Diners' Choice: Innovative restaurants in New York City

OpenTable

Updated March 05, 2025

Looking for the best restaurants that are fit for foodies in New York City? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Noz 17

4.9

4.9 (8)

$50 and over

Sushi

Chelsea

About the restaurant

Tucked into the heart of downtown Manhattan, the counter at Noz 17, A Michelin-starred experience with only seven seats, transports guests into an ethereal space that is as much a performance as it is a meal. Chef-driven and prepared in the Edomae style, Chef Matsu's omakase menu brings guests on a journey through the far reaches of the traditional sushi palate.

Chef Matsu previously helmed the Ash Room Counter at Sushi Noz, our sister restaurant on the Upper East Side. Drawing on some of the same techniques seen uptown, Matsu-san elegantly prepares each bite of this free-flowing menu that organically intertwines nigiri and otsumami.

Top review

Shreyans

Dined on Feb 21, 2025

Our visit to Noz 17 was an unforgettable birthday surprise meticulously planned by my wife. From the moment we stepped in, we were transported into a world of culinary artistry that exceeded all expectations. The omakase dinner stands as one of the finest dining experiences we've ever encountered. Chef Matsu San guided us through each course with exceptional knowledge and passion, readily answering our questions and enhancing our appreciation of every dish presented. What makes Noz 17 truly special is its intimate setting—just six seats per service. While this exclusivity might seem limiting, it actually creates an atmosphere of personal connection and attention that larger establishments simply cannot match. For those fortunate enough to secure a reservation, I strongly recommend exploring their whiskey collection. The selection features rare finds that would impress even the most discerning connoisseur. If you find yourself overwhelmed by choices, sommelier Alex offers expert guidance tailored to your preferences. Noz 17 delivers not just a meal, but a complete sensory experience where exceptional food, personalized service, and intimate ambiance combine to create something truly remarkable. This birthday celebration will remain a cherished memory for years to come.

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Experience

March Chef's Counter ($465/Person)

Experience

April & May Chef's Counter

Experience

RAEN x Noz 17 Wine Dinner

Shhh omakase

4.9

4.9 (36)

$50 and over

Sushi

Chinatown

About the restaurant

UNLIMITED SAKE!! --------
Welcome to Shhh Omakase, an intimate omakase haven where Chef Jason orchestrates an unparalleled dining experience for just 13 lucky guests along with our friendly staff. Immerse yourself in the artistry of Japanese cuisine with an 16-course Omakase priced at $128.00, showcasing Chef Jason's innovative take on traditional flavors. For a briefer yet equally delightful journey, opt for our Omakase—a 14-course exploration at $98.00. Seating available from Tuesday to Thursday, 6:00pm & 8:00pm Friday & Sat 5:00pm, 7:00pm & 9:00pm with 1 hour and 45 minute we ensure an intimate and personalized encounter with Chef Jason's culinary mastery. Join us for a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, where every course is a testament to Chef Jason's culinary prowess.

Top review

Mako

Dined on Feb 16, 2025

This was not just a very nice and tasty dinner - this was a culinary experience that was incredible. The fish was insanely fresh and good. Sake was flowing, the staff were authentic and nice - they seemed to be invested in making this a night to remember. The manager (perhaps owner) was friendly and seemed to be having as much fun as the guests as he answered questions,filled.our cups, told us stories, made recommendations of places to find a nice cocktail. The ambiance was also incredible but all of it together put the guests at ease and even though we hadn't known each other before it felt like we were fining with friends - laughing and talking throughout the entire meal. I highly recommend this wonderful place and look forward to my next visit in the city when I will hopefully dine there again!!

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4.9

4.9 (10)

$50 and over

Caribbean

East Village

About the restaurant

While we do offer reservations each night, we save half the room for walk-ins too. Come on by! | Bar Kabawa is a wine and daiquiri bar from Chef Paul Carmichael and Momofuku celebrating the flavors of the Caribbean in the heart of the East Village. Drawing inspiration from Chef Paul's culinary journey, the menu features daiquiris, wines by the glass, and a compact list of patties and raw bar bites. Bar Kabawa is a place to relax, enjoy, and feel at home—whether you're dropping in for a casual drink or gathering with friends.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Mar 13, 2025

We had a great first experience at Bar Kabawa. Well-crafted cocktails and food that surpassed our expectations. The Solomon Gundy is amazing. And the goat, eggplant, short rib/bone marrow patties are all fantastic. Don’t sleep on the coco bread either.

