A Taste of NYC…

The Best Bites & The Overhyped

This past summer, my family and I spent a lot of time in NYC. We have always bonded over food, and discussing everything from the city’s famous hotspots to hidden gems became a new favorite activity. Below is a collection of honest, unfiltered thoughts on what is worth your time and what you might want to skip in the city that never sleeps… consider it a guide from a family that adores good food!

Top Recommendation: Tatiana

Tatiana is a must-visit for anyone craving unique Afro-Caribbean cuisine. The menu is diverse, offering flavors you won’t find anywhere else in the city. It’s perfect for a group outing, though snagging a table for three or more can be a challenge.

Best Seafood: Penny

Penny stands out as one of the best seafood spots out there. The large seafood platter, featuring half a dozen oysters, lobster bites, mussels, shrimp, and more, is a must-try. Watching the chefs prepare everything right in front of you at the seafood counter adds to the experience. Don’t miss their famous ice cream sandwich—it’s the perfect ending to a great meal.

Italian Standouts: Roscioli, Torrisi, and Lilia

Roscioli in SoHo has both a tasting menu and an a la carte option, but we prefer the latter. The chicken tortellini and mozzarella dishes were unforgettable.

Also in SoHo, Torrisi is a solid 9/10. Everything was amazing, from appetizers to dessert. The service was top-notch, and the frozen affogato was a standout.

Lilia, the sister restaurant of Misi, is a Brooklyn gem. The pasta is delicious, the food is solid, and the outdoor seating is a plus.

Overhyped: Carbone, Estela, and Bangkok Supper Club

Carbone is one of those places where the hype doesn’t match the reality. The food is good but not better than what you’d find at other top-notch Italian spots like B’Artusi. The hassle of getting a table isn’t worth it unless you’re there for the vibe and theatrics.

Estela is incredibly popular, but when I visited, the food was average at best. We tried six dishes, and none stood out.

Bangkok Supper Club is trendy and tough to get into, but it didn’t live up to the hype. The appetizers were just okay, and while some mains were decent, the overall experience wasn’t worth the effort or the price.

Worth the Hype: 4 Charles

4 Charles is another tough reservation, but it’s worth every bit of effort. The burger, French dip, and chocolate mousse cake were all incredible, and of course, the steaks were excellent too.

Best Brunch: Sadelle’s

Sadelle’s became a regular brunch spot for us. It’s pricier than other options, but the bagel tower and mimosas make it worth it.

Best Sushi: Depends on Your Budget

NYC’s sushi scene is diverse. On the high end, there are places like Yoshino and Masa, offering omakase experiences that are as much about the atmosphere as the food, with prices to match.

Then there are spots like Bond Street and Nobu, which are pricey but not in the same league as Yoshino or Masa. Sugarfish is slightly more affordable but still on the higher end, while Sushi of Gari offers reliability in the same price range.

For a more casual, affordable experience, Kazunori is a popular choice. It’s a quick, no-fuss spot where you can grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a few rolls. It’s perfect for a quick dinner after work. Don’t go with a big group, though… you might be waiting for ages for a few stools next to each other!

Sushi 35 West and Joji Box strike a balance between quality and price, but we’re still searching for that perfect spot that checks all the boxes. Sushiro is another great mid-range option, serving hand rolls that resemble tacos, made right in front of you at the bar.

Best Pizza: Una Pizza Napoletana and L’Industrie Pizzeria

Una Pizza Napoletana is a must for pizza lovers. The owner, Anthony, personally makes the pizzas, which are served Thursday through Saturday. The restaurant is small and getting in can be tricky, but the pizza is worth it. They may limit the number of pizzas per person to ensure everyone gets a pie.

L'Industrie Pizzeria has what is arguably the best standard slice of NY-style pizza we’ve had to date. While their signature Burrata pizza slice is a standout, we were particularly impressed by the fig jam and bacon slice. The flavors were perfectly balanced, making it a must-try. We wouldn’t hesitate to return, even if the line were longer than it was this time!

Worth It ‘Tourist Stop:’ Prince Street Pizza

Prince Street Pizza might be on the touristy side, but it delivers on quality. We’re a bit biased, but it’s a solid choice for a quick, delicious slice.

For Mediterranean: Theodora

Theodora offers a relaxed interior and a menu full of hits. The appetizers, in particular, were phenomenal.

Best Indian: Bungalow and Semma

Bungalow is a trendy spot with colorful dishes that taste as good as they look. The lamb chops were a highlight, and the rose kulfi dessert was amazing. The traditional chicken dish was also great, and we recommend trying a variety of sides.

Semma is a bit more commercial, with branded shirts on the waitstaff and a popular vibe. They serve an incredible goat dish and a delicious lobster tail, but overall, Bungalow had the edge for us.

Best Lunch Spot: Via Carota

Via Carota in the West Village is a popular Italian spot that’s tough to get into, but it’s worth trying for lunch. The food is excellent, and the atmosphere is quintessentially New York.