New York City is a global culinary capital, known for its iconic pizza slices, hot dogs, and bagels. But as a seasoned traveler and food enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for those hidden gems that offer a more intimate, authentic taste of the city. During my latest trip to the Big Apple, I set out to explore the less-traveled corners of the city, searching for small, off-the-beaten-path restaurants that don’t often make it to the glossy pages of travel magazines but are beloved by locals.
What I discovered was a vibrant, diverse food scene that showcases the true spirit of New York—a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, where every meal tells a story. In this blog, I’ll share my top picks for New York’s hidden culinary gems, each offering a unique dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a fellow foodie or simply looking to try something new, these recommendations will give you a taste of the real New York.
1. Taverna Kyclades: A Taste of Greece in Astoria
Astoria, Queens, is known for its rich Greek heritage, and Taverna Kyclades is a standout among the many Greek restaurants in the area. Located on Ditmars Boulevard, this unassuming taverna is a local favorite, offering some of the most authentic Greek cuisine I’ve ever tasted outside of Greece.
When I walked into Taverna Kyclades, I was immediately struck by the warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is modestly decorated, with blue-and-white checkered tablecloths and simple wooden chairs, but it’s the food that steals the show. I started with the grilled octopus, which was perfectly charred and tender, served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. For the main course, I opted for the whole grilled fish, which was fresh, flaky, and bursting with flavor. The lemon potatoes and horta (wild greens) on the side were the perfect complements to the meal.
What I love about Taverna Kyclades is its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, prepared simply but with care. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for both a casual meal and a special occasion. It’s best to visit early or make a reservation through Resy as this place tends to get packed, especially on weekends.
Why Visit: Authentic Greek cuisine, generous portions, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Booking Tip: Make a reservation through Resy to avoid long wait times, especially during dinner hours.
2. Ugly Baby: Bold Thai Flavors in Carroll Gardens
Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens is home to Ugly Baby, a small, unpretentious Thai restaurant that has gained a cult following among food lovers for its unapologetically spicy dishes. If you’re a fan of bold, fiery flavors, this is the place for you.
Ugly Baby doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to heat, so be prepared for an intense culinary experience. The menu features a variety of traditional Thai dishes, many of which are rarely found on menus in the U.S. I started with the kua kling, a dry curry with minced pork that packed a serious punch. The flavors were complex, with a beautiful balance of spice, herbs, and umami. Next, I tried the pad kra pao, a stir-fry with holy basil, which was equally spicy but incredibly fragrant and flavorful.
The restaurant itself is small and cozy, with just a handful of tables, so it’s best to book ahead via Yelp Reservations to secure a spot. Despite its small size, Ugly Baby delivers big on flavor, and it’s easily one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in New York.
Why Visit: Authentic, intensely flavorful Thai cuisine that’s not for the faint of heart.
Booking Tip: Reserve a table through Yelp Reservations to ensure you get a spot, as the restaurant’s limited seating fills up quickly.
3. Lucali: A Pizza Lover’s Paradise in Carroll Gardens
No trip to New York would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s world-famous pizza, and Lucali in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, is the place to go for a truly exceptional pie. What makes Lucali special is its simplicity—this is pizza at its purest, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Lucali doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours. However, I assure you that the experience is worth the wait. The menu is straightforward: you can order a classic Margherita pizza or a calzone, and that’s about it. But what Lucali lacks in variety, it more than makes up for in flavor.
The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a perfectly crispy crust with just the right amount of char. The sauce is made from fresh tomatoes, and the mozzarella is creamy and melts beautifully over the thin, crispy base. I added some fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil on top, and it was absolute perfection. The calzone, stuffed with ricotta and mozzarella, was equally delicious and big enough to share.
For an authentic New York pizza experience in a cozy, candlelit setting, Lucali is hard to beat. Just be sure to arrive early to put your name on the list, as the wait can be several hours during dinner time.
Why Visit: Some of the best pizza in New York, with a focus on simplicity and quality.
Booking Tip: Lucali doesn’t take reservations, so plan to arrive early to avoid the longest waits, or consider ordering takeout.
4. Pata Paplean: A Hidden Thai Bar in Elmhurst
Elmhurst, Queens, is known for its diverse culinary scene, and Pata Paplean is a hidden gem that offers a unique twist on the traditional Thai dining experience. This small, eclectic bar feels like a secret, with its dim lighting, quirky decor, and a menu that features both Thai street food and creative cocktails.