Leuca

4.8

4.8 (998)

$31 to $50

Italian

Williamsburg

About the restaurant

Leuca is a Southern Italian restaurant serving wood-fired dishes in a refined yet casual setting. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, Leuca offers a sophisticated wine and cocktail list meant to pair with a menu of approachable dishes inspired by coastal Italy.

Top review

CynthiaVIP

Dined on Feb 26, 2025

The decor is outstanding. We even appreciated the napkins.

The Lobster Club

4.8

4.8 (370)

$50 and over

Japanese

Midtown East

About the restaurant

The Lobster Club, a Japanese Brasserie by Major Food Group, is a fixture within Midtown Manhattan's iconic Seagram Building. Designed by architect Peter Marino in collaboration with MFG, the dynamic space reflects an outstanding – perhaps extravagant - interpretation of Japanese cuisine. Using classic techniques like tempura, gyoza, yakitori and robata, along with a focus on Teppanyaki and Sushi, The Lobster Club sources fish directly from Tokyo's Tsukiji market to ensure the highest level of quality. Everything on the menu is designed to be shared, encouraging a spirit of informal fun.

Top review

Guendalina

Dined 5 days ago

70s vibes Excellent wine list Top meat and sushi Especially liked the background music

Sesamo

4.7

4.7 (255)

$31 to $50

Italian

Hell's Kitchen

About the restaurant

Located in the historic Hell’s Kitchen, Sesamo is a beloved neighborhood restaurant that takes a bold and innovative approach to cooking and cocktails. Representing the diverse backgrounds we come from, our executive chef and mixologist incorporate the best ingredients from different worlds, and combine them with Italian traditions, to create our unique Asian-influenced Italian menu. Our menu changes seasonally and offers gluten-free and vegan options.

Top review

DrKathyVIP

Dined on Mar 6, 2025

Delicious Fennell salad with grilled chicken with walnuts, hazelnuts and sliced apple. Quiet and calming ambiance. The male server-Justin was very nice and friendly.

Genesis House Restaurant

4.7

4.7 (70)

$50 and over

Korean

Meatpacking District

About the restaurant

The Restaurant at Genesis House offers an exceptional culinary experience featuring distinctly Korean cuisine. The seasonally changing menu transports diners to the heart of Korea, delivering beautifully balanced flavors and unique local and imported ingredients that not just satiate the appetite, but stimulate the senses.

Top review

Joseph

Dined on Mar 15, 2025

Came to Genesis House for our anniversary. It was a fantastic and memorable experience. Really enjoyed our time here and highly recommend for locals and tourists alike.

Moody Tongue Pizza

4.7

4.7 (33)

$31 to $50

Pizzeria

East Village

About the restaurant

Moody Tongue Pizza showcases an a la carte menu highlighting Tokyo-Neapolitan style pizzas as well as a rotating seasonal selection of MICHELIN starred Moody Tongue Brewery's award-winning beers. A curated list of wines and specialty cocktails is also available.

Please note: for large parties (7+ guests) or private parties, please e-mail newyork@moodytongue.com for assistance with your reservation.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Mar 12, 2025

Everything was really good except for the milk and cookies dessert, which was just not tasty.

Loring Place

4.5

4.5 (181)

$31 to $50

American

Greenwich Village

About the restaurant

Loring Place by award winning Chef Dan Kluger is located at 21 W. 8th Street in the heart of New York's Greenwich Village. The restaurant is the culmination of a lifelong dream for the chef who has cooked in some of New York’s most beloved restaurants, for the city’s top restaurateurs. At Loring Place, chef Kluger’s skill for creating delicious market-driven dishes, with unexpected but incredibly pleasing flavor combinations, is on full display. The menu, comprised of small and large shareable plates, spotlights farms and farmers whom Kluger has gotten to know intimately over 20+ years of frequenting the Union Square Greenmarket.

Top review

MATTHEW

Dined on Feb 13, 2025

I really can’t remember a better dining experience. It’s been a while. The food and staff were amazing, beautiful decor and it wasn’t loud- I could hear my friends! Just lovely.

Bubo

4.4

4.4 (4)

$30 and under

Tapas / Small Plates

Midtown East

About the restaurant

Bubo combines the elegance of an old world cocktail lounge with the warmth of a local speakeasy. It is an intimate space for dinner and pairing courses with our constantly evolving mix of international wines, artisanal cocktails and craft beers. Our small dishes, all enjoyed at the bar or the hidden back-room lounge, are inspired by the cuisines of the Mediterranean region. Our cuisine focuses on organic ingredients which are baked, skillet cooked, roasted, or grilled to perfection. Please contact the restaurant to book parties of 8 or more.

Top review

Sylvester P.

Dined on Jan 16, 2025

A small and an intimate space to celebrate any special occasion.

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