Combining Dinner and Fun in New York
The restaurants we're about to mention in this article are just a few of the many fancy New York places that offer great value for their price. With a little research and some adventurous eating, you can enjoy an upscale dining experience without breaking the bank. The information provided below is based on our knowledge of popular restaurants in New York City that offer a combination of upscale dining experiences and reasonable prices. The list was compiled based on our understanding of the New York City restaurant scene and may not be exhaustive so stay on the lookout for more vibrant New York hotspots. It's always a good idea to check the latest information and reviews before making reservations or dining out.
Photo by Fraser Cottrell on Unsplash
New York City is known for its incredible restaurant scene, with no shortage of fancy and high-end options. However, dining out in the city can also come with a hefty price tag. But fear not, there are still plenty of upscale restaurants in New York that won't break the bank. Here are some of the best fancy New York restaurants that offer great value for their price.
Before you ask, yes, the neighborhoods where the restaurants I mentioned are located are generally considered safe. However, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when exploring any neighborhood in New York City, especially at night.
Dining at L'Artusi
L'Artusi is an Italian-inspired restaurant located in the West Village, one of the most charming and picturesque neighborhoods in Manhattan. The dishes at the restaurant are creative and beautifully presented, but the prices are surprisingly reasonable. Some standout menu items include the mushroom tortellini, the roasted chicken, and the olive oil cake for dessert.
L'Artusi offers an impressive wine list and a menu that changes seasonally. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, brownstones, and historic buildings. It's a great neighborhood to explore on foot, with plenty of boutiques, cafes, and bars to check out before or after dinner.
After dinner
After dinner, you could head to the nearby Comedy Cellar, a legendary comedy club that has hosted many famous comedians over the years. Alternatively, you could take a stroll through Washington Square Park, which is just a few blocks away from L'Artusi and often hosts street performers and musicians.
More at L'Artusi's website
Cosme
This modern Mexican restaurant, located in Flatiron, offers an upscale dining experience without the hefty price tag. The menu features inventive dishes that highlight traditional Mexican flavors, such as the corn husk meringue and the duck carnitas. The cocktail program at Cosme is also noteworthy, with drinks that are just as creative and delicious as the food.
After dinner
Cosme is located in the Flatiron district, known for its iconic Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park and its vibrant nightlife, so after dinner, you could head to one of the many bars or clubs in the area.
It also has a thriving shopping scene. Furthermore, it's conveniently located near other popular neighborhoods, such as Chelsea and Union Square.
The Roof at the Public Hotel offers panoramic views of the city skyline, while the NoMad Bar is known for its inventive cocktails and elegant decor.
More at Cosme's website
Adda
Adda - This Indian-inspired restaurant in Long Island City offers a casual, yet elevated dining experience. The menu features classic Indian dishes, as well as some modern twists, such as the paneer tikka pizza. The prices are very reasonable, with most dishes under $20. Don't miss the chicken tikka masala and the lamb biryani.
After dinner
Adda is located in Long Island City, just across the East River from Manhattan. The neighborhood has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with new residential buildings, restaurants, and art galleries popping up. It's a great place to go if you want to escape the crowds and explore a more off-the-beaten-path area of New York City.
After dinner, you could explore some of this local art scene. The MoMA PS1 is just a few blocks away from Adda and is known for its cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions.
More at Adda's website
Atoboy, experience the Korean kitchen
This Korean-inspired restaurant, also located in the Flatiron district, just a few blocks away from Cosme, is a great option for those looking for a unique dining experience. The menu features small plates that are meant to be shared, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. The prix-fixe menu offers great value, with three dishes for $42. Standout dishes include the smoked eggplant, the pork belly, and the spicy lamb.
The restaurant is housed in a sleek and modern space, with an open kitchen and communal tables. The area around Atoboy is bustling and lively, with plenty of nightlife options to explore.
After dinner
After dinner, you could head to the nearby Ace Hotel, which has a lively bar scene and often hosts live music and events. Alternatively, you could explore the nearby Chelsea art galleries, many of which stay open late on Thursday evenings.
More at Atoboy NYC's website
Momofuku Noodle Bar
Momofuku Noodle Bar is located in the East Village, which is known for its lively nightlife and vibrant dining scene. The area is home to many trendy bars, music venues, and restaurants, and it's a great place to go if you're looking for a fun night out.
This restaurant, located in the East Village, offers an inventive take on traditional Asian noodle dishes. The menu features a variety of noodle bowls, as well as small plates and snacks. The prices are very reasonable, with most dishes under $20. Standout dishes include the pork belly bao and the spicy miso ramen.
After dinner
As just mentioned, the East Village is known for its vibrant nightlife, so after dinner, you could head to one of the many bars or clubs in the area. The Blind Barber is a popular speakeasy-style bar that also offers haircuts, while the Bowery Ballroom is a legendary music venue that hosts many up-and-coming and established artists.
More at Momofuku Noodlebar's website
Di An Di
Di An Di is located in Greenpoint, a neighborhood in Brooklyn that's known for its Polish roots and industrial past.
This Vietnamese-inspired restaurant offers a modern take on classic dishes, such as pho and banh mi. The menu features a variety of small plates and entrees, with prices ranging from $8 to $24. Don't miss the crispy spring rolls and the lemongrass chicken.
The area has seen significant gentrification in recent years, with new restaurants, bars, and shops opening up. It's a great place to go if you want to explore a more laid-back and residential neighborhood in Brooklyn.
After dinner
When you finish dining, you could head to the nearby Brooklyn Bowl, a combination bowling alley, concert venue, and restaurant that often hosts live music and events. Alternatively, you could explore the nearby McCarren Park, which has a large outdoor pool and often hosts concerts and events in the summer months.
More at Di An Di's website
I hope we have given you some inspiration for where to dine out next. Be sure to check out our articles for more to do in and around New York city.