Midtown is in the heart of Manhattan, the heart of New York City, which is often considered the heart of America. It’s safe to say that Midtown’s energy is a pulsing beat that lends itself well to great food and dining experiences in the city that never sleeps. 

If you’re one of the millions of visitors, Midtown is where you’ll likely be doing most of your sightseeing in NYC. If you want to settle in after your flight in a cozy, atmospheric bar — Midtown’s got you. 

Fried chickencomfort food to celebrate Friday? The best restaurants are in Midtown. Gluten-free brunch before stumbling around Times Square (we see you, bottomless mimosas)? We think you know the answer by now. Sophisticated eats in Midtown are as quintessentially New York as bagels and pizzerias. 

Ice cream, ramen, and Italian appetizer daydreams are now replacing thoughts of sterile office buildings in Midtown. Here is your guide to some of the most satisfying bistros, cocktail bars, and restaurants serving up great food in Midtown. 

Fancy Midtown Spots for a Date Night

If a romantic date night in New York City includes a stop at Richard Rodgers Theatre or the Museum of Modern Art, you’ll want to scour the streets of Midtown for the perfect restaurant. These restaurants have the ambiance to boost the romance factor, and delicious eats to satisfy your palate.

Butter

If you're a foodie looking for a trendy spot in New York, you need to check out Butter, created by Food Network star herself, Alex Guarnaschelli. The vibe is upscale and chic, but don't let that intimidate you - the food is absolutely worth it.

The menu is full of delicious options, but the standout dishes are definitely the ones with - you guessed it - butter. The chicken under a brick with black truffle butter is pure heaven, and the butter-poached lobster is a dream come true for any date night (or solo night out).

And when it comes to celebs, Butter is no stranger to the A-listers. From Rihanna to Jay-Z, this place has seen some serious star power. So if you want to dine like the rich and famous, put on your best outfit and head on over to Butter.

Just be warned - once you try the food here, you might become addicted. But hey, there are worse things to be addicted to than butter, right?

Hutong

Hutong is located on bustling Lexington Avenue, with a dress code that conjures up the most sophisticated night out. The inside of Hutong looks like a modernized deco art landscape as a nod to the New York heritage of old. 

Chinese food is well represented in this high-end establishment, and let’s just have a moment for their large drink menu. It’s simply…the best.

This fun date night spot is a great place to have dinner or get a drink and snacks during their “social hour” on weekdays. Michelin + dim sum = a match made in Midtown heaven.

Le Bernardin

Le Bernardin is just steps from Radio City Music Hall and the Museum of Modern Art. This upscale seafood spot is a feast for the senses and the perfect place to rub elbows with the rich and famous.

The vibe is sophisticated and elegant, but don't let that intimidate you — the staff is friendly and welcoming. And as for the food? Let's just say it's worth every penny. The seafood is fresh and expertly prepared, and the flavors are out of this world.

And speaking of out of this world, you never know who you might see at Le Bernardin. From movie stars to politicians, this place is a magnet for the movers and shakers. Just try not to freak out if you see someone you recognize — remember, they're just people who happen to have a lot of money.

So if you're looking for a luxurious dining experience and the chance to spot some celebs, Le Bernardin is the place to be.

Outdoor Dining in Midtown

Just because Midtown is located in the midst of towering skyscrapers and highrises doesn't mean that we foodies can’t enjoy a good outdoor dining experience. These Midtown restaurants prove that outdoor dining accessibility does exist.

Nerai

If you're in the mood for some Mediterranean cuisine, you need to check out Nerai in New York. This place is fancy with a capital F, but don't let that scare you off — the food is seriously delicious.

From the crispy octopus to the juicy lamb chops, the flavors here are out of this world. And the vibe? Think upscale Greek island vacation, complete with white walls and blue accents.

So if you're looking for a luxurious night out and some seriously tasty Mediterranean cuisine, Nerai is the place to be. Just make sure to dress to impress — this place is fancy, and you don't want to be the only one in sneakers.