When I first stepped into Pata Paplean, I felt like I had been transported to a speakeasy in Bangkok. The atmosphere is laid-back and intimate, making it a great spot for a casual night out. I started with the boat noodles, a rich and flavorful dish traditionally served in Thailand’s floating markets. The broth was deeply savory, with a perfect balance of spices, and the tender beef and fresh herbs made it a standout dish.
The cocktail menu is just as impressive, with drinks that incorporate Thai flavors and ingredients. I tried the Tom Yum cocktail, which was a spicy, tangy mix of vodka, lime, and lemongrass—refreshing and with just the right amount of kick. Pata Paplean is the kind of place where you can linger for hours, enjoying good food, drinks, and conversation.
Since Pata Paplean is more of a bar than a restaurant, they don’t take reservations, but it’s usually easy to find a spot if you arrive early. It’s the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for a more unconventional dining experience in New York.
Why Visit: Unique Thai street food and creative cocktails in a quirky, intimate setting.
Booking Tip: No reservations are needed, but arriving early ensures you get a good spot.
5. Raku: Japanese Comfort Food in the East Village
Raku, located in the East Village, is a cozy Japanese restaurant that specializes in udon, a type of thick, chewy noodle that’s pure comfort in a bowl. The restaurant’s unassuming facade might lead you to walk right past it, but inside, you’ll find some of the best Japanese comfort food in the city.
The menu at Raku is centered around their handmade udon noodles, which are available in a variety of broths and styles. I opted for the niku udon, which features tender slices of beef in a rich, savory broth, topped with scallions and a soft-boiled egg. The noodles were perfectly cooked—chewy and satisfying—and the broth was full of umami flavor. I also tried the kakiage, a type of tempura made with thinly sliced vegetables, which was crispy and delicious.
Raku’s atmosphere is relaxed and homey, with a minimalist decor that lets the food take center stage. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind after a long day of exploring the city, enjoying a bowl of steaming hot noodles that feels like a warm hug.
Reservations can be made through OpenTable and are highly recommended, as Raku’s small space fills up quickly, especially during dinner hours.
Why Visit: Delicious, handmade udon noodles and Japanese comfort food in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Booking Tip: Use OpenTable to secure a reservation, particularly if you’re planning to visit during peak times.
6. Casa Enrique: Michelin-Starred Mexican in Long Island City
Long Island City in Queens is home to Casa Enrique, a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant that offers authentic, flavorful dishes in a warm, welcoming environment. Despite its accolades, Casa Enrique retains a down-to-earth charm, making it a perfect spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
The menu at Casa Enrique is rooted in traditional Mexican cuisine, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. I started with the guacamole, which was creamy and perfectly seasoned, served with warm, crispy tortilla chips. For the main course, I chose the enchiladas verdes, which were stuffed with tender chicken and topped with a tangy green sauce made from tomatillos and cilantro. The flavors were bright, vibrant, and utterly satisfying.
What sets Casa Enrique apart is the attention to detail in every
dish. The salsas are made in-house, the tortillas are freshly pressed, and the flavors are carefully balanced to showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. It’s no wonder the restaurant has earned a Michelin star.
Reservations are essential, especially on weekends, and can be made through Resy. Casa Enrique is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Mexican food with a touch of elegance.
Why Visit: Michelin-starred Mexican cuisine in a warm, inviting setting.
Booking Tip: Make a reservation through Resy well in advance, especially if you’re planning to dine on a weekend.
Exploring New York’s Hidden Culinary Treasures
New York City is a food lover’s paradise, but the best experiences often come from venturing off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems that offer a true taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene. From the bold, spicy flavors of Ugly Baby to the comforting bowls of udon at Raku, each of these restaurants offers something unique, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry that makes New York so special.
When planning your next visit to the city, I encourage you to step away from the usual tourist spots and explore these lesser-known eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for Greek, Thai, Japanese, or Mexican cuisine, these restaurants will provide you with an unforgettable dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
And don’t forget to make reservations through the recommended platforms like Resy, OpenTable, or Yelp Reservations to ensure you can enjoy these culinary treasures without the hassle of long waits. New York is a city that rewards the curious, and when it comes to food, there’s always something new and delicious waiting to be discovered.
