free ground shipping on orders over $50

Il Gattopardo

Midtown, New York City, New York

why we love it

Elegant and old-school—bright lights, crisp white linens, and formal Italian waiters in white jackets and ties—Il Gattopardo feels more like Milan than Midtown—and makes for a great excuse to embrace dresswear of your own. It’s best to come here for lunch and order pastas, which are homemade and authentic. The lemon sorbet is always a nice way to wrap up the meal.

Originally featured in The Midtown Manhattan Guide

category

Restaurants

price

$$$, $$$$

highlights
  • Good For Groups
  • Takes Reservations
Il Gattopardo

13-15 W. 54th St., Midtown

phone number

212.246.0412

hours

Mon–Fri: 12–3pm, 5–11pm

Sat: 11:30am–3pm, 5–11pm

Sun: 11:30am–3pm, 5–10pm

visit website

more from city guides

1 Hotel Central Park

1 Hotel Central Park

1414 Ave. of the Americas, Midtown

We’ve been fans of the 1 Hotel group since it first set up shop in Miami; New York quickly followed with two locations—one near Central Park and the other on the Brooklyn Heights waterfront. Blurring the line between luxury and sustainability, every corner of the space is considered in terms of design, from the locally made tables to the greenery and reclaimed wood walls. The rooms are minimal but comfortable, outfitted with hemp-blend mattresses and organic cotton sheets. Another major draw is the food: Chef Jonathan Waxman’s beloved NYC establishment Jams was reprised here, and he hands down serves one of the city’s best kale salads and asparagus tortellini.

Aman New York

Aman New York

730 5th Ave., Midtown

The Aman is New York’s most expensive hotel, and the rooms are appropriately big (and drop-dead minimalist-spectacular), the ceilings soaring, and the pool enormous. The restaurants are incredible (and the city’s most-sceney, as they’re only for guests for now, so only the most skilled string-pullers can get an exception), especially the exquisite Japanese Nama. Don’t miss the spa, whatever you do: Anyone (not just guests) can reserve treatments, which occur in beautiful, generous rooms with some of the best practitioners in New York. The cryo experience is especially fantastic.

Baccarat Hotel

Baccarat Hotel

28 W 53rd St., Midtown

You know Baccarat, the lavish, storied crystal maker. But do you know Baccarat, the lavish, storied hotel in the heart of Midtown? The building it’s housed in is, unsurprisingly, looks like an ice cube. Inside, once you get up the elevators, it’s all cascading chandeliers, fairytale-looking wallpaper, slick marble, and sexy dim lighting. Speaking of marble, the indoor pool has a checkerboard bottom, which combines with the semi-private cabanas, has a way of transporting you to France the second you dip your toe. Maybe it’s the tufted fainting couches, maybe it’s the four-poster beds and crisp white sheets, but the rooms and suites are somehow minimal and over-the-top at the same time. And the spa? Yeah, it’s La Mer.

The Chatwal

The Chatwal

130 W. 44th St., Midtown

In its former life as the home to America's first professional theatrical club, the Lambs, this Midtown hotel was a hangout for the entertainment world’s brightest stars, like Irving Berlin and Fred Astaire, to name a couple. Today, it’s The Chatwal, a luxury hotel—one of Manhattan’s under-the-radar gems, where its relatively small size (just 76 guest rooms) makes it a good choice for visitors who are turned off by the busyness of the megahotels nearby. The interior is an ode to its Art Deco history, which has the delightful feel of a glamorous ocean liner, and we love the fun little details (like backgammon sets, playing cards, and copies of The Great Gatsby) in the rooms.

The Four Seasons New York

The Four Seasons New York

57 E. 57th St., Midtown

NOTE: The The Four Seasons New York is temporarily closed. It is expected to reopen in fall 2024.

Mandarin Oriental, New York

Mandarin Oriental, New York

80 Columbus Cir., Upper West Side

Towering over Central Park in the Time Warner Center building, the Mandarin Oriental's location is within striking distance of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and Lincoln Center. That's all overshadowed by the view. The décor is typical of the Mandarin's modern, Asian-inflected style, the spa is excellent, and there's a pretty insane 75-foot lap pool.

Park Hyatt New York

Park Hyatt New York

153 W. 57th St., Midtown

In a neighborhood that's primarily serviced by grand, historic hotels, the Park Hyatt offers an experience that's very modern. The Christian de Portzamparc-designed skyscraper, One 57, sits directly across from Carnegie Hall and offers some of the biggest rooms, square-footage-wise, in the city. Meanwhile, the contemporary interiors by design firm Yabu Pushelberg strike the perfect balance between modernism and comfort.