Bistro Vendôme

Bistro Vendôme belongs in any Hallmark Channel movie set in NYC, and we mean that as a compliment.For a feeling of France, Bistro Vendôme has outdoor seating reminiscent of Parisian streets. 

The nearby brick buildings overlook the patio seating while you enjoy escargots and filet mignon – ooh la la. Order white or red wine from the long menu of wines sold by the bottle. The seasonal menu makes for a pleasant return every time, and you’ll definitely want to be back after a visit here.

The Best Dessert Spots in Manhattan’s Midtown

After a sophisticated dinner munchin’ on tapas, dessert might be on your mind. And honestly, we don’t blame you. We all could use the little hits of serotonin and dopamine that chocolate provides. 

Elegant dining doesn’t have to stop at your entree. These restaurants have desserts you have to try.

La Maison Du Chocolat

Chocolate lovers looking for dessert in midtown Manhattan will need to stop at La Maison Du Chocolat, stat. Upon entering La Maison, you may think you’ve accidentally stepped into a jewelry shop. 

Their chocolates and macarons are presented under long glass displays and pretty much come straight from Paris. All of the chocolates you will find at La Maison Du Chocolat are made by hand in Nanterre, France. You can buy individual chocolates to make your own assortment, and who wouldn’t appreciate that?!

La Maison Du Chocolat also offers plenty of presorted arrangements already boxed, including the traditional heart-shaped box. Cheesy? Not at all. Classic.

Eclair Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth that just won't quit, you need to check out Eclair Bakery in New York. This place is a haven for all things sweet and delicious.

The vibe is cozy and charming, with pastel colors and plenty of French flair. And the food? Let's just say that if you love eclairs, you're in for a treat. From classic chocolate to trendy matcha, there's an eclair for every taste bud.

Life is short — eat the eclairs. 

Midtown’s Late-Night Eats

Happy hour doesn’t have to have all of the glory. New York City never truly turns its lights off, after all. These places in Manhattan’s Midtown district can be visited at almost all hours, meaning sophisticated dining can be yours past 9 p.m.

Gallaghers Steakhouse

In the midst of the theater district, you’ll find Gallaghers Steakhouse — the perfect stop after seeing a performance.Gallaghers is open until 11 p.m. and offers an intimate steakhouse meal with sophistication. 

Red bench booth-style seats with white tablecloths are contrasted against the dark-wood walls of the restaurant. The restaurant's history goes back to the late 1920s when it was one of New York’s first speakeasies. 

But babe, leave the sweats and sneaks at home. They have a strict dress code you won’t want to miss. 

P.S. Kitchen

P.S. Kitchen is a late-night option with food, drinks, desserts, and even mocktails if alcohol just ain’t your thing. P.S. proves that even a vegan restaurant can be sophisticated with their artfully decorated desserts and homey entrees of lasagna and “chicken” pot pie. 

The numerous drink options at P.S Kitchen are yours for the taking and are a bit part of what makes this restaurant a worthwhile late-night spot. Want to dine late at night in Midtown and feel like you’re doing something good? We’ll spill more deets. 

P.S Kitchen donates the entirety of their profits to charity, so go ahead and get that helping of chocolate cashew pot de creme you’ve been eyeing.

53

53 is a contemporary Asian restaurant, open late for some fancy indoor dining nearby all of Midtown’s happenings. The menu at this fusion joint is divided into sections of hot, cold, steam, grill, wok, and clay pot. 

The inside of 53 is designed with a look of contemporary art architecture itself and is definitely worth the experience. The ambiance is made for pictures to share later on Insta. Make viewers of your story jealous by sharing boomerangs of lobster rice in a lotus leaf.

The Final Bite

Midtown hangs aren’t just for the office worker or tourist. Everyone who appreciates fine dining experiences can take something from this list of culinary gems located in Manhattan. From Mexican food small plates to distinctive New Yorkdelis, the culinary treasure chest of New York City boasts jewels when it comes to Midtown.