Central Park is more than just an 843-acre green escape in the middle of Manhattan; it is also the geographic and cultural anchor for one of the most dynamic dining scenes in the world. Whether you have just finished a morning jog around the reservoir, spent an afternoon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or are simply looking for a memorable meal before a stroll through the park, the surrounding neighborhoods offer an overwhelming variety of options.
The area bordering the park is not a culinary monolith. To the south, you have the polished elegance of Midtown and Billionaires’ Row. To the west, the Upper West Side offers a relaxed, neighborhood-centric vibe, while the Upper East Side to the east leans into classic refinement and upscale bistro culture.
Because the park spans over 50 blocks, choosing a restaurant "near" Central Park requires a bit of strategy. You need to consider which entrance you are closest to, the time of day, and whether you are looking for a quick, casual bite or a multi-course fine dining experience. The best choices balance convenience with exceptional food quality.
This guide focuses on restaurants that offer not just proximity, but a distinct sense of place. We have prioritized establishments that locals trust and visitors remember, ranging from iconic New York institutions that have stood the test of time to modern hotspots that are currently defining the city’s culinary landscape.
Whether you need a hearty brunch to fuel a day of exploring, a romantic dinner spot with views of the skyline, or a quick grab-and-go sandwich for a picnic on the Great Lawn, you will find a suitable match below. These selections span a range of budgets and cuisines to ensure that every type of traveler can find exactly what they are craving.
Here are the 15 best restaurants located within a short walking distance of Central Park, arranged from the south end to the north end of the park.
Tavern On the Green
| Address | Central Park, W 67th St, New York, NY 10023 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 877-8684 |
I visited last Sunday, and my experience was wonderful. I stopped by and was welcomed warmly by the staff. I sat at the bar and tried the Lobster Mac & Cheese with a beer, and everything was delicious. They also had live music, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I had a great time and would definitely come back!
Went here for dinner as a last minute decision. Thankfully they still had tables available. Such an beautiful place with mix of old and new. The menu has great selections and there are daily specials for the main course and appetizers. The appetizers portions were perfect. The staff were extremely attentive but not annoying. Love the open kitchen concept. I enjoy watching everyone work together and the different stations setup. Our app choices were the crabcake and watermelon with balsamic. Crabcake was mostly crab. Main course choices were scallops and an eggplant & tofu dish.
So glad we went. Such a great experience and outstanding food.
It was good and a fun experience, but certainly not the exceptional one we expected. The atmosphere was nice, but the view of the outside the glass area was completely blocked by green walls for an event so we just saw glass and fake greenery. It was exceptionally loud, surprisingly loud. The staff was very nice and did a great job! Perhaps expectations were too high. We were anticipating fine dining in a business casual atmosphere. This is a hand you your plate type of service, which is fine but not usual for that price point. The food was pretty good. I had the sirloin that had good flavor but was wayyyyy over cooked at well not mid/rare at all. For a $80 aged sirloin I anticipated a mind blowing steak and it was meh...decent. The grilled veggies with humus was a little funny. At first it looked like a lot of food but upon eating it was a lot of grilled lettuce and some veggies but not. It was good for what it was, the humus was very good. Brulee was very nice as was the motel chocolate cake. The drinks were the stand out. At the servers recommendation we had the...Brooklyn I think, it was really really nice. It was obvious there were regulars. The table next to us had visits by several staff to chat. We had one man and one lady stop by ask if everything was good and went on their way....we assume they worked there. All in all with the amount of options when visiting New York we have had much better and certainly for more than $200/person. We'd not go back unless it was for the bar. Haha. Forgot to take pictures for the food but did get desert.
Great brunch, excellent service. Feels like a country club in Westchester without leaving NYC. Our waitress was lovely. Our drinks were great! Didn’t have to wait for anything for more than a few minutes. Live music was quite the treat. All the outdoor tables were pretty well shaded.
While exploring Central Park we grabbed lunch at here. We arrived a little past eleven, when it opens, and were seated right away in the dinning area.
Two options for visiting - meal experience or drinks with small bites in the lounge area. The dinning area has an open kitchen concept so you have the opportunity to watch the chef in action.
Our table opted for the New York clam chowder, figs with cream and honey, and the steak sandwich with fries. The food was filling and flavorful. The sandwich could be a shared plate. My clam chowder was good, but my brain was envisioning “New England” style clam chowder and was momentarily confused when what looked like vegetable soup was presented.
Our waitress was amazing! She gave pointers of things to experience while here and told us of some local favorites to grab some of the best food.
The views of the restaurant looking out into the park were relaxing. Great experience.
Central Park Boathouse
| Address | EAST 72ND ST +, Center Dr, New York, NY 10021 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (718) 973-9339 |
This was on my bucket list for decades and going was just as wonderful as I had dreamed it would be. When Harry Met Sally is one of my all time favorite movies so when my friend and I went to NYC we had to go here, just like her and her girlfriends do to talk about life and love. The mocktail I had was so tasty and refreshing! The patio is gorgeous and we literally saw a family of ducks, coy fish, people rowing around and the stunning city view is unbelievable. It’s a gem. The food was incredible, all very fresh and flavorful. My friend and I can’t stop talking about how yummy the crab cake was! Best we have ever had! A true Central Park must. We walked there from the Theatre Distract and it was gorgeous in May. The park was so lush and green!
