You’ve just wrapped up a magical day in New York City, visiting iconic spots like Rockefeller Center and Times Square. Now, you’re hungry, but you don’t want to fall into an overpriced tourist trap. The good news is, New York City is a global food capital, ranked among the best in the world. I’ve put together a list of the best restaurants near NYC landmarks, including the Empire State Building, The Met, and the Statue of Liberty, so you can easily find a fantastic meal, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a special sit-down dinner.
2026 Tips
Starting this spring, the “Dining Out NYC” program has made outdoor roadway cafes permanent but seasonal. When dining near landmarks like Rockefeller Center or Times Square, look for the new, standardized outdoor setups—they are the best way to enjoy the city’s energy while you eat! Also, with 2026’s strict timed-entry for museums like The Met and MoMA, I recommend booking your meal for 90 minutes after your scheduled museum exit. This gives you enough time to browse the gift shop and walk to the restaurant without rushing.
How I Categorize These Eats
To help you plan, I’ve broken down the best restaurants near NYC landmarks by price per person (for a standard meal + tax/tip, excluding alcohol):
$ (Budget Friendly): Under $25. Think high-quality street food, iconic pizza slices, and fast-casual spots where you order at the counter.
$$ (Mid-Range): $25 – $60. Relaxed sit-down restaurants, classic NYC diners, and bistros—perfect for a comfortable break between sights.
$$$ (Splurge Worthy): $60+. Fine dining and “bucket list” experiences with a view. These usually require a reservation!
Central Park
Central Park is the sprawling green heart of Manhattan, covering over 843 acres—an area larger than some small countries. Because the park is so massive, the “best” place to eat isn’t just about the food; it’s about where you are. The smartest way to plan your day is to pick your dining spot based on your entry or exit point.
Central Park South (59th St / Columbus Circle)
$ Budget: The Halal Guys (53rd & 6th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 6-minute walk from the 59th St & 6th Ave park exit.
- The Vibe: The most famous food cart in the world. Expect a line, but it moves fast. It’s the ultimate 2026 “Cheap Eat” (around $17–$18 for a massive platter).
- Must-Try: The Combo Chicken & Gyro Platter—be careful with the red sauce; it’s famously spicy!
$$ Mid Range: Chalong Southern Thai (749 9th Ave between 50th and 51st Street)
- Distance: 📍 9-minute walk from Columbus Circle.
- The Vibe: Vibrant, high-energy, and authentic. This Hell’s Kitchen gem specializes in the spicy, bold flavors of Southern Thailand and is a 2026 favorite for foodies.
- Must-Try: The Crab Curry (Gaeng Pu) or the Garlic-Braised Ribs–they have tons of flavor!
- Read more about Chalong Southern Thai in my guide to the best sit-down dining near Times Square. While it’s technically in Hell’s Kitchen, it’s a perfect pre-show spot near the Theater District.
$$$ Splurge: Gabriel’s Bar & Restaurant (40 Central Park South)
- Distance: 📍 1-minute walk (directly across from the park).
- The Vibe: An elegant NYC staple for over 30 years. It’s sophisticated and upscale, often frequented by celebrities and power-lunchers.
- Must-Try: The Ravioli Zucca (Butternut squash ravioli with brown butter and sage) or the Barolo Braised Short Ribs —customers love both!
Upper West Side (Museum of Natural History / 70s–80s)
$ Budget: Senn Thai Comfort Food (452 Amsterdam Ave, between West 81st and 82nd Streets)
- Distance: 📍 8-minute walk from the 81st St (Museum of Natural History) park exit.
- The Vibe: A cozy, under-the-radar neighborhood favorite. It’s low-key, colorful, and perfect for warming up after a long walk through the park’s northern loops.
- Must-Try: The Kao Soi (Northern Thai curry noodle soup) or the Pad Korat — it’s a rustic, home-style version of Pad Thai that’s a 2026 favorite.
$$ Mid-Range: Cafe Fiorello (1900 Broadway in One Lincoln Plaza, first floor)
- Distance: 📍 8-minute walk from the West 66th St park entrance (near Sheep Meadow).
- The Vibe: An iconic Upper West Side institution located directly across from Lincoln Center. It features a famous hot-and-cold vegetable antipasto bar and great sidewalk seating for people-watching.
- Must-Try: The Open-Faced Meatball Lasagna or their Signature Thin-Crust Pizzas — don’t forget to check out the antipasto bar for the cauliflower Milanese!
$$$ Splurge: Jean-Georges (1 Central Park West between West 60th and 61st Streets)
- Distance: 📍 1-minute walk (Located at 1 Central Park West).