The Plaza

The Plaza

768 Fifth Ave., Midtown

Since its original owners first broke ground on the building in 1907, The Plaza, with its opulent décor, luxe suites, and location right along the edge of Central Park, has been a monumental presence in the city. F. Scott Fitzgerald (a regular himself) staged Gatsby’s confrontation with Tom Buchanan in a Plaza suite, Frank Lloyd Wright famously lived there for several years while he oversaw the construction of the Guggenheim Museum, and, of course, there’s Eloise (she has her own suite which regularly hosts elaborate birthday sleepovers and such). All of the rooms—and some phenomenal suites—have been recently updated to reflect a more current, but no less classic, point of view. And for those looking for a trip back in time, tea at The Palm Court is where you want to be.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

50 Central Park S, Midtown

Staying in the elegant yet inviting suites and guestrooms at the Ritz-Carlton outpost in Midtown feels like settling into your very own Manhattan townhouse, complete with soaring views over Central Park. The feel is still very much classic New York, with all the amenities you'd expect (amazing beds, beautiful bathrooms, a ridiculously chic bar), though what really sets this location apart is the luxe spa, La Prairie.

The Royalton

The Royalton

44 W. 44th St., Times Square

Although first built in 1898, the Royalton didn't burst onto the scene really until 1988, when Ian Schrager and Philippe Starck made it one of their projects and decked it out with daring, experimental design that drew a very trendy crowd. In 2007, the hotel underwent its first renovation since Starck's initial vision, with a redesign led by Roman & Williams; the dark, moody lobby epitomizes their signature warm, modern style. Meanwhile, the rooms upstairs are crisp and light, with white bedding and mirrored bathroom tiles. If you're staying in Midtown but need to be south of all the grand dames off Central Park, it's a great pick.

The St. Regis New York

The St. Regis New York

2 E. 55th St., Midtown

While it's a historic classic (it was built in 1907), New York's St. Regis received a 90 million dollar renovation in 2013. It's still as luxe and old-world as ever: The library—assembled by the hotel's original owner John Jacob Astor, houses more than 3,000 vintage leather-bound books. The service here is famously excellent: Each guest is assigned a tails-wearing butler to attend to any special requests.

The Whitby Hotel

The Whitby Hotel

18 W. 56th St., Midtown

In the past few years, Midtown has undergone a subtle evolution from the land of corporate offices and tourists to a neighborhood New Yorkers actually want to hang out in. It’s all thanks to a smattering of stylish new cafés, restaurants, and hotels. The Whitby has been a big part of the revival. The property is part of British-based Firmdale Hotels (the brand’s downtown Crosby Street Hotel is a fashion-world favorite) and displays founder and designer Kit Kemp’s signature aesthetic—bright, boldly patterned fabrics; floor-to-ceiling windows; colorful floral headboards and wallpaper; and tasteful, contemporary artwork everywhere. Fittingly for a hotel with roots in the UK, afternoon tea is a major draw, and this one offers a selection of gluten- and dairy-free options.

44 & X

44 & X

622 10th Ave., Hell's Kitchen
Mon: 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–10:45pm
Tues–Thurs: 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–11:15pm
Fri: 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–11:30pm
Sat: 11am–2:45pm, 5pm–11:30pm
Sun: 11am–2:45pm, 5pm–10:45pm

This is a great Theater District option, as evidenced by the friendly wait staff (many of whom are cued up for their big break on Broadway) and great cocktails (hilariously named after Tony Award winners—we like the Idina Mezcal and the Orange Julius Andrews). The dinner menu focuses on American cuisine and changes seasonally to accommodate locally sourced vegetables, but the brunch is also really great.

Añejo

Añejo

668 10th Ave., Hell's Kitchen
Mon–Wed: 12pm–11pm
Thurs–Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–10pm

Exposed wooden beams on the ceilings and plentiful bar-height tables and chairs make this a cozy, yet lively hideout on frigid nights (both the Tribeca and Midtown locations are decorated in the same warm, rustic style). With plenty of small plates like guacamole, ceviche, and tacos, the menu is all about traditional Mexican cuisine. In keeping with the theme, the beverage program offers a long list of tequilas, which can always be ordered straight.

Atoboy

Atoboy

43 E. 28th St., NoMad

This is the original restaurant of Korean fine-dining power couple chef Junghyun Park and general manager Ellia Park. This restaurant is inspired by Korean banchan and New York City, and it’s a more-casual cousin to Atomix, the couple's tasting counter that's considered one of the best restaurants in the world.

BG Restaurant

BG Restaurant

754 5th Ave., Midtown
Mon-Sat: 11:30am-6
Sun: 11:30am-5pm

There’s no store in the world like Bergdorf’s—they have every designer we’ve ever loved, impeccable service, and miles of shoes. Shop and then eat at BG, a restaurant with fantastic salads, brilliant deviled eggs—and fabulous cocktails, so you could also eat, cocktail, and then shop, for the more dangerous version. Packed with socialites, movers and shakers, and big personalities of all ilks, it’s a bon vivant paradise with an amazing view of Central Park.