It is so exciting to see The Boathouse restaurant open again!! I had the pleasure of returning to the restaurant in December 2025 and recently in May 2026. Both experiences were amazing and as enjoyable as I remember it to be. I have such fond memories of this place over many years.
We were served by Clay both recent visits. (He remembered us from December!) He made our lunch so relaxing. He is kind, thorough with his work, and made us feel “special” and welcomed at the restaurant. I would highly recommend the scallops! They were cooked to perfection! The restaurant is a perfect setting for a nice sunny summer day. (The views with the “opened walls” during the summer are beautiful.) But the restaurant is just as enjoyable on a cold rainy winter day like we experienced in December, because the place is so welcoming!
Hurry on over for lunch or dinner. You will not be disappointed!! We anxiously await our next visit in September.
The food, the service and the atmosphere is very good. There is also an amazing view overlooking a pond. The food is a bit pricey, but it absolutely worth the price. They also have a kids menu with various selection on it. Overall I would really recommend people who are having a walk in Central Park try out this restaurant.
***Terrific experience*** We had a reservation so no waiting for us.
Enjoyed a beautiful lunch around noon on a rainy day overlooking the water.
Service was perfect and our food from the appetizer to our main course was spot on. 👍 Crab cake, Sea Scallops and Beef fillet all cooked to perfection. High praise to the chefs! ♥️
Yup this place is delicious, the food was curated very well but thing stuck out to me that blew my mind, and that's the key lime pie.
THE KEY LIME PIE: Alright, holy crap, this was so good. There is a perfect balance of sour and sweet in this pie. The texture isnt too thick and its not too light, perfectly balanced, as all things should be. I don't think I've had a better key lime pie that quenched my palate after a meal. This achieves the certified baller status
Sarabeth's Central Park South
| Address | 40 Central Park S Located in: 40 West 59th Street Condominium, New York, NY 10019 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 826-5959 |
I visited Sarabeth's Central Park South and had a really great breakfast experience.
The Eggs Benedict were excellent—perfectly poached eggs, a rich and well-balanced hollandaise sauce, and everything cooked exactly to the point. It’s one of those classic dishes that can easily go wrong, but here it was done just right.
The banana muffins were another highlight. Fresh, moist, and full of flavor without being overly sweet—definitely worth ordering alongside your main dish.
What truly elevated the experience was the service. Attentive, friendly, and efficient without feeling rushed. You feel well taken care of from the moment you sit down.
The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, making it a great spot for a proper breakfast or brunch near Central Park.
Conclusion: High-quality breakfast, standout Eggs Benedict and banana muffins, and excellent service—definitely a place worth visiting.
We were told there was a 45 minute wait for a table for 2, but a table was ready less than 10 minutes later. Fabian was our server and he was great! He was prompt and very friendly. The food was absolutely delicious and came out very quickly. I had the Fat & Fluffy French Toast and hubbie had a bacon & cheese omelette, and both were fantastic! Our meals were a bit pricey, but the location and food were prime, so the higher prices were somewhat expected. Sarabeth's was a perfect stop after a morning stroll in Central Park!
Really enjoyed the food. The French toast was excellent. The potatoes with the onions and peppers were delicious. Also, I had my first four flowers mimosa and it was absolutely amazing. This place is across from Central Park too!
Recently, three of us went to Sarahbeth’s for an impromptu lunch. My cousin and her friend were visiting from out of town, and I wanted us to go somewhere special. Since I just gave them a tour of the surrounding area - emphasis on Central Park South in the spring, woohooo - I suggested that we see if they could squeeze us in at Sarabeth’s. We didn’t have a reservation, but I thought that it didn’t hurt to ask. We went in and waited for a table…they sat us in about half an hour.
Everyone there was warm and welcoming, though our server, Sarah, was the warmest. (She has an appropriate name for her workplace, too, so extra points for that. LOL) Even on a busy Saturday afternoon, the vibe there was laid back. Somehow, they’re able to preserve an atmosphere of relaxation amidst what’s likely their most demanding time (the wild weekend!).
With that, the power bowl (check out my photos), was delicious; it gave me just the refill that I needed. (One needs plenty of energy to play NYC tour guide.) Probs the best decision that I made that day was asking for a bottle of olive oil for our table. That way, I added a little extra oil to my bowl, which only served to enhance it! * Go to Sarahbeth’s, though perhaps learn from my learning curve and make a resy, namely on the weekend. (Though imho, the wait was so worth it.) Sincere thanks for an excellent dining experience, Sarah and colleagues! Warmly, Katherine/Kat (and guests)
We waited about 15 minutes, but it was definitely worth it! Our waitress gave us great recommendations. The food was delicious and the portions were very generous. The place is nice, though it can get quite noisy. Overall, a great experience! We recommend it.
The Smith
| Address | 1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 496-5700 |
My mom and I pre-celebrated Mother’s Day at The Smith and had an amazing experience from start to finish! The food was absolutely delicious — we ordered everything from appetizers to dessert and espressos, and every single item was flavorful and well prepared.
We stayed for over 3 hours enjoying the atmosphere, food, and conversation, and never once felt rushed. Our server was incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, which made the experience even better.
