Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. New York City

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lower East Side

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

134 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ABC Kitchen restaurant
1. ABC Kitchen
4.4
Awesome(6520)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Gramercy Park
Booked 72 times today
ABC Kitchen in Gramercy Park, New York, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its unwavering commitment to organic, local, and sustainable ingredients. Helmed by the celebrated Chef Jean-Georges, the restaurant serves dishes that are a testament to the purity and authenticity of American cooking. Diners rave about the "innovative dishes especially the sashimi appetizer" and the "excellent service," highlighting the restaurant's ability to transform simple, wholesome ingredients into extraordinary culinary creations. The use of ingredients like pasture-fed meats, locally sourced fish, and herbs from their rooftop garden ensures each dish bursts with freshness and flavor. The dining space, crafted from reclaimed materials, complements the menu's ethos, creating a truly "beautiful, creative" dining experience. As one reviewer perfectly summed it up, ABC Kitchen offers an "excellent and memorable meal" making it a must-visit for those seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining.
A photo of Tavern on the Green restaurant
2. Tavern on the Green
4.7
Exceptional(18709)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 138 times today
Tavern on the Green, located in the enchanting setting of Midtown West, New York, is not just a restaurant; it's an iconic American dining experience. Nestled in Central Park, this gem offers a magical ambiance and a menu that captures the essence of American cuisine with impeccable flair. Guests often describe their visits as "amazing" and praise the "delicious" American classics like the filet mignon salad and the French onion soup, each prepared with a unique twist that elevates the familiar to the extraordinary. One diner raved, "The food, ambience, service…all of it was 5 star," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether it's a sunny brunch or a special dinner, Tavern on the Green consistently delivers an unforgettable American dining experience that makes every visit memorable.
A photo of The Musket Room restaurant
3. The Musket Room
4.6
Exceptional(854)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • NoLita
Booked 17 times today
The Musket Room, nestled in the vibrant NoLita neighborhood of New York, is a beacon of American cuisine that truly stands out. Since its opening in 2013, this Michelin-starred gem has delighted diners with its inventive dishes and exceptional service. Chef Mary Attea masterfully blends her heritage with global influences, creating a menu that's both adventurous and deeply satisfying. Reviewers rave about the "outstanding" omnivore and vegan tasting menus, highlighting the "beautiful presentations" and "vivid flavors" that make every dish a work of art. Whether it's the "sweetbread that was well cooked" or the "beef tartare that was excellent," each element showcases the meticulous attention to detail expected of a top-tier dining experience. The Musket Room is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that leaves guests planning their next visit.
A photo of Bar Contra restaurant
4. Bar Contra
4.6
Exceptional(255)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lower East Side
Booked 24 times today
A New York cocktail bar founded by Dave Arnold, Fabian von Hauske & Jeremiah Stone. We specialize in delicious drinks and tasty food. Your reservation will grant you 90 minutes in one of our tables.
A photo of BG - Bergdorf Goodman restaurant
5. BG - Bergdorf Goodman
4.8
Exceptional(4635)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 75 times today
At BG - Bergdorf Goodman, nestled in the heart of Midtown West, New York, American cuisine is elevated to an art form, offering a unique blend of classic flavors and modern flair. Patrons are consistently captivated by the "sophisticated and lovely" ambiance, where each dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of New York. From the "excellent duck dumplings" to the "best dressing in town," BG’s menu reflects a modern take on beloved American staples, all while diners enjoy stunning views of Central Park. Accolades from guests like "Always a beautiful, special lunch spot" and "Perfect meetup spot" underscore the exceptional dining experience. BG’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking the quintessence of American dining in NYC.
A photo of The Restaurant at Great Jones Distilling Co restaurant
6. The Restaurant at Great Jones Distilling Co
4.7
Exceptional(460)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • NoHo
Booked 21 times today
The Restaurant at Great Jones Distilling Co., nestled in the vibrant NoHo neighborhood of New York, offers an unparalleled distillery dining experience that epitomizes both quality and authenticity. Guests frequently rave about the exceptional whiskey and bourbon, highlighting the Applewood Smoked Old Fashioned as “on another level!” The restaurant's commitment to excellence is further showcased during their tours, where guides like Woody and Jonathan dazzle with their deep knowledge and passion, making the distillery practice come alive. Reviewers consistently praise the ambiance and the expertly crafted bourbon cocktails, ensuring a memorable experience that brilliantly merges historical allure with modern culinary excellence.