Brooklyn Diner

Brooklyn Diner

212 W. 57th St., Midtown
Sun–Tues: 8am–9pm
Weds–Thurs: 8am–10pm
Fri–Sat: 8am–11pm

Considering the neon-covered exterior and old-school name, the atmosphere inside Brooklyn Diner is surprisingly fancy. That said, classic meals are definitely the standouts: The chicken soup, macaroni & cheese, and giant lunch salads are reliably great, and you’ll have to arrive early in the day if you want to have the chicken pot pie (they almost always run out). Expect a short wait if you forget to make a reservation. There are two locations in Midtown, on 57th and 43rd.

Burger Joint

Burger Joint

Thompson Central Park, 119 W. 56th St., Midtown

Enter Midtown's Thompson Central Park hotel to see the line looping through the lobby, leading to a black velvet curtain. There's a pretty epic burger joint on the other side. The line moves fast though, and once you're in, the menu is concise, written on the cardboard sign above the register. Order a burger (or grilled cheese) with "the works"—that's onions, tomato, pickles, mayo, mustard, and ketchup. With pen grafitti and old-school movie posters on the walls, and good classic rock on the stereo, it's a fun, kitschy experience through and through.

El Centro

El Centro

824 9th Ave., Hell's Kitchen
Tues: 4pm–11pm
Wed–Sat: 4pm–12am
Sun: 4pm–11pm

Between bright, floral laminate booths, a wall full of shiny Mexican milagros, and a permanent crowd, the interior of El Centro is dizzying in the best possible way. There are frozen and fruit margaritas, overflowing bowls of guacamole, and a menu full of traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas and fajitas. It's perfect for a quick, casual night out with friends.

Five Acres

Five Acres

Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown
Mon: 9am-2pm
Tues-Sat: 8am-2pm

From the people that gave us (and continue to give us) the brilliant Olmsted in Brooklyn, Five Acres is incredibly delicious, inventive, and even healthy.

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

Grand Central Terminal, 89 E. 42nd St., Times Square

This NYC institution opened on the lowest level of Grand Central in 1913, the same year the station was built. Over the years it lost a lot of its luster due to poor management, until it got a desperately-needed facelift in 1974. Since then, it's consistently topped the list of the city's best seafood spots—as its name suggests, the oysters are particularly epic.

Ippudo

Ippudo

321 W. 51st St., Hell's Kitchen
Sun–Thurs: 11am–11pm
Fri–Sat: 11am–12am

The only thing keeping up with Ippudo's sterling reputation for Japanese comfort food is its growing list of U.S. locations. The need-to-knows: The noodles are hand-pulled on-site and cooked perfectly al dente. Broths are slow-boiled for up to 20 hours. They're known for the super-flavorful tonkotso ramen, but we love the miso ramen and yuzu shoyu. They have some more contemporary restaurant-style dishes here, but the traditional ramen bowls are really where it's at. Prices are low, and it's first come, first serve, so be prepared to wait.

Jams

Jams

1414 6th Ave., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 7am–11:15am, 12pm–10pm
Sat–Sun: 7am–3pm, 3:30pm–10pm

Chef Jonathan Waxman was one of Alice Waters' protégés, and after stints at Chez Panisse and Michael's in Santa Monica, he was one of the first to bring that hyper-fresh, California-style cooking to New York. His new restaurant at 1 Hotel Central Park resurrects the name of his first-ever New York operation, and brings that same seasonal cuisine to a spacious corner space with simple, Scandinavian-style design. Because it’s connected to the hotel, there are several private rooms available for events and celebrations as well. Obviously, get the chicken.

Keen’s Steakhouse

Keen’s Steakhouse

72 W. 36th St., Times Square
Mon–Fri: 11:45am–10:30pm
Sat: 5pm–10:30pm
Sun: 5pm–9:30pm

Keen’s is awfully old-school (est. 1885), and that actually makes it a nice pick for after-work drinks, as it's blessedly absent of any sort of scene. Like any respectable steakhouse, they’ve got a miles-long Scotch menu. The enormous muttonchops are the famous, must-order menu item.

Lambs Club

Lambs Club

132 W. 44th St., Times Square
Sun–Mon: 7am–10:30am
Tues–Fri: 7am–10:30am, 11:30am–2pm, 4:30pm–11pm
Sat: 7am–10:30am, 11:30am–2pm, 4:30pm–11pm

Located right off the lobby of the Chatwal Hotel in Times Square, the feeling here is fun and clubby, with art deco light fixtures and red leather booths. It's a lively spot to enjoy a multi-course meal, but it's an even better choice for cocktails and small bites by the bar.

La Grenouille

La Grenouille

3 E. 52nd St., Midtown

Serving haute cuisine since 1962, this place is wonderfully old school (with the buttoned-up crowd to match). The food is decadent and indulgent as are the floral arrangements, for which they’re known. Incidentally, it's not surprising that it's an excellent choice for a fancy private event. The late night jazz is well worth staying—and dressing—up for.