- The Vibe: One of the world’s most famous dining rooms. This Two-Michelin-star landmark offers floor-to-ceiling views of Central Park and a sophisticated “New French” experience that feels like a true NYC event.
- Must-Try: The Egg Caviar (an iconic signature) or the Yellowfin Tuna Ribbons — in 2026, the seasonal lunch tasting menu remains the best way to experience this splurge at a slightly lower price point.
Upper East Side (The Met / 80s)
$ Budget: 7th Street Burger Upper East Side (1603 2nd Ave between East 83rd and 84th Streets)
- Distance: 📍 8-minute walk from the 79th St (The Met) park exit.
- The Vibe: A viral NYC sensation known for doing one thing perfectly: the smashburger. It’s tiny, fast, and strictly no-frills. It is the ultimate 2026 “Cheap Eat” for a high-quality meal under $15.
- Must-Try: The Cheeseburger (double or single) with grilled onions and their signature house sauce — grab a bag to-go and head back into the park for a sunset picnic!
$$ Mid-Range: Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill (1611 2nd Ave between East 83rd and 84th Streets)
- Distance: 📍 10-minute walk from the 81st St or 79th St park exits.
- The Vibe: Trendy, beautifully decorated, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re craving spicy ramen, fresh sushi, or grilled robata skewers, Bua offers a lively atmosphere that feels much more expensive than the bill suggests.
- Must-Try: The Bua Signature Ramen or the Robata Grilled Skewers — the “Lover’s Moon” cocktail is also a 2026 local favorite if you’re stopping in for happy hour.
$$$ Splurge: Daniel (60 East 65th Street between Park Ave and Madison Ave)
- Distance: 📍 2-minute walk from the East 65th St park entrance.
- The Vibe: The pinnacle of European elegance. Chef Daniel Boulud’s flagship restaurant is a Two-Michelin-starred masterpiece. With its neoclassical architecture and world-class service, this is where you go for a “once-in-a-lifetime” New York dining event.
- Must-Try: The Duo of Beef or the Seasonal Tasting Menu — In 2026, their curated wine list remains one of the most celebrated in the country.
Empire State Building (Koreatown and NoMad)
Located in the heart of Midtown, the Empire State Building is steps away from “K-Town” (Koreatown), home to some of the best-value food in the city, as well as the trendy NoMad district for those looking for a sophisticated sit-down experience.
$ Budget: Woorijip (12 W 32nd Street between 5th and 6th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 3-minute walk from the Empire State Building.
- The Vibe: A legendary Korean “homestyle” grab-and-go spot. In 2026, it remains a lifesaver for tourists, offering a massive buffet of pre-packaged containers and a hot bar where you pay at the counter.
- Must-Try: The Beef Bulgogi Lunchbox or a selection of their Fresh Kimbap — at around $12–$15 for a full meal, it is easily the best bargain in Midtown.
$$ Mid-Range: Friedman’s (138 W 31st Street between 6th and 7th Ave, in 31 Penn Plaza)
- Distance: 📍 5-minute walk from the Empire State Building.
- The Vibe: A bustling, modern American eatery famous for its “naturally gluten-free” approach and hearty comfort food. It’s the perfect mid-day retreat for families or groups who want a reliable, high-quality sit-down lunch.
- Must-Try: The Fried Chicken & Cheddar Waffle (with hot honey) or the Pastrami Reuben — if you’re visiting for brunch, their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a 2026 standout.
$$$ Splurge: Scarpetta (88 Madison Ave between East 28th and 29th Street, in the Hotel Seville NoMad)
- Distance: 📍 6-minute walk from the Empire State Building.
- The Vibe: Sophisticated, soulful, and undeniably chic. Scarpetta is the gold standard for modern Italian dining in NYC. It’s a high-energy space that’s perfect for a celebratory dinner after seeing the city lights from the 86th floor.
- Must-Try: The Signature Spaghetti (with tomato and basil) — it sounds simple, but it is world-famous for a reason. In 2026, their Sunday Pasta Tasting Menu ($70 per person) is the best way to splurge without breaking the bank.
Times Square and Theater District
Times Square is the high-energy heart of NYC. While it’s easy to get caught in “tourist traps,” these three picks are favorites for locals and theater-goers alike, ranging from quick empanadas to world-class fine dining.
$ Budget: Empanada Mama (Times Square)
- Distance: 📍 3-minute walk from Times Square.
