Try out these top ranked Union Square Restaurants today!
Are you planning a trip to the ever popular Union Square? If not, you must. This is one of the best locations to stay at on your New York getaway. If you are, we have got the perfect guide for you – at least in terms of the eclectic food scene that is. Once the hunger bug kicks in after all your traveling and exploring, be sure to stop by any one of these wonderful Union Square restaurants.
Union Square is a bustling nook in the beautiful state of New York. With all the foot traffic that this historic intersection experiences, it is only fitting that the food scene can accommodate. What is great about this landmark intersection is the fact that there are flavors for every type of traveler. Whether you are in the mood for steak, Asian, sushi, or pizza, Union Square has got it. Lucky for all you travelers, we have rounded up some of the best Union Square restaurants to explore. Check out some of our top favorites and let us know what you think!
1. Tarallucci e Vino
Credit: Tarallucci e Vino / Facebook
This classic and iconic cafe is one of the best Union Square restaurants to pop in and dine at. Not only does Tarallucci e Vino offer some of the tastiest baked goods that New York City has to offer, but their coffee is unbeatable. When you enter, you will quickly be greeted by the rustic setting. This setting is not only beautiful, but it has all the feels of a New York City cafe. Whether you are looking for a place to have a business brunch or are looking to impress with a romantic dining experience, Tarallucci e Vino has got what you need. We especially love the outdoor patio that is perfect for enjoying your food. Not only that, but the patio is perfect for soaking in the New York City buzz surrounding you.
What makes this one of the best Union Square restaurants is the fact that breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus deliver in all ways that you would want them to. Stop by for breakfast and indulge in one of their tasty pastries that are made in-house. For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of delectable meals to choose from as well. Pasta lovers can indulge in one of their many Italian pasta dishes. Seafood and steak lovers, there is something for here for you too. Indulge in their seared diver scallops or their roasted veal chops. Ask any local and they will tell you that their steak is a fan favorite. Their filet mignon is drizzled with purple potatoes, asparagus, onions, and red wine pomegranate glaze that make it simply delicious.
You can dine in, carry out, or reserve a table far in advance. However you choose to dine here, one thing is for certain. Tarallucci e Vino Is a fabulous Union Square restaurant that delivers. From the atmosphere to the food, everything here is worthwhile.
2. Murray’s Bagels
Credit: Murray's Bagel / Facebook
This next dining establishment is one of the best Union Square restaurants because of its classic spin on the perfect bagel sandwich. If you're looking for a great bagel sandwich then Murray's Bagels is where you want to stop by. They have an incredible selection of bagels to choose from. Better yet each of their bagels is hand-rolled and made fresh every day with the simplest of quality ingredients. Whole wheat lovers, do not despair. Murray's Bagels offers a range of flatties whole wheat bagels too. Not only that but when it comes to their suppliers, Murray's sticks with local providers so that only the best gets served on your plate.
There are a range of specialty bagel sandwich to choose from. Some of the most popular include the Bungalow Colony that is made out of roast beef or turkey. Add a little coleslaw and Russian dressing and you are good to go. There is also the famous Red Hook Brooklyn bagel sandwich. This includes smoked turkey or house-made roast beef with swiss cheese and roasted pepper. This is quite the treat if you are going to be in New York for the day.
Murray's Bagel offers exceptionally top-notch catering. This is another reason why this is one of the best Union Square restaurants around. They offer a range of catering options including sandwich platters, smoked fish platters, and delectable dessert platters. Whatever you are in the mood for, Murray's Bagels is sure to accommodate. Don't miss out on one of the best Union Square restaurants that New York City has to offer.
3. Sugarfish
Credit: Sugarfish / Facebook
If you are a sushi lover, then one of the best Union Square restaurants that you have to stop by at is Sugarfish. Although this chain calls Los Angeles its birthplace, travelers have loved it so much that it was only a matter of time before Sugarfish found its way to Union Square. The downside is that when it comes to Sugarfish, the only location in all of New York is right on Union Square. This means that there are relatively long wait times no matter when you come to dine here.
However, if you are looking for tasty sushi at a reasonable price, then it would be worth your while to wait in line. Customers suggest going with one of the “Trust Me” meals. These meals offer an assortment of sashimi, handrolls, and sushi. Although a little pricey at anywhere from $40 to $50, the reputability of this meal is in the name. Trust them, because you can't go wrong with this selection.