Le Bernardin

Le Bernardin

155 W. 51st St., Midtown
Mon–Thurs: 12pm–2:30pm, 5pm–10:30pm
Fri: 12pm–2:30pm, 5pm–11pm
Sat: 5pm–11pm

Le Bernardin opened in 1986 after the success of the storied Parisian original. Helmed by Chef Eric Ripert, this swanky restaurant continues to deliver some of the finest, freshest fish in the city, served with delicate yet complicated sauces that make seafood incredibly exciting. The menu is prix fixe only and organized by preparation (almost raw, barely touched, lightly cooked, etc.). The private room here is upstairs and has a separate entrance.

Marseille

Marseille

630 9th Ave., Hell's Kitchen
Mon–Tues: 12pm–3:30pm, 4pm–10pm
Wed: 11:30am–3:30pm, 4pm–11pm
Thurs–Fri: 12pm–3:30pm, 4pm–11pm
Sat: 11am–3:30pm, 4pm–11pm
Sun: 11am–3:30pm, 4pm–10pm

Though not particularly splashy or trendy, Marseille has been a Hell's Kitchen linchpin for years—in fact, it's probably the best post-show dinner spot in the district. The menu is traditional Mediterranean—a nice mix of proteins, veggies, and grains—and as is customary to eateries around these parts, there's an excellent prix fixe option, which can be ordered post-show. Get the hummus and the octopus.

Milos

Milos

125 W. 55th St., Midtown
Mon–Thurs: 11:30am–3:30pm, 4:30pm–12am
Fri: 11:30am–12am
Sat: 12pm–12am
Sun: 12pm–11pm

This Greek seafood mecca launched the whole fish trend in NYC, and still does it to perfection. This, paired with delicious Greek mezze like grilled octopus, fresh salads, dips, and more in a beautiful whitewashed dining room with some of the highest ceilings in the city, is as close as you’ll get to the islands. The tuna burger with lightly fried zucchini sticks at lunch is pretty insane. Plus, their private room upstairs is perfect for an intimate dinner with a killer menu.

The Modern

The Modern

The Museum of Modern Art, 9 W. 53rd St., Midtown
Mon–Thurs: 12pm–2pm, 5:30pm–9pm
Fri–Sat: 12pm–2pm, 5pm–9pm
Sun: 12pm–2pm

It won’t come as a surprise that this restaurant—housed in the Museum of Modern Art—comes with a view of the museum’s sculpture garden. An artist in his own right, Executive Chef Thomas Allan cut his teeth at Michelin-starred restaurants across New York and Paris and has maintained the Modern's own two-star Michelin rating since 2005. Lunch or dinner, you can expect a tasting menu: dry-aged duck, hand-cut pastas, and the aptly-named "eggs on eggs on eggs" (a dish of caviar, egg yolk, and toasted brioche) are just a few standouts in regular rotation. Aside from the dining experience, we love coming here just for a drink at the bar, which is one of the city’s most elegant, as a long white marble slab punctuates the spectacular space.

Mr Chow

Mr Chow

324 E. 57th St., Midtown

Michael Chow made his name in the London and Hollywood art and music worlds before opening in New York on East 57th Street in 1979, where his restaurant quickly became one of the city’s main touchstones for the art world. Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, David Bowie, Madonna, and John Lennon were just a few of the restaurant’s faithful patrons (watch Julian Schnabel’s Basquiat to get a sense of the scene). To this day, a meal at Mr Chow’s is about more than the elegantly served (and expensive) Chinese food. The outpost in Tribeca is just as beautiful and scene-y—an Andy Warhol portrait of Chow in the dining room sets the tone.

The Regency Bar & Grill

The Regency Bar & Grill

540 Park Ave., Midtown
Mon–Sat: 7am–10:30pm
Sun: 7am–10pm

The Regency's Bar was traditionally known as a breakfast option, but after an extensive remodel and re-staffing of the kitchen, it's become a solid option for lunch and dinner as well. The menu is pretty all-American so you can't go wrong with anything, but the salads are generously portioned and the flat iron steak is perfectly cooked.

Shun Lee Palace

Shun Lee Palace

155 E. 55th St., Midtown

This go-to Chinese takeout spot remains virtually unchanged since it first opened in 1971; it has a die-hard following (particularly on Christmas), as they excel at all of the classic dishes, like Peking duck, beef with broccoli, and egg rolls.

Sushi Yasuda

Sushi Yasuda

204 E. 43rd St., Times Square
Mon–Fri: 12pm–2pm, 5pm–11pm
Sat: 5pm–11pm

Though Chef Yasuda has left the helm, this continues to be a truly elegant and transcendent omakase, in a gorgeous and simple wood-paneled space in Midtown. Interestingly, the sushi is shaped specifically for the size of your mouth.

Szechuan Gourmet 39

Szechuan Gourmet 39

21 W. 39th St., Times Square
Mon–Fri: 11am–9:30pm
Sat–Sun: 11:30am–9:30pm

This classic, no-frills Szechuan spot is a great lunch option if you work in Bryant Park—just remember to place on order online, as the wait can get a little lengthy on weekdays. Must-orders are the dan dan noodles and mapo tofu.