Such a great spot for celebrations, brunch, or a long dinner with family and friends. We’ll definitely be back!
Came here because my husband raved! Nikolai F is a ray of sunshine! He was my server and went ABOVE AND BEYOND. His kindness made my day. His “happiness” checks made me smile! After my meal was finished he offered to fill my water with fresh cold water since it was hot out. The small acts of kindness truly was wonderful. Now the food! Oh my! The burrata was AMAZING super creamy, fresh, full of flavor. The tomatoes just burst perfectly! The garlic bread was very light but great! The bacon was AMAZING. I liked that they asked how you liked it cooked. It was crispy and delicious! The mushrooms were my favorite part of the meal! Not overcooked and gently seasoned but so flavorful! The raspberry sorbet was so refreshing because of the heat. Super fresh and strong flavor but amazing! The best part! SO AFFORDABLE! Highly recommend and will def come back. Would love to try the steak and soup next!
Charming, dimly lit… fun gathering place. Menu is well curated: highly recommend the Citrus + Fennel 🥗 Salad (add some grilled shrimp 🍤). The Penne Vodka: YUM (has an unexpected ‘kick’ to it. Great🍔. French Dip: delish… Lots to choose from, & they’re famous for their fries (served Parisian style).
Francis served us: thank you Francis for taking such awesome care of us 🙌 We loved your service 🙏
…And, for third night in a row: citrus salad called us back & another amaretto sour! David P, you’re the BEST. ❤️ Thanks so much —love the cookies...!!!
We ordered take out today. I got a miso salmon and sea salt fries. The salmon was cook very nicely. It came with soba noodles, shredded vegetables and some mushrooms. The dressing was quite flavorful. I tasted miso and slinger. It was slightly sweet and refreshing.
The fries were quite good as well. Portion was great!
Overall, it was a nice and filling meal.
Always one of my favorite spots
They serve one of the best mussel pots, and the half chicken is absolutely delicious
It’s a great spot to stop by before a show at Lincoln Center. The atmosphere is lively, and you might even spot famous movie stars or people from the film and music industry here 😊( I saw them twice)
P.S. love the free sparkling water
**The servers are always busy here, so if you need something, it’s best to ask them all at once
Carmine's - 91st Street - NYC
| Address | 2450 Broadway, New York, NY 10024 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 362-2200 |
We celebrated my Wife's 60th birthday this past weekend. The Service could not have been better.
Scott was our Server (a long time fixture at Carmine's), he went above & beyond to make the day fantastic for our crowd.
To add to this, Shane the manager on duty was completely on top of the table and continuosly checked on us to ensure that we had everything we needed.
We've been coming to the Broadway & 91st street location for more than 30 years. We've also been to the Times Square location on numerous occasions.
To say that these folks helped us to create a Memory to Last a Lifetime would be a Gross understatement.
THANK YOU to Scott, Shane and the Carmine's Crew for making my Wife's 60th a rousing success!
Great food everytime. Been coming here for years. Went back to celebrate my birthday. Chicken wings are so good the house made blue cheese is amazing. Calamari is a table must! And we always get the shrimp parmigian! The shrimp so big! And don’t forget the bread and oil!
Happy hour review. The food is good and plentiful. Drinks are reasonable. I finally had the opportunity to go to Carmine during their limited happy hour (Monday to Thursdays only 3-5pm and after 9pm). The calamari is as good as I remembered from the early 1990’s when they first opened, although now, the marinara sauce is less garlicky and more cooked. Serving size is perfect for 2 to share. The best deal was the sliders (2 for $5): the foccacia bread was great, the portion large and the extra sauce was a bonus touch. The mussels were good too but the sauce was not (chili) spicy - it also came with 2 whole stewed tomatoes. The house red was a young montepulciano d’abruzzo (2024) served in a drinking style glass (like in Italy). Lunch menu (sandwiches and smaller pasta portions is available all day at the bar. For those with soy allergy: canola oil is used exclusively in the kitchen. But they don’t make the focaccia and the bread they use in the meatballs in house, so ask your server. Looking forward to returning. Feb 2026
True to its name, family style Italian food. You'll walk into complete chaos and extremely loud noise as you walk in to their dining hall.
Portion sizes are out of control, however pricing is pretty accurate given the huge portions. As 4 adults and kids, we managed to finish off 1 entree Rigatoni Country Style ($29), and 1 appetizer Stuffed Mushrooms ($19.99). We of course made a mistake of ordering two more appetizers not realizing how big their portion sizes actually are! These included Garlic Bread, and huge portion of Fried Calamari!
Noise levels on the higher end, pretty difficult to have a conversation with the person seated across the table. Quick service though and really good food quality. The country style pasta was very flavorful.
Highly recommend this place for a family style experience!
We love this family style old school super popular Italian restaurant! Their eggplant parmigiana is the absolute best, and comes in a huge serving size enough to feed four or more people! Or two with leftovers, which taste even better the next day. We've dined in which is usually crowded-- esp on weekends, but not as crowded as the Times Square location, and also have taken out on many occasions, which has a separate pick up entrance and is super convenient.
Their salads, fried calamari, pasta, pretty much all dishes-- are all fantastic and served in family sized portions-- add pasta for a very small upcharge. Focaccia also delicious.
