30 Trendy Restaurants in the West Village, NYC for 2025
A visit to New York wouldn’t be complete without exploring the best restaurants in the West Village. Considered one of New York City's most charming neighborhoods, the Village’s culinary scene offers everything from some of the best burgers in New York to Italian trattorias that have served generations of New Yorkers. Whether you're searching for great date night ideas in New York or planning to enjoy a birthday dinner in the Big Apple, this magical pocket of Manhattan offers a diverse dining scene that’s worth checking out.
Feature image via Sant Ambroeus
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- Discover Cooking Classes in NYC
- Find the Best Team Building Activities in NYC
- Best Lunch Restaurants in the West Village
- Romantic Restaurants in the West Village
- Low-Cost Restaurants in the West Village
- Fancy West Village Restaurants
- Warm and Cozy Restaurants near West Village
- Hottest West Village Restaurants
- French and Italian West Village Restaurants
- Asian West Village Restaurants
- Restaurants in the West Village FAQs
Discover Cooking Classes in NYC
If dining at West Village restaurants has you feeling inspired to brush up on your culinary skills, you’re in the right place. Cooking classes in NYC are a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food scene. Expert chefs provide step-by-step recipes for everything from homemade gnocchi to a multi-course French meal, turning novice cooks into seasoned professionals in only an hour or so. Whether you’re looking for a fun date night, a family-friendly activity or perhaps even a unique idea for a birthday dinner in NYC, you’ll find classes for virtually every occasion.
Find the Best Team Building Activities in NYC
Team building activities in NYC help foster a sense of community with hands-on activities led by expert instructors. Cooking, dance, art, photography, painting, pottery, and even candle-making courses encourage team members to bond while working together in the pursuit of a common goal — and hopefully have a bit of fun along the way! After a rewarding team outing, you and your group can savor a well-deserved meal at one of the West Village restaurants mentioned above.
Best Lunch Restaurants in the West Village
1. Don Angie
Don Angie is a relative newcomer in terms of West Village restaurants, opening its doors in 2017. That makes its long list of accolades, including a Michelin star and multiple James Beard Foundation award nominations, even more impressive. The marble-accented interior is decidedly fashionable, and large windows afford guests a front-row seat to the frenetic energy of the village. The menu boasts Italian-American classics with a contemporary flair, including sourdough pasta and a chrysanthemum salad that gets rave reviews.
Italian-American cuisine might seem ubiquitous in New York City, but Don Angie really sets itself apart from the other best restaurants in the West Village by offering a creative and elevated take on classic dishes. Start your meal with their signature tear-apart, stuffed garlic flatbread or the refreshing Chrysanthemum salad generously topped with grated Parmesan.
While every dish is worth savoring, the lasagna pinwheels are a true highlight — arguably the best in the city. Don Angie’s drinks menu holds its own, too. Sip on a Nonna’s Little Nip, a bright mix of grapefruit, Campari and prosecco, or try the Pinky Ring, a bold blend of rye, Carpano Antica, Galliano and Campari. Located in a charming corner of Greenwich Village, this is by far one of the top restaurants in the West Village.
2. Lavaux Wine Bar
Lavaux is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for an authentic Swiss dining experience. Their menu is small but thoughtfully curated, featuring Swiss classics like raclette cheese and charcuterie boards alongside three types of cheese fondue, each served with unlimited bread, mini potatoes, pickles and radishes. The fondue is undoubtedly the star of the show here, but there are also salads and dishes like beef tartare for variety. Be sure to pair your meal with a selection from their impressive Swiss wine list while taking in the restaurant’s laid-back alpine ambiance. You’ll find unique touches like a window table set inside an enclosed ski lift car, weathered wooden tables equipped with built-in bread slicers and walls adorned with enough copper pots to rival Julia Child’s kitchen.
