For food enthusiasts and savvy diners, NYC Restaurant Week is a highlight on the city’s culinary calendar. This bi-annual event, occurring in both summer and winter, transforms New York City into a gastronomic playground, offering exceptional dining experiences at accessible price points.
Your Gateway to NYC’s Finest Flavors
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2025 is officially underway, running from Monday, July 21st to Sunday, August 17th. This is your golden ticket to experience the unparalleled dining scene of New York City at an incredible value.
Special prix-fixe menus are on offer for lunch, brunch, and dinner across nearly 600 participating restaurants in all five boroughs. This year’s lineup features a mix of perennial favorites, high-profile newcomers, and hidden gems. Whether you’re craving classic American, authentic Italian, vibrant Asian, or cutting-edge contemporary cuisine, summer restaurant week 2025 has a table waiting for you.
Top Tables, Unforgettable Experiences
This summer, the lineup is more exciting than ever, featuring a dazzling array of restaurants, from Michelin-recognized establishments to charming neighborhood favorites. Here are just a few ideas to spark your culinary adventure:
Elevated American & European Elegance
The Bar Room at The Modern (Midtown West): Experience the sophisticated yet approachable side of this famed institution, adjacent to the Michelin-starred The Modern. Look for their hand-cut tagliatelle with braised rabbit—a dish that speaks of refined comfort and exceptional technique.
Gramercy Tavern (Flatiron): A quintessential NYC experience, offering a chance to savor their iconic American cuisine in a beautifully rustic setting. Their lunch and Sunday brunch menus during Summer Restaurant Week are always a highlight, showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Le Pavillon (Midtown East): Chef Daniel Boulud’s Michelin-starred marvel is participating for the first time in Summer Restaurant Week! This is a rare opportunity to indulge in exquisite French cuisine in a dramatic, luxurious setting. Imagine a meticulously crafted lunch that transports you to a Parisian escape.
Dowling’s at The Carlyle (Upper East Side): Step into old New York glamour. Picture yourself enjoying a classic Steak Tartare, or a Prime NY Strip with truffle hollandaise, all within the legendary ambiance of The Carlyle. It’s a taste of timeless luxury.
The Noortwyck (West Village): Founded by Eleven Madison Park alums, this West Village gem offers sophisticated dishes without the fine-dining fuss. Be sure to explore their dessert offerings, like the refreshing Sorrento Lemon Sorbet, a perfect palate cleanser for a summer meal.
Exotic & Innovative Global Flavors
Zuma (Midtown): Turn dinner into performance art with Zuma’s izakaya-style menu. Consider starting with their Sliced Seabass Sashimi with yuzu and truffle, followed by the Marinated Black Cod or Spicy Tenderloin. Don’t leave without trying the Yuzu Cheesecake—a refreshing end to a vibrant meal.
Gui Steakhouse (Midtown West): Debuting in the Theater District, Gui infuses classic steakhouse fare with chef Shim’s Korean heritage. Their prime rib, rubbed in shio kombu and koji before being grilled over wood, promises a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.
Kru (Greenpoint): For an explosion of authentic Thai flavors, head to Kru. Their chefs revitalize 100-year-old Thai recipes, promising a meal that’s unapologetically bold in spice and flavor. The savory fruit bite or young jackfruit salad are intriguing options for adventurous diners.
Maya (Upper East Side): Chef Richard Sandoval’s modern Mexican treasure is bright, bold, and beloved. Dive into a three-course parade of flavor with dishes like fresh Ceviche de Mahi-Mahi and a rich Coconut Flan.
Pomp & Circumstance (Williamsburg): This Mediterranean-inspired bistro brings flair to every dish, with influences from Greece, Spain, and the Levant. Their four-course dinner, featuring sourdough pita and dip, fresh salads, shared plates, and dessert, is a vibrant culinary journey perfect for a summer evening.
Unique & Playful Dining Adventures
Little Fino (Williamsburg): For a dose of chic, cheeky, and a little Roman charm, this Brooklyn spot offers a playful Restaurant Week lunch menu. Think “Green Eggs & Ham” with deviled pepperoni or a “20-inch Long Sando” that redefines lunch. It’s a truly whimsical experience that’s perfect for a casual yet memorable outing.
The Flatiron Room (NoMad & Murray Hill): A dimly lit paradise where live jazz and fine spirits set the stage for a dinner that’s an entire experience. Expect inventive bar bites and elegant mains in an atmosphere that begs you to linger and soak in the ambiance.
So & So’s Piano Bar (Hell’s Kitchen): This spot offers dinner and a show behind moody velvet curtains. Enjoy steak and style with the possibility of surprise Broadway cameos – a truly New York evening that combines delicious food with entertainment.
Iconic NYC Institutions Not to Miss
Beyond the exciting newcomers and trending spots, NYC Restaurant Week is also a fantastic opportunity to visit some of the city’s most legendary and historically significant dining establishments. These are places that have shaped New York’s culinary identity and continue to draw crowds for their timeless appeal and classic dishes.
Delmonico’s (Financial District): Step back in time at one of America’s oldest fine dining restaurants, credited with inventing dishes like Eggs Benedict and Baked Alaska. This is a chance to experience a true piece of New York’s culinary history and indulge in a grand meal.
Gage & Tollner (Downtown Brooklyn): This stunning chophouse, originally opened in 1879, has been beautifully restored to its Gilded Age glory. Indulge in their classic American fare in an opulent setting that transports you to another era—a perfect blend of history and exquisite taste.
The Russian Tea Room (Midtown West): Immerse yourself in the opulent, jewel-toned interior of this iconic spot, a favorite among celebrities and Broadway stars for decades. Enjoy a taste of their renowned Russian-inspired cuisine and elaborate desserts in an unforgettably grand setting.
Carmine’s (Upper West Side): For a lively, family-style Italian American feast, Carmine’s is an absolute classic. While known for generous portions, their Restaurant Week offerings provide a perfect opportunity to sample their beloved pasta and hearty entrees in a boisterous, welcoming atmosphere.
Sarabeth’s (Central Park South): A beloved spot for brunch and comforting American classics. Enjoy their famous preserves and baked goods in a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed yet delightful meal.
Make Your Summer Sizzle with Summer Restaurant Week 2025!
Beyond the incredible value, NYC Restaurant Week is about discovery. It’s the perfect excuse to explore a new neighborhood, try a cuisine you’ve never experienced, or treat yourself to that restaurant you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Many establishments are also offering special “Founded by NYC” dishes or drinks, celebrating the city’s 400th anniversary with unique culinary tributes.
This is your moment to fully immerse yourself in the world-class dining that makes New York City a global culinary capital. So, gather your dining companions, let your taste buds be your guide, and make your reservations to savor the best of NYC Summer Restaurant Week 2025!
