Jen's Favorite Restaurants in New York City
Jennifer Wesslau’s New York restaurant guide – exploring the city’s best dining spots.
New York City will always have a piece of my heart — and honestly, a piece of my stomach too! After years of living, working, and eating my way through the city, I’ve collected a list of spots I keep going back to. These are my absolute favorites — from a sushi place I swear is the best in the world, to casual brunch gems, to those fancy nights when only Cipriani will do. The prices in New York are crazy high at the moment, so please check the menu to see if these places fit your budget before you go :)
Indochine
📍430 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10003
🔗indochinenyc.com
This is one of those iconic New York places where the food, the atmosphere, and the people-watching are all equally fabulous. I love the French-Vietnamese mix, and the tropical wallpaper makes you feel like you’ve been transported somewhere chic and exotic. Here I once spotted Madonna eating at a table in the back :)
Cipriani Downtown (West Broadway)
📍376 West Broadway, New York, NY 10012
🔗cipriani.com
Inside Cipriani Downtown in SoHo, a New York favorite for upscale Italian dining.
There’s just something about Cipriani. It’s classic New York-meets-Venice glamour. The food is impeccable every single time. Here I meet with my girlfriends to enjoy the original Bellini and also get a quick pasta fix — and it always delivers. It is a bit pricey, so if it is not in your budget you can always just take a drink at the bar and enjoy the people watching.
Tomoé Sushi
📍172 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
🔗tomoenyc.com
Okay, listen carefully: this is, in my humble opinion, the best sushi in the world. It is more or less a "hole in the wall". No fancy decor - yet the coziest place in New York. And, yes, the sushi is to die for. My daughters all agreed, this was the best sushi they every had. It’s expensive but once you’ve tasted their sushi, you’ll understand why I rave about it. It’s tiny, it’s authentic, and it’s perfect.
Sant Ambroeus (SoHo, Lafayette Street)
📍265 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
🔗santambroeus.com
If I want to feel like I’ve been whisked away to Milan, I head to Sant Ambroeus. The Vitello tonnato is my must-order dish — creamy, delicate, and so Italian it makes you want to start speaking with your hands. The vibe is chic but relaxed, and you’ll often see stylish locals perched with an espresso.
The Smith
📍55 Third Ave, New York, NY 10003 (East Village)
🔗thesmithrestaurant.com
The Smith restaurant in New York’s East Village, known for American classics and lively ambiance.
This is one of my “always good” spots. You know those restaurants where you can bring anyone — a friend, a date, even your kids — and it’s just consistently fun? That’s The Smith. Great food, great wine, and always buzzing. There are a few locations around town and they are all equally good.
Mr. Chow
📍324 East 57th St, New York, NY 10022
🔗mrchow.com
Mr. Chow restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, offering upscale Chinese dining in a stylish space.
If I’m in the mood for something truly decadent, Mr. Chow is the place. My go-to order? The chicken skewers with peanut sauce and the fried seaweed. I could live on those two dishes alone. The whole experience feels like a glamorous night out.
Ruby’s Café
📍219 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
🔗rubyscafe.com
Ruby’s Café in Nolita, New York — known for its Australian-inspired menu and relaxed atmosphere.
For a laid-back breakfast or brunch, Ruby’s is my happy place. Aussie vibes, good coffee, and the kind of breakfast you’ll think about all week. It’s cozy, casual, and always a win.
The Bag-all NYC team after a cozy staff breakfast at Ruby’s Café.
The Lobster Place
📍Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10011
🔗lobsterplace.com
Jennifer Wesslau enjoying fresh lobster at The Lobster Place in Chelsea Market.
If you love seafood, The Lobster Place inside Chelsea Market is heaven. I go here when I’m craving oysters, lobster rolls, or just the energy of wandering around the market. It feels like a slice of the coast right in Manhattan. Metal barstools and tables. Nothing fancy. But the lobsters are divine.
Steamed lobster with lemon and butter at The Lobster Place, Chelsea Market, New York.
So that’s my little list of favorites. Whether you’re a sushi addict, an Italian food lover, or just want a fun breakfast spot, these restaurants never let me down. If you try any of them, let me know — maybe I’ll bump into you there with a glass of wine in hand!
Until then, Bon appétit!
xo
Jennifer