Their sauce is extremely flavorful with few ingredients and no sugar.
French Roast
| Address | 2340 Broadway, New York, NY 10024 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 799-1533 |
I’ve been coming to French Roast since I was a teenager (shhh… a long time ago 😆), and it has never disappointed.
The service was amazing from start to finish. I had the steak salad, and my daughter had the steak sandwich and both were absolutely delicious.
Now, let’s talk about dessert. My daughter ordered the crème brûlée, and it was outstanding. I had the chocolate cake with coconut gelato… pure decadence! I’m usually not a dessert person, but I can’t recommend it enough. Do yourself a favor and save room for dessert, you won’t regret it.
It’s always a pleasure coming back, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit!
My family loves French food since we have French/ Spanish backgreund and I personally have learn to cook French food, so this restaurant doesn't disappoints.
The food is consistently good, full of flavor, and feels authentic. You can tell a lot of locals dine here, which is always a great sign.
The restaurant is spacious, comfortable, and can easily accommodate large parties, making it a great choice for family dinners or celebrations.
They have a great variety of wines to choose from, the prices are fair for the quality and the experience, and the service is always attentive.
We had a wonderful time and will definitely be coming back!
I had a fantastic experience here. Everything we ordered was prepared with such care and attention to detail.
The pasta was cooked perfectly and topped with a fresh sprig of herbs, while the sandwich was packed with crisp bacon and creamy avocado. I especially loved the golden, toasted bread on the sandwich. It is rare to find a place that balances comfort food with such high-quality presentation.
We will definitely be coming back soon. It is the perfect spot for a satisfying meal.
French Roast on Broadway and 85th Street is one of those classic Upper West Side establishments that perfectly captures the charm of a traditional Parisian bistro while maintaining a distinctly New York character.
The warm décor, vintage ambiance, and lively neighborhood atmosphere make it an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or a leisurely meal any day of the week.
The restaurant has been a local favorite for decades and continues to attract both residents and visitors alike.
Brunch is particularly worth experiencing. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including Croque Monsieur, Belgian waffles, avocado tartine, steak and eggs, stuffed croissants, smoked salmon hash, and freshly baked pastries, making it easy to find something for every taste. Portions are generous and consistently well prepared. restaurant is .
I had an amazing experience at French Toast in New York! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. The restaurant is clean, cozy, and perfect for brunch with friends or family. The food was absolutely delicious. The French toast was perfectly cooked—soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and full of flavor. Every bite tasted fresh and homemade. The presentation was beautiful, and the portions were generous. The staff was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed. The service was fast, and the overall experience was excellent. Special thank you to Betsy, Brianna, Yesenia and Jorge.
Jacob's Pickles
| Address | 680 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (646) 566-6630 |
Ordered take out on the recommendation of a couple locals and we were not disappointed! The hot chicken biscuit was excellent. It was plenty hot so I don’t recommend if you don’t enjoy spicy! We also got the naked chicken bites and fries. Everything was fantastic! The order said 20-30 minutes. I walked maybe 10 mins and my food was already hot and ready! Sorry I forgot to take pictures of the food!
** Update** We liked Jacob’s enough we went back… There is no way it could be as good as the first time right? Wrong. It was just as good if not better! The atmosphere of this restaurant was fantastic as well and our waitress was so kind and awesome. Honestly a 5 star experience!
This place had promise. Beautiful summer Sunday in NYC, filled with beautiful happy people. They escorted our group of 8 to a gorgeous enclosed outdoor patio with sunshine pouring in. Our server, Danielle, was a complete sweetheart. The food and drinks were all incredible. Despite all of these wonderful accolades- I will likely not return to Jacob’s Pickles. The temperature outside was 88 - the temp inside the hot, sticky, sweat box of a patio had to be at least 95. All that money and they haven’t figured out how to keep their diners cool on a summer day. There are ceiling fans in there but they did nothing but swish hot, muggy, humid air around and around. Ugh. I ate about 3 forkfuls of food but I asked for a box to take it home and actually enjoy my meal in cool temps. Before you suggest we should’ve eaten inside - unfortunately, those tables were not available for our reservation on Resy.
We went for restaurant week menu $30/person for lunch. We got chicken and waffles, spicy chicken sandwich, smash burger, devil eggs, everything seasoned pretzel. My favorite is still their chicken and waffles MAPLE BUTTER was Sooo good! Smash burger 3.5/5 standard you can get anywhere, fried chicken sandwich 4/5 slightly above average in nyc. Oreo pie jar was a hit and miss (we went first time and it wasn’t as dense as the second time) - feels like it’s missing something, like maybe some more creamcheese, oreo or condensed milk…
Amazing place! Loves the atmosphere and the new larger menu. Tried 8 different types of fresh pickles, all good, but none were as delicious as the fried pickles. Crispy chicken Caesar wrap is second to none. Also had the Jacob's biscuit beer, so smooth, all in all everything we ordered and ate was perfect.
