21 Best Restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for 2023
In a city with seemingly endless food options, finding the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen is a challenging task. Hell’s Kitchen is an iconic spot in midtown Manhattan with a dramatic and often tumultuous history. Hell’s Kitchen has always been a hotspot for mom-and-pop shops, multi-ethnic restaurants and generally affordable eateries, but recent years have brought in its share of higher-end spots, and the Hell’s Kitchen food scene is now respectably diverse in both cuisine type and price range.
So where are the best spots to eat in Hell’s Kitchen today? If you were to go searching by yourself for the answer to this, you’d have your work cut out for you. We’ve rounded up the 21 best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen to bring a heavenly dining experience a little bit closer.
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Find the Best Restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen
If you’re struggling to find your next favorite restaurant, food tours in NYC can help. You’ll get a guide who knows the area like the back of their hand so they can make recommendations that suit your preferences. Whether you’re interested in the best restaurants and takeout eateries in Hell’s Kitchen, or you want to know where to find the best Korean BBQ in NYC, a food tour has you covered.
21 Best Restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen
1. Danji
If you love Korean food, Danji is the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for you. They specialize in elevated classic Korean cuisine with some unconventional options, like small-plate tapas. From tried-and-true dishes like bibimbap to creative Korean-inspired sliders, everything on the menu is a hit, and everyone can find a meal they’ll love.
The Vibe
Danji’s small space makes it feel cozy and casual, but the food elevates the entire experience. If you want the perfect spot for a date night in NYC, this is the place to go.
What to Order
This is a tough call. It's a toss-up between the bulgogi filet mignon sliders and the crispy vegetable dumplings paired with the fresh noodles in black bean sauce. If you’re still hungry, add some ice cream for dessert.
Danji | 346 W. 52nd St., New York, NY 10019 | $$$
2. Nizza
If you’re not ordering pizza when you’re in NYC, are you even there at all? Nizza is one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for pizza, and that’s high praise. Not only do they have fantastic pizza and great vibes, but they also have a gluten-free menu.
The Vibe
You’ll feel like you’re in Italy when you dine here. It has a sweet and classic exterior with a warm and cozy indoor dining area. It feels upscale, but not stuffy.
What to Order
Start with eggplant rollatini as an appetizer. Follow it up with a Margherita pizza for a true classic Italian meal.
Nizza | 630 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10036 | $$
3. Kashkaval Garden
This small Mediterranean-inspired wine bar offers delicious eats. Kashkaval Garden is one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for tapas and other small plates. It’s a cozy hidden gem that might become your new favorite spot in the city.
The Vibe
This restaurant is behind a gourmet grocery store, giving it a relaxed vibe. It’s a great place to spend time with friends, and you’ll lose hours here trying all of the wines and small plates.
What to Order
Get a tapas sampler plate to share with your friends. We recommend the hummus, olive tapenade, Brussels sprouts and baba ganoush. Get a shareable fondue pot for the main meal.
Kashkaval Garden | 852 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $$
4. Mamasita Bar & Grill
Mamasita Bar & Grill is one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for anyone who loves classic Mexican food and chill vibes. The restaurant doesn’t look fancy, but the food is fantastic. They also have some of the best margaritas in the whole city.
The Vibe
It’s chill and low-key. You’ll feel right at home in this cozy and comfortable restaurant, where you can tell they really care about their customers. It’s a great spot for a group outing after doing some of your favorite indoor activities in NYC.
What to Order
First, order a margarita, of course. Then, we recommend the chef’s special vegetarian burrito for a vegetable-packed, delicious meal.
Mamasita Bar & Grill | 818 10th Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $$
5. Obao
Do you love Asian fusion? We do, too, and Obao is the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for people who love Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. This restaurant elevates traditional Vietnamese and Thai comfort food for a Western audience, and everything is delicious.
The Vibe
Obao feels modern and comfortable. While the food is comforting and traditional, the restaurant itself feels like a sleek and cool date night spot, though still casual enough for an outing with friends.
What to Order
If you prefer Thai, you can’t go wrong with just-spicy-enough drunken noodles. If Vietnamese food is more your game, you have to get the pho bò. The classic beef soup will warm you up on a chilly NYC evening.
