The East Village is my absolute favorite place to dine. Or maybe it's because on every other corner, there's a new restaurant to explore. Here are 25 restaurants that I can't live without and I think you'll agree. Whether you are looking for a romantic drink or good ol' fried chicken, here ya go. by Lauren Saiger
Angel's Share 8 Stuyvesant Street nr. 9th St., 2nd Floor Great for ROMANTIC DRINKS
Located on the 2nd floor of a casual Japanese restaurant, you'd never know that the perfect date place was just steps away. The key is to look for the large wooden door which marks the entrance. They like to keep it cozy, so don't plan on going here if your party is bigger than four. The mixologists are serious - the lychee martini is a must-try. Need the ideal date spot in the EV? Well, here ya go.
Back Forty 190 Avenue B. nr. 12th St.
Great for a CASUAL & FUN DINNER
My favorite part about this restaurant is you know you are eating only the freshest and most delicious ingredients and it just makes you feel oooo oooo gooood! The menu is inspired by the local greenmarkets so you will notice that the menu changes to reflect the seasons. Another Peter Hoffman winner! A must-try cocktail that is always in our must-try arsenal? The Red and Black - fresh strawberries, tequila, house-made black pepper seltzer, and a sugar, salt and pepper rim.
Bar Veloce 175 Second Avenue nr. 11th St. Great for a FIRST DATE
Not too loud, not too quiet. Not too stuffy, not too casual. This place is the perfect place for a "getting to know you" first date spot. The space is charming with bar seats as well as high top tables. If it's going well, you can take it to the next level by grabbing a menu and trying some of their delish Italian tapas and paninis. If it's not going so well, gulp the rest of your divine chilled Lambrusco and run!
Cafe Cortadito 210 East 3rd Street nr. Ave. B. Great for an ALL YOU CAN DRINK BRUNCH
For $22.95, you'll enjoy a brunch entree like the Torrejas (French toast with seasonal fruit) as well as AYCD sangria and mimosas. It's definitely a bargain, but a truly delicious one at that! No boring herb omlettes and lackluster waffles here - it's full of flavor and the crowd is always a caliente, too!
Caracas Arepas Bar 93 East 7th St. nr. First Ave. Great for GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
Arepas - Venezuelan corn patties deliciously toasted on the outside and filled with some deliciousness like meat, cheese, or veggies. My personal favorite is the De Pabellón - shredded beef, black beans, white salty cheese, and sweet plantains - ok, now I'm salivating! And guess what, everything on the menu is gluten-free so all you celiacs - get cha' corn patty on!
Caravan of Dreams 405 East 6th Street nr. First Ave.
Great for a VEGAN/VEGETARIAN FEAST This vegetarian caravan is the kind of place you will want to dine and stay for a while rather than bolt in and out for your fix of veggie fare. It's dimly lit, they serve huge portions, and have a great organic wine list. I'm sure Russell Simmons would agree as he can be seen often dining in its dark corners on the regular.
ChikaLicious 203 East 10th Street nr. Second Ave.
Great for DESSERT DATES
Yes, it's super narrow and there are about ten seats but if you are lucky enough to grab a spot, you will be pleasantly surprised by the insanely creative Japanese-inspired desserts that always draw a crowd. They offer a prix fixe menu for $16 that includes decadent options like the mocha and hazelnut trifle with white coffee ice cream. Want to add a wine pairing? It's only an additional $8. They don't take reservations, but it's a dining experience worth the wait!
DBGB 299 Bowery nr. Houston St.
Great for a BURGER & ICE CREAM
Daniel Boulud's casual eatery downtown is a great option if you want a little Boulud but don't want the white tablecloth experience. They've got a very diverse menu, but their burgers and ice cream sundaes steal the show. Order The Piggie - 6 ounces of ground beef topped with their house-made BBQ pulled pork, jalapeno mayonnaise, Boston lettuce on a fluffy cheddar bun. If you can handle it, go for a ice-cream sundae for dessert. Chef Boulud - I never knew you were such a glutton!
Degustation Wine & Tasting Bar 239 East 5th St. nr. Second Ave. Great for a TASTING MENU
Don't you love that feeling when you get a deal on something that is so quality, it really should never be offered as a bargain? The first step is to call and make a reservation as they have a very limited number of reservations. Then sit back, relax and enjoy as you watch the chefs at work. $55 for a 5- course dinner menu, or if you're feeling extra indulgent, opt for 10 courses for $80.