3. Sant Ambroeus
For the best lunch in the West Village, head to Sant Ambroeus — a beloved New York institution perched at the corner of West 4th Street and Perry. Its outdoor tables are ideal for people-watching, whether you're savoring a morning espresso or sharing a bottle of wine at sunset. The menu is a celebration of classic Italian dining and features homemade pastas, seasonal dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients and delicate desserts like their much-loved Principessa cake. Once emblematic of the understated glamor that defined the West Village, Sant Ambroeus remains a cherished holdout and one of the best restaurants in the West Village, and dining here feels like escaping to old New York.
4. Morandi
If you’re looking for warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York, be sure to check out Morandi, a lovely bustling trattoria with charming, wood-paneled interiors that feels like stepping into one of those cooking classes near you where Italian grandmothers share their secrets. You’re guaranteed a lively dining experience here, whether you’re digging into comforting bowls of pasta or enjoying an aperitif, martini or a glass of wine. Sundays are particularly special, thanks to their lasagna, a decadent masterpiece layered with prosciutto, bolognese, béchamel and parmesan. Did someone say seconds?
5. 4 Charles Prime Rib
With dim lighting, crystal chandeliers and leather seating, 4 Charles is a swanky steakhouse that harkens back to a bygone era. This historic brownstone dishes out classic cuts of steak and prime rib, plus strong cocktails like martinis and several variations of the classic old-fashioned. 4 Charles strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, making it one of the most incredible West Village restaurants for business lunches and romantic dinners alike.
One of the best restaurants in the West Village, 4 Charles Prime Rib is a must-visit. This intimate spot channels the vibe of a luxe, speakeasy-style den with dim lighting, cozy nooks and a high-energy vibe. Reservations are released online exactly 21 days in advance at 9 a.m. and if you’re lucky enough to snag a table, prepare to enjoy the best lunch in the West Village.
Start with the American Cheeseburger which can be elevated with bacon and a fried egg for an unforgettable bite. The prime rib is juicy, tender and served with all the right sides, like golden fries begging to be dipped into creamed spinach. Finish your meal with a sundae or, if you can’t resist, another burger; both are worth the indulgence.
6. Sushi Katsuei
Sushi Katsuei is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for creative sushi at surprisingly reasonable prices. The menu often features rare and unique selections like firefly squid and barracuda, while the omakase experience is a must-try at just $65, and includes nine pieces of expertly prepared nigiri and a handroll. Even the side dishes, like the salads, showcase elevated attention to detail; think dressings that rival the artistry of the main courses. For those inspired by the artistry of Sushi Katsuei, exploring online cooking classes can be a great way to bring some of this culinary magic into your own kitchen.
Romantic Restaurants in the West Village
7. Justine’s On Hudson
Justine's On Hudson is one of those warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York that live up to the hype. This polished wine bistro features a warm walnut bar complete with a brass foot rail reminiscent of classic saloons, velvet banquettes and a striking Murano glass chandelier that anchors this inviting space. With a focus on peak-season produce sourced from the owners’ family farm, the menu evolves regularly so that every visit feels fresh and exciting. Opt for a mix of smaller plates to savor the seasonal produce or dive into one of the larger, meat-forward entrées for a more substantial meal. Wine enthusiasts will find themselves right at home with the restaurant’s all-European wine list, carefully curated to complement each dish. And the thoughtful pairing guidance makes exploring the menu a delight for both novices and connoisseurs alike.
8. The Noortwyck
The Noortwyck reinvents New American dining with a level of creativity that makes even familiar dishes feel fresh and exciting. Start your meal at one of the best restaurants in the West Village with raw scallops served in-shell, paired with vibrant English peas and a hint of grapefruit for a surprising twist. While the menu isn’t exclusively Italian, their pastas are among the best in the West Village. Be sure to save room for dessert, as the pastry chef here crafts exceptional creations that are magical without being overly sweet. The space itself strikes the perfect balance: relaxed enough for casual after-work drinks but refined enough to celebrate a special occasion.