- The Vibe: High-energy, fast, and famously open 24/7. It is one of the most reliable budget spots in the city, perfect for a quick bite before a Broadway show or a late-night post-theater snack. Read more about Empanada Mama in my Best Cheap Eats in Times Square post.
- Must-Try: The Cheeseburger Empanada or the Shredded Chicken — at around $5 per empanada, two or three make a perfect, filling meal for under $15.
$$ Mid-Range: La Masseria NY (235 W 48th Street between West 48th and 49th Streets, in the Ritz Plaza)
- Distance: 📍 4-minute walk from Times Square.
- The Vibe: A classic, warm, and rustic Italian “farmhouse” in the middle of the city. It’s a top choice for a pre-theater sit-down dinner because the service is professional and accustomed to getting you to your curtain on time.
- Must-Try: The Orecchiette alla Barese (with broccoli rabe and sausage) or their Homemade Meatballs — the “Lunch Special” is also a great 2026 value if you’re exploring during the day.
$$$ Splurge: Le Bernardin (155 West 51st Street between 6th and 7th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 9-minute walk from Times Square.
- The Vibe: Pure, quiet luxury. Held by Chef Eric Ripert, this Three-Michelin-starred institution is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world. It’s a formal seafood temple that defines the “Elite NYC Splurge.”
- Must-Try: The Tuna (Layers of thinly pounded yellowfin tuna with foie gras) — if the main dining room’s $350 tasting menu is too much, the Lounge offers a more accessible way to experience the menu à la carte.
Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island
Before or after your ferry ride to Liberty Island, explore the historic streets of the Financial District. This area features everything from quick seafood rolls to some of the most spectacular “dinner with a view” spots in the entire city.
$ Budget: Pisillo Italian Panini (97 Nassau Street)
- Distance: 📍 15-minute walk from Battery Park.
- The Vibe: Authentic, small, and bustling Italian sandwich shop that sells arguably the largest sandwiches in Manhattan. One panini ($18–$22) is genuinely enough to feed two people. They use imported Italian meats and bread delivered daily from a bakery in Brooklyn.
- Must-Try: The Pisillo (Prosciutto di Parma, Porchetta, Mozzarella).
- 2026 Pro Tip: It is strictly cash-only. There is an ATM inside, but avoid the fees by bringing cash before you arrive.
$$ Mid-Range: Kesté Pizza e Vino (77 Fulton Street)
- Distance: 📍 9-minute walk from Battery Park.
- The Vibe: Authentic, award-winning Neapolitan pizza in a warm, rustic setting. The owner is a world-renowned pizza maestro, and in 2026, it remains a top pick for families and foodies who want an incredible sit-down meal that won’t break the bank.+1
- Must-Try: The Kesté Pizza (with tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, and prosciutto) or their Gluten-Free Margherita — widely considered the best gluten-free pizza in NYC.
$$$ Splurge: Manhatta (60th floor of 28 Liberty Street)
- Distance: 📍 8-minute walk from Battery Park.
- The Vibe: Breathtaking luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows. Perched 60 stories up, Manhatta offers a 360-degree view of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty herself. Thanks to the 2026 28 Liberty Street renovations, you also have a perfect bird’s-eye view of the newly completed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church at the World Trade Center site, a stunning white structure that glows at night. It’s a sophisticated, high-energy dining room that feels like the ultimate “New York” celebration.
- Must-Try: The Pithivier Terre et Mer (an architectural pastry filled with pork and eel) or the Dry Aged Burger at the bar — the views are free, but the tasting menu is a 2026 must-do for special occasions.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
After spending a few hours wandering through thousands of years of art history, you’ll likely need a serious refuel. These spots are ideally located for those exiting the museum on the Upper East Side.
$ Budget: Emmy Squared Pizza Upper East Side (1426 3rd Ave between 80th and 81st Street)
- Distance: 📍 9-minute walk from the main entrance of The Met.
- The Vibe: Famous for its Detroit-style square pies; trendy and casual with a lively neighborhood feel; it’s a great spot for a relaxed, high-quality meal that feels more like a treat than “budget” food.
- Must-Try: The Colony2 (pepperoni, pickled jalapeños, and honey) or their famous Le Big Matt Burger–consistently ranked among the city’s best.
$$ Mid-Range: Up Thai (1411 2nd Ave between 73rd and 74th Streets)
- Distance: 📍 12-minute walk from The Met.
- The Vibe: Stylish and upscale Thai street food served in a dimly lit, beautifully designed space—perfect for dates or a refined group dinner.