Desnuda 122 East 7th Street nr. Ave. A Great for SEAFOOD LOVERS
There are just a handful of seats at their very intimate bar, but if you're lucky enough to snag a seat, you won't want to leave. They serve some great ceviche and have a stellar wine list. The bartenders are at the ready to provide perfect pairing options. It's a perfect option for a romantic date to feast on some creatures of the sea and sip on quality vino.
Edi & The Wolf 102 Avenue C at 7th St.
Great for GIRL'S NIGHT OUT
If you're tired of the same old, same old with your best gal pals, give this trendy Austrian haunt on for size. The decor is rustic and fun, but the main draw is the food. Begin with a yummy cheese plate and definitely opt for the schnitzel and the flat bread pizza. Girls night, redefined. If weather permits, sip on a seasonal cocktail from their extensive list in "The Wolf's" secret garden.
Exchange Alley 424 East 9th St. nr. First Ave.
Great for SOMETHING NEW IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Chef Paul Gerard's roots trace back to the time he spent in New Orleans cooking with James Beard nominee, John Harris (Lillette). It may be in New York City, but the flavors of good ol' N'awlins are present in every bite of Chef Paul's cooking! Must-try dishes that evoke true Southern flavor: Jambalaya balls in dirty gravy, red snapper with yellow tomatoes, and the Big East BBQ shrimp.
Graffiti 224 East 10th St. nr. Second Ave.
Great for an INTIMATE DINNER
We are huge fans of Chef Jehangir Mehta and it all started here at Graffiti. The super cozy restaurant will serve up some of the most flavorful dishes you've had in some time. You'll enjoy the amazing Indian-inspired dishes that come out the kitchen where he cooks on hot pans. It's truly an art. Make sure to order his signature drink, a lychee-prosecco cocktail.
Hearth 403 East 12th St. nr. Second Ave. Great for a SPECIAL OCCASION
This seasonal new American restaurant is love at first bite. The menu changes daily depending on what is in season and they get most of their food from local farmers that sell their pickings the Union Square Greenmarket. The gnocchi will melt in your mouth and the ricotta meatballs is a must-try. For dessert, there's always a seasonal doughnut on the menu that makes my heart go pitter-pat. I can't wait to see what's in store for the fall season! Pumpkin ravioli, anyone?
Ippudo 65 Fourth Avenue nr. 10th St.
Great for RAMEN & PORK BUNS
They spin and shape seven different types of ramen in-house and it's what has made this Japanese noodle house notorious around town. Make sure to order the pork buns to start. The pork is perfectly roasted and the bun fluffy and delicious! Favorite ramen on the menu? The Shiromaru Hakata - silky pork noodles, topped with pork loin chashu, sesame mushrooms, memma, red pickled ginger and scallions.
Kanoyama 175 Second Avenue nr. 11th St.
Great for SUSHI One of my favorite sushi restaurants in NYC. They serve the freshest fish around, the service is fantastic, and you always leave happy and satiated which isn't the case in some NYC overpriced sushi meccas. My all time favorite is the Omakase or Chef's Special. This isn't for you if you're on a tight budget, but worth the splurge every once in a while.
Lil' Frankies 19 First Avenue nr. 1st St. Great for a BIRTHDAY DINNER ON A BUDGET
Lil' Frankies is amazing for groups. The best table in the house is the large round table that can accommodate up to 15 people. The food is great and the best part is the quality of food for the price. When all is said and done after you've guzzled your fair share of vino and chowed down on pasta and chicken parm, you can usually keep the bill to $50 each. Happy Birthday!
Luzzo's 213 First Avenue nr. 13th St.
Great for a PIZZA PARTY
Coal burning ovens only generate the best pizza on earth and here's proof. I'm always so amazed at how much I can eat here. The thin crust pizza with the perfect amount of sauce and cheese is heaven. Great for big groups and plenty of hearty pizza and pasta options for everyone.
Max 51 Avenue B nr. 4th St.
Great for PASTA
They have some of the best rustic Italian food around for prices that won't break the bank. The ambiance is cozy and they have a great wine selection as well. Make sure to order one of their pastas, served in a large homestyle bowl. My favorite is their gnocchi alla Sorentina.
Paprika 110 St. Marks Street nr. First Ave.
