See below for a list of my highly-recommended restaurants. Comment below and share your favourite restaurant of 2013!

Name Type Phone# Address Comments
Acappella Italian (212) 240-0163 1 Hudson St-TRIBECA Expensive but totally worth it. Make you feel like family. Start with drinks at the bar, they’ll serve you fresh mozarella, and antipasti. You start with lots of meats, cheeses, etc then move onto a sampling of their home made pasta. Finally (if you have room) you order your main dish. I got the branzino which just melted in your mouth. They finish you off with amazing desserts and complimentary fig grappa- home made and super strong.
Antique Garage Mediterranean, Turkish (212) 219- 1019 41 Mercer St-SOHO Came here for brunch with friends. Really cute live band was playing jazz. Nice when the weathers warm as they open up the glass sliding doors to the outside. Really good hummus, salads, tapas, etc. The haloumi cheese salad is really tasty. A bit over priced but then again so are a lot of places in soho. Takes reservations (however I’ve never needed them).
Artichoke Pizza Pizza (212) 228- 2004 328 E 14th St(however there are multiplelocations)-EAST VILLAGE No pizza will ever taste as good. It’s literally the best thing you will ever have in your life. Some hate it as the creamy/cheesy mix is too much for them to handle. However the majority become highly addicted. They also have crab, margarita, and sicilian. Def try the artichoke though as you won’t be disappointed –> cheesy, salty in a good way, creamy, perfectly crusted slice of heaven.
Beyond
Sushi		 Vegetarian, Sushi Bar, Vegan (646) 861-2889 229 E 14th St-GRAMERCY Healthy vegan sushi rolls that are appetizing for those who aren’t even vegan. Small joint, nothing fancy only 10 seats max. Best for take out. I like ‘la fiesta’ which is black rice, avocado, pickled jalapeno, chayote, and cilantro.
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop Ice Cream, Desserts (212) 533-9333 125 East 7th St-EAST VILLAGE Quite possibly the best ice cream cone you will ever have. When you take your first bite, you’ll be in disbelief at how good it takes. I’ve only tried the ‘salty pimp’ but the other flavours look amazing as well. This one had caramel and seat salt on the inside of the cone which was filled with vanilla ice cream. Then they shot squirts of caramel into the ice cream, sprinkled sea salt on top and dipped it in chocolate. AMAZING. They have a truck as well in the summer.
Bread Italian, Sandwiches (212) 334- 1015 20 Spring St-NOLITA Two words: Quinoa Salad. Really delicious! The tomato soup is amazing good as well. Trendy spot with lots of yummy smelling candles and comfy pillows. Very warm interior. Casual spot for a tasty bite and good drink list.
Cafe Mogador Moroccan (212) 677-2226 101 St Marks Pl-EAST VILLAGE Takes Reservations, good for dinner, however they are known for their brunch. Amazing apps, flavourful meat dishes, and great salads. I always get the organic greens and add avocado and chicken to it. Seriously amazing. Always very busy but have never had to wait for a table. Small outdoor patio as well.
Cafe Orlin Middle Eastern/Brunch (212) 777-1447 41 St. Marks Pl-EAST VILLAGE Really good side dishes. Tried the broccoli w/ mushrooms which was very flavorful. Nice little patio and friendly staff. Free bread baskets. Didn’t get a chance see the inside. Similar to Cafe Mogador (I believe it’s owned by the same people, so you get a lot of the same middle eastern flavours).
Crif Dogs Hot Dogs, American (new) (212) 614- 2728 113 St Marks Pl-EAST VILLAGE Awesome dogs featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show. Cool little east village gem with an extensivemenu choice of mouthwatering hot dogs. The chihuahua dog (bacon wrapped dog covered w/ avocadoes, sour cream and salsa) was to die for. Get a couple, one is not enough. Perfect drunk food.
Death & Co Bars (212) 388- 0882 433 E 6th St-EAST VILLAGE -Hidden speakeasy in the east village. Go early,put your name and number down and have adrink somewhere else for the wait-they’ll call you when they have a table ready. Small, dark, quiet and intimate with an extensive drink list that won’t disappoint. Drinks are around 14$ but they are interesting mixes that are amazingly strong and worth the price.
Dojo Restaurant Japanese, Vegetarian (212) 505- 8934 14 W 4th St-GREENWICH VILLAGE -Cheap yet DELICIOUS. Probably the restaurant I’ve gone back to the most in NY. I always orderthe Steamed Veggies with tofu and carrot tahini dressing. It is amazing. They have a great variety-lots of burgers, ramen, salads, sandwiches, etc. Great for students (popular amongst NYU crowd).