Obao | Multiple Locations | $$
6. Tavola
Yes, another Italian spot. Fantastic Italian dishes are classic NYC foods! Tavola is a rustic Italian spot with homemade dishes that are clearly made by passionate chefs.
The Vibe
The vibes here are cozy and comfortable. You can grab a stool at the bar for a casual outing or sit at a table for a more upscale experience. It feels unpretentious and welcoming.
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with the lasagna della casa here. If you follow a plant-based diet, they even have a vegan version so you don’t have to miss out on a fantastic meal.
Tavola | 488 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10018 | $$
7. Guantanamera
The best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for Cuban food may be Guantanamera. The festive energy, live music and large portions make this place a can’t-miss spot. They also have fantastic mojitos.
The Vibe
You’ll feel like you’re part of the party in this restaurant. The warm lighting and unique art on the walls make for a welcoming environment. Because it’s open until midnight, this is a great late-night spot.
What to Order
The paella here is fantastic. There’s both a seafood and a vegetarian option; both are equally good. End your meal with flan de leche.
Guantanamera | Multiple Locations | $$
8. Totto Ramen
Finding the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for ramen is tough, but Totto Ramen is definitely one of the top contenders. From the outside, it looks like a no-frills hole in the wall. On the inside is some of the best ramen in NYC, according to locals. Bring cash!
The Vibe
You’ll feel like you’re in a real Japanese ramen house here. It’s a small space with fast-paced energy. When you sit at the counter, you’ll be able to see the chefs preparing your meal, giving the space authentic vibes.
What to Order
If you prefer a classic dish, go with the miso ramen, another soothing dish during winter in NYC. If you want something unique, fried chicken ramen is a delicious treat that you won’t find everywhere.
Totto Ramen | Multiple Locations | $$
9. Empanada Mama
Empanada Mama is the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for someone on a budget who needs a post-night-out meal. Empanadas are less than $5 each and feature fresh, all-natural ingredients.
The Vibe
“Unpretentious” is the best word to describe the vibe of this restaurant. After a night out doing the best things to do in NYC, you’ll want to relax in a chill spot where you don’t have to worry about dressing up. This is that spot.
What to Order
We recommend getting a few empanadas so you can try a variety of flavors. Make sure one of those is the amazing portobello mushroom.
Empanada Mama | Multiple Locations | $
10. Añejo
This bar has some of the best tequila you can find in the city, but it’s also one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for tasty Mexican small plates. Añejo is the perfect spot for a casual cocktail and a great meal.
The Vibe
With its cool, dark atmosphere, Añejo feels like an upscale version of a classic Mexican restaurant. This is both a great date night spot and a great place to treat yourself alone.
What to Order
The mussels con chorizo and pork belly tostada are divine. If you’re visiting on the weekend, check out the prix fixe brunch menu that comes with 90 minutes of unlimited brunch cocktails. Finish it all off with the tres leches cake.
Añejo | 668 10th Ave., New York, NY 10036 | $$$
11. Kochi
Another winning Korean joint, Kochi absolutely deserves a place on any list of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s Michelin Star-approved, and the exquisite flavors of its nine-course tasting menu reflect that. You’ll have one of the best meals of your life there.
The Vibe
Kochi’s vibe is minimalist and upscale, with gorgeous wood flooring and accents and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work with laser-point focus. You’ll know as soon as you walk in that you’re going to be taken care of. This isn’t the place to go out with rowdy friends, but it makes an unforgettable anniversary date idea.
What to Order
Opt for the tasting menu here so you can try all of what Kochi has to offer. If you need vegetarian options, notify the restaurant a day in advance.
Kochi | 652 10th Ave., New York, NY 10036 | $$$$
12. Donburiya
Looking for budget-friendly Japanese food? Donburiya may be the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for you. It’s open late into the night, and the food is delicious and authentic. You can get a filling meal here for under $20.
The Vibe
This casual spot is perfect for dining with friends or for a birthday dinner in NYC. It’s bright and welcoming, with plenty of seating and a friendly atmosphere.
What to Order
You can’t go to Donburiya without ordering the donburi! If not, the katsu curry is a must-have.
Donburiya | 253 W. 55th St., New York, NY 10019 | $