9. Libertine
One of the best restaurants in the West Village to experience real Parisian-style cuisine, Libertine is a top choice for both cozy dinners and animated get-togethers. The menu includes refined dishes like scallops and seaweed with monkfish à la Normande. For something different, don’t miss the Jambon Persillé, a unique example of French culinary tradition combined with a modern touch. Pair your meal with a glass from their thoughtfully curated all-natural French wine list, and soak in the ambiance of this charming bistro.
Perched on a historic street corner, Libertine is a chic French bistro that opened its doors in 2023 and has quickly risen in the ranks of West Village restaurants. The quaint restaurant is always buzzing with activity (in a good way!), and the a la carte menu is neither too small nor overwhelmingly extensive. Simple bistro classics like Beef Tartare are executed perfectly, and the wine list is all French and boasts some 200 different bottles.
10. Via Carota
Rita Sodi is half of the brains behind Via Carota, so it’s no wonder that the quaint trattoria is one of the most popular West Village restaurants. The rustic atmosphere transports guests to the sprawling Tuscan countryside, and the seasonal menu perfectly captures the essence of old-world Italian flavors. From lemon risotto to wild boar ragu, it’s impossible to have a bad meal here.
Housed in a charming converted townhouse, Via Carota has earned its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the West Village. The rustic farmhouse decor provides the ideal setting for a menu that celebrates traditional Italian flavors. Signature dishes like their svizzerina — a perfectly seasoned beef patty — fried rabbit, and handmade pasta selection are crafted with a focus on fresh, authentic ingredients. Must-tries include the classic cacio e pepe and their rich, house-made ragù.
The extensive wine list showcases exceptional Italian producers, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal. While reservations are available 30 days in advance, the restaurant’s popularity often means a wait. Fortunately, the surrounding neighborhood offers plenty of great spots to grab a drink while you wait for your table.
Low-Cost Restaurants in the West Village
11. Faicco’s Italian Specialties
For over a century, Faicco's has been a cornerstone of the West Village, earning its reputation as the go-to spot for Italian deli classics. The star of the menu is their legendary chicken cutlet sandwich; a colossal creation that is as satisfying as it is massive. Loaded with premium meats, fresh mozzarella and perfectly seasoned ingredients, it’s a sandwich that’s big enough to share (if you’re feeling generous). Beyond the sandwiches, Faicco's doubles as a compact Italian grocery. Shelves are stocked with imported delicacies, artisanal cheeses, and house-made specialties like jarred pesto. While technically a deli rather than a sit-down restaurant, Faicco's is still considered one of the best restaurants in the West Village for avid foodies.
12. L’Industrie
At L’Industrie, sourdough pies made with premium Italian ingredients take center stage. Giant basil leaves, freshly grated parmesan and indulgent optional toppings like creamy burrata and crispy soppressata make for unforgettable combinations. And while the menu offers elevated flavors, the foldable, perfectly greasy slices stay true to New York pizza tradition, so don’t forget the extra napkins!
A list of iconic West Village restaurants simply isn’t complete without at least one pizza joint, and L’Industrie is a local favorite for good reason. Casual and unpretentious, the shop has brick walls, a handful of inside tables and a full view of the kitchen staff slinging dough. Classic pies like pepperoni and margarita always hit the spot, while more inventive toppings like truffle oil, fig jam, and bacon dare to push the envelope. L’Industrie is also a great option for those in search of vegan restaurants in NYC, as the tomato pie (with tomato sauce, olive oil, and basil) is out of this world.
13. El Jalapeño
One of the best restaurants in the West Village is actually a food truck called El Jalapeño. It's a cash-only spot that's a lifesaver for late-night cravings. This place truly comes alive after midnight when the post-bar crowd lines up for some of the best Mexican food in the area. The menu offers a full spread of tacos, burritos, gorditas and nachos. Packed with tender, caramelized pork, rice, beans and toppings, and finished with a fiery tomato chili sauce, the spicy pork burrito is a must-try for spice lovers.