I was walking around with my significant other when we spotted this place. It looked very open and inviting so we stopped in to grab a bite. We ordered street corn to start which came out quickly and was delicious. I ended up getting the Original smash burger and I am a huge burger guy and have to say I was absolutely blown away by how good it was. Even the bun was flakey and buttery, the pickles gave it a nice crunch, it was probably one of the absolute best burgers I’ve had in my life. The only complaint that I have is that I couldn’t finish it. The split pea soup that came with it was absolutely phenomenal too and I’m usually not a fan of split pea soup. 10/10 experience, would recommend. And the service was awesome, everyone was super friendly and knowledgeable.
La Pecora Bianca UWS
| Address | 359 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (212) 300-9870 |
this was such a delightful little spot! my wife and i met some friends here for our honeymoon, and we loved it! it's a short walk from central park. the menu had many vegetarian options, especially for the appetizers.
my wife got the Garganelli, which we were able to pay a bit extra for to get a ball of burrata on top (def worth). i got a the shaved brussel salad; so delicious, but be wary it's a bit small so probably better to compliment another dish!
and please look at this adorable tiramisu!! so cute and so delicious!
i would love to come back here again and try more of the menu!!
Our pasta dishes were full of deep flavors and portion was sizable! Don't miss the Crispy brussel sprouts. Nice upstairs dining atmosphere. Didn't have room for dessert this time but we will come back next time. Family friendly atmosphere.
They have several locations in Manhattan. We went to the one by upper west side, close to Central Park.
Our friend made a reservation. We were greeted and seated right away. They just opened for the day so not many people but as time went on, the whole dining room was packed with people. Very popular spot I see.
I had zucchini fries and Bronzino. Zucchini fries is a must try. Thin enough to have the crisp but think enough to still have the zucchini texture. Wonderful execution. Bronzino was cooked beautifully. The flavor was spot on. Great portion. Spinach was ok. Too soggy for me.
Our waitress Christine was friendly and attentive. Very helpful throughout our time there. Wonderful experience. Highly recommend.
Great vibes when you walk in, it just feels right. The staff is friendly and professional - the host checked out coats on a cold day, it just felt nice. We sat in “the softest chairs in the house”, lucky us! Food was good, the high point was the ricotta toast appetizer. Pasta was good but not quite magical. Squash soup was good too. It got crowded quickly at lunchtime, I recommend making a reservation. The two course lunch is $30. Give it a try if you’re going to the museum!
Grateful Mother's Day celebration 💐 Enjoyed the Mom's day Pre Fixed menú. From appetizer to dessert, each dish was delicious 😋 We sat at the bar since we didn't have reservations, but the vibe was better than expected 👌 My Lavender Mint Spitzer was refreshing, loved it! Bartender and Manager were very attentive and quite friendly. My daughter and I truly had a wonderful time! Thank you ! We will certainly visit again ❤️
Central Park Cafe
| Address | 910 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 649-2114 |
The borscht was amazing! 🔥
The pelmeni were amazing too! 😋
Special thanks to Tatiana for the excellent service. She was friendly, attentive, and made the experience even better. I’ll definitely be back!
Went for a Georgian wine tasting for my birthday.
It was amazing, our host was very helpful and accommodating.
Food was nice, and I definitely would recomend!
Such a cute and cozy spot right by Central Park — the vibe is calm & welcoming. The staff made us feel comfortable from the moment we walked in.
We stopped with my sister by after a short walk through Central Park, and it was the perfect place to relax and recharge. I had the classic pancakes — fresh, comforting, and full of flavor. You can really taste the quality.
This is definitely going on my list as a go-to spot for a quick bite and a moment to unwind on my next Central Park visit.
Highly recommend 🌿✨
Really great location near Central Park! I enjoyed the atmosphere and there were so many options on the menu! Really great staff. I ordered the cappuccino tiramisu and bacon, egg, and cheese with a croissant.
Oleksandra had been fantastic! She served me with a charming bright energy that lent itself to the positive overall atmosphere. The food was delicious and delivered speedily! The drinks we crafted with intention to a balanced taste. Overall great spot to stumble upon and relax in. PS. The air conditioning is great for these hot summer days!
Brasserie Cognac Central Park South
| Address | 922 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 470-5087 |
We had a wonderful experience at this charming French restaurant in Manhattan. The atmosphere is absolutely beautiful — elegant, warm, and very inviting. It’s the kind of place where you immediately feel comfortable and relaxed.
We came here with our family and had a fantastic lunch. The food was delicious, everything was well-prepared, and the overall experience felt special without being pretentious.
A truly lovely spot — we’ll definitely be back!
It is hard to get 4 stars if I crunch my way through a mussels entree. The fries were uneventful so they lost the chance to redeem. The cheese soufflé was fun to share and did take a while but we were not in a rush. The burger was a solid serving. The salmon burger was meh - bun to burger ratio was off and it was dry.
Disappointing experience. The menu has a few French dishes like the Beef Bourguignon but feels overall Americanized. The wine list includes impressive grand crus (e.g., Cos d’Estournel at $590) that don’t match the menu’s tone. Ambiance is a classic French brasserie; service was average (the wine list was removed from the table after we ordered a pre-dinner drink without asking and never cme back). We had the Ratatouille, Cognac Wagyu burger and Salmon — food was tasty and well presented.
We had just finished doing a little walk around Central Park's south entrance, and wanted to get some food. We saw the word Cognac and decided to drop in lol! The food was great, and the service was just as good! I had a burger and my wife had the French dip! Both were excellent! Their selection of wine was great and was a perfect place to drop by after the park!