Ellary’s Greens American (new), Vega, JuiceBar (212) 920- 5072 33 Carmine St-WEST VILLAGE -Natural organic foods that cater to any dietary needs. They have an extensive list of proteins,vegetables, and roots & grains. Healthy, gourmet, and affordable. The interior design is really nice as well: fresh orchids, exposed brick and warm colouring.
Fig & Olive Mediterranean (212) 924- 1200 420 West 13th St-WEST VILLAGE,MEATPACKING DISTRICT -Cool, trendy interior. Dark, good music, beautifulwine rack in the middle of the restaurant. I camehere a while ago so I don’t remember too much other than the thing I ordered. It was the salmon a la andalucia: seared organic salmon, zucchini, fennel, tomato, chickpea, verdial olive, fresh oregano, garlic, lemon and picual olive oil (which they specialize in ((hence the name)). That being said the dish was WAY too oily, which is odd considering I usually like a good amount of olive oil. Otherwise fun restaurant to dress up for and go out with friends or for a date in a fashionable area.
Friend of a Farmer Breakfast/brunch (212) 477- 2188 77 Irving Pl-GRAMERCY -Favourite brunch spot hands down. The interiormakes you feel like you’re in a quaint cottage. There are fireplaces and cozy fixtures that add to the warmth of this cafe. There is also an outdoor patio. Arrive after 10:30 and you’ll be waiting in a huge line. I always go around 10 and have no problems. The porridge is to die for and the apple juice is really really good too 🙂 All meals come served in their own miniature pots/skillets which is a nice touch.
Gemma Italian (212) 505-7300 335 Bowery-NOHO -Have only been for brunch but it is really fun,great ambiance and always busy. Nice patioand extensive brunch menu. Interior is nicely decorated as well. I always get the protein breakfast which is healthy and satisfying (chicken breast, egg white/spinach scramble and side salad).
Gramercy Tavern American (new) (212) 477- 0777 42 E 20th St-GRAMERCY -Expensive fine dining for an over the topexperience unlike any other. Amazing service,extensive seasonal tasting menus (both meat and veggie options) as well as a la carte. Exquisite desserts and can accommodate for any dietary restrictions. Formal dining room that takes reservations 28 days before (don’t wait to book as reservations fill up) or walk in availability for the tavern. Fresh ingredients and impeccable service. One of my favourite new york dining experiences! After you’ve eaten here once you can call in and get a table the next day and don’t have to go through the crazy reservation experience again.
Koi SoHo Asian Fusion, Sushi Bars (212) 842- 4500 246 Spring St (Trump SoHoHotel)-SOHO -Came here with a large group and got to try mostof the items on the menu. Can’t remember a singlething that didn’t taste out of this world. Miso bronzed black cod & koi crispy rice were great. Their sushi was really good too however I forgot which one we got.
Lure Fishbar Seafood (212) 431-7676 142 Mercer St-SOHO -Relatively expensive, takes reservations.Came here for my bday dinner, very pleased.Interior is decorated like the inside of a ship. Great dessert menu as well. We got the warm molten lava chocolate cake with chocolate pudding, salted caramel ice cream and caramel popcorn on the side. AMAZING!!! Only thing is the food comes almost too quick and you feel sort of rushed through your meal.
MUD Coffee & Tea, Brunch (212) 228- 9074 307 East 9th St-EAST VILLAGE -Thought it was just a coffee shop but if you go through to the back they have a lovely outdoor patio thats sheltered with a glass roof. Exposed brick with christmas lights strung around. Simple brunch menu paired with an extensive coffee list. Salads, panninis, desserts, etc. They also have a coffee truck near cooper sq.
Nobu Next Door Japanese (212) 334-4445 105 Hudson St-TRIBECA -Takes reservations. Expensive but worth it.Awesome menu/service. Black cod is to die for.  Spot for really great japanese food.
Northern Spy Food Co American Breakfast & Brunch (212) 228- 5100 511 East 12th St-EAST VILLAGE, ALPHABETCITY -Came here for brunch. Was really packed. Cute ambiance inside with nice tables and decor. I think they’re known for their kale salad with baked eggs on top which is what I ordered. It was super healthy but really flavourful and delicious. I don’t think they take reservations so go early enough that you can put your name down and wait.