Zuma

Zuma

261 Madison Ave., Midtown
Mon–Wed: 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–12:30am
Thurs–Fri: 11:30am–3pm, 5pm–1am
Sat: 5pm–1am

It's been over two decades since chef-slash-restaurateur, Rainer Becker, opened the original Zuma in London. In that time, Zuma has grown into a global family of restaurants, but hasn't lost any of the magic that makes it such a favorite. The décor at the bi-level Madison Avenue outpost is modern through and through while the plating is elaborate and artful, which is fitting considering the menu is elaborate and artful: vegetable dishes from the robata grill, light-as-air tempura, and the freshest sashimi.

Baccarat Grand Salon

Baccarat Grand Salon

28 W 53rd St., Midtown
Mon–Sat: 7am–11pm
Sun: 7am–10pm

There are about a million places to grab a drink in NYC, though few are as sexy as Baccarat Hotel’s Grand Salon. And few serve a mean afternoon tea in addition to evening cocktails and bites. True to the hotel’s more-is-more aesthetic, the interior is all velvet and silk, punctuated by museum-worthy displays of the exquisite crystal that made Baccarat a household name.

Morrell

Morrell

1 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown

Located right on Rockefeller Plaza, Morrell has one of the longest by-the-glass wine lists in the city (there are over 100 options). While the bar is a nice place for after-work drinks, they also have a phenomenal shop, with a stock of hard-to-find wines from around the world.

Refinery Rooftop

Refinery Rooftop

Refinery Hotel, 63 W. 38th St., Times Square
Sun–Wed: 11:30am–11pm
Thurs: 11:30am–11pm
Fri–Sat: 11:30am–1am

The Refinery Hotel in Bryant Park has a warm, industrial interior style—an aesthetic that's probably best exemplified by the stunning rooftop, decorated with wooden cupolas, round string lights, and plenty of plants and greenery. A retractable glass roof allows for ample open-air space in the summer, but fireplaces keep things cozy in the winter. Even from inside, there's a stunning, close-up view of the Empire State Building.

Pen Top

Pen Top

The Peninsula, 700 Fifth Ave., Midtown

Previously Salon de Ning, Pen Top is the newly imagined rooftop bar at the Peninsula. The bar is decorated in a subtle artistic style, with potted plants and contemporary furniture. The cocktails are pricey even by New York standards, but the Peninsula's exceptional service (including some very accommodating bartenders) more than makes up for the expense.

Upstairs at the Kimberly

Upstairs at the Kimberly

Kimberly Hotel, 145 E. 50th St., Midtown
Mon: 5pm–11pm
Tues–Wed: 5pm–12am
Thurs: 5pm–1am
Fri: 5pm–2am
Sat: 12pm–2am
Sun: 12pm–11pm

With several distinct lounge spaces, the rooftop at the Kimberly Hotel, which is a full 30 stories above the street, has retractable glass walls and a glass ceiling that make it wonderful for all seasons. With a classic New York view of the Chrysler building (especially magical at night when the building is all lit up), it's an impressive place to bring out-of-town guests.

Culture Espresso

Culture Espresso

72 W. 38th St., Times Square

The garment district isn’t exactly known for a stellar specialty coffee scene, so the fact that there are three excellent options mere blocks from each other is pretty great. Culture Espresso is the original, but it’s snug, which means you might have to wait for a seat. The newer and significantly bigger Culture 36 is ideal for getting stuff done, if you don’t mind the semi-loud music (Culture 307 is also an option). All three locations serve Culture's famous house-baked chocolate chip cookies (they sell out fast, so come on the earlier side).

Forty Carrots

Forty Carrots

Bloomingdales, 1000 3rd Ave., Upper East Side
Mon–Sat: 11am–7pm
Sun: 11am–6pm

Hidden on the seventh floor of Bloomingdales, back in the bedding department, Forty Carrots is still serving the best frozen yogurt in the city. An early pioneer of the fro-yo movement (it opened back in the ‘80s), they have all the classic toppings, from gummy bears to Butterfingers, and you can ask for more than one flavor swirled.

Little Collins

Little Collins

708 3rd Ave., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 7am–8pm
Sat–Sun: 7:30am–6pm

This tiny little café on Lexington serves great coffee, alongside a small-but-mighty food menu. While there's no denying how good the schnitzel and breaded chicken sandwiches are, this is an especially great choice for vegetarians. The avocado smash (which is drenched in pumpkin seeds) is fresh-tasting yet totally filling. The tiny space can get a little bit crowded during the lunch hour, so it's best to take your brown bag to go.

Partners Coffee

Partners Coffee

152 W. 52nd St., Midtown

This is one of few places around that roasts their own beans, which are responsibly sourced from all over the globe. Formerly Toby’s Estate, all Partners locations are consistently simple and comfortable in design—think communal tables, couches, and excellent lighting. Yes, it’s a great set-up for work, but also worth stopping by on your day off for a simple and hearty lunch. (They also offer a random assortment of classes in everything from art to cupping.)

