🚕 5 Restaurants To Kick Off The New Year

Good morning NY!

As we know, NYC is packed with incredible restaurants, offering no shortage of options.

However, we wanted to give you our top five picks we think you should hit to kick off the New Year.

For the list, we’re blending recommendations from the New York Times Best Restaurants list along with some of our personal favorites.

Hope you enjoy 😋

Via Carota

Taylor Swift’s favorite restaurant and No. 5 on the New York Times Best Restaurants list.

Opened in November 2014 by chefs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi, this Italian gem has earned its reputation as a local favorite.

The rustic interior, featuring stone walls and wood floors, exudes cozy charm, making it perfect for a relaxed meal.

While the pasta dishes are popular, the Insalata Verde—a towering green salad dressed with a light sherry vinaigrette—is a standout.

Meat lovers will also appreciate the Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, a perfectly cooked prime cut of steak.

Pro Tip: Via Carota only takes walk-ins, so arriving early or during off-peak hours can help secure a table.

Social handles: Google Maps: 4.4 | Yelp: 3.8 | Instagram 📷

Estela

Ranked No. 16 on the New York Times list, Estela offers an intimate dining experience with inventive New American cuisine.

Located on East Houston Street, Estela’s dim lighting and cozy seating make it ideal for date nights or small gatherings.

The Fried Arroz Negro with squid and romesco is to kill for, combining smoky and savory flavors with impeccable texture.

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot at this in-demand restaurant.

Social handles: Google Maps: 4.5 | Yelp: 3.9 | Instagram 📷

Atoboy

Ranked No. 30, Atoboy takes Korean cuisine to another level with its playful and affordable tasting menu.

Run by the husband-and-wife team behind Atomix, this spot offers innovative dishes that still feel grounded in the comforting flavors of home.

The minimalist decor and communal tables add to its unique charm. Our favorite item is the Chicken with Spicy Peanut Butter, which delivers bold, unexpected flavor combinations. 

It’s a perfect introduction to modern Korean dining, with a pre-fixed menu that’s worth the visit.

Social handles: Google Maps: 4.5 | Yelp: 4.3 | Instagram 📷

Cervos

For a taste of Spain and Portugal, Cervo’s is an unbeatable choice.

This lively spot on Canal Street is always buzzing, with an open kitchen and bar seating that lets you watch the chefs in action.

The Prawn Heads—crispy, salty, and bursting with briny flavor—are a must-try for seafood lovers.

The vibrant energy of Cervo’s makes it an excellent option for a fun night out, but be sure to book ahead as this spot also fills up fast.

Social handles: Google Maps: 4.5 | Yelp: 4 | Instagram 📷

Misipasta

Rounding out the list is Misipasta, a haven for pasta lovers in Williamsburg.

As part of the Misi and Lilia family, Misipasta serves fresh, handmade pasta dishes alongside aperitivo options.

The Ricotta-Filled Occhi and Fettuccine with Buffalo Butter showcase the restaurant’s dedication to quality and simplicity.

The space doubles as a grocery store and bar, offering a casual yet stylish dining experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for a laid-back meal with friends or some Italian grocery shopping.

Social handles: Google Maps: 4.2 | Yelp: 4.1 | Instagram 📷

Final Thoughts

From rich Italian to bold Korean flavors, these five restaurants highlight the diversity and innovation of NYC’s dining scene.

With 2025 having just started, enter the new year with some good friends and a great meal.

Be sure to snag a reservation where possible, and come hungry to enjoy the best the city has to offer!

Thanks

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