14. Mama’s Too
This West Village newcomer (an expansion from their Upper West Side origins) has quickly become one of the best restaurants in the West Village, with lines that snake down the block. Mama’s Too signature offerings include an indulgent vodka sauce slice topped with whipped ricotta and a fiery number featuring Calabrian chili oil that'll wake up your taste buds.
While you’re at it, don't miss the pepperoni slice or their ingenious cacio e pepe pizza, which translates the much-loved pasta dish into pie form with remarkable success. For the adventurous, the poached pear slice offers an unexpected sweet-savory experience that somehow works brilliantly, while the Angry Nonna delivers a perfect harmony of heat, richness and honey-tinged sweetness.
15. Corner Bistro
Looking for an authentic dive bar experience in New York? Look no further than Corner Bistro, a casual bohemian bar that keeps things delightfully simple with paper plates and surprisingly affordable prices. Most items ring in under $15, a rare find in today's West Village, and the star attraction is their legendary cheeseburger, which is a favorite of Bravo TV host Andy Cohen.
The menu is intentionally streamlined with perfectly executed classics like crispy fries and grilled cheese alongside their famous burgers. The cash-only policy adds to its old-school charm, and the casual atmosphere draws an engaging mix of locals and tourists. Whether you're stopping in for an after-work drink or craving a satisfying meal, Corner Bistro is one of the best restaurants in the West Village.
Fancy West Village Restaurants
If you feel like you’ve tried all of the best Midtown restaurants in NYC, rest assured, there are plenty of top-rated spots in the West Village. These fancy West Village restaurants are perfect for a fancy date night, a business dinner or impressing out-of-town guests.
16. Carbone
Carbone is a West Village institution, offering traditional mid-century Italian-American cuisine with a refreshingly modern twist. The elegant atmosphere is complimented by impeccable service, making it one of the best West Village restaurants for fine dining. Menu highlights include Veal Parmesan, Chicken Scarpariello, Linguini Vongole, innovative antipasti and sides and an extensive wine list. Prices are high and reservations are difficult to come by, but those factors are precisely why dining at Carbone is such a coveted experience.
17. Sevilla
One of few West Village restaurants that don’t require reservations, Sevilla brings Spain’s bold, vibrant flavors to the Big Apple. The cozy, intimate space features cultural decor, beautiful artwork and bustling waiters in bowties. Housed in a landmark Charles Street building dating to the 1800s, this familiar favorite specializes in seafood dishes such as paella as well as perhaps the most famous sangria in NYC.
Warm and Cozy Restaurants Near West Village
Warm and cozy West Village restaurants offer an ideal setting for an intimate meal with your significant other or a relaxed dinner amongst friends. These spots are still elegant, but they’re also unpretentious and allow diners to unwind over incredible food and drinks.
18. Tartine
With a striped awning and sidewalk seating, Tartine delivers a taste of Paris to the streets of New York. Weekend brunch is the star of the show, with classics like Eggs Benedict, Croque Madame and French toast keeping a steady line down the block. The interior has no more than about a dozen seats, and the charming ambiance cements this BYOB cafe among the best warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York to grab a morning bite. Tartine is also open daily for dinner and for lunch on weekdays.
19. Minetta Tavern
Few West Village restaurants are more quintessentially New York than Minetta Tavern. Restored to its mid-century glory, this upscale, French-inspired eatery oozes timeless elegance. Vintage decor covers the walls, and jazz music and dark lighting further set the mood. Minetta Tavern is best known for its signature Black Label Burger, which features dry-aged beef and caramelized onions on a sesame seed bun, served with French fries. The chocolate souffle is also unmissable.
20. Little Owl
Fans of the hit TV show “Friends” flock to the Little Owl, a cozy hideaway located below the famous apartment building featured on the sitcom. That isn’t what makes the charming spot one of the best West Village restaurants, though. Offering Mediterranean-inspired fare like fresh seafood and bone-in pork chops, this neighborly gem is a favorite among tourists and New York natives.
