Please note: This post contains affiliate links. You can learn more about my product selection process here.
Earlier this month, after a long break from traveling, I found myself in the Big Apple—New York, New York. While I was there for business to attend a work conference, I had a few free evenings, so naturally, I did my due diligence on where to eat in New York.
I didn’t waste any time looking at any menus, chefs or actual food, mind you. No, I selected my dining experiences the same way I picked out my leopard adidas x Wales Bonner sneakers (coming to my feed soon): a.k.a. entirely based on aesthetic.
Basically, if it had greenery, eye-catching wallpaper or an Instagram-worthy feature (like, say, a rotating carousel adorned with oversized flowers), I RSVP-ed “yes.”
Though the highlight of the trip was a visit to the aptly named Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge in the Moxie Hotel, there was plenty of charm leading up to its splendor in the form of champagne flights, drool-worthy dessert and what is arguably some of the best décor in the whole of NYC.
Bear in mind: I make no claims to be a local expert. I live near Tampa, so if you’re a native New Yorker and you’re offended that your favorite local haunt isn’t on this list, you can scroll right on by: This post probably isn’t for you. I’m sure I missed about a gajillion other incredibly amazing spots—it is New York after all. These picks are simply ones I’ve personally visited and enjoyed.
Whether you’ve got a trip to the city planned and you’re looking for something out of the ordinary or you already live there, but need a spot that’s guaranteed to impress your next guest, this is where to eat in New York when you’re seeking something more.
1. The Whitby Bar & Hotel
Best for Coffee
If it’s a good cup of java you’re after, skip the Starbucks. Not only will the line be atrocious (savvy New Yorkers will have already ordered online, leaving you waiting like a dope), you’ll be robbing yourself of an absolutely amazing latte—not to mention some truly stunning décor—at The Whitby Bar & Restaurant in Midtown. Nestled inside The Whitby Hotel, its interior design comes courtesy of one and only Londoner Kit Kemp, whose work is practically synonymous with whimsy. Seriously, the whole hotel is a dream (I was lucky enough to experience a stay in 2023), but even if you aren’t checking into one of the building’s jaw-dropping suites, at least take some time out to enjoy its expertly crafted java.
2. Champers Social Club
Best for Solo Dining
Most of the time, I’m traveling for work, which means that I’m flying solo. And picking a spot for dinner where one can comfortably eat without feeling awkward can be tricky—we all saw that And Just Like That finale! Champer’s Solo Club was perfect, since it allowed for last-minute reservations for one, had a cozy little table that was just the right size for a solo diner and a fast, friendly waitress who helped me pick a champagne flight and a particularly delicious plate of risotto. The dishes are a little frou frou (duck confit and lobster rolls are also on the menu), and I can’t say how much busier it would’ve been on a weekday versus a Sunday, but I was perfectly comfortable reading my book from my window seat in between bites.
3. Bar Sprezzatura
Best Dessert
I ate here several times on my trip (it was in my hotel, after all), and while I wasn’t particularly impressed with the drinks (the first cocktail I had had more sugar than alcohol, and I was told Bloody Marys were unavailable at 11 a.m., at which time they apparently only serve single-flavor mimosas), the atmosphere was quite lovely, with greenery strewn overhead and welcoming jewel-toned furniture. Head up before 11 p.m. and you’ll also be privy to a view of the skyline from the restaurant’s open-air balcony. My favorite thing about this place, however, was the Budino di Riso Vialone Nano, which I was told translates to “rice pudding.” Having never had have had rice pudding before, I gave it a go, and it just might be my new favorite dessert. Maybe it was the spice of the olive oil (don’t even get me started on my love for the stuff), or maybe it was the juxtaposition of the chewy rice with the soft, creamy pudding, but trust—it’s an absolute dream.
4. Oscar Wilde Restaurant & Bar
Most Whimsical
The Oscar Wilde bar in NoMad is always rather charming—think, “fancy library”—but I had the privilege of visiting it during its Alice in Wonderland-themed pop-up, which is set up in such a way that you’ll truly feel as though you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole. The massive statues found inside of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum make it clear you’ve been transported into the inner workings of Lewis Carroll’s mind, while decks of playing cards, white rabbits in sports coats and vibrant flowers hanging from the ceiling add to the ambience. There’s also a (very cool) moving flower exhibit behind the bar. Sadly, the restaurant is bidding adieu to its storybook theme as of Labor Day, this time for good. I’m skeptical that anything will match it, but curious enough to want to check out what they might do with the place the next time I’m in town.
5. Magic Hour Full Bloom Restaurant & Bar
Most Instagram-Worthy
Not for our pièce de resistance: the Magic Hour’s Full Bloom summer floral bar pop-up, which is currently open through September. I was immediately enchanted by this brightly colored, garden-themed space when it popped up on my Tiktok feed, and it totally lived up to the hype. Walking in, you’re greeted by a cacophony of color courtesy of the giant faux floral arrangements that have been installed in seemingly every possible nook and cranny of the dreamscape-like space. They’re lining the wall. They’re hanging from the trestles. They’re nestled in the seating. More importantly, however, they’re adorning every square inch of the rotating carousel (!!) that’s situated at the bar’s center with built-in benches for a truly picturesque scene. Unlike say, Chicago, where this place would’ve been packed to the gills with bodies, this airy setting was busy but open, with plenty of space to take your best snaps. (I’ve been told that this was due in large part to the fact that the pop-up had already been open for several weeks at the time of my visit.) I’m also still dreaming about the Lavender Haze cocktail I had there, complete with a Filthy Black Cherry garnish that was worth writing home about.
What’s your favorite place to eat in NYC? Let me know in the comments below!
Xo, Nicole