Nice place - quiet, well appointed, nice banquettes, linen napkins. Had the wagyu burger which came with fries that were like cardboard. I prefer the UES branch.
Central Park Boathouse Café
| Address | 72 E 72nd St, New York, NY 10021 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (718) 973-9339 |
Lunch with a group of friends on a business trip. 2 things to note; there's not a cab to take you there, you'll need to be let out around 5th Avenue and Central Park to walk from there, short walk. Next, they will not split the bill, one bill for the whole table which is totally irritating on a business trip. Atmosphere was fabulous, food was delicious, service was great! We had the yellowfin tuna tartare, Manhattan clam chowder and Crème brûlée.
Post-blizzard views of the Central Park boathouse cafe. All the seating has been moved inside and they still maintained normal hours while allowing dogs to come inside as long as they are leashed with their owners. Some of my favorites are the grilled chicken sandwich and the ham and cheese. Extensive menu with ample seating and strong coffee menu as well.
I stopped here a couple times while on my Central Park adventures. It is the perfect spot to warm up and grab a little snack! The prices are very affordable and they have an indoor seating area with about 6 tables, as well as the outdoor patio in the photos attached. #centralpark #nyc
Ordered a soft serve here when walking through the park with my Dad. When I went to grab it from my Dad I accidentally crushed it and was so upset but the lovely man working made me a new one right away. Thank you so much for being so caring! Was on Saturday the 11th July at around 4pm. The soft serve itself was delicious too so overall great experience 🙂
We were excited to have lunch at one of the Central Park restaurants and The Boathouse Cafe did not disappoint. The cafe was busy with people eating outside, the environment was excellent and the food, some of the best. The quality, freshness and flavors were incredible. We ordered the grilled chicken sandwich, roast beef and horseradish sandwich and a bowl of fruit. Everything was a ten, perhaps the roast beef horseradish sandwich even better.
We look forward to making this a regular visit.
Jams
| Address | 1414 6th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:45 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:45 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:45 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:45 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:45 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:45 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:45 PM |
| Phone | (212) 703-2007 |
We visited Jams inside 1 Hotel Central Park for brunch and really enjoyed the atmosphere of the restaurant. The interior is beautiful, filled with lots of plants and greenery that make the space feel cozy, warm, and relaxing. The restaurant has a stylish but comfortable vibe, and it’s a nice place to slow down and enjoy brunch in the middle of Manhattan. The staff were friendly and welcoming throughout the visit.
The brunch menu offers a good mix of sweet and savory options, including dishes like French toast, pancakes, omelets, poached eggs, and bagels. Overall, the food and atmosphere made for a very enjoyable brunch experience.
We ordered the “Avocado Toast”, “Spring Frittata”, “Baja Breakfast”, and “Berry & Ricotta Buttermilk Pancakes”. Our favourite was definitely the Baja Breakfast, which had a really nice tangy flavour.
The only small challenge we had was when splitting the bill, as it seemed the supervisor was not very familiar with handling it, so we had to figure it out ourselves in the end. Other than that, it was a very pleasant brunch experience.
Great ambiance and excellent service in a highly elegant setting. However, the food doesn't justify the steep prices. We tried the mushrooms, the burger, and two different pastas. While everything was good, it wasn’t outstanding or memorable enough for the cost.
The food was delicious, the atmosphere was great, and it was actually easy to have a conversation since it wasn’t too loud. The service was excellent as well. The only downside was that there’s just one unisex bathroom, and we ended up having to go to the second floor to use the restroom. Other than that, everything was great and we had a really nice experience. Oh, I also love their homemade hot sauce!
Excellent breakfast/brunch place! We had a table of five people and everyone enjoyed their meals! Love the ambiance and atmosphere as well. Highly recommend this restaurant.
Wonderful breakfast place!! Our Saturday morning started off on the right foot because of our delicious food here.
We made a reservation (highly recommend) and were seated immediately. Service was incredibly kind and friendly. We ordered our drinks (a cappuccino and an orange juice), which did take a while. We definitely thought they forgot about our drinks, but they comped my orange juice, so that’s an even trade in my book.
My husband got the BEC with the hash cakes and said it was delicious! They also gave his a delicious hot sauce when he asked for it, which he enjoyed. Those hash cakes were amazing, and they gave him so much he had to share (lol). I got the full brunch, which is a looooot of food, but I enjoyed every bit. The mushrooms were a definite highlight, as was the sourdough. Scrambled eggs were a bit dry, but mixed well with the other food. The bacon was thick and well done. It was delicious!
Overall, great experience, and the ambiance can’t be beat. Service is great and menu items are delicious. I’d change my egg style next time, and maybe try out one of their sweeter breakfast items too!
ROBERT
| Address | 2 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 299-7730 |
Robert is a wonderful destination for a leisurely weekend brunch or an elegant fine-dining experience. Overlooking Central Park, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and its iconic skyscrapers.
The menu is exquisite, with a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes. I particularly recommend the Green Pea & Asparagus Soufflé and the Roasted Vegetable Quiche, both of which were delightful. I also tried the Short Rib Reuben Sandwich, which was fairly decent and a satisfying choice.
