Of course the food is divine, but these stunning restaurant design concepts across NYC are so beautiful you have to see them to believe it!
Justine Golata - Staff Writer•
NYC is home to an endless amount of restaurants to try. However, some places go above and beyond just mouthwatering fare to create jaw-dropping environments that tantalize more than your taste.
From dramatic pendants suspended in the air to floor-to-ceiling glass windows, we have put together a collection of the most beautiful restaurants in NYC.
1. Thai Villa, Flatiron
Not only does Thai Villa serve some of the best Thai cuisine you can find in the city, but it’s interior is absolutely show-stopping. From gorgeous hanging lanterns to sparkling, ornate decor, you’ll enjoy the perfect ambiance to pair with your delicious dishes. The space has two levels of dining (both equally as gorgeous) and a backlit bar that invites you to sip on one of their uniquely crafted co*cktails. Make your reservation on their website here.
Where:5 E 19th St, New York
2. One if by Land, Two if by Sea, Greenwich Village
Leave your Sundays open for One if by Land, Two if by Sea’s enchanting jazz brunch. Located in a historical carriage house in the Village, you can’t miss out on dreamy music with a mimosa in hand. The gorgeous venue is bathed in candlelight with a stunning baby grand piano, brick fireplace, and a private garden. Book your reservations today.
Where:17 Barrow St
3. 1803, Tribeca
Transport to New Orleans at this lively restaurant sure to lift your spirits! With vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns decorating the entire space, you’ll forget you’re even in NYC. 1803 serves up Cajun-Creole cuisine like no one else with their Shrimp & Grits, Gumbo, Niçoise Salad, Jambalaya and more. Perfect for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the space even hosts live jazz. See more on their website here.
Where:82 Reade St, New York
4. Temple Court, FiDi
Tucked inside the luxurious Beekman Hotel, Temple Court comes from American chef and restauranteur, Tom Colicchio. The entire space is gorgeously wrapped in stained-glass windows. Experience fine dining inside this historic space and make sure to check out the bar room for an after dinner drink! See more here.
Where:5 Beekman St, New York
5. Lamia’s Fish Market, East Village
Immerse yourself in an underwater oasis at this East Village gem. Find curving booths in blue velvet line the walls and beautiful nautical-themed murals and decor decorate the unassumingly large venue. Indulge in their fish-forward menu that will whisk you away to the breezy oceanside. More details here.
Where:47 Avenue B, New York
6. Tavern on the Green, Central Park
NYC legend, Tavern on the Green has a reputation for its elegant fare, spectacular location, and of course, its dreamy design. Featuring a beautiful garden and courtyard seating during the warmer months, the interior is just as breathtaking. Bask in the sun with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and look out onto Central Park.
Where:W 67th St, New York
7. Le Coucou, SoHo
French fare with a gorgeous atmosphere, oui oui! Beyond having one of the most beautiful bars in NYC, Le Coucou honors European gastronomy by bringing a piece of Paris to NYC. Coming from internationally acclaimed Chef Daniel Rose, savor everything on the menu from the Foie gras poché au Sauternes to the Canette a l’Orange. Find out more on their website.
Where:138 Lafayette St, New York
8. Verōnika, Flatiron
After you’re done checking out the Fotografiska Museum, head upstairs to the second floor and dine at Verōnika! This elegant spot tucked away upstairs is full of velvet furniture, ornate chandeliers, burning candles, and world class photography that’s just as good as the works downstairs. The classic European menu is equally delicious and the co*cktails are fantastic. Book a spot here.
Where: 281 Park Ave S, Floor 2
9. Peak, Hudson Yards
Dine in the sky at Hudson Yards’ restaurant Peak. This fine establishment boasts stunning 360° skyline views that will have your jaw drop to the floor. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant is 101 floors above and a definite must-visit.
Where:30 Hudson Yards 101st floor, New York
10. River Cafe, DUMBO
You know you’re in for a stunning view when you dine at the River Cafe. Situated right on the East River, admire the glittering skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from your table. The Michelin Star restaurant offers elevated fare from Scallop Ceviche to Wagyu Steak Tartare. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to try Blandy’s Madeira Dessert Flight and indulge in a variety of petit sweets. See more here.
Where:1 Water St, Brooklyn
11. Aurora Ristorante, Williamsburg
Aurora Ristorante is a green oasis tucked away in Williamsburg. Enjoy their rustic atmosphere with wood finishings, or dine out in their heated garden and be surrounded by blossoming plants and glittering fairy lights. Make your reservation here.
Where:70 Grand St, Brooklyn
12. Cathédrale, East Village
Located inside the Moxy East Village, Cathédrale is a French-Mediterranean fusion spot that’s design is as elegant as its food. Be blown away by its dreamy and dimly lit dining room that goes as far back as the eye can see. With seemingly endless ceilings and an outdoor dining terrace, it’s no surprise that this restaurant made it on our list. See more here.
Where:112 E 11th St, New York
13. Grand Central Oyster Bar, Midtown
This NYC landmark is a gorgeous piece of history that’s been serving from an enormous menu of seafood specialities since 1913. Known as the oldest restaurant in Grand Central, you’ll sit beneath the charming curved ceilings as you choose from 25 types of fish and 30 varieties of oysters. They previously closed down operations at the start of the pandemic but they have been back in business since September 2021.
Where:89 E 42nd St
14. Buddha-Bar, Tribeca
Also found in major cities like Dubai, London, & Prague, Buddha-Bar opened a NYC location last year. The space is ornately decorated with dramatic pendant lights, custom furnishings and a 16-foot glass-hewn Buddha sculpture that steals the show. The menu features Asian fusion dishes and is helmed by Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli, Food Network’s Chopped Champion.
Where:62 Thomas St, New York
15. Le Crocodile, Williamsburg
You can find this airy, neighborhood brasserie inside the Wythe Hotel. The space is inspired by Chef Partners Jake Leiber and Aidan O’Neal “Parisian and New York favorites.” Book a table for brunch, lunch or dinner and admire the chic design from their tiled floors to their charming bar. More details here.
Where:80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
16. Casa Ora, East Williamsburg
Casa Ora is a beautiful gem that’s an immediate breath of fresh air. Step inside to see vibrant works of art cover the wall, blooming greenery at every corner, and glowing candlelight. Diners can enjoy Venezuelan plates for an intimate culinary experience. See more here.
Where:148 Meserole St, Brooklyn
17. Twenty Three Grand, SoHo
This trendy spot tucked off of Grand is one of SoHo’s latest culinary gems, and it’s packed to the brim with greenery, ambient lighting, and inviting blue cushioned booths. During the winter, they’re also offering heated outdoor yurts, which diners can reserve and enjoy a speciality menu while playing board games with friends or family! Book a table here.
Where:23 Grand St, New York
18. Fandi Mata, Williamsburg
Go on a blissful escape to to the Mediterranean at Fandi Mata in Williamsburg. Take in the gorgeous space filled with plants and patterns and make sure to snap your photo on their iconic bright blue staircase. Going for “industrial-chic,” this lively spot is a perfect place to take friends or family. More info here.
Where:74 Bayard St, Brooklyn
19. Nerai, Midtown East
Discover a floral paradise at Nerai, Midtown East’s transcendent Greek restaurant. Guests can enjoy their spacious outdoor patio in warm weathered months two floors of dining year-round. Helmed by Executive Chef Aaron Watson, order mouthwatering menu items like the Shrimp Mikrolimano, Lavraki, Short Rib Yiouvetsi and Seafood Orzotto.
Where: 55 E. 54th Street, New York
20. Nubeluz, NoMad
José Andrés has done it again with another stunning NYC restaurant Nubeluz. The space, located above the Ritz Carlton, NoMad, opened up last September and boasts a sense of glamour you can only find in NYC. Sip sky-high co*cktails and watch the city light up from the 270-degree views. See more here.