Great for BRUNCH
They've got an incredible brunch special for $12 which includes a mimosa or bellini and a coffee. Not the best for a big group as it's pretty close quarters but ideal for two to four people. Try the green eggs - they are out of this world!
PDT 113 St. Marks St. nr. First Ave.
Great for ENTERTAINING VISITORS TO NYC Please Don't Tell...just kidding. The secret is out because this place is too good to keep under wraps. It's a really fun and truly a hidden speakeasy. The only way to enter is through Crif Dogs tucked behind an English telephone booth. The drinks are strong and my favorite is their Old Fashioned. Bring visitors here for a quality cocktail experience that is as Prohibition-esque as it comes.
Porsena 21-23 East 7th Street nr. Third Ave.
Best DINNER WITH THE PARENTS
My favorite little Italian restaurant in the entire city, Chef Sara Jenkins knows her food - she should since she grew up on an olive farm in Tuscany! The lasagna al forno and green bean salad are must try dishes, and the wine list is top notch. And as if that wasn't enough, save room for the delicious desserts! Reservations are highly recommended as it is a very small, cozy space.
Pylos 128 East 7th St. nr. Ave. A
Great for GREEK food There are clay pots hanging from the ceiling reminding me of one of my favorite restaurants in Mykonos. As you are transported to your favorite Grecian enclave, enjoy the menu of rustic favorites like artichoke heart moussaka, grape leaves stuffed with rice and veal and grilled octopus. Opa!
The Redhead 349 East 13th Street nr. First Ave. Great for FRIED CHICKEN
The buttermilk fried chicken, gravy and potatoes are truly incredible. Begin by munching on the homemade bacon peanut brittles and continue to savor every bite of the incredibly executed comfort food like the grilled peaches and pork belly. If you can save room for dessert, make sure to try the strawberry shortcake. Regardless, they will give you a homemade cookie with the check to remember them by. Such a gem!
Toucan & The Lion 342 East 6th St. nr First Ave.
Great for DINNER & DRINKS
This is a newcomer and it's getting a lot of buzz so book immediately if you're planning on taking part! It's an Asian gastropub and boy is the food yummy! Our favorite menu standard is the burger - apple wood smoked bacon, cashew nut butter, and fried pickles. This place is COZY - meaning if you like you're space, go elsewhere. You will be dining on top of your new friends - the table next to you.
Angel's Share 8 Stuyvesant Street nr. 9th St., 2nd Floor Great for ROMANTIC DRINKS
Located on the 2nd floor of a casual Japanese restaurant, you'd never know that the perfect date place was just steps away. The key is to look for the large wooden door which marks the entrance. They like to keep it cozy, so don't plan on going here if your party is bigger than four. The mixologists are serious - the lychee martini is a must-try. Need the ideal date spot in the EV? Well, here ya go.
 |
| Apple Pie, Back Forty Credit: Back Forty |
Great for a CASUAL & FUN DINNER
My favorite part about this restaurant is you know you are eating only the freshest and most delicious ingredients and it just makes you feel oooo oooo gooood! The menu is inspired by the local greenmarkets so you will notice that the menu changes to reflect the seasons. Another Peter Hoffman winner! A must-try cocktail that is always in our must-try arsenal? The Red and Black - fresh strawberries, tequila, house-made black pepper seltzer, and a sugar, salt and pepper rim.
 |
| Wine bar, Bar Veloce Credit: Bar Veloce |
Not too loud, not too quiet. Not too stuffy, not too casual. This place is the perfect place for a "getting to know you" first date spot. The space is charming with bar seats as well as high top tables. If it's going well, you can take it to the next level by grabbing a menu and trying some of their delish Italian tapas and paninis. If it's not going so well, gulp the rest of your divine chilled Lambrusco and run!
Cafe Cortadito 210 East 3rd Street nr. Ave. B. Great for an ALL YOU CAN DRINK BRUNCH
For $22.95, you'll enjoy a brunch entree like the Torrejas (French toast with seasonal fruit) as well as AYCD sangria and mimosas. It's definitely a bargain, but a truly delicious one at that! No boring herb omlettes and lackluster waffles here - it's full of flavor and the crowd is always a caliente, too!
 |
| Pabellón arepa, Caracas Arepas Bar Photo: Caracas Arepas |
Arepas - Venezuelan corn patties deliciously toasted on the outside and filled with some deliciousness like meat, cheese, or veggies. My personal favorite is the De Pabellón - shredded beef, black beans, white salty cheese, and sweet plantains - ok, now I'm salivating! And guess what, everything on the menu is gluten-free so all you celiacs - get cha' corn patty on!