21. The Waverly Inn
Styled like a high-end club, The Waverly Inn offers a classic NYC dining experience in a historic building. With subdued lighting, a crackling fireplace, and snug dining rooms, it imparts a much more relaxing vibe than many other West Village restaurants. The Waverly Inn specializes in elevated versions of American comfort food classics such as chicken pot pie, priding itself on immaculate service, unwavering attention to detail and an impressive wine list.
Hottest West Village Restaurants
While there are many popular West Village restaurants, some generate a lot more buzz than others. Hype is often just that, but these destinations live up to their notoriety.
22. I Sodi
If you like the Italian restaurants in Little Italy NYC, you’ll fall in love with I Sodi. In 2008, self-taught Italian chef Rita Sodi opened I Sodi, a Tuscan restaurant inspired by her upbringing on a small farm near Florence. Ever since, the cozy, romantic eatery has become one of the hottest West Village restaurants, garnering immense praise for its antipasti, house-made pasta and succulent meat and seafood dishes. The lasagna earns especially high marks from patrons.
Among the best restaurants in the West Village to enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, I Sodi offers a quaint, intimate dining experience with white tablecloths and weathered wooden floors. The menu is a love letter to Italian tradition and features perfectly executed antipasti, house-made pasta dishes and hearty secondi.
Signature dishes include crispy fried artichokes and the irresistible tagliatelle al limone, both brimming with flavor. While reservations are highly coveted, early diners can often score a seat at the walk-in bar, where inventive Negroni variations are the perfect pairing for the rustic Italian dishes.
23. Via Carota
Rita Sodi is half of the brains behind Via Carota, so it’s no wonder that the quaint trattoria is one of the most popular West Village restaurants. The rustic atmosphere transports guests to the sprawling Tuscan countryside, and the seasonal menu perfectly captures the essence of old-world Italian flavors. From lemon risotto to wild boar ragu, it’s impossible to have a bad meal here.
24. Buvette
One of the top restaurants in the West Village, Buvette has an intimate, welcoming atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Parisian café. Chef-owner Jody Williams curates a menu that celebrates simple yet exceptional ingredients, from warm anchovy toast spread with cool butter to hearty staples like cassoulet and croque monsieur. The wine list is another highlight, reflecting Williams’ passion for thoughtfully selected bottles. Sip a rosé during brunch with friends or share a Loire Valley vintage over charcuterie in the evening.
Nestled amid the lush greenery of Grove Street, Buvette is the Village’s favorite all-day French bistro. The intimate space charms with antique furniture, overflowing fruit baskets, a marble bar and a garden terrace. From savoring fresh-baked pastries on a slow morning to enjoying a dinner of Coq Au Vin and a tall glass of champagne, Buvette is among the most idyllic West Village restaurants if you’re looking for an escape from hectic city life.
French and Italian West Village Restaurants
Like most of NYC, West Village restaurants are heavily skewed towards Italian cuisine, and French bistros dominate many of the neighborhood’s street corners. With such a wide selection of French and Italian eateries, it can be hard to know where to go, so we’ve rounded up some of the best spots.
25. Petite Boucherie
Both the food and atmosphere at Petite Boucherie are reminiscent of a classic French bistro. The snug, homey restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and the extensive menu offers everything from French onion soup and caviar to Beef Bourguignon and Steak Frites. Of course, the baked goods are some of the best out of all West Village restaurants (especially the chocolate croissant).
26. Palma
Opened in 2001 by husband and wife duo Pierre and Palma (after whom the restaurant is named), Palma is an Italian eatery specializing in local, organic ingredients. Much like an Italian villa, the stucco restaurant consists of several rooms connected by a central courtyard, and the relaxed atmosphere allows good conversation to flow like fine wine. Italian classics such as handmade pasta and sourdough focaccia, antipasti and fresh fish dominate the menu, and everything is cooked in either extra-virgin olive oil, butter or imported Italian sunflower oil. When it comes to West Village restaurants, Palma is a clear standout.
