Best Restaurants for People Watching in Midtown East

76 restaurants available nearby

1. TAO Uptown

4.4

Price: Expensive

• Pan-Asian • Midtown East

Booked 121 times today

A 16-foot Buddha, which floats above a reflecting pool filled with Japanese carp, presides over the scene at Tao. A favorite destination for celebrities and athletes, this Pan Asian restaurant specializes in authentic Hong Kong Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines. Tao has three levels of dining including the prized "Skybox" which offers views of this former movie theater unparalleled in New York. In addition to its 300 seats, Tao includes a sushi bar, lounge and two bars at which to enjoy the food and the show. Appetizers range from $8 - $18; Entrees: $16 -$39. Offering $31.50 Prix Fixe Lunch Menu year round.

2. Bad Roman

4.5

Awesome(2243)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Upper West Side

Booked 262 times today

A new lively, modern Italian restaurant from Quality Branded.

3. Quality Meats

4.7

Exceptional(10566)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Booked 157 times today

Quality Meats is the best steakhouse in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan near Central Park, MOMA, Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and Times Square, Quality Meats features modern interpretations of familiar dishes and flavor combinations, resulting in unique tastes, innovative presentations, and a distinctive Quality Meats style. The warm, industrial décor by award-winning designers AvroKO draws on cues from traditional New York City family-owned butcher shops, in the use of warm wood, stainless steel, and white marble.

4. Joe Allen

4.8

Exceptional(4714)

Price: Expensive

• American • Theater District

Booked 33 times today

Please note; we only take reservations up to one week in advance.With Broadway's staggered start times, things get tricky, so if you're desired time is unavailable online, please give us a call, as we hold a certain number of tables for phone reservations only. For parties of six or more, please call the restaurant directly.Since 1965, Joe Allen has been a quintessential New York restaurant serving a classic American menu in the heart of the Theater District. Just two blocks from Times Square, it has been a favorite of Broadway performers, locals, and tourists for almost 50 years.We begin taking reservations seven days in advance starting at midnight online and at 11 a.m. over the phone. Because of staggered theatre times we can only guarantee reservations made online for one-and-a-half hours for parties of two, and two hours for parties of three or more.For reservations after theatre, please check your show's running time at http://joeallenrestaurant.com/show_info

A photo of The Champagne Bar at The Plaza restaurant

5. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

4.3

Awesome(83)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Overlooking Fifth Avenue and the Pulitzer Fountain, The Champagne Bar at The Plaza, is reminiscent of the Champagne Porch that was in the same location when the hotel opened its doors in 1907. The most exclusive of The Plaza’s dining venues, which has welcomed legendary figures, celebrities, athletes and government officials, The Champagne Bar has become a favorite destination of today’s social set. The Champagne Bar specializes in delicious food featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by The Plaza's culinary team. Known for its finest champagne, caviar and wine, whether you’re ordering a multi-course meal or grabbing a specialty cocktail at the bar, The Champagne Bar's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining with friends, family, clients and business associates.

6. Sea Fire Grill

4.8

Exceptional(3905)

Price: Very Expensive

• Seafood • Midtown East

Booked 23 times today

Offering seasonally focused, contemporary American seafood, where only the finest and freshest seafood is highlighted. Guests will be enchanted by the superb selection of raw bar favorites and delicious appetizers which include East & West Coast Oysters, Chilled Lobster, and expertly seasoned Yellowfin Tuna Tartare. Entrée selections are sure to delight, with succulent Alaskan King Crab Legs, elegant Herb Basted Black Bass and the menu wouldn't be complete without the addition of Sea Fire Grill's Surf & Turf - tender filet mignon and buttery steamed lobster and grilled shrimp.

A photo of La Pecora Bianca - Midtown restaurant

7. La Pecora Bianca - Midtown

4.7

Exceptional(1107)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Midtown East

Booked 11 times today

La Pecora Bianca ("the white sheep") offers an unforgettable Italian dining experience in NYC, ideal for private dining, brunch, and takeout. Our menu showcases authentic Italian flavors with house-made pastas, like our signature rigatoni vodka and tagliatelle bolognese, alongside delicious pizzas-all crafted daily with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Join us for brunch, where Italian favorites meet modern tastes, or unwind with spritzes, negronis, and La Pecora Rosa organic rosé during aperitivo hour. Whether you're dining in our stylish space or enjoying our dishes at home, we bring the best of Italian cuisine to every meal.