Caravan of Dreams 405 East 6th Street nr. First Ave.
Great for a VEGAN/VEGETARIAN FEAST This vegetarian caravan is the kind of place you will want to dine and stay for a while rather than bolt in and out for your fix of veggie fare. It's dimly lit, they serve huge portions, and have a great organic wine list. I'm sure Russell Simmons would agree as he can be seen often dining in its dark corners on the regular.
ChikaLicious 203 East 10th Street nr. Second Ave.
Great for DESSERT DATES
Yes, it's super narrow and there are about ten seats but if you are lucky enough to grab a spot, you will be pleasantly surprised by the insanely creative Japanese-inspired desserts that always draw a crowd. They offer a prix fixe menu for $16 that includes decadent options like the mocha and hazelnut trifle with white coffee ice cream. Want to add a wine pairing? It's only an additional $8. They don't take reservations, but it's a dining experience worth the wait!
 |
| The Piggie, DBGB Kitchen & Bar Credit: DBGB |
Great for a BURGER & ICE CREAM
Daniel Boulud's casual eatery downtown is a great option if you want a little Boulud but don't want the white tablecloth experience. They've got a very diverse menu, but their burgers and ice cream sundaes steal the show. Order The Piggie - 6 ounces of ground beef topped with their house-made BBQ pulled pork, jalapeno mayonnaise, Boston lettuce on a fluffy cheddar bun. If you can handle it, go for a ice-cream sundae for dessert. Chef Boulud - I never knew you were such a glutton!
Degustation Wine & Tasting Bar 239 East 5th St. nr. Second Ave. Great for a TASTING MENU
Don't you love that feeling when you get a deal on something that is so quality, it really should never be offered as a bargain? The first step is to call and make a reservation as they have a very limited number of reservations. Then sit back, relax and enjoy as you watch the chefs at work. $55 for a 5- course dinner menu, or if you're feeling extra indulgent, opt for 10 courses for $80.
Desnuda 122 East 7th Street nr. Ave. A Great for SEAFOOD LOVERS
There are just a handful of seats at their very intimate bar, but if you're lucky enough to snag a seat, you won't want to leave. They serve some great ceviche and have a stellar wine list. The bartenders are at the ready to provide perfect pairing options. It's a perfect option for a romantic date to feast on some creatures of the sea and sip on quality vino.
 |
| Edi & The Wolf Credit: Edit & the Wolf |
Great for GIRL'S NIGHT OUT
If you're tired of the same old, same old with your best gal pals, give this trendy Austrian haunt on for size. The decor is rustic and fun, but the main draw is the food. Begin with a yummy cheese plate and definitely opt for the schnitzel and the flat bread pizza. Girls night, redefined. If weather permits, sip on a seasonal cocktail from their extensive list in "The Wolf's" secret garden.
 |
| Boneless chicken wings, Exchange Alley Photo: Exchange Alley |
Great for SOMETHING NEW IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Chef Paul Gerard's roots trace back to the time he spent in New Orleans cooking with James Beard nominee, John Harris (Lillette). It may be in New York City, but the flavors of good ol' N'awlins are present in every bite of Chef Paul's cooking! Must-try dishes that evoke true Southern flavor: Jambalaya balls in dirty gravy, red snapper with yellow tomatoes, and the Big East BBQ shrimp.
Graffiti 224 East 10th St. nr. Second Ave.
Great for an INTIMATE DINNER
We are huge fans of Chef Jehangir Mehta and it all started here at Graffiti. The super cozy restaurant will serve up some of the most flavorful dishes you've had in some time. You'll enjoy the amazing Indian-inspired dishes that come out the kitchen where he cooks on hot pans. It's truly an art. Make sure to order his signature drink, a lychee-prosecco cocktail.
