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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in SoHo

Authentic cool spots

You gravitate toward places that have a natural edge and a sense of self without trying to be trendy.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Coffee shop

Small space with tropical plants and warm wood accents creates a cozy, low-key vibe. Comfortable seating and strong WiFi support working or studying, while friendly atmosphere invites lingering. Unique coffee options include rum-infused beans and pastries with authentic flavors.

Coffee features an amazing roast with authentic Puerto Rican flavors. Pastries match the coffee with delicious, authentic taste.

Cool vibes come from a relaxed atmosphere and super staff. The space feels chill and inviting, perfect for working or hanging out with great coffee and lattes.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be so good and awesome."

"It's a really cool spot with a chill vibe."

"I loved the authentic coffee with its amazing Puertorican flavors."

Good to know

1

The establishment has a 'C' rating for sanitary inspection grade.

2

The price for a single cold brew is $12.

3

The cappuccino and chocolate chip cookie cost $15.

02
Roscioli NYC image 1
Roman restaurant

Cellar dining space with a rustic wine cellar vibe creates a lively, hip atmosphere that feels like an authentic Italian family gathering. Cramped seating and steep stairs lead to a subterranean enoteca where excellent wine pairings complement the experience.

Offers an authentic Roman dining experience with dishes like Italian Polenta and a tasting menu full of comforting flavors. Espresso and tiramisu finish the meal true to Rome.

A cool story shapes the vibe here, paired with a great atmosphere that balances music and art well. Wine tastings with thoughtful pairings add to the unique experience.

People are saying

"The wine and food here are truly incredible."

"The pasta and burrata here are really great."

"The carbonara is authentic, rich, and creamy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required and can be made through Resy.

2

The tasting menu costs $170 per person and includes multiple courses.

3

Dinner seatings are at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM daily.

03
Fellini Coffee Soho image 1

Small, intimate coffee shop with Carrara marble bar countertops and wood paneling creates a cozy, old-world atmosphere. Oldies music plays, setting a warm and inviting mood. Outdoor terrace offers a peaceful spot for relaxation when weather permits.

Service feels very true to Italian roots with authentic coffee and thick, tasty hot chocolate.

Cool coffee options like pistachio paradiso and tiramisu latte stand out. The place has a stylish and artsy vibe that feels like a small town in Italia.

People are saying

"The tiramisu latte's cream on the coffee was magical."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and stylish."

"I loved the authentic, thick, and tasty hot chocolate."

Good to know

1

The seating at the cafe is very limited, especially indoors.

2

A walk-up window is available for quick orders.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

04
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Hamburger restaurant

Vintage burger diner with retro-modern design and old school American vibe fills a small space packed with eager diners. Formica counters and sizzling flattops create a nostalgic atmosphere where the burger assembly line is visible from the counter. Outdoor seating and a bar add variety to the lively, crowded setting.

Burgers focus on authentic simplicity with just two menu options. The food offers a rich history and quality taste that feels genuine and satisfying.

Onion smash burgers and guest burgers offer a cool twist on classic flavors. Watching burgers cook right at the counter, especially when George Motz is there, adds a very cool vibe to the experience.

People are saying

"The American Food here is simple, delicious, and perfectly satisfying."

"The retro atmosphere and vibe here are really cool."

"The burgers here are an authentic taste of perfection."

Good to know

1

You order food and pay upfront, which makes the process easy and efficient.

2

Be warned that lines can be long on certain days at George Motzโ€™s restaurant.

3

Opening time is the best time to visit to avoid crowds.

05
Sorate image 1
Tea house

Tiny tea house blends Italian style with Japanese quality and NYC hospitality in a calming, minimalist space. Limited seating includes four indoor bar seats and a small outdoor patio with benches. Atmosphere feels intimate and serene, enhanced by soothing music and incense.

Matcha here is truly authentic and fresh, capturing the real Japanese tea experience. The place offers authentic hospitality and a cozy atmosphere that feels like a genuine Japanese tea house.

Super cool tea-brewing equipment adds charm and a unique vibe. Fans help customers stay cool on warm days, enhancing comfort while enjoying matcha and Japanese sweets.

People are saying

"I had one of the best matcha lattes I've ever had."

"I found the most authentic, high-quality matcha here."

"It's a cool spot for matcha and Japanese sweets."

Good to know

1

There are only four seats available, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Visitors can spend an hour learning about matcha while whisking their own.

3

The tasting experience with the owner is both educational and enjoyable.

06
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French restaurant

Stunning interior design evokes a Parisian feel with tiny, closely spaced tables that create a noisy, crowded atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative, and solo diners receive a complimentary glass of champagne. The bar serves excellent cocktails and wine selections.

