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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Southside

Expensive authentic spots

You aren't interested in watered-down versions or tourist traps. When you pay for an authentic experience, you expect the real thing.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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01
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Decor channels 19th-century Thai palace with intricate, colorful details and fresh flowers on every table. Atmosphere feels cozy and intimate, enhanced by eclectic jazz music that fills the space. Dining includes table-side unlimited rice service, creating a unique and authentic experience.

Food offers a Royal Thai dining experience with flavors that transport you to 19th-century Thailand. Dishes are consistently authentic and delicious, capturing true Thai cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the traditional Thai food here to be rare and delicious."

"The food tastes truly authentic and unique."

"The dining experience offers rich, authentic Thai flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant’s cozy size.

2

If you have a party larger than 2, don't count on it.

3

There are no vegetarian or vegan options available.

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Small space with cozy, authentic Peruvian atmosphere and beautiful backyard courtyard ideal for groups. Strong pisco cocktails complement well-seasoned traditional dishes like lomo saltado and ají de gallina. The vibe is intimate and inviting, with decor evoking a nostalgic feel.

Food delivers authentic Peruvian flavors with dishes like ceviche and Ají de gallina standing out. Atmosphere reflects a cozy, genuine Peruvian vibe that feels true to the culture.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food authentic and delicious."

"The food here is packed with authentic Peruvian flavor."

"The food and vibe feel truly authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for drinks during busy hours.

3

The restaurant has an automatic 20% gratuity for groups, even for two people.

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Classic steakhouse with old-fashioned decor and a brightly lit dining room creates a straightforward atmosphere. Energy feels comforting yet brisk, with staff moving efficiently around the room. Known for exceptional steak quality, it draws diners focused on the food rather than ambiance.

Historic setting and friendly staff create a timelessly authentic New York City steakhouse experience. The atmosphere suits steak lovers seeking classic flavors and service.

People are saying

"I thought the place was really expensive overall."

"The authentic steak here is perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"I found it pricey but worth trying once."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash and US debit cards.

2

Securing a reservation is crucial to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant gets busy on Tuesday nights.

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Minimalist decor and several intimate rooms create a spa-like atmosphere with bohemian Mexican charm. Outdoor patio and backyard offer lively spaces with a good DJ and comfortable bar seating. Ambiance shifts from noisy patio to a more subdued back dining room suited for conversation.

Contemporary Mexican dishes deliver authentic flavors in a cozy, understated-cool setting. The environment feels unpretentious yet classy, making the experience honest and genuine.

People are saying

"I love their cocktails and tasty food."

"The food was okay but not worth the price."

"The vibe here is chill and inviting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7 PM, offering food and drink specials.

3

Expect high prices; tacos can cost up to $15 each.

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Rustic and cozy Italian restaurant with spacious outdoor patio and live jazz performances creates a welcoming atmosphere. Intimate indoor space features close tables fostering lively conversation. Lighting and decor reflect a traditional trattoria style without pretension.

Locally sourced, seasonal menus highlight authentic Italian flavors with classic dishes always available. The pastas and wine reflect a genuine Italian experience.

People are saying

"The authentic Italian food here has excellent flavors."

"The drinks and food felt pricey."

"The food is pricey but tastes great."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation on Sundays for the live jazz band and chicken parmesan special.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with 2 for 1 drinks.

3

Live jazz music is featured every Sunday night.

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Dimly lit space with green velvet seating and candle-lit ambiance creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs and groups, enhanced by handcrafted plates and cups and warm heaters. Inventive cocktails and authentic Venezuelan dishes complement a lively yet relaxed vibe.

Dishes like Tequeños, Cachapitas, and Hallaca deliver authentic Venezuelan flavors with careful preparation. The food carries authentic flavor and the staff shows clear pride in their cuisine.

People are saying

"The food really captures authentic Venezuelan flavors."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I thought the food was too pricey and bland."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for large groups.

2

The restaurant offers a free 3-course menu during the 'Mi casa es su Casa Ora' Family Meal.

3

Ordering hallacas during the holidays is highly recommended.

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Mexican restaurant with beautifully decorated interior and comfortable booth tables creates a warm, charming atmosphere that captures beachside vibes. The space shifts from calm dining to lively dance floors after 10 PM, with a noisy, bar-like energy in the evenings. Guests enjoy smooth, potent margaritas and a vibrant, friendly crowd.

Plates feature meticulously chosen ingredients to honor an authentic Baja California experience. Flavors come through as clean and elevated, though some dishes lack full authenticity.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh fish tacos and tasty mezcal cocktails."

"The place has great vibes and food I want to try again."

"The flavors here are authentic and taste super clean."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is only available at the high tables or bar.

2

The restaurant fills all of their bar seats via reservations during happy hour.

3

There is a rule that you can only have a table for a certain amount of time.

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Giant industrial space with bright, airy decor and island vibes creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Bumpin' Soca and bachata music fills the room, making it lively and energetic despite the small size. The crowd enjoys 100% vegan Caribbean cuisine with a modern ordering system enhancing the experience.

Dishes feature a beautiful blend of authentic Caribbean ingredients and cooking techniques. The buss up shut roti and peppa sauce highlight the rich, authentic flavors that bring the Caribbean to life.

People are saying

"The food here is bursting with authentic Caribbean flavors."

"The food and drinks felt way too pricey."

"I thought the place was pretty expensive overall."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must due to limited seating.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect a wait of 45 minutes to an hour for walk-ins.

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Spacious, modern café with elegant décor and comfortable seating creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Large indoor and outdoor seating framed by plants invite leisurely meals. Cocktail bar setup adds an upscale vibe beyond typical bakery experiences.

Authentic Venezuelan baked goods and pastries stand out here with authentic flavor. Arepas and mandocas show effort toward traditional taste, though mandocas miss some traditional flavor nuances.

People are saying

"The Venezuelan pastries taste authentic and the place feels inviting."

"I loved the authentic Venezuelan empanadas, crispy and bursting with flavor."

"Some dishes feel authentic, but others miss the mark."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a grand opening event on Tuesday, January 28.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Prices for bakery items are generally higher than average for the area.

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Southside, New York

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