ROYCE' Bryant Park

ROYCE' Bryant Park

32 W. 40th St., Midtown

This minimalist Japanese chocolate shop was founded in Sapporo, and their specialty is Nama Chocolate, a box of creamy rectangles dusted with cacao and arranged to geometric perfection. They make a special and always-appreciated hostess gift.

Amy's Bread

Amy's Bread

672 9th Ave., Hell’s Kitchen

Amy's started out in Hell's Kitchen back in 1992 and in the intervening years, her business has gone gangbusters, supplying many of the city's gourmet shops with their wonderful bread and pastries. Head to any of the stores—our favorite is still the largely unchanged original—to pick up a French baguette, olive twist, or one of their delicious pastries to go.

Balade Your Way

Balade Your Way

144 W. 37th St., Times Square

The first thing that makes this fast-casual Midtown spot stand out is the beautiful space—the tiny sliver of a restaurant is sleek and modern, with a dark wood bar and a concrete checkout counter. From the service counter in the back, you can combine a selection of Middle Eastern appetizers and mains, combining elements like chicken shawarma, hummus, zaatar flatbread, falafel, and more. It's a refreshing alternative to the make-your-own-salad daily lunch grind.

DIG

DIG

150 E. 52nd St., Midtown

DIG’s philosophy is “farm to counter,” which means that they serve sustainably sourced food in a casual setting and in a price range that makes it a reasonable option for everyday lunch. The salads and the market plates are easy to take back to the office (or home for dinner), and the menu changes with the seasons, so you won't ever be bored with the offerings.

Dishes

Dishes

6 E. 45th St., Midtown

Dishes opened their first spot in 1998, meaning they were early-adopters of the fresh and casual take-out trend. The hot and cold lunch specials change daily, but the best order is a salad—the build-your-own menu has plenty of options without being overwhelming.

Gotham West Market

Gotham West Market

600 11th Ave., Hell's Kitchen

This development in the formerly sleepy and overlooked West 40's gathers some of the city's top food purveyors like Petee's Pies Company, dell'anima, and La Palapa under one roof, with a stand and bar-seating at each.

Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market

Grand Central Station, 89 E. 42nd St., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 7am–8pm
Sat: 10am–7pm
Sun: 11am–6pm

Spread out in one of the ground-level corridors, the Grand Central Market is packed out with NYC-specific food kiosks like Eli Zabar's Farm to Table. Some, like Li-Lac chocolates and Murray's Cheese, are almost as famous as Grand Central Station itself.

Melt Shop

Melt Shop

135 W. 50th St., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 7am–9pm
Sat–Sun: 11:30am–9pm

These grilled cheese aficionados pretty much have the lunch rush figured out. (Pro tip: They have an online ordering system that lets you skip the 1pm line.) Those with gluten allergies will appreciate that all of their indulgent, melty sandwiches are available with gluten-free bread.

MEXiCUE

MEXiCUE

1440 Broadway, Midtown

This fusion restaurant mixes Mexican cooking techniques with American barbecue, resulting in some unique twists on old favorites, like brisket enchiladas, or Cajun shrimp fajitas. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner to-go, but we like it best for happy hour: Order some margaritas (or one of their excellent bourbon-based cocktails), Mexican corn, and the guacamole.

Murray's Cheese - Grand Central

Murray's Cheese - Grand Central

Grand Central Station, 43rd St. and Lexington Ave., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 8am–8pm
Sat–Sun: 11am–5pm

Murray's seems to import every conceivable cheese in production for public consumption, and has a staff that can happily walk you through (and sample) all of them. There are cheese cave tours offered for those who want to learn even more and delicious sandwiches—or melts—for anyone who wants more than just a few hunks of the good stuff. While they supply most of Manhattan with their cheese plate offerings, they also ship across the states. The original and main location is in the West Village.

Schnippers

Schnippers

620 8th Ave. at 41st St., Times Square
Mon–Thurs: 11:30am–10pm
Fri–Sat: 10:30am–11pm
Sun: 11am–10pm

Goop HQ will enthusiastically vouch for the fact that Schnippers (the original outpost is conveniently located on the first floor of the New York Times building) has the best chicken fingers in the city. While kids go wild for their fries and milkshakes, it’s a pretty great indulgence if you’re working late and need a convenient sugar bomb.

Zucker's

Zucker's

Grand Central Terminal, 370 Lexington Ave., Midtown

Come here for classic, hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels: And all the relevant toppings, from super-thick cream cheese variations, to smoked lox, to a pretty great egg salad (and an egg sandwich, for mornings when nothing else will do). There’s room to sit quickly, though most people don’t linger (although they do serve La Colombe coffee). It’s also a great option for catering.

A La Vieille Russie

A La Vieille Russie

745 Fifth Ave., Midtown

The owners of this elegant jewelry store have been in the antiques and fine jewelry business since 1851 when the family opened their first shop in Kiev. They specialize in antique jewelry, with a focus on Fabergé and other European lines. You could get lost for an entire afternoon ogling the gorgeous pieces with no intention to buy, but it's a great destination when you're looking for an exceptionally special gift.