Lively environment and authentic bistrot flair create a genuine Parisian dining experience. The bakery and service add to the authentic French charm throughout.

A very relaxed vibe sets the tone here, paired with well designed decor that shapes the space. The overall cool atmosphere makes it stand out as a unique venue.

People are saying

"The French bistro staples here are comforting and perfectly executed."

"It feels like an authentic Parisian brasserie, timeless and vibrant."

"The atmosphere and vibes here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Getting a reservation is advisable because the diner gets crowded.

2

Single diners receive a free glass of champagne.

3

There is a $60 no-show fee for reservations.

07
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Traditional American restaurant

Historic bar and cafรฉ with old-school wooden counter and pressed roof designs creates a nostalgic, artistic vibe. Outdoor seating with heated booths offers a cozy spot for conversation and people watching. Walls lined with vintage boxer photos add to the timeless, laid-back atmosphere.

Vintage charm creates an authentic atmosphere that feels like part of the city. Coffee serves as authentic Soho coffee and the bar offers a genuine American vibe with friendly staff.

Cozy spot with a charming old atmosphere and a clock dating back to 1847. Friendly service and cool bartenders add to the vibe.

People are saying

"It's an old school, busy bar with an institutional atmosphere."

"I loved the authentic, vintage charm and cozy vibes here."

"The old-school charm and atmosphere here are pretty cool."

Good to know

1

The bar gets too packed during happy hour.

2

The restaurant does not have gluten-free options on the menu.

3

The restaurant is open late, serving food at 12:45 AM on Saturday night.

08
Soho Diner image 1
American restaurant

Interior channels classic American diner style with cinematic design and pink decor. Atmosphere blends vibrant energy with a mix of friendly and pretentious patrons. Outdoor space includes a charming courtyard and free jukebox playing classic rock tunes.

Dishes deliver an authentic American diner experience with classic flavors. The atmosphere feels like a genuine diner from years ago, capturing that nostalgic vibe.

Music sets a very cool tone while the decor and design add to the unpretentious vibe. Friendly wait staff and worth discovering cuisine complete the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The diner food here is delicious and well prepared."

"The retro decor and chill vibe make this place feel really cool."

"It's an authentic diner atmosphere with a modern twist."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

The diner only accepts cash payments; no credit cards.

3

Happy hour specials are available, but some drinks may not qualify.

09
Shuka image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with vibrant atmosphere and exotic decor featuring a greenhouse-style back room with fairy lights. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a spacious outdoor area with artwork and string lights. Music is lively, often Afro beats, creating an energetic vibe that can be loud.

Warm, quality pita bread pairs with authentic hummus for a solid start. Creative, authentic Mediterranean flavors fill the menu and the atmosphere feels thoughtful and genuine.

Calm, cool vibes mix with a slightly tropical feel. Creative brunch and great service add to the cool ambience.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be cooked to perfection."

"The food here tastes so authentic, it transports you."

"The dips and appetizers, like whipped feta and falafel, are bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

2

The price of the lamb kebab is $31.03.

3

Brunch is available on Saturdays and is a popular time to visit.

10
Emmett's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with vintage elements and intimate seating creates a cozy vibe. Loud music energizes the atmosphere, while outdoor patio offers a heated option. Known for Chicago-style deep dish pizza and a solid beer selection on tap.

Chicago thin crust pizza stands out here, with efforts to replicate authentic Chicago-style deep dish and tavern style pizzas. The place captures key elements of Chicago pizza traditions.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and stylish with a cool vibe throughout. Pizza comes with a unique cutting style that makes sharing easy.

People are saying

"This deep dish pizza is saucy, spicy, and has a buttery crust."

"I craved their authentic Chicago deep dish pizza."

"The pizzas here are top-notch and perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must if you want to eat inside due to limited seating.

2

They have amazing happy hour deals from 5-6:30.

3

On busy nights, be prepared for a long wait at Emmettโ€™s.

11
A Pasta Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen with chef's counter seating creates an engaging and intimate dining experience. Outdoor heated seating and pleasant music contribute to a relaxed atmosphere. Attention to detail shows in customized glassware and modern, simple design elements.

Flavors stay true to authentic Italian roots with dishes like Tagliatella Al Tartufo Nero showcasing high-quality ingredients and genuine taste.

Staff make fresh to order pasta right in front of diners, replacing the usual bar scene. Watching chefs prepare pasta while eating adds a unique interactive vibe.

People are saying

"I traveled here monthly for the best pasta I've ever had."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe here to be really cool."

"The pasta here is authentic and reminds me of Italy."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made at least a few days in advance, especially on weekends.

2

The kitchen closes at 10:30 PM.

3

The restaurant adds 20% gratuity to the bill.

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SoHo, New York

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