Overall, Robert is a lovely spot to enjoy delicious food while taking in spectacular views of the city.
Amazing views and a wonderful meal! The server was incredibly kind and attentive.
I visited during Restaurant Week, and it was such a memorable experience. I was a little worried that the cooked salmon might taste fishy, but it was absolutely delicious. On top of that, we were even treated to a complimentary dessert, which truly made the experience special.
I visited as I’m about to graduate from my language school, and it turned into such a wonderful memory. I’d really love to come back one more time before I head home.
Upon walking in we saw that it’s currently pink and orange like a verrrry fancy Dunkin Donuts haha ~ and while the view is show-stopping & breathtaking ~ the service was actually bad. My friend got hit in the head THREE times by the waiter delivering items. I got stared at with no smiles while I was walking in and to the bathroom. There was a bit of a snuff at the way we wanted to take home the leftovers…
The food however was beautifully presented, and great especially for my vegetarian friend. I got the chicken which was nice and classic but a little bit boring, and my other friend got the salmon which for me was much too curry-forward. The veg risotto had a bit of a wine taste still, like it didn’t cook off all the way. The meatballs were tasty, but seemingly not “stuffed” with mozzarella. The best parts of the meal there were just the cauliflower purée, green beans, salted butter with fresh bread, watermelon salad, & the beautiful macaroon style dessert with fruits & chocolate cake. The truffle fries were nice but extremely greasy and gave us all little stomach aches.
The service needs to be revamped completely! It’s not friendly and it’s not posh. It’s something in between and it does not work. In the end I would go back for the DELICIOUS mocktails and that perfect NYC Central Park view 🏙️
Just perfect. Everything from the ambiance of the location, which gorgeously overlooks Central Park West and the park itself, it's a gorgeous restaurant. The service was very friendly, at times slower than we wanted, but it made up for it with stunning looking dishes and unbelievable taste. It's an experience I will not forget and highly recommend.
We have chosen this restaurant for my girlfriend’s birthday celebration and they didn’t disappoint us at all . Place has a nice beautiful view overlooking the Columbus circle area where the hustle of a city meets the calm of Central Park . Beautiful view. Service was outstanding. Our waiter Victor was very professional and very attentive , helpful and sweet ! It was so nice of him to provide kind of birthday treat for my girlfriend, like a plate with some small cakes with candles and her name written with chocolate. That was so sweet and it also was complimentary. Food was good, drinks were delicious. Atmosphere is so relaxing and enjoyable. There is beautiful piece of art on one of the walls in restaurant, which makes this place delightful as well. Also you can enjoy the live music vibes , which makes the experience even more wonderful. We loved everything about this place and we would definitely come back 🫶
Gabriel's Bar & Restaurant
| Address | 40 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (212) 956-4600 |
Gabriel’s Restaurant near Central Park was an absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish. The food really stood out — the beef dish was perfectly cooked, rich, and full of flavor, and the tagliatelle pasta was just as impressive, fresh and beautifully prepared.
What truly elevated the evening, though, was the service. The host was warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived, and the entire team went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable. Every server we interacted with was attentive, accommodating, and genuinely friendly, which made the whole experience feel effortless and enjoyable.
It’s rare to find a place where both the food and the service hit this level. I’ll definitely be coming back.
If NYC had a love letter to Italian dining, this place would be it. From the moment you step inside, there’s a warm, timeless charm that instantly makes you feel at home like a beloved local spot transported straight from a Roman to the heart of Manhattan.
The menu is nothing short of masterful. Every dish tastes like it was crafted by someone who truly knows and loves Italian food from rich, velvety pastas to tender, perfectly seasoned entrées. The Ravioli Zucca practically melts on your tongue, and the Brasato di Costolette di Manzo (braised short ribs) is pure comfort elevated to art.
But what really sets Gabriels apart isn’t just the food its the experience. The ambiance strikes a beautiful balance between cozy and elegant, ideal for a romantic dinner, a pre-theater meal before Lincoln Center, or a weekend brunch with friends. The staff are consummate professionals warm, attentive, and genuinely invested in making your meal memorable. I’ve never felt rushed or overlooked; instead, every detail feels thoughtfully executed.
Had such a wonderful experience at Gabriel's Bar & Restaurant! We tried their dessert special- a rich, delicious chocolate cake that was absolutely incredible and the perfect way to end the meal.
A special thank you to JP for the excellent service. We'll definitely be returning soon. Highly recommend!
What an amazing place this is! We had been in NYC for 48 hours and had gone to the most hyped-up places we could find online, only to be disappointed by the food and service each time. We stumbled upon this place while walking around, and I am so glad we went in. The food is so fresh, it feels like a warm hug. My cacio e pepe was absolutely insane, the negroni was outstanding, and the tiramisu was an absolute dream. I am so grateful for this place. I really do wish you all the best! 💕
Had a wonderful dinner before going to the theatre. Ordered the Caprese appetizer, espresso martini, linguine with clams and tagliatelle with tomato sauce. It was absolutely delicious. I will definitely come back. We also had the tiramisu for dessert which was good, not much espresso in it though. Expensive New York prices but highly recommend.