27. San Sabino
The chefs behind Don Angie are also responsible for San Sabino, so the restaurant’s status as one of the most popular West Village restaurants isn’t at all surprising. With a sleek, modern interior and an Italian-American menu that emphasizes fresh seafood, San Sabino infuses bold and unexpected flavors into tried-and-true dishes. Some menu highlights include crab and mortadella dip, farfalle pasta stuffed with smoked chili crab and grilled brown butter salmon.
Asian West Village Restaurants
While Asian West Village restaurants aren’t as numerous as their Italian counterparts, the quality of the food more than makes up for the lack of quantity. From Thai to Indian to sushi, these crave-worthy spots offer some of the finest Asian cuisine in the city.
28. Bangkok Supper Club
For a taste of Bangkok in the West Village, you can’t go wrong with the lively Bangkok Supper Club NYC. The menu is packed with bold, exciting flavors and features incredible dishes like deep-fried octopus, tender beef tongue slow-cooked in lemongrass, and a luxurious brown butter poached lobster. Adventurous diners will find plenty to love, particularly in the creative cocktails crafted with unexpected ingredients like banana vermouth and beet-infused moonshine. The restaurant’s shareable plates make it ideal for groups eager to explore the diverse menu, while the staff members are always happy to guide you through the spicier selections.
Bangkok’s energetic late-night food scene is alive and well in NYC at Bangkok Supper Club, a local favorite among Asian West Village restaurants. Chef Max Wittawat puts contemporary spins on traditional family recipes to create new, innovative dishes that impress both in terms of presentation and flavor. The spicy scallop ceviche and deep-fried pork cheeks served over baked garlic rice are considered must-tries, as is the coconut chiffon cake with pandan custard for dessert.
29. Sushi Nakazawa
Few West Village restaurants offer an omakase experience as coveted as that of Sushi Nakazawa. Those who manage to snag a reservation to the 10-seat sushi counter should consider themselves lucky, as it’s no easy feat. The restaurant’s polished interior is minimally decorated, turning all of the attention to what matters most: the food.
A 20-course nigiri spread features globally sourced fish, with a special emphasis on Japanese catches. From salmon to fatty tuna to scallops, each cut of fish is seemingly more tender than the last, and the rice is seasoned just right. The beverage menu spans several dozen pages, offering everything from sake and champagne to non-alcoholic options like matcha, each sip carefully selected to pair well with the sushi offerings.
30. Semma
Since opening in 2021, Semma has become a go-to destination for lovers of South Indian cuisine, and it’s easy to see why. Under the expert guidance of Chef Vijay Kumar, this West Village hotspot transforms traditional Tamil Nadu recipes into a fine dining experience while staying true to its roots. The menu is filled with life-changingly delicious dishes, like the crispy gunpowder dosa, served with spiced potatoes and the Kanyakumari Nandu Masala, a vibrant Dungeness crab curry. Make sure to pair your meal with one of their inventive cocktails for a perfect complement to the rich and aromatic spices. With attentive service and an inviting atmosphere, Semma is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for an authentic and innovative dining experience.
South Asian West Village restaurants are few and far between, but Semma does a wonderful job of making up for that disparity. With a Michelin star under its belt, the eatery serves regional dishes from Southern India that are typically only seen in local neighborhoods. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, and the reviews reinforce all of the praise. Mains range from ghee-roasted lamb chops to black cardamom short ribs, and the coconut rice is to die for. Delicate spices paired with traditional cooking techniques result in expertly crafted plates that captivate the senses. Creative cocktails and a sizeable wine list round out the menu.
Restaurants in the West Village FAQs
Is West Village a rich neighborhood?