4. Union Square Cafe
Credit: Union Square Cafe / Facebook
This next spot is definitely a favorite place for both travelers and locals. What makes Union Square Cafe one of the best Union Square restaurants is the fact that it has got so many bustling flavors to fall in love with. For starters, the interior has everything you could want out of an urban restaurant. There are seats scattered throughout the main floor as well as an upstairs where you can overlook the cafe. There is even a bar for you to settle into if you want to pop in for a quick drink.
Union Square Cafe is a great mix of American food and Italian food. You can find classic favorites like grilled chicken as well as a range of pasta meals if you are more in the mood for a little more flavor. The menu is as beautifully crafted as the overall vibe of this place. Union Square Cafe is the best restaurant to go to if you are looking for a celebratory evening out. Just be sure to book your reservations well in advance. Unsurprisingly, it can be a little tricky to get prime seating when you die in here.
5. COTE Korean Steakhouse
Credit: Cote / Facebook
Put on your fancy schmancy pants and head on over to this Korean BBQ hotspot. Cote is easily one of the best Union Square restaurants for several reasons. For starters, Cote offers fine dining like no other. From the cocktails to the meals, to the all-around decor, Cote is certainly one of the Union Square restaurants you want to go to when you have a fancy event you want to celebrate.
The overall atmosphere of Cote is pretty neat too. It's more like a high-status lounge than a restaurant when you first walk in. Although you can order specialty cocktails, the food is really the showstopper. Take your pick of some of their finest meats. Not only that, but you can even have them cook it right in front of you too. If you are going on an elusive date or want to impress at a business meeting, this is one of the best restaurants that you will want to stop by at.
6. Flats Fix
Credit: Flats Fix
If you are looking for some good eating at an even better price, then Flats Fix is one of the best Union Square restaurants to go to. This low-key spot offers some tasty grab-and-go meals. Slap on a tortilla and choose from traditional fillings such as carne asada, pulled smoked chicken, and tasty seared fish. You can even opt for Jewish deli pastrami or brisket.
There are plenty of tasty treats for you to snack on here. Take your pick up burritos, salads, tacos, or tortillas just to name a few. There are also plenty of drinks to choose from as well. For starters, there is a range of Mexican beers and cocktails that obviously favored tequila as their main ingredient. For a low-key hole-in-the-wall eatery that is so underrated, make Flats Fix your next stop when you are near Union Square.
7. ABC Kitchen
Credit: ABC Kitchen / Facebook
Walk into this beautiful restaurant and you will be greeted with a lovely shabby chic design right away. This incredibly beautiful interior makes the ABC Kitchen one of the best Union Square restaurants to dine at. There are lots of antique, wood slab designs that can accommodate any celebratory event.
The menu pairs very well with the decor in the fact that it is just as unique and rich. The menu emphasizes seasonal vegetables. You can look forward to the menu offering the latest peaks year 'round. These vegetables tend to make their debut in many of their beautifully crafted salads. Not only that, but these vegetables are staples in their seafood dishes. For bacon lovers, there is a decadently rich pork confit that is paired very well with a smoked bacon marmalade.
If you are looking for something to wash down all this flavor with, then you will be pleased by the beverages they offer. Their cocktails are not only specially crafted, but they are surprisingly produce packed too. If you want to stop by one of the best Union Square restaurants, then be sure to call well in advance to book your table here. Reservations are usually tight and lines are plenty long. No surprise as this is one of the best Union Square restaurants to dine in at.
8. Pete’s Tavern
Credit: Pete's Tavern / Facebook
This next restaurant is one of the most sought-after corner Union Square restaurants. For starters, it is rumored that author O. Henry called this his go-to restaurant for when it came time to write. What makes this a classic place to stop by is the fact that Pete's Tavern has been around since 1864. It's old town roots have not stopped it from making a name for itself in today's age. For starters, this is primarily a place to go to if you are looking for the right type of drink. Though they have a great menu, one of their strengths is their drink selection. They offer a happy hour where they serve up some of the best concoctions that the city is known for. In fact, there is even a drink that celebrates its first year in operation.
If you are looking for something that will satisfy your hunger, then you do have some choices. Frequent visitors absolutely love the Italian American flavors that are sizzled here. Some of their more modern favorites include the ever-popular soup of the day. There are also plenty of sandwiches, pasta, and burgers to choose from as well.
What makes Pete's Tavern one of the best Union Square restaurants is their brunch menu. Their brunch menu features today's popular items such as the classic avocado toast. If you find yourself coming in during lunch or dinner, there are also equally delicious meals to take your pick from. If your taste buds want some great flavor and an equally well-crafted drink to enjoy, then Pete's Tavern is the place to go.