A photo of Butter Midtown restaurant
7. Butter Midtown
4.5
Awesome(5857)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 39 times today
Butter Midtown, nestled in the vibrant heart of Midtown West, New York, is a gem for Contemporary American cuisine. Executive Chef Alex Guarnaschelli crafts traditional American dishes with global inflections and a strong seasonal focus, bringing a unique flair to each plate. Reviewers rave about the restaurant, noting that "The entrees were 2 of the best we’ve ever eaten" and praising the "otherworldly good" Dark Chocolate Pudding. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "awesome," making Butter not just a meal, but an experience. A highlight is their attentive service, with one patron sharing, "We were taken care of like family!" Butter Midtown is consistently celebrated for its exquisite culinary offerings and exceptional dining environment.
A photo of L'Adresse - Bryant Park restaurant
8. L'Adresse - Bryant Park
4.5
Awesome(1864)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 83 times today
L'Adresse in Midtown West, New York, is a culinary gem that skillfully blends international flavors, drawing on Contemporary American cuisine with French and Asian influences. Located across the scenic Bryant Park, this restaurant is praised for its innovative dishes and exceptional service. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and ambiance," with specialties like the "delicious brick chicken and fresh oysters" receiving glowing reviews. The atmosphere is described as "stylish and elevated," making it perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to business meals. Whether it's the "fluffy, flavorful matcha pancakes" or the "top tier steak and drinks," L'Adresse consistently impresses, making it a must-visit for an authentic and exquisite international dining experience.
A photo of STK - Rooftop restaurant
9. STK - Rooftop
4.1
Excellent(3183)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Meatpacking District
Booked 22 times today
STK - Rooftop in New York's trendy Meatpacking District isn't just a restaurant; it's a premier steakhouse experience where every detail adds to an unforgettable dining sensation. Renowned for its "not your daddy’s steakhouse" vibe, STK blends the top-tier quality of classic steakhouses with a pulsating, chic atmosphere. Patrons rave about the high-quality, delicious steaks, with one guest noting the steak is "incredibly delicious" and highly recommending the place. The menu, infused with local flair, includes meticulously sourced beef, ensuring a meal that is as responsible as it is scrumptious. From the stunning rooftop views to the vibrant ambiance created by an in-house DJ, STK - Rooftop makes every visit spectacular, promising more than just a meal but a dynamic culinary event.
A photo of Pineapple Club restaurant
10. Pineapple Club
4.4
Awesome(589)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • East Village
Booked 7 times today
Step into the Pineapple Club in the East Village, New York, and experience a Speakeasy like no other. Celebrated for its #1 Espresso Martini in NYC for two consecutive years, this venue captivates with its tropical paradise vibes and expertly crafted contemporary tiki cocktails by the renowned mixologist Nazar Hrab. Patrons rave about the "divine drinks" and the "phenomenal Fight Club cocktail," highlighting the creativity and quality that Pineapple Club consistently delivers. The ambiance, adorned with lush tropical decor and pink couches, offers an exhilarating and authentic Speakeasy experience. Whether it's for a vibrant Y2K brunch or a classy night out, Pineapple Club is the go-to spot for delightful cocktails and an unforgettable atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Lower East Side

Discover the vibrant and diverse dining scene in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, a hotspot for contemporary American cuisine. This neighborhood offers an array of restaurants that masterfully blend modern culinary techniques with traditional American flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Each venue captures the essence of contemporary American dining, offering everything from innovative tasting menus to expertly curated wine lists that enhance the dining experience. Many restaurants in this area are noted for their inviting atmospheres, ranging from cozy, intimate settings to lively, multi-level dining spaces. Patrons frequently compliment the creativity and quality of the dishes served, highlighting the use of fresh, local ingredients and the chefs' ability to present familiar foods in new and exciting ways. The Lower East Side proves to be a dynamic culinary destination where each restaurant strives to deliver not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the contemporary American restaurants in this part of New York City promises an enjoyable and satisfying culinary adventure.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Restaurant Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo