Lower Manhattan offers something different for everyone, from the hustle and bustle surrounding NYU in Greenwich Village to the shops in SoHo, but one of our favorite parts about this area is the variety of food options. We have compiled a list of the top ten best restaurants in Lower Manhattan to try next time you find yourself in downtown NYC. We chose these restaurants based on a mix of food, service, and atmosphere.
1. Arté
Not only does this Italian restaurant offer amazing food at every course, starting with appetizers and finishing with desserts, but they also have a large, variety-full menu with an impressive list of specials. You can’t go wrong with their veal chop and a side of penne vodka. For dessert, indulge in the ganache cheesecake (but of course any of their options will be delicious). The high-quality food is accompanied by wonderful service. At Arté, you’ll be treated with the utmost respect, just as if you’re part of the family. No wonder people can’t stop going back to this place and it’s number one on our list of best restaurants in Lower Manhattan! Overall, this restaurant is a must whenever you are in the area, trust us you will absolutely love your meal and more importantly, your experience.
2. The Strip House
The Strip House is one of our all-time favorite steakhouses and one of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan. The meat is flavored such that no sauce is needed and the sides are a perfect match for each meal, especially the Strip House potatoes. The desserts are all decadent and delicious, and the portions are huge, making them perfect to share or enjoy all to yourself! They are famous for their 24-layer cake, which yes, is as good as it sounds. The restaurant is an old speakeasy, I am sure you can just imagine if those walls could talk! They now have a modern version of one attached to the restaurant downstairs, so if you want drinks after your dinner, head down and continue to indulge your senses.
3. The Smith
The Smith is an extremely popular spot in the city, and for good reason! The vibe is trendy and the food is delicious. They have plenty of options for everyone, but their most popular dish is the mac and cheese. Thinking about it is making our mouths water, so you can imagine we have to get it every time we go! No matter what you are in the mood for, whether it’s bar food, fish prepared exactly how you like it, or just a salad, you can expect to find it done right here. They do offer outdoor seating once the weather is nice, so get ready for some perfect people watching.
4. Il Cantinori
Il Cantinori is another great Italian restaurant. With excellent service, and dishes to die for, Il Cantinori will fulfill all your dreams of dining in Italy. If you’re lucky, you can catch the front doors wide open on a nice day. They have a wide variety of options, and you cannot go wrong with whatever you get! If you are in the mood for finer Italian dining without leaving the city, Il Cantinori is your spot.
5. Carbone
Missing home cooked meals? Carbone is another great Italian restaurant, but with a slightly different feel. The portions are served family style, so get ready to eat! Standout dishes and family style dining allows you to get a taste of the variety of options on the menu. We always leave feeling full, satisfied, and wanting to come back for more!
6. Klong
Klong is the perfect place for a girls night out. Along with the top-notch Thai food (their chicken wings are amazing!) and drinks (the mojitos are our favorite), the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. In addition, their happy hour drink specials are great for anyone on a budget. You won’t want to miss this treasure next time you’re in St. Mark’s Place. The Thai restaurant is definitely one of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan.
7. Kiin Thai
This new Thai restaurant is right on New York University’s campus. The food is amazing and their lunch combos are hard to pass up (egg rolls or soup and an entree). If you are in the mood for Thai food, we highly suggest checking this place out!
8. Claudette
If you’re longing to sit in the Parisian streets sipping coffee and people watching, you have come to the right place. Because of its location right on 5th Ave, it’s the perfect place to sit outside in the summer and take in the view of the famous avenue and Washington Square Park in the distance. Complete with healthy options, catering to both vegetarian and vegan eaters, the food is excellent and the atmosphere is always fun and bright.
9. Brazen Fox
If you’re in the mood for a good sports bar equipped with lots of TVs, good beer, and bar food, the Brazen Fox is the place to be. The burgers and chicken strips paired with your favorite cold brew always manage to hit the spot. Be sure to grab some friends, even if they aren’t Yankee’s fans, and expect a laid-back night of beer and sports.
10. Blockheads
Blockheads is another great happy hour spot, as their drink deals are unbeatable. The margaritas are perfect for a Summer evening (we love them frozen), and the food is delicious. We frequently order the chicken quesadillas, however, you can choose any fillings you want, they even offer vegan options. Chips and salsa are even brought right away to help curb your appetite as you decide your order. Furthermore, the music and plethora of TV’s help keep the atmosphere laid back and fun.