8. MR CHOW - 57th

4.7

Exceptional(2919)

Price: Very Expensive

• Chinese • Midtown East

Booked 25 times today

Opened in 1979 by world famous restaurateur Michael Chow. MR CHOW started in London in 1968 and continues to enjoy generations of devoted clients from art, fashion, music, and entertainment. Recently awarded the 5 Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for its excellence, service, and cuisine this restaurant described by Givenchy as a "Precious Jewel Box" is one of the most beautiful restaurants in New York City serving high Chinese Cuisine with impeccable service. The menu at MR CHOW is a combination of old authentic Beijing, Original Recipes, and the signature dishes such as Chicken Satay, MR CHOW Noodles, and Ma Mignon. MR CHOW also serves one of the best Beijing Ducks in the world.The famous nightly handmade noodle show is presented in every location since the opening of London in 1968. "Elegant Midtown Chinese and its newer TriBeCa sibling offer “big-league” eats in “welcome-to-the-’80s” digs..." - ZAGAT

9. Grand Brasserie

4.3

Awesome(112)

Price: Expensive

• French • Midtown East

Booked 41 times today

About Grand BrasserieTimeless elegance of historic Grand Central Terminal with the laid-back elegance of French design. Landmark Vanderbilt Hall, once the Terminal's main waiting room, has been transformed into Grand Brasserie, a New York City meeting place with Parisian flair. Open daily from 5:30 AM to 2 AM, our brasserie features two impressive bars and dining rooms, offering a menu filled with timeless French classics. Whether you're seeking a morning espresso, a leisurely lunch, or a late-night drink, Grand Brasserie is your go-to destination for authentic French cuisine in the heart of New York City. What you need to knowHow to get to. Located inside Grand Central Terminal, in the grand Vanderbilt Hall. 89 E 42nd St. Entrance to Grand Central Terminal at 42nd Street & Park Avenue. Grand Brasserie is an airy 400-seat restaurant and bar, open during the terminal’s hours, 7 days a week. Brunch from 5:30 AM - 3 PM. Dinner until 2 AM. Lunch Prix Fixe menu available daily.

10. Cecconi's Dumbo

4.6

Exceptional(5275)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary Italian • DUMBO

Booked 221 times today

In support of the regulations issued by the city of New York, Cecconi’s Dumbo is now open for outdoor seating until 11pm. Cecconi’s Dumbo is a modern day classic Italian restaurant near Brooklyn Bridge park, specializing in hand-made pasta, wood-fired pizza and other Italian staples. Originating in Venice and with outposts in London and West Hollywood, Cecconi’s has become a critically acclaimed dining destination featuring simply prepared Venetian inspired food. With waterfront views of the Manhattan Skyline, join us in our main dining room, bar or patio dinner and weekend brunch seven days a week. Cecconi’s offers an elegant and relaxed dining experience for all guests.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

N
NUR
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Bad Roman is a true gem! From the moment I walked in, the ambiance set the stage for an incredible dining experience – chic, inviting, and effortlessly cool. But the real magic was in the food. Every dish was a flavor bomb, exploding with creativity and perfectly balanced flavors in every bite. The attention to detail and bold choices in the menu make this restaurant stand out.
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Bad RomanPrice: Expensive• Italian• Upper West Side
•
4.5
J
JamieVIP
New York City •237 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Our waiter AUSTIN was exceptionally helpful. One guest was having a diabetic episode and we had to get food to him immediately. He was most helpful.
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Joe AllenPrice: Expensive• American• Theater District
•
4.8
R
Richard
Las Vegas •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This is one of our favorite places to dine. We were about 45mins late due to NYC holiday traffic and the hostess was still able to sit once we arrived. Once we sat down the great service continued. Mike A was our server. He was very professional, attentive and welcoming! His service was so good that my wife spoke to let general manager before we left. I will definitely ask for him next time we come back. Happy Holidays!
More info
Quality MeatsPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
•
4.7
T
Tesia
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
TAO is a great experience very luxury feel if you are looking to impress a date and very nice ambience if you’re just going out with the girls! All though it may not look like it portions are shareable between 2 people. The food is so good and authentic and the staff is lovely.
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TAO UptownPrice: Expensive• Pan-Asian• Midtown East
•
4.4
PG
PhilipG
Yorkshire •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 15, 2024
Superb evening. Staff fantastic, food and drinks too drawer. Best part of our trip was the evening here. Thanks so much to all the staff there.
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The Champagne Bar at The PlazaPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
•
4.3

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Midtown East

Best Restaurants for People Watching in Midtown East

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76 restaurants available nearby

1. TAO Uptown

2. Bad Roman

3. Quality Meats

4. Joe Allen

5. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

6. Sea Fire Grill

7. La Pecora Bianca - Midtown

8. MR CHOW - 57th

9. Grand Brasserie

10. Cecconi's Dumbo

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