. Grace Street
A beloved Koreatown dessert cafe known for towering bingsu, chewy mochi-stuffed hotteok, and creative coffee and tea drinks.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the sweet finish to a K-Town feast and an Instagram favorite just a block from 34th Street.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings after dinner; expect a short wait during prime dessert hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Share a large bingsu and order the hotteok fresh—crisp outside, molten brown sugar within.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the generous portions, photogenic plates, and late-night energy.