Marea
| Address | 240 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 582-5100 |
Great coastal Italian dining experience. The outdoor patio seating had a nice vibe. The Nova Scotia lobster appetizer was great along with the pesto ravioli pasta we tried. Tiramisu was quite unique and exquisite. An elevated (by the food) fine Italian dining experience
Fantastic experience from start to finish. I’m so thankful that I found out about this place. The service and atmosphere are impeccable. The location is wonderful and the food is to die for! Everyone was so kind and attentive, especially with how considerate they were about our anniversary.
This restaurant is a gem and the best time to find out was yesterday, but the second best time is now. I absolutely cannot wait to come back.
An outstanding dining experience.
During our stay in New York, Marea was without question one of the culinary highlights of our trip. The combination of Italian cuisine and exceptional seafood is executed with remarkable precision. Every dish was beautifully presented and packed with flavor.
The service was impeccable—professional, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without ever feeling intrusive. The dining room strikes the perfect balance between elegance and energy, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere.
Yes, Marea is a special-occasion restaurant, but the quality of the food, service, and overall experience more than justifies it. It is easy to understand why it has earned such an outstanding reputation over the years.
For anyone looking for world-class Italian seafood in New York, Marea is a must-visit. We will definitely return on our next trip to the city.
A special shout out to the lobster roll. It may not be the most sophisticated dish on the menu but it was hands down the best i’ve ever had. The branzino tartare was also exquisite with contrasting textures and flavors
I visit Marea every time I come to New York, and this time I came for lunch again.
The food was still just as delicious as always, but unfortunately, the service was extremely disappointing. There was no attention paid to my table at all. When I asked for some sourdough to go with the lobster burrata, I was told “of course,” but instead of bringing it, the server proceeded to clear tables, reset others, and even pour water for different tables. Only after noticing me speaking with another supervisor did they rush to bring it over.
The service was so poor that the tip felt undeserved—but of course, it’s expected, so I paid it without complaint. As I was leaving, I said “thank you” to the receptionist, but she looked at me dismissively and didn’t respond at all.
What started as a pleasant lunch quickly turned into a very unpleasant experience, and I won’t be returning. I’m sure they won’t care, but I hope others are aware of the level of service before visiting.
That said, there are some professional and attentive servers here—I genuinely hope you get one of them. However, the receptionist seriously needs to develop a sense of professionalism. paid $200 for a solo lunch, but the experience felt worth less than $20.
Second time visiting Marea during my New York trip and it was even better than the first!
The service was excellent — attentive, professional, and warm from start to finish.
The pasta here is 100/100! Highly recommend the Pappardelle Granchio Reale — the king crab was sweet and generous, perfectly balanced with garlic butter.
For appetizers, the Polipo (grilled octopus) and Scampi on “Scampi” were both phenomenal. Every dish was fresh, beautifully presented, and packed with flavor.
A true NYC fine-dining highlight.
Must recommend to all my friends traveling to New York — you can’t miss it!
Essential Tips for Dining Near Central Park
Navigating the dining scene around a major tourist attraction can be tricky, as high foot traffic often leads to inflated prices and mediocre tourist traps. To ensure you have the best possible culinary experience, consider these practical strategies before you make a reservation or walk in.
Book Ahead for Prime Times
The restaurants immediately adjacent to the park, especially those with patios or views, fill up incredibly fast during weekend brunch and pre-theater dinner hours. If you have your heart set on a specific spot, make a reservation at least one to two weeks in advance. For walk-in only spots, aim to arrive either right when they open or during off-peak hours like 3:00 PM to avoid the rush.
Embrace the Picnic Culture
One of the best ways to enjoy the park is to skip the sit-down meal entirely and assemble a gourmet picnic. Many of the delis and bakeries on this list offer takeout options. Grabbing a pastrami sandwich or a fresh baguette and eating it on Sheep Meadow or Bethesda Terrace often provides a better view than any indoor dining room in the city.
Know Your Park Entrances
Central Park is massive, and walking from 59th Street to 86th Street takes significant time. Always map the restaurant in relation to the specific park attraction you are visiting. A restaurant on the Upper West Side might look close on a map, but if you are exiting the Metropolitan Museum on the East Side, you will face a 20-minute walk across the park to get there.
Don’t Overlook the Museum Cafes
While not traditional restaurants, the dining rooms inside The Met and the American Museum of Natural History offer surprisingly high-quality food. If you are short on time and prioritizing sightseeing over a long lunch, these internal options allow you to refuel without losing your place in the museum or trekking several blocks for a meal.
Check the Weather Before Choosing
Many of the most beloved spots near the park feature outdoor seating, but New York weather can be unpredictable. If the forecast calls for rain or extreme heat, prioritize restaurants with spacious, comfortable interiors. Conversely, on a perfect spring day, securing a sidewalk table at a bistro with a park view is worth the wait.
Dining near Central Park is about more than just refueling; it is an integral part of the New York experience. The contrast between the lush, quiet greenery of the park and the electric energy of the surrounding dining rooms creates a rhythm that defines the city.
By choosing a restaurant that matches your pace—whether that is a quick espresso and pastry or a slow, luxurious dinner—you can turn a simple meal into a highlight of your trip. Use this guide to navigate the options, but don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path and discover your own favorite corner bistro along the park’s edge.