Where: 25 West 28th Street, New York
21. Lulla, Chelsea
Led by partners & founders of Renwick Hospitality Group, Carsten Johannsen and Gary Wallach, Lulla is a little slice of Italian luxury in Chelsea. Enjoy modern-Italian fare, paired with a jaw-dropping interior that feels as inviting as it is beautiful.
Where:113 W 24th St, New York
22. Apotheke, NoMad
The beloved Chinatown speakeasy opened a second location in NoMad, complete with a basem*nt bar and rooftop terrace. From the rosa aurora marble bar to the eclectic glassware, it’s a true NYC gem. Read more here.
Where: 9 W 26th St, New York
23.Amylos Taverna, Astoria
Astoria is the new Athens with Amylos Taverna. From its mouthwatering Greek food to its inviting atmosphere, you can’t miss this spot when you’re in the neighborhood!
Where: 33-19 Broadway, Queens
24. tán, Midtown East
Forget the plane ride and travel to this Tulum-inspired escape in the heart of Manhattan. tán not only boasts one of the most breathtaking restaurant interiors, it’s elevated, seafood-focused fare make it a favorite on this list!
Where: 209 East 49th St
25. Milk & Roses, Greenpoint
This Brooklyn spot is not only a cute restaurant and bar, but it’s even take a life as an event venue! During the summer, you can eat outside in the gorgeous garden when the weather’s nice, or in the cooler months snuggle amongst their vintage book shelves and catch up with friends!
Where: 35 Box St, Brooklyn
26. Bad Roman, Columbus Circle
Your phone will most definitely eat first at this dazzling dining space. From their beautifully presented and semi-quirky dishes to the interior’s opulent pops of color and detailing, Bad Roman isn’t just to satisfy your stomach but a feast for the eyes!
Where:10 Columbus Cir, New York
27. Habibi, Bushwick
Though it might not have the prettiest exterior, considering it’s located inside a warehouse in the middle of Bushwick, what awaits you inside will absolutely blow your mind. Prepare to be greeted with bubbly on the way up a freight elevator to the actual dining room that’s complete with sparkling city views, ambient lighting and greenery. Read more about Habibi The Restaurant here.
Where: 154 Scott Ave., Brooklyn
28. Breeze, Greenpoint
Expect delicious Sichuanese dishes in addition to a Shanghainese Dim Sum sectionat Greenpoint’s gorgeous new restaurant, Breeze. The minimal exterior invited diners inside to an even more beautiful interior with a neutral color palette and tons of greenery. Read more about Breeze here.
Where: 595 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn
29. La Marchande, FiDi
Situated inside the luxurious Wall Street Hotel, La Marchande’s stylized café-inspired dining room will make you feel like you are dining in France. Chef John Fraser’s tantalizing chophouse menu will make your mouth water, thanks to his signature specials and wonderful interpretations of Parisian Street food. Top it off with one of their 200+ French wines and you’ll never want to leave.
Where: 88 Wall St
30. Hav & Mar, Chelsea
This beautiful seafood house from Chef Marcus Samuelsson sits right in the heart of Chelsea, and its contemporary and classically design interior stuns us every time we dine here. From the beautifully illuminated circular bar to the hand crafted tile mermaids on the wall, we couldn’t think of a better ambiance to enjoy seafood like snapper, halibut, and more. Book your spot here.
Where: 245 11th Ave
31. Sushi By Bou Hotel 32|32
Close your eyes and open your mouth to an elevated culinary experience that will put your senses to the test. Hosted for a limited time at Sushi By Bou at the beautiful Hotel 32|32, you can explore a secret omakase menu thanks to this Dining in the Dark “omakase” edition. Grab you tickets now!
32. Leuca, Williamsburg
Rather take a pass on sushi for Italian instead? Williamsburg’s trendy Italian restaurant Leuca is also hosting Dining in the Dark events. Guests will be completely blindfolded for a three-course meal. Upon the completion of dinner, you’ll be able to take in the dazzling atmosphere that the restaurant elicits. Reserve your spot here.
Looking for a post-dinner co*cktail? Check out: The 10 Most Beautiful Bars In NYC