Bergdorf Goodman

Bergdorf Goodman

754 Fifth Ave., Midtown
Mon–Sat: 11am–7pm
Sun: 11am–6pm

The beautiful art deco interiors come with top-notch service here, where you’ll find a classic buy of all the designer lines. We especially love the seventh floor for its inspired home goods section, which includes designers like Kelly Wearstler and John Derian. At holiday time, their ornament selection definitely stands out. (And their men's store down the block is wonderful.)

CB2

CB2

979 3rd Ave., Midtown
Mon–Sat: 10am–8pm
Sun: 11am–7pm

Crate & Barrel's sister store is full of modern, really well-priced furniture items and home accents, making it a great stop when in need of a few practical pieces for a quick home upgrade. We always stock up on their glass and dishware—they're great, easily replenished, kitchen basics.

Kinokuniya New York

Kinokuniya New York

1073 Ave. of the Americas, Midtown
Mon–Sat: 10am–8pm
Sun: 11am–7:30am

If you have a stationery or sticker addict on your hands, they’re going to freak. This Japanese mega-store facing Bryant Park is one of our favorite midtown oases. There’s an entire floor dedicated to manga comic books in Japanese and English, and a solid selection of design books and international fashion magazines, but the basement is the main draw. There, aisle after aisle is stuffed with an incredible array of Japanese stationery goods—pens, pencils, notebooks, and erasers to last a lifetime.

MoMA Design Store - Midtown

MoMA Design Store - Midtown

44 W. 53 St., Midtown
Sun–Tues: 9:30am–6:30pm
Wed: 2pm–6:30pm
Thurs–Fri: 9:30am–6:30pm
Sat: 9:30am–7:30pm

Across from the museum, the MoMA Design Store is incredibly well-done, making it one of those rare spots that's a one-stop resource for everyone on your list come the holidays. Here you can purchase everything from Issey Miyake's architectural Lucent tote, to an Eames chair, to a Yoshitomo Nara doggy radio, to obscure titles you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.

MUJI Times Square

MUJI Times Square

620 8th Ave., Times Square
Mon–Sat: 10am–8pm
Sun: 11am–7pm

This Japanese export has been quietly opening outposts all over NYC, though Muji goods have been shoppable at MoMA for years. The stores are simple in both concept and aesthetic: After all the brand is predicated on the idea that the best design is the least design. Minimalist fixtures and neutral color palettes are used to display the most well-designed utilitarian goods—housewares, t-shirts, stationery, and more—that are as functional as they are generic, which allows them to fit in every home regardless of sensibility.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks Fifth Avenue

611 Fifth Ave., Midtown
Mon–Sat: 11am–7pm
Sun: 12pm–6pm

Taking up an entire city block and 10 sprawling floors, the Saks 5th Avenue flagship on Fifth Avenue is as massive as it is well stocked. In fact, its shoe department is so huge that it has its own zip code. Also on premise: a spa, a nail salon, and several restaurants.

T. Anthony

T. Anthony

107 E. 57th St., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm
Sat: 11am–5pm

T. Anthony is somewhat of a Park Avenue institution, selling simple, luxurious luggage and leather goods. They've been making custom bags—in iconic red, black, and purple—for the well-traveled since the '40s, including Jackie O., Marilyn Monroe, and John Lennon. We love the basic duffles and rollers.

MoMA

MoMA

11 W. 53rd St., Midtown
Sun–Fri: 10:30am–5:30pm
Sat: 10:30am–7pm

Despite its popularity, which translates into lines around the block on any given day, MoMA is still one of our favorite places in the city. Whenever we come to visit, whether to walk the permanent collection or to check out a new, contemporary exhibition, we always spend some time in the white marble-clad sculpture garden, a rare respite in the middle of bustling midtown.

New York Public Library

New York Public Library

Fifth Ave. at 42nd St., Times Square
Mon: 10am–6pm
Tues–Wed: 10am–8pm
Thurs–Sat: 10am–6pm

The iconic seat of the NYPL takes pride of place on Bryant Park in Midtown. While it is still an important research institution, it's also a landmark we like to visit for many reasons beyond the book-lined shelves, from the Children's Library housing the original Winnie the Pooh Dolls, to the Rose Reading room, where anyone can grab a seat and work in peace and quiet, to the excellent bookshop, full of NYC-themed storybooks and classic reads. We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the exhibitions themed around the library's holdings and the stunning Beaux Arts 1911 building itself.

The Lanby

The Lanby

535 5th Ave., Midtown

If you’re looking for primary medical care that’s holistic and thoughtful, with a preventive approach, The Lanby delivers. A membership—which you can pay month to month—gets you on-site lab work to get a comprehensive overview of your health, as well as personalized support through food (the registered dietician is incredible), movement, supplementation, and more. Unlimited visits (in person or virtually) mean you feel taken care of whenever something health-related arises—minor or more serious—and there’s a concierge who handles scheduling appointments and finding outside referrals for anything from a fertility doctor to a therapist to a rolfing expert and beyond. The space itself is chic—we love the wallpaper in the bathroom—colorful, and inviting.

