With over 25,000 dining spots in the city, it’s no wonder visitors have a difficult time deciding on just the right mealtime venue. With a variety of ethnic cuisines and celebrity chef restaurants dotted around Manhattan, how do you best ensure you get the most memorable dining experiences in New York?
Here are five dining venues that offer something a bit more interesting than a well-cooked filet. If you’re on the hunt for a top romantic setting or a historic tavern where George Washington frequented, then be sure to add these dining establishments to your itinerary.
321 W 46th Street• New York, New York
Dine at a location that was instrumental in shaping the Italian American history of New York City; Barbetta is New York’s oldest Italian restaurant. It is still owned and operated by the original family that founded this Piemonte, Italy-inspired venue in 1906. Barbetta played a major role in the Italian dining experience as we know it today.
Prior to Barbetta’s, Italian cuisine was erroneously only considered a casual no-frills dining option but Barbetta was the first restaurant to bring elegant dining to the Italian restaurant sector.
Patrons can feast amidst fountain sculptures and fragrant magnolia trees in an outdoor garden that’s so peaceful you’ll forget you’re in the heart of New York City. Inside, guests will dine amidst European antiques giving it an authentic old world feel. Barbetta offers an extensive wine list with many rare vintages. Located on New York City’s Restaurant Row in Times Square, Barbetta one of the best dining experiences in New York, and its location makes it ideal for theatergoers to enjoy an elegant Italian dinner where it all began.
17 Barrow Street•New York, New York
Any couple celebrating an anniversary, asking for a hand in marriage, or just seeking a romantic venue, need to book a cozy table for two at the historic location of One If By Land, Two If By Sea. With its crackling fire, flickering candlelight, and soft piano music it’s no wonder this landmark restaurant has witnessed more wedding proposals than any other restaurant in New York City.
The building dates back to 1767 and was originally a carriage house with ties to Aaron Burr. Burr housed his coach and horses at this location during the 1790’s. Today guests will dine on fine American cuisine with a variety of expertly prepared dishes.
54 Pearl Street•New York, New York
Known as the oldest bar/restaurant in New York City, patrons can enjoy many of the same menu items offered during the time George Washington and his men frequented the tavern. Guests will find traditional dishes like Chicken Pot Pie on the menu that date back to early American times. In addition, a variety of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, and pasta dishes are served today. Guests will dine within the warm oak paneled walls that give off an authentic historic feel in an establishment dating back to 1762.
1535 Broadway Avenue•New York, New York
Looking to catch some of the best Manhattan views? Located on the 48th floor on the Marriott Marquis, this Times Square located eatery hosts the city’s only revolving rooftop restaurant. It offers a variety of freshly prepared and elegantly presented meats and seafood dishes. Dining at The View makes for a memorable experience for any NYC visitor. Guest can take in all of the surrounding attractions as this venue rotates on a 360° turn every hour.
Chelsea Pier
Relish in the majestic Manhattan skyline while cruising along the river as you dine on a selection of decadent dishes. Bateaux Dinner Cruise leaves from Chelsea Pier for a 3-hour cruise of spectacular panoramic views of the city. Guests are treated to a 3-course dinner offering seafood, steaks, and chicken options. Cruises run year round as the dining area is climate controlled. An onboard cash bar is available to patrons.
For more food tours of New York, check out Nice Guy, who offer walking tours that also incorporates street food.
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