10 Essential Restaurants in New York

When we were in New York last year the food and cocktails were a definite highlight. I’m a big believer in happy hour hopping on trips to try as many places as possible, and I’m honestly amazed at how many places we were able to try. These are my top 5 restaurants we visited, so you can stop by your next visit to the city.

+ The Four Horsemen: A great Brooklyn spot with amazing wines and the yummiest small plates. I’m still dreaming about their food!

+ La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels: My favorite wine spot! They have small bites, delish wine, and happy hour. Be sure to make a reservation if you go.

+ While We We’re Young Kitchen & Cocktails: This tiny little spot packs a punch with yummy cocktails and food. I still can’t get over this adorable interior!

+ Sunday in Brooklyn: We came here for dinner after walking around the Brooklyn Bridge, and were pleasantly surprised with fun drinks–I got one in a banana, Joe’s came in a honey bear bottle! We got a big spread of food, and everything was so good. Word on the street is this place has an amazing brunch too.

+ Jacks Wife Freda: We got brunch here on the last day of our trip, and it was the perfect ending to the visit.

+ Gertie: When we came this place had just opened, and it was such a nice surprise. Great drinks, great food, and the cutest interior I ever did see.

+ Gitano Jungle Room: When we went to Tulum I fell in love with Gitano, so when I found out they had one in NY I had to visit. It’s like a slice of paradise in the city with amazing cocktails and food to boot.

+ Maman: A must-visit brunch spot–all of the basics done well. It has the cutest rustic interior! There are a few locations too.

+ The Butchers Daughter: Another great brunch spot! I’ve been to the one in LA, so of course we had to stop by here too. The interior is serious goals too.

+ Torst: An unexpected gem! We were in the mood for a quick happy hour after walking around all day and this was right on our way back to the hotel. We stopped by for happy hour–the drinks on tap were great, and we grabbed some food that we wanted more of even though we had dinner reservations later. So good!

Want more NY deets? See my New York Travel Diary here.