La Prairie Day Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

La Prairie Day Spa at The Ritz-Carlton

50 Central Park S., Midtown
Mon–Fri: 11am–7pm
Sat–Sun: 9am–7pm

The spa itself oozes elegance with plush chairs, momentous flower bouquets, and dramatic lighting fixtures. The facials are just as extravagant: During the Ultimate Platinum Rare treatment, one aesthetician massages your face with firming creams, while another simultaneously works on your feet. The epitome of over-the-top pampering is the White Caviar Illuminating Facial that smooths, intensely hydrates, and lifts with turbocharged, nourishing caviar extracts.

Marina Massage Therapy

Marina Massage Therapy

409 W 48th St., Hell’s Kitchen

Models and actors swear by Marina Baratashvili's lymphatic drainage massage before big events. Baratashvili has been practicing body work for almost 40 years; the native Georgian studied acupuncture and massage in China, worked with the National Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi to ensure the dancers felt strong and fluid, and now tends to her roster of clients in New York City; Greenwich, Connecticut; and the Hamptons. Her method is intuitive (her hands can exert break-you-in-half pressure or flutter ever so gently; her treatments for face and body feel utterly heavenly) and the way she sculpts, eases fascial tension, and invigorates muscles is truly incredible.

Omar E. Burschtin, M.D.

Omar E. Burschtin, M.D.

555 Madison Ave., 4th Floor, Midtown

Dr. Burschtin has spent his career focusing on sleep disorders—and their effects on how we function. Whether you suffer from insomnia, sleep apnea, or even just snoring, he can likely discover, and then treat, the root of the issue.

The Peninsula Spa

The Peninsula Spa

700 Fifth Ave., Midtown
Mon: 11am–7pm
Thurs: 11am–7pm
Fri–Sun: 9am–9pm

This is the place to come for a truly special treat (and it's great for guys, too). The Peninsula has an enormous spa facility with a pool, a fitness center, sundeck, and a tea lounge, not to mention 10 treatment rooms. The treatment menu is vast and runs the gamut from facials to Swedish massage, to couple's and pre-natal treatments. It's a real splurge but these are some of the best treatments the city has to offer.

more from travel

Can a Hotel Make Wellness Feel Less Insane?
Health
read now

Can a Hotel Make Wellness Feel Less Insane?

Santa Monica Proper Hotel blends Kelly Wearstler design, Surya Spa, longevity treatments, and a private-club feeling into a softer kind of LA wellness.

The Historic French Spa Town Where You Can Still Take the Waters
Experiences
read now

The Historic French Spa Town Where You Can Still Take the Waters

Where to stay, eat, and explore in Évian-les-Bains on the shore of Lake Geneva.

The Lower East Side Hotel That Will Charm Even the Most Jaded New Yorker
Experiences
read now

The Lower East Side Hotel That Will Charm Even the Most Jaded New Yorker

Checking in to Nine Orchard, the chic downtown hotel set inside a meticulously restored 1912 landmark.

Do You Om Here Often? The Best Social Wellness Clubs from Coast to Coast
Health
read now

Do You Om Here Often? The Best Social Wellness Clubs from Coast to Coast

Social wellness clubs are bringing health-minded people together for rejuvenation, recreation—and even romance.

48 Hours in Seoul
Experiences
read now

48 Hours in Seoul

From palace-hopping and vintage shopping to night markets and cutting-edge aesthetic treatments, this vibrant city packs it all in. Here’s one writer’s beauty-filled weekend itinerary.

9 Must-See Art Exhibitions Worth Traveling for This Summer
Culture
read now

9 Must-See Art Exhibitions Worth Traveling for This Summer

Impressionism in Japan? Modern art in Milan? These are the can’t-miss exhibits to add to your itinerary.

You’re About to See These 5 Debut Novels Everywhere
Culture
read now

You’re About to See These 5 Debut Novels Everywhere

Discover five standout debut novels by female authors—smart, buzzy, and destined to define 2026 reading lists.

9 New York City Restaurant Openings That Live Up to the Hype
Experiences
read now

9 New York City Restaurant Openings That Live Up to the Hype

The goop (and Gwyneth) approved new spots worth adding to your list.

5 March Reads Led by Unforgettable Heroines
Culture
read now

5 March Reads Led by Unforgettable Heroines

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re exploring the complexity of womanhood through fiction—stories that trace ambition, intimacy, resilience, and selfhood with nuance, depth, and emotional intelligence.

How 4 Days at a Wellness Clinic Helped Me Find My Center
Experiences
read now

How 4 Days at a Wellness Clinic Helped Me Find My Center

In a season of transition, one editor found an unexpected stillness at the SHA Wellness Clinic in Mexico.