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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Midtown East

Interesting dinner spots

A dinner that feels genuinely interesting turns a standard night out into something memorable.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated May 2026
01
Crave Sushi Bar image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Elegant space features dimmed lights and an octopus mural, creating a cozy vibe with perfect lighting. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting without loud music, fostering a sleek and pleasant dining experience. The energy suits those seeking a refined yet friendly setting for sushi.

Dinner here features attentive service with staff guiding choices. Meals create memorable experiences suited for special occasions.

Creative sashimi and nigiri feature interesting fish and spices. The menu offers diverse and sophisticated dishes, including a notably unique yellowtail roll.

People are saying

"The sushi service here is friendly, prompt, and truly exceptional."

"The sushi here is so fresh and high quality."

"The sushi here is interesting, with clean, fresh flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted bites and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

Reservations are not required on Wednesday nights.

3

The total bill for two people averages around $120, including tip.

02
Aragvi image 1
Georgian restaurant

Georgian restaurant offers a beautiful interior with warm atmosphere and authentic decor. Music and a giant plasma screen showing Georgian scenery add to the cozy vibe. The space suits both intimate dates and large gatherings.

Dinner offers a culinary adventure with amazing flavors and attentive service from staff like Oto. The experience feels wonderful and memorable every time.

Delicious food pairs with an interesting menu and a unique atmosphere. The interior and service staff add to the overall distinct experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and wonderfully prepared."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, authentic Georgian flavors."

"The food here is interesting and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like graduation dinners.

3

Free parking is available for restaurant guests.

03
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Thai restaurant

Elegant decor and cozy ambiance create a warm, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Upstairs party space adds a lively dimension on weekends, while a well-stocked bar offers unique cocktails like lychee martinis and refreshing soju blends. The place balances authentic Thai flavors with a comfortable, airy setting.

Dinner offers delicious Thai dishes with a satisfying experience. The spot works well for casual meals with friends or family.

Drinks inspired by Thai coconut chicken soup blend coconut and spice without any chicken taste. Many unique entrée options and the music add to the interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I ordered the Pad See Ew; it's the best I've had."

"Their Thai-inspired drinks are so interesting and well-flavored."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-7 PM with specials under $10.

2

Lunch specials include a meal for low $20s with salad and dumplings.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.

04
Animo! image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican cafe-restaurant offers authentic flavors and thoughtful design with Latin American music setting a lively yet chill atmosphere. Seating allows ordering at the counter or from the table, creating a fast-paced but welcoming environment ideal for casual connections.

Dinner service offers a better experience than brunch with a notable quality that makes it worth looking forward to.

Breakfast features interesting Mexican dishes and unique items like kekito, a cheesecake-cornbread mix. Drinks include horchata with espresso for a twist.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The food and drinks at these dinner spots are amazing."

"I found the Mexican breakfast items here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Animo! operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

2

They offer a tortilla making class later this month.

3

You need to order at the counter.

05
Veerays image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Basement setting channels a 1920s speakeasy vibe with dim lighting and chic decor that blends modern Indian elements. Music and cocktails follow classic 1920s recipes, creating a magnetic energy suited for intimate nights out. The atmosphere feels immersive and lively, often filling with chatter in the small space.

Offers a comfortable setting suitable for both date dinners and business lunches. Accommodates groups well, making it a solid choice for dinners with friends or clients.

Menu features Lamp Chops, Butter chicken, and unique nan breads. Dishes use traditional techniques with interesting flavors.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is phenomenal and outstanding."

"The Indian food here is outstanding, especially the naan."

"You'll find interesting exotic meats like camel and bison here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least a week in advance for the tasting menu.

2

Veerays does not allow kids below 10 years old.

3

An 8% surcharge is added to every item ordered.

06
Lucky Cat image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style space filled with authentic Japanese decor and retro anime visuals playing behind the bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and charming, closely resembling izakayas in Japan. Regulars enjoy anime-inspired cocktails and a lively vibe with a DJ and classic anime movies on TV.

Early dinners suit this spot well with its blend of elegance and comfort. Japanese sake or soju pair nicely with meals, and happy hour offers casual dinner options.

Anime-themed cocktails like the Death Note with charcoal infusion offer unique flavors and textures. Dining decor appeals to fans of Japanese animated movies, and the volcanic hot pot dish stands out visually.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese."

"The dinner spots here are flavorful, vibrant, and full of personality."

"The anime-themed decor and cocktails here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

07
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Taiwanese restaurant

Modern, elegant space blends minimalist design with earthy tones and handmade pottery. Atmosphere balances cozy, lively energy with a warm, family-friendly vibe. Seating offers comfortable spacing, making it suitable for groups or intimate dinners.