Hearth 403 East 12th St. nr. Second Ave. Great for a SPECIAL OCCASION
This seasonal new American restaurant is love at first bite. The menu changes daily depending on what is in season and they get most of their food from local farmers that sell their pickings the Union Square Greenmarket. The gnocchi will melt in your mouth and the ricotta meatballs is a must-try. For dessert, there's always a seasonal doughnut on the menu that makes my heart go pitter-pat. I can't wait to see what's in store for the fall season! Pumpkin ravioli, anyone?
 |
| Shiromaru Hakata Classic Ramen, Ippudo Credit: Ippudo NY, Inc. |
Great for RAMEN & PORK BUNS
They spin and shape seven different types of ramen in-house and it's what has made this Japanese noodle house notorious around town. Make sure to order the pork buns to start. The pork is perfectly roasted and the bun fluffy and delicious! Favorite ramen on the menu? The Shiromaru Hakata - silky pork noodles, topped with pork loin chashu, sesame mushrooms, memma, red pickled ginger and scallions.
Kanoyama 175 Second Avenue nr. 11th St.
Great for SUSHI One of my favorite sushi restaurants in NYC. They serve the freshest fish around, the service is fantastic, and you always leave happy and satiated which isn't the case in some NYC overpriced sushi meccas. My all time favorite is the Omakase or Chef's Special. This isn't for you if you're on a tight budget, but worth the splurge every once in a while.
Lil' Frankies 19 First Avenue nr. 1st St. Great for a BIRTHDAY DINNER ON A BUDGET
Lil' Frankies is amazing for groups. The best table in the house is the large round table that can accommodate up to 15 people. The food is great and the best part is the quality of food for the price. When all is said and done after you've guzzled your fair share of vino and chowed down on pasta and chicken parm, you can usually keep the bill to $50 each. Happy Birthday!
Luzzo's 213 First Avenue nr. 13th St.
Great for a PIZZA PARTY
Coal burning ovens only generate the best pizza on earth and here's proof. I'm always so amazed at how much I can eat here. The thin crust pizza with the perfect amount of sauce and cheese is heaven. Great for big groups and plenty of hearty pizza and pasta options for everyone.
Max 51 Avenue B nr. 4th St.
Great for PASTA
They have some of the best rustic Italian food around for prices that won't break the bank. The ambiance is cozy and they have a great wine selection as well. Make sure to order one of their pastas, served in a large homestyle bowl. My favorite is their gnocchi alla Sorentina.
Paprika 110 St. Marks Street nr. First Ave.
Great for BRUNCH
They've got an incredible brunch special for $12 which includes a mimosa or bellini and a coffee. Not the best for a big group as it's pretty close quarters but ideal for two to four people. Try the green eggs - they are out of this world!
 |
Great for ENTERTAINING VISITORS TO NYC Please Don't Tell...just kidding. The secret is out because this place is too good to keep under wraps. It's a really fun and truly a hidden speakeasy. The only way to enter is through Crif Dogs tucked behind an English telephone booth. The drinks are strong and my favorite is their Old Fashioned. Bring visitors here for a quality cocktail experience that is as Prohibition-esque as it comes.
Porsena 21-23 East 7th Street nr. Third Ave.
Best DINNER WITH THE PARENTS
My favorite little Italian restaurant in the entire city, Chef Sara Jenkins knows her food - she should since she grew up on an olive farm in Tuscany! The lasagna al forno and green bean salad are must try dishes, and the wine list is top notch. And as if that wasn't enough, save room for the delicious desserts! Reservations are highly recommended as it is a very small, cozy space.
Pylos 128 East 7th St. nr. Ave. A
Great for GREEK food There are clay pots hanging from the ceiling reminding me of one of my favorite restaurants in Mykonos. As you are transported to your favorite Grecian enclave, enjoy the menu of rustic favorites like artichoke heart moussaka, grape leaves stuffed with rice and veal and grilled octopus. Opa!
 |
| Pork and Peaches, The Redhead Credit: The Redhead |
The buttermilk fried chicken, gravy and potatoes are truly incredible. Begin by munching on the homemade bacon peanut brittles and continue to savor every bite of the incredibly executed comfort food like the grilled peaches and pork belly. If you can save room for dessert, make sure to try the strawberry shortcake. Regardless, they will give you a homemade cookie with the check to remember them by. Such a gem!
Toucan & The Lion 342 East 6th St. nr First Ave.
Great for DINNER & DRINKS
This is a newcomer and it's getting a lot of buzz so book immediately if you're planning on taking part! It's an Asian gastropub and boy is the food yummy! Our favorite menu standard is the burger - apple wood smoked bacon, cashew nut butter, and fried pickles. This place is COZY - meaning if you like you're space, go elsewhere. You will be dining on top of your new friends - the table next to you.
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