9. Babu Ji
Credit: Babu Ji / Facebook
This next place is one of the best places as far as Indian Union Square restaurants go. The meaning behind this restaurant has just as much flavor as the menu. Take for example the name. The term Babu Ji is a Hindu term used to describe someone who knows anything and everything that is happening in the village or neighborhood. One of the main characteristics of the Babu Ji character is the fact that when it comes to food and hospitality, he is all in. This Union Square restaurant has not only modeled the spirit of this character into their eatery, but they have perfected it too. When you walk into this Union Square restaurant, you will immediately feel the spirit of Babu Ji.
The Indian dishes that are served here at Babu Ji are made with only high-quality ingredients. In order to get a varied flavor of Indian food, the menu here is often changing to reflect not only seasonal foods but cultural specialties. When it comes to drinks, Babu Ji delivers. Take your pick of a large selection of craft beer, Imports, and a very unique wine list. Don't take our word for it. This popular Indian restaurant has won plenty of awards and mentions. Some of which include the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Travel and Leisure. If you are looking for one of the best Union Square restaurants, then Babu Ji is the place to go.
10. 15 East
Credit: 15 East / Facebook
Seafood lovers, this is one of the best Union Square restaurants in New York City to check out. For starters, this is the number one place to go if you are looking for sushi. 15 East is known for dishing out the best omakase in all of New York City. Grab a seat at the 9 seat Sushi counter (you will have to reserve your seat in advance), and enjoy the delectable sushi that will be prepared for you. The personalized tasting of the different flavors at the sushi counter is a unique experience that every sushi lover should take part in.
Another feature of 15 East is that the chefs here strive to provide you with nothing but the natural flavor. To achieve this, several of the meals tend to be prepared minimally. Take for example the ice cured wild sea bass. This dish is specially made with minimal preparation so that you can truly sample all the flavors the sea bass has to offer. If you love sushi and seafood but are looking to rev up your experience, then 15 East is a place that deserves your time.
11. Joe's Pizza
Credit: Joe's Pizza / Facebook
When you think of grabbing a slice of pizza, chances are New York City comes to mind. If you find yourself in town, then make it a point to visit Joe's Pizza. Without a doubt, this is one of the best pizzerias as far as Union Square restaurants go. Perhaps what makes this Pizzeria one of the best is the fact that it is rooted in history. Joe Pizzuoli first started the establishment in 1975. Almost half a century later, they are still serving up the classic New York slice.
Their menu may be simple, but it packs a big flavor. Start with your pick of a full-sized pie or a slice of pie. Then add on the fresh mozzarella and take your pick of toppings. Toppings and specialties are available upon request. However, you can expect some of the classic toppings including vegetables, meats, and chicken.
Joe's Pizza is still in operation by Joe himself. So be sure to make it a point to say hello. Join the many thousands of tourists and locals who call this one of the best Union Square restaurants. That is at least when it comes to the world of pizza. It should be noted that if you find yourself in Brooklyn, this is easily one of the best restaurants in Brooklyn too.
12. Strip House Steakhouse
Credit: Strip House Steakhouse / Facebook
Steak lovers, this next place is for you. Without a doubt, Strip House Steakhouse is one of the best Union Square restaurants when it comes to steak. What makes the Strip House such a unique place to dine in at is not limited with just the food. For starters, the moment you enter, you will feel as though you have been transported back in time. There is a clear-cut vibrant burlesque feel to the place. With a name like Strip House, you do get a sense of the time period that the steakhouse is trying to achieve. Enjoy dining in an upscale yet casual atmosphere. With comfortable seating, you will feel more like you are in an upscale lounge area than in a traditional dining area.
When it comes to the steak, plenty of reviews have nothing but good things to say. For starters, there is plenty to choose from when it comes to your main course. Of course, one of their popular dishes is the steak tartare. This hand cut filet mignon comes finely crafted with cornichon, crisp capers, quail egg, fresh horseradish root, Moroccan chili oil, and grilled sourdough. There are also popular traditional steak options to choose from. These include the 14 oz dry aged New York strip, and the classic New York strip, and the 20 oz bone-in ribeye. While you cannot necessarily go wrong with any pick, your server will certainly have no problem pairing you up with the right meal.