Dinner here features Taiwanese cuisine with excellent food and service. The spot suits occasions like birthday dinners well.

Tomato granita stands out as an interesting dessert with its sweet and tart plum powder soy complementing the tomato-infused shaved ice. Fried pig ears carry a subtle Japanese twist that adds a unique flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and prepared with high quality ingredients."

"The desserts here are surprisingly good, especially the sweet potato crème brûlée."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and enthusiastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect to find authentic Taiwanese flavors with a focus on quality ingredients.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it ideal for sharing.

08
MáLà Project 53rd St image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space combines raw industrial look with 1920s China vibes, creating a cool, elegant atmosphere that feels both pared back and lively. Occasional noise from large groups contrasts with generally chill energy, while outdoor seating offers a different way to enjoy the setting.

Reservations secure a quiet start with the place to yourself for a while. Portions are generous, and group dinners work well here, especially in cold weather.

An interesting Szechuan dry pot lets you pick your own ingredients. The food stays very tasty with bold flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, Sarah made our time special."

"You have to try the dry pot; it's fragrant, numbing, and salty."

"The dry pot was interesting and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the busy nature of the restaurant.

2

Happy hour offers strong cocktails at a good price.

3

The lunch special costs $43 per person.

09
Sushi Hayashi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small sushi counter with 12 seats offers close interaction with chefs and detailed explanations. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to chill and relaxing, suitable for groups rather than intimate dining. Music varies, sometimes including loud Chinese tunes, creating a unique and casual vibe.

Early dinner Omakase offers a wonderful experience with a menu that feels worth the price. Suitable for casual work nights, client dinners, or outings with friends.

A chef acts as a host, waiter, and hype man, sparking lively conversations. Each fish comes with a picture displayed on an iPad, adding a unique touch.

People are saying

"I loved the all-you-can-eat Omakase with unlimited beer and sake."

"I was worried about the all-you-can-eat sushi quality, but it was worth the price."

"I thought the AYCE omakase was the most worth-it I've been to."

Good to know

1

The pricing is great for what you get, especially for AYCE options.

2

Expect larger rice portions with the unlimited dinner option.

3

The experience may not be worth $100 per person if you don't drink alcohol.

10
Hutong New York image 1
Chinese restaurant

Sleek interiors blend Art Deco style with Shanghai and New York influences, creating a stylish, futuristic vibe. Live jazz and a chilled bar atmosphere add to the sophisticated energy. Signature cocktails and a flaming Peking duck presentation highlight the experience.

Dinner here offers elevated Chinese cuisine beyond typical takeout. The interior space and atmosphere stand out, especially for dinner seatings, making it suitable for family gatherings, business meetings, or extended dinners.

The menu features unique flavor combinations like a cocktail with Sichuan pepper that creates a numbing sensation and desserts such as tiramisu with Hong Kong milk tea and a mala chocolate cake blending spiciness with sweetness.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best in the city."

"The Peking duck here is the best I've ever tasted."

"The duck here is incredibly crispy and fatty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, with a cancellation fee for late cancellations.

2

The Emperor Dinner Menu is available for a set price of $65.

3

Happy hour offers BOGO martinis, but the second one is charged initially.

11
Tomi Jazz image 1
Jazz club

Small basement jazz club with live Japanese jazz bands playing close to diners creates an intimate atmosphere. Dim lighting and walls lined with books and knickknacks add to the cozy, eclectic vibe. Cocktails and Japanese-inspired dishes complement the engaging musical experience.

Arriving at midnight means no wait, making it a convenient late-night dinner spot. Early arrivals or those who don't mind waiting find a chill dinner and drinks vibe.

Dimly lit ambiance features interesting antiques and an old-timey electric train on the ceiling. The menu offers flavoursome entrees alongside a vast drink selection, all set to live jazz music.

People are saying

"The live jazz here is incredible, complementing the amazing Japanese-Italian fusion dishes."

"You have to be very patient waiting for dinner spots here."

"The live jazz music here is soulful and improvisational."

Good to know

1

Arriving at 4:30 PM guarantees a seat even on the busiest days.

2

There is a $10 live music cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

You should come during weekdays before 5:30 PM to avoid long waits.

12
Sakagura image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy underground setting with a serious Kyoto old Japanese feel creates an authentic, speakeasy atmosphere. Loud groups mix with quiet diners, giving a lively yet intimate energy. Extensive, rare sake selection and beautifully presented dishes add to the distinctive experience.

Elegant space creates a romantic dinner vibe with attentive service that maintains comfort even during table changes. The dinner experience pairs well with an after-dinner sake flight.

An underground izakaya offers authentic Japanese food with fresh, interesting flavors. Dishes like wagyu beef on hot stone and a creative mix of eggplant, bamboo, and broccoli rabe stand out.