- Must-Try: The Duck Tamarind or the Crispy Pork Belly with Chinese Broccoli—both are celebrated for their authentic, bold flavors.
$$$ Splurge: Café Sarbasky (1048 5th Ave between East 85th and 86th Street)
- Distance: 📍 3-minute walk from The Met (just two blocks North).
- The Vibe: Formal, historic, and incredibly elegant; it’s widely considered one of the most beautiful dining rooms in New York City.
- Must-Try: The Sachertorte (classic Viennese dark chocolate cake) paired with a traditional Wiener Melange coffee–it’s the ultimate high-end afternoon break.
If you’re following my 5-day New York City itinerary, these Upper East Side spots are the perfect way to refuel after your morning at The Met.
Museum of Modern Art
MoMA is situated in a high-density area of Midtown. These three picks avoid the typical tourist traps, offering authentic ramen, regional Thai, and coastal Italian dining just steps from the galleries.
$ Budget: Kin Ramen (129 West 56th Street between 6th and 7th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 4-minute walk from MoMA.
- The Vibe: A tiny, atmospheric “hidden gem” that feels like a portal to Tokyo. It’s dark, cozy, and perfect for solo travelers or pairs who want a quick, soul-warming bowl of ramen in a bustling part of Midtown.
- Must-Try: The Signature Tonkotsu Ramen — the broth is famously creamy (collagen-rich), and they make their own spicy oil if you want an extra kick.
$$ Mid-Range: Mitr Thai (37 West 46th Street between 5th and 6th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 7-minute walk from MoMA.
- The Vibe: Vibrant, stylish, and high-energy. Unlike standard Thai spots, Mitr focuses on regional dishes from all over Thailand. It’s a great sit-down option that feels upscale but keeps the prices reasonable for the quality.
- Must-Try: The Kao Soy Gai (Northern Thai curry noodles with a chicken drumstick) or the Crab Fried Rice — it’s packed with actual lump crabmeat, not just flavorings.
$$$ Splurge: Osteria La Baia (129 West 52nd Street between 6th and 7th Ave)
- Distance: 📍 2-minute walk from MoMA.
- The Vibe: Sleek and nautical-inspired, designed to feel like you’re dining on a luxury yacht in the Mediterranean. It’s sophisticated and “swanky” without being stuffy—perfect for a post-museum celebratory dinner.
- Must-Try: The Cacio e Pepe with Truffles or the Mediterranean Branzino — readers also rave about their Lasagna, which features incredibly light, thin noodles.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is one of the busiest spots in Midtown. To avoid the standard tourist traps, these three picks offer high-quality dining at three distinct price points, all located just steps from the skating rink and the NBC Studios.
$ Budget: FIELDTRIP (30 Rockefeller Plaza Concourse Level–Floor 1)
- Distance: 📍 In Rockefeller Center.
- The Vibe: Modern, fast-casual, and vibrant; it’s perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch during a day of sightseeing.
- Must-Try: The Seafood Gumbo or the Crispy Chicken Bowl (served with Carolina Gold rice) — also, don’t skip the hibiscus tea!
$$$ Mid-Range: La Grande Boucherie (145 West 53rd Street between 6th and 7th Ave)
- Distance: 📍5-minute walk from Rockefeller Center.
- The Vibe: Art Nouveau elegance on a grand scale; it’s bustling, sophisticated, and arguably one of the most beautiful dining spaces in the city.
- Must-Try: The Steak Frites or the French Onion Soup — the massive bar is also famous for its classic French cocktails like the French 75.
$$$ Splurge: Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (1221 6th Ave between 48th and 49th Street)
- Distance: 📍 2-minute walk from Rockefeller Center
- The Vibe: Bold, opulent, and classic; expect white-tablecloth service and a high-octane atmosphere frequented by the city’s business elite.
- Must-Try: The 45-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye or the Butter Cake for dessert. Also, keep in mind— their wine list is legendary and features over 1,200 selections.
Conclusions
In a city as big and culturally diverse as New York, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to eat after visiting the city’s famous attractions. Hopefully, this list of restaurants near NYC landmarks has made your decision easier, with options that cater to every budget and palate.
Pro Tip for 2026: To avoid the massive post-sightseeing crowds, try the ‘Early Dining’ trend—many spots now open for dinner as early as 3:00pm or 4:00pm, which is the perfect way to snag a table without a reservation. Also, keep an eye out for the “2026 Dining Out NYC’ roadway cafes that are returning this spring, offering some of the best people-watching in the world. Now go out and explore—and enjoy a fantastic meal to cap off your New York City adventure!