Contrary to the name, there is plenty more for you to choose from if steak is not your go-to meal. There is a tuna tartare that is served with avocado butter, black tobiko caviar, and fresh horseradish. Lobster lovers might appreciate the lobster bisque that includes a fresh Maine lobster, and pearl couscous. Other traditional seafood meals include the jumbo shrimp cocktail with the housemaid cocktail sauce. There is also jumbo lump crab cake that is served with pickled celery root, sea lettuce, and chipotle aioli. If you are in the mood for oysters, then it is a must that you try the raw bar oysters. This meal features three east coast and three west coast delicacies.
Another one of the neat thing that the Strip House Steakhouse is known for is there exciting sides. Such sides like the goose fat potatoes and the fire roasted asparagus are all served with such great care. At first glance, you might think that you are being served a work of art as opposed to a tasty side.
Finally, before you wrap up your evening, it is a must that you try out some of their decadent desserts. One of their most popular desserts that has claimed rave reviews time and time again is the decadent 24 layer Strip House chocolate cake. This chocolate cake has all the workings of a quality dessert. Not only that, but it requires absolute patience and time to truly savor and enjoy it.
For one of the most popular up-and-coming Union Square restaurants, the Strip House Steakhouse has got to be on your list of the best Union Square restaurants to try. Just be sure to call ahead and make your reservation well in advance. With a restaurant like this, seats can be tricky to come by. Especially if you are planning a night out for a celebratory event on the weekends.
13. Blue Water Grill
Credit: Blue Water Grill / Facebook
Seafood lovers, this is another one of the best seafood restaurants to try out in Union Square. Executive Chef Chris Meenan has a vested interest in serving only the freshest ingredients to everyone who enters through the doors of the Blue Water Grill. Not only that but his attention to detail and passion for French technique is something that is visible on his menu.
Though the lunch and dinner menu do differ a bit, there are delectable meals on each. For starters, the seafood tacos are absolutely ravishing. They are served with red cabbage, slaw, and avocado crema that come together for a taste that will have you craving more. If you are a salmon lover, then you will absolutely love the smoked salmon. There is also a smoked trout served with a potato donut and horseradish cream if you prefer. Lastly, what lunch menu would be complete without eggs benedict. Blue Water Grill's take on eggs benedict is simply fabulous.
To taste some of the local flavors, be sure to sample The chef's market fruit and minted berries. Finally, some of the best avocado toast is found right here at Blue Water Grill. Served with poached eggs and sprouts, the Haas avocado toast is simply wonderful. When it comes to drinks, there is an extensive selection for you to choose from. There are signature cocktails that pair well with their oysters and raw bar for delectable flavor. Finally, There are plenty of imported and domestic wines for you to choose from as well.
Another one of the exceptionally tasty Union Square restaurants to try is the Blue Water Grill. This fine dining establishment offers traditional American cuisine to any and all travelers and locals who have a keen eye for taste. For an elegant dining experience that has all the makings of comfort food, the Blue Water Grill certainly delivers. Come out here for a random Tuesday or book a reservation for a celebratory evening and you are sure not to be disappointed. Without a doubt, the Blue Water Grill is one of the best Union Square restaurants New York City has to offer.
14. Dos Toros
Credit: Dos Toros / Facebook
If you are in the mood for some of the best Hispanic cooking, then this is the restaurant that you want to go to. Without a doubt, some of The best comfort food is served here. What started out as a location in San Francisco has now grown to not only New York but Chicago too. In fact, in New York, Dos Toros is so popular that there are several locations scattered throughout the city. If you are in Union Square, then this is easily one of the best Union Square restaurants to pop into.
Take your pick from traditional specialties such as burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, and tacos. Take your pick of hearty meats and tasty vegetables too. Some of their best flavors include their salsa and seared vegetables. No matter how you mix and match your options, you are sure to have a tasty meal that will fill you up in all the right ways.
Finally, you can't just love this place for its food only. One feature about Dos Toros that we absolutely love is the fact that they are so connected to their community. Not only do they appreciate and value their staff in ways not many restaurants do. But they value and appreciate their community too. Dos Toros believes in giving back to the communities they call home. When Dos Toros is not serving up delicious food, the company is donating to local schools and hosting and promoting ongoing charities. It is not uncommon for Dos Toros to partner up with other organizations that do good for the community around them too.
If you are looking for some tasty food and don't mind giving back to the community then this is the place for you to go. We love everything that this restaurant stands for. For all these reasons, this is clearly one of the best Union Square restaurants to visit if you are in town.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are visiting for a day or for a week, you must carve out some time to taste the flavors of Union Square. Without a doubt, there are so many Union Square restaurants to choose from. One thing we are certain about is that you can not go wrong choosing any of these tasty restaurants we have listed. We are sure you will not be disappointed. Here's to happy eating!
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