People are saying

"The yuzu sake was a delightful balance to the flavorful dishes."

"The food here is incredible, especially the pork belly."

"It's interesting how the place is located underground, like a secret speakeasy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for visiting the restaurant.

2

International customers are required to pay in cash due to payment system limitations.

3

Get there early as they are busy.

13
Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecôte image 1

Seating feels extremely cramped with tables placed shoulder to shoulder in a lively, noisy atmosphere. The space fills quickly, creating a crowded environment that suits casual dining rather than intimate occasions. Wine selections often complement the menu well, adding to the energetic vibe.

Dinner features a steak, fries, and salad combo for $35. The spot offers affordable options with a great vibe.

Fries offer a texturally interesting experience with good flavor but lack crunch. The sauce adds an interesting touch, and the dessert includes a tower-shaped option.

People are saying

"The steak frites here are a tasty treat with a secret recipe sauce."

"The food here is spectacular, fresh, and flavorful."

"The steak and fries here are tasty, with a second serving adding to the enjoyment."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not take reservations, leading to long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of up to 2 hours during peak times.

3

Arrive before opening at 5:30 PM for the shortest wait.

14
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French restaurant

Magnificent space inside an iconic terminal offers a chic yet comfortable vibe with captivating decor and a top-notch bar featuring a spacious counter. The atmosphere balances quiet indoor seating with lively areas, making it suitable for various gatherings.

Dinner offers a French-inspired main dining room and a moody Green Room lounge with red banquets and dim lighting. The concept of dining inside a bustling train station adds a unique atmosphere.

Self-invented drinks offer a very tasty and unique experience. Presentation differs from the usual, adding an interesting twist.

People are saying

"The French food service was slow, with long waits for bread and desserts."

"The entrecôte at these dinner spots was surprisingly tasty."

"It's interesting how they serve the escargot in a big cup with puff pastry."

Good to know

1

The establishment is open until 2AM every day.

2

The restaurant serves food until 2 AM.

3

You can get seated right away without a reservation.

15
Le Jardinier image 1
French restaurant

Dining space resembles an airy greenhouse with green marble and plush cushions, creating a sleek, refined vibe. Atmosphere blends casual elegance with a touch of corporate formality, evoking classic power lunch settings. Spacious seating suits both meetings and family gatherings.

Dinner celebrations stand out here with attentive service that makes occasions memorable. Wine pairings complement meals perfectly, enhancing the overall dinner experience.

Risotto combines ordinary rice with other ingredients to create interesting flavors and textures despite the presence of saffron. Bathrooms are unisex and have a unique design.

People are saying

"The desserts here were on another level."

"I had a special, beautiful dinner that felt like perfection."

"The dishes here are interesting, with many standouts like the scallops and risotto."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The tasting menu costs around $100 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Jazz night happens every Wednesday in the upstairs lounge.

16
Aquavit image 1
Scandinavian restaurant

Scandinavian restaurant offers an elegant, upscale setting with understated, classy decor and open kitchen views. Atmosphere balances casual yet sophisticated vibes, welcoming a broad range of diners. A large bar and unique touches like grey faux fur blankets add to the distinctive experience.

Dinner here features perfectly timed courses with spectacular service that pampers throughout the meal. The experience feels unforgettable and carefully tailored around your schedule.

The menu features wild flavor combinations like the birds nest dessert and a signature smoke and salt profile typical of Scandinavian cuisine. The garlic butter with aperitif bread and the non-alcoholic pairing add unique tastes to the experience.

People are saying

"The chef's tasting menu was divine, full of incredible flavors."

"I had the best dinner experience of my life here."

"The food here is flavorful and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended well in advance due to high demand.

2

The ice cream cocktail tasting experience is available only in August.

3

Christmas Dinner requires a reservation and can be quite expensive.

17
Grand Central Oyster Bar image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Huge space with classic architecture and old school NYC charm creates a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back decades. Oyster shuckers perform visibly at the bar, adding to the lively, traditional vibe. Seating options include a hidden saloon and multiple bars, catering to varied preferences.

Offers three-course dinners and bar service with quick arrangements for large groups. Counters provide an authentic old New York dinner experience, and the clam soup stands out as a memorable dish.

Interesting architecture stands out under the entrance to the grand station. The place sits on the underground level with a neat history and an interesting ambience that shapes the experience.

People are saying

"The oysters here are so fresh, with many varieties to choose from."

"These Dinner Spots have delicious, fresh oysters, though sometimes with shell fragments."

"The architecture here is really interesting and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour happens on Thursdays from 4-6 PM in the Saloon and Lounge.

2

The happy hour includes two options of $1 clams.

3

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, and it’s impossible to order after that.

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