New York City’s Most Iconic Restaurants

Seasons change, trends come and go, but these restaurants have withstood the test of time—and have become integral parts of the New York City dining scene. Here are NYC’s OpenTable Classics: the places that continue to excel after 10+ years. There’s a reason they’re still around: they keep giving us a reason to come back.

The OpenTable team

3 Restaurants

Updated September 21, 2021

Restaurants:	Quality Meats, Casa Lever, Buddakan NY…
Price Range:	$$$ - $$$$
Cuisines:	American, Italian, Chinese…
Neighborhoods:	Midtown West, Midtown East, Meatpacking District…

Quality Meats

$$$$

American

Midtown West

4.7

9496 reviews

It’s hard to believe that Quality Meats is over twelve years old; the place still feels hip and modern, with a bustle and buzz usually reserved for newer hot spots. The menu is devoted to steakhouse classics, and you can’t go wrong with any of them—but if you’re in the mood for a splurge, go for anything from the Butcher’s Cut section.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Casa Lever

$$$$

Italian

Midtown East

4.6

1687 reviews

For a Midtown power lunch or dinner, head to Casa Lever, an Italian restaurant in the architectural landmark Lever House. Andy Warhol originals line the wood-paneled walls, and Mad Men–types dine on Italian dishes like vitello tonnato, spaghetti with clams, or whole, roasted branzino.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Buddakan NY

$$$$

Chinese

Meatpacking District

4.6

15068 reviews

While it may not be the most authentic or low-key Chinese restaurant in town, Buddakan certainly has its perks: it’s fun, it’s glizy, it’s sceney, and the food is—somewhat shockingly—delicious. Order a bunch of dishes from the dim sum section of the menu along with the short ribs, lamb chops, and tea-smoked chicken, and you’re in for a fun—and raucous—evening.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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OpenTable Classics: Iconic Restaurants on OpenTable