Panna II GardenIndian Restaurant Indian (212) 598-4610 93 1st Ave-EAST VILLAGE -Really crazy/one of a kind/ you’ll never eatanywhere else like this type of restaurant.Great indian food, really cheap, really fun. Greatfor birthday parties. Panna 2 is the highest ratedout of the four restaurants that are all grouped together and look the same. Its up the stairs and to the RIGHT. However they all look relatively similar and I have a feeling they share the same kitchen. Try the tikka masala and the khan baigan. Also, BYOB!
Parish Hall American (new) (718) 782-2602 109A N 3rd St-WILLIAMSBURG -Have only been here for brunch. White and wood bright interior. Casual and moderate price.Takes reservations (which i find is rare for NY for brunch). Ambiance/service is just okay but they make up for it with their farm to table, fresh foods that leave you feeling perfectly satisfied and not overly stuffed. I recommend the savory oats.
Pushcart Coffee Coffee & Tea (646) 476- 8416 362 2nd Ave(however there are multiplelocations)-GRAMERCY -My second home. Amazing vibes, friendly staff,fresh pastries and baked goods, and good coffeenaturally. I wasn’t able to ever tell the differencebetween good and bad coffee until I got used to pushcart’s. They have a weekly newspaper they have printed and on their blog that features local writers along with something going on in the neighbourhood that week. Free wifi and plugs around the store if you feel like posting up for a few hours. LOVE THIS PLACE!!!
Quintessence Live/Raw, Vegan, Kosher (646) 654- 1823 263 East 10th St-EAST VILLAGE -Really cozy, small spot that makes you feel really calm and tranquil. Warm interior with lights strung all over and really friendly staff. You definitely don’t have to be a vegan to enjoy their menu. Tons of options that you will for sure be pleased with. The ravioli combo (made with radishes and cashew nut cheese) is to die for. They make things like the ravioli and mexican nachos taste like the real thing.
Rawlicious Vegan, Vegetarian, Live/Raw (212) 226- 5200 249 Centre St-LITTLE ITALY -Moderate price, healthy raw spot thats amazing for those who don’t even eat 100% raw. The pasta bolognese is absolutely amazing and tastes exactly like spaghetti bolognese but is made with zucchini as the noodles, crumbled spicy nut loaf as the beef and cashews as the cheese. Quiet, calm interior and friendly staff. Desserts are really good but too over priced and small portion wise if you ask me.
Riverpark American (new) (212) 729- 9790 450 E 29th St-KIPS BAY -Tom Collichios restaurant, great for brunch.Pretty expensive but very delicious. Ordered the frittata which was perfect. They don’t make any dietary modifications however which was kind of annoying and the service was absolutely terrible (not sure if this was b/c they were understaffed the day I went or if it’s usually that crappy). Cool eating right by the water and they have lovely outdoor seating. It’s a bit weird being by the FDR but it’s typical NY- making the most out of every space and definitely not as loud as you would expect.
Ronnybrook Farm Dairy Specialty Food (212) 741, 6455 75 9th Ave-CHELSEA MARKET -I always go here if I’m in the area and need a quick/delicious salad for lunch. They have a decent amount of sandwiches/salads etc. but are known for their dairy options. Great ice cream,milk shakes, etc. I’ve tried my boyfriends strawberry ice cream and it was really rich, creamy and fresh. They also have a really delicious frozen mint lemonade drink that’s quite refreshing in the summer. The salad I get is the house salad with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, feta, mint, basil and lemon dressing and I usually ask to add chicken to it.
Shake Shack Burgers (212) 889- 6600 East 23rd St & Madison Ave(however there are multiplelocations)-FLATIRON -Shack burger, black & white shake, fries- Boom done. Very long lines but worth it! When you come to New York you have to experience it. The one near the Natural History Museum in UWS seemed to have a smaller line than Madison Sq Park location.
Souen Vegetarian, Asian Fusion,Japanese (212) 627- 7150 28 E 13th st
(however there are multiplelocations)
-UNION SQ		 -My go to asian, organic, macrobiotic, natural, healthy joint. Moderate price for delicious meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and healthy afterwards. No reservations but not really needed. Squash tofu din is my absolute favourite and the tempeh mushroom gravy is rich, delicious and filling.
Spot Dessert Bar Desserts, Coffee & Tea (212) 677- 5670 13 St Marks Pl-EAST VILLAGE -Delicious dessert spot open late night in the east village. Asian twist on classic desserts with exotic flavours. I got the smoked coconut cheesecake which was delicious but my friend got the greentea lava cake and I immediately regretted my choice. Had to wait in a long line but was worth it.
