The Best Bars for Foodies in New York

by The OpenTable Team

Updated 15 December 2023

New York City is known as the city that never sleeps, and for good reason: there's always something going on. The city is home to some of the most unique nightlife in the world, and the best bars in NYC range from local dives to high-end restaurants, to everything in between. But where are the smartest, savviest diners eating out? Welcome to our Tastemaker List. We’ve pulled data from thousands of restaurants to find the top spots among OpenTable's most expert, seasoned diners. You’ll find everything from neighborhood gems to rooftop views, classic hotel spots to white-tableclothed steakhouses—all vetted by the types of tastemakers who know the best spots around the city. Impress your friends and family and score a spot; we wish we could join you.

Temple Court

4.8

4.8 (1369)

$50 and over

American

Financial District

About the restaurant

Curated by Tom Colicchio and located in the landmark Beekman Hotel, Temple Court makes our list of the best bars in NYC because of its sensational design and its unparalleled commitment to unique offerings with both its food and its spirits. In addition to beer and wine, Temple Court offers a variety of ciders and spirits.

Top review

Phoebe

Dined on 29 Nov 2024

The overall experience at Temple Court is exceptional. Surprisingly, the prices are more reasonable than those of most high-end restaurants in NYC, despite being a luxury dining space within a hotel. The romantic atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for couples or anyone seeking a pleasant and peaceful setting for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The servers and hosts are attentive and detail-oriented, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Temple Court is a solid 10/10 in every aspect.

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Experience

Christmas Eve

Experience

Cocktails & Family-Style Dining Experience

Experience

Large Party Plated Experience

Dirty French NYC

4.4

4.4 (1351)

$50 and over

French

Lower East Side

About the restaurant

Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi and Jeff Zalaznick have curated this restaurant, located in the legendary Ludlow Hotel on the Lower East Side, and created a one-of-a-kind dining experience for locals and tourists alike. Within the Dirty French lies the Lobby Bar, curated by Thomas Waugh, famous for his work with the Major Food Group.

Top review

mitchellVIP

Dined 5 days ago

I return often. Everything is very nice. Highly recommend.

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Experience

Christmas at Dirty French

Locanda Verde Tribeca

4.5

4.5 (2526)

$31 to $50

Italian

TriBeCa

About the restaurant

This TriBeCa hotspot offers modern Italian cuisine and a matching modern Italian wine list. It's one of the pricier bars on this list, however, and getting a reservation is extremely difficult. However, if you're lucky enough to get in here, it's well worth the money spent.

Top review

Michael

Dined 4 days ago

The service was above and beyond my expectations. Two thumbs up and 5 Stars.

The Lobster Club

4.8

4.8 (359)

$50 and over

Japanese

Midtown East

About the restaurant

For a different type of Upper East Side bar, check out The Lobster Club, which is located on East 53rd Street. Offering high-end Japanese fare, including sushi and teppanyaki dishes, The Lobster Club offers a wide selection of sake, Japanese beer, and light wines to complement the Asian fare.

Top review

Latifah

Dined on 3 Dec 2024

My partner and I had an amazing time at The Lobster Club. Everything from the food to the customer service was outstanding. I look forward to returning !

Masseria dei Vini

4.8

4.8 (3012)

$31 to $50

Italian

Midtown West

About the restaurant

Unlike many Italian restaurants that specialize in pan-Italian fare suited for the American palate, Masseria dei Vini near Columbus Circle boasts strictly Puglian fare and exclusive Italian wines suited for a more refined palate.

Top review

Gerald

Dined on 27 Nov 2024

My go to Italian restaurant!!! The managers and staff are all wonderful… attentive, professional and friendly! Food is always well prepared and plated beautifully… and they provide an interesting wine list.. Great place for an intimate dinner or family gathering!

Boucherie - Union Square

4.6

4.6 (2578)

$31 to $50

French

Gramercy Park

About the restaurant

Located in the heart of the West Village, Boucherie prides itself on having patrons experience authentic French culture and cuisine. As a result, the bar features absinthe and various mixed drinks with absinthe as the main ingredient. If you're looking for one of the best bars in NYC for absinthe, you've come to the right place.

Top review

wallace

Dined 6 days ago

Great atmosphere. It took a while to get our orders in because of the popularity of this establishment during this time of year but the food was great as always.

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FILET MIGNON AU POIVRE

The Clocktower

$50 and over

English

Gramercy Park

About the restaurant

Centrally located near Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building, The Clocktower is curated by master Chef Jason Atherton and located in the New York EDITION building. In addition to offering cleverly-named signature drinks (The French Connection and All Along The Clocktower, to wit), it boasts a wine list that is more than 30 pages long!

Top review

KevinK

Dined on 26 May 2023

The service and food were amazing. Everything was on-point from the moment we arrived to when we left. The beef Wellington and salmon stake were perfect. The only suggest I have is to turn down the music a tad as I couldn't hear half of what my wife was saying. Otherwise, the ambiance and decor were great as well. The bread served at the beginning of the meal was so flavorful and delicious.

Upland

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Gramercy Park

About the restaurant

This is perhaps the only bar on this list that's based in New York City but prides itself on its California influences. Changing its menu with the seasons, Upland is located near Madison Square Park and boasts a robust wine and spirits list alongside its full bar.

Top review

SusanF

Dined on 16 Nov 2019

We totally enjoyed our dinner at Upland. The entire evening was perfect. The food was outstanding. My husband never likes the menu when we go out and he loved everything we ordered. We shared a salad, pizza, pasta and chicken. Our waiter, Sam, was fabulous and the manger, Jennifer, came over and she was delightful. thank you for a wonderful evening. Susan & Alan Fishman

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