The West Village is one of New York City’s most coveted neighborhoods, particularly due to its prime location along the Hudson River and its historic landmarks. With its narrow streets, brownstone-lined avenues and a rich sense of Old New York, it’s no surprise that properties here command a premium. In fact, the 10014 ZIP Code boasts the highest median price per square foot of residential real estate in the city — reaching $2,3 million as of December 2024, according to data from Realtor.com.
Why is the West Village so popular?
The West Village is a cozy neighborhood that offers a more laid-back, intimate atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of Manhattan. It feels more like a small town within the city and most people like that it provides a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere in New York.
What is the prettiest street in West Village?
Just a short stroll from Washington Square Park, Commerce Street is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque streets in all of NYC. This enchanting lane takes you back in time with stunning row houses that date back to the 18th century and tree-lined sidewalks that create a serene and timeless ambiance.
What Is the Famous Street in West Village?
West Village restaurants aren’t the only reason to visit the lively neighborhood. There are also several well-known streets worth checking out. It would be difficult to single out just one famous street in West Village, but Christopher Street, Grove Street, Commerce Street and Bleecker Street are some of the most iconic.
Christopher Street is home to Stonewall Inn, a national monument that was the site of the 1969 Stonewall riots. One of the Big Apple’s oldest homes can be found on Grove Street, known for its postcard-worthy sidewalks lined with beautiful trees. Grove Street is home to the city’s oldest continuously operating Off-Broadway theater, and the world-famous Magnolia Bakery is one of Bleecker Street’s biggest claims to fame.
While you’re on the hunt for the best West Village restaurants, West Village rooftop restaurants or warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York, take a walk down these legendary roads — even if only to snap a photo next to the street signs.
Where Do Locals Eat in NYC?
West Village restaurants aren’t the only places to get great food in NYC. The entire city is full of delicious eats — but you have to know where to look to find the best of the best. Locals tend to skip the touristy places — unless they’re legitimately good, of course — in favor of lesser-known gems (including many West Village restaurants).
If there’s one thing NYC natives and visitors agree on, it’s that any good morning starts with a bagel. Tompkins Square Bagels is known for its impressive variety of cream cheese flavors, and Apollo Bagels has arguably the chewiest salt bagel in the city. For lunch and dinner, Shanghai 21 is the crowd favorite for soup dumplings, while pizza either comes from Scarr's if you’re looking for a classic, greasy slice or Little Charli for gourmet pies. Chelsea Market also deserves mention, with street vendors serving everything from tacos to donuts, and the gyros from Halal Guys never miss. Of course, West Village rooftop restaurants like Gansevoort Rooftop and STK Rooftop are always popular in the city that never sleeps.
Who Owns Dante West Village?
Originally called Caffé Dante, Dante — also known as Dante NYC — is a West Village bar that opened in 1915 as an Italian coffee shop. It’s a cafe by day, serving coffee and pastries in the morning and paninis for lunch. At night, patrons sip traditional Italian cocktails like negronis and Americanos while dining on roast chicken and fresh pasta. Dante’s first owners are unknown, but it’s currently operated by Australian couple Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson, who purchased the old cafe in 2015 after moving to the West Village two years prior. When you’re out sampling West Village restaurants, stop by Dante for a charming blast from the past.
New York is a city of contrasts, and nowhere is this evident than in its culinary scene. This selection of the best restaurants West Village offers a glimpse into its diversity and represents the neighborhood's impressive range. As real estate prices rise and the area becomes more exclusive, these hidden gems in NYC keep the vibrant spirit of the West Village alive and are essential stops on any foodie's trip.
No need to travel the world to eat the best meal of your life when you can easily find it by dining at West Village restaurants. Whether you’re tucking into a plate of lasagna made from a centuries-old family recipe or enjoying a fresh take on Thai street food, West Village restaurants honor classic New York food traditions while simultaneously standing at the forefront of culinary innovation. Continue eating your way through NYC with the best restaurants in Times Square — or perhaps even hop across the bridge to discover restaurants in Williamsburg, NYC — and revel in the feeling of a full stomach and happy heart.
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