Sushi Samba Japanese, Sushi Bar, AsianFusion (212) 691- 7885 87 7th Ave S(however there are multiplelocations)-WEST VILLAGE -I’m going to give the review based on the food and atmosphere because if I were to base it on the total experience I wouldn’t recommend. (wehad absolutely terrible service but I think it was just the waitress we had). The food was amazing and there was a ‘show’ at one point in the night with Brazilian dancers. Was really fun. Great drinks and atmosphere. The crispy taquitos were so good we ordered lots more. (yellowtail lemongrass, avocado, aji panca miso and lime). On the expensive end but worth it for a fun night.
Sweet Revenge Desserts, Wine Bars (212) 242- 2240 62 Carmine St-WEST VILLAGE -Cupcake and wine pairings. Enough said.
Taim Middle Eastern/ Vegetarian (212) 691- 1287 222 Waverly Place-WEST VILLAGE -A falafel joint located in the heart of the west village. I went with a true new yorker foodie who claimed they were better than the falafels he had in israel…! Fresh green ingredients as well as the most fluffy, perfect pita bread you will taste. Also a great side vegetable menu to go with your falafel if it wasn’t big enough already. Small interior so either get it to go or eat outside on one of the benches they have.
The General Asian Fusion (212) 271- 7101 199 Bowery-LES -Scene-y and fun, (slightly pretentious)restaurant that has amazing ‘foodie type’ food.Went here late night and got a tasting of mostof the menu. Was impressed with almosteverything that came out (perhaps b/c asianfusion is one of my favourites). I dream about the green tea donut with mascarpone ice cream. Slightly overpriced and portions are quite small. Order a lot and share family style.
The Standard Grill American (traditional) (212) 645- 4100 848 Washington St-MEATPACKING DISTRICT -Fun place to hang with friends in meatpacking.Right by the high line and they have a huge beergarden next store which may be fun for pre/postdinner drinks. Usually my go-to spot to takevisitors to NY. Have only been here for din buthear brunch is great. Takes reservations.
The Waverly Inn American (new) (917) 828- 1154 16 Bank St-WEST VILLAGE -Cozy, quiet, secluded, romantic. Very expensive but worth it for a special occasion. Amazing service. The grilled vegetable salad and doversole are incredible. The sole melts in your mouth. Apparently so is the mac and cheese with truffles (however we didn’t get to try as the “truffles were inadequate for service as they were out of season” Not to mention it’s 100$!). Desserts are off the chain as well. Try the apple crisp. Unforgettable experience. Reservations accepted. Private back room as well that looks magical.
The Wayland Bars (212) 777- 7022 700 East 9th St-EAST VILLAGE -Came here once to try their kale margarita and am now HOOKED. The area is a bit sketchy if you’re walking there late at night but not too bad.Just don’t get wasted and act stupid. The inside is cozy with dark wood interior and candles. They have a menu with mixed drinks that changes weekly but they always have the kale margarita and smoked bourbon moonshine. Both are to die for and the ‘moonshine’ is a great guy drink but not strong enough for me to not like it. Also have small bites to snack on in between drinks.
Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream Desserts, Coffee & Tea (718) 701- 1630 48 1/2 East 7th St-EAST VILLAGE -Awesome ice cream flavours!! Vanilla, chocolate,pistachio, hazelnut, ginger, coffee, giandujia, redcurrant, strawberry, peppermint & chip, and earlgrey to name a few. smooth, creamy original flavours. (earl grey is amazinggg) Their coffee isvery delicious too. The only thing that is annoying is their portion sizes for the ice cream is displeasingly small.
Westville American (new) (212) 677-2033 173 Ave A(however there aremultiple locations)-EAST VILLAGE -One of my favourite restaurants in east
village. Moderately priced, no reservations,
small outdoor patio. The most amazing
vegetable side dishes. I ordered the
chicken breast which came with a choice
of 2 sides (parmesan artichoke hearts and
asian style bok choy) Healthy and filling!
Wild Ginger Vegetarian, Asian Fusion,Vegan (718) 218- 8828 212 Bedford Ave-WILLIAMSBURG -Great lunch specials. Casual spot along bedford ave in williamsburg. Trendy/cool/fun area, quite hipster. The soy protein is really good and my boyfriend and I have been here numerous time seven though neither of us are vegan. Not the best service but the food makes up for it. Lunch specials served between noon and 4:30, great price and comes with miso soup, spring roll and brown rice. Lemongrass soy protein is delish!!