Choosing a favorite restaurant in New York City is a joyful task with many possibilities depending on the event, mood, and even the time of year. Your favorite dive spot, fine dining, and “any night” establishments may all be at the top of your personal best list, despite their different qualities.
Kochi
What is it. A nine-course barbecue tasting by Chef Sungchul Shim for $135, inspired by the cuisine of the Korean royal court. A sola combination is also available for USD 105. Kochi first opened in 2019 and was subsequently awarded a Michelin star. At the end of 2021, Shim achieved success with the five-star restaurant Mari, which also garnered a sparkler in 2022.
The crown is shy
What is it? This opening in 2019 was the first independent initiative of James Kent, who was the longtime chef at the Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. Crown Shy still serves up great food and beautiful cocktails in an elegant setting that is equal parts special event venue and nicer-than-usual evening whim. Its upstairs neighbor Overstory is also sensational for drinks with a view in the afternoon.
Dhamaka
What it is. Stunningly the best new restaurant of 2021 in New York City with dishes rarely seen on local menus.
Why we love it. The irrepressible team at Unapologetic Foods is focusing on what they call “the forgotten side of India,” including gurda kapoor (goat kidneys, testicles, red onions, and pao), doh khle (pork with lime, cilantro, onions, and ginger), and champaran meat (lamb, garlic, red chili). The group continues to open new locations after Dhamaka, including Rowdy Rooster, which serves the best fried chicken sandwiches in New York City.
Gage & Tollner
What is it. Gage & Tollner used to be one of Brooklyn’s most colorful restaurants, until its gilded space closed in 2004 after more than a century. A trio of Brooklyn hospitality professionals set to work to revive the bakery a decade later, and after a pause in 2020, Gage & Tollner is finally open for business again.
Rezdôra
What is it. After visiting the Osteria Francescana restaurant in Modena, Italy, which was recognized as the best restaurant in the world in 2018, Chef Stefano Secchi opened one of the best restaurants in New York the following year.
Dinner at Rezdôra looks like a new culinary experience, even for people who grew up on pasta nights. Individual plates are available, but the $98 regional pasta tasting is a fascinating tour of the best restaurant. Booking the best time is still difficult, but you should be able to easily walk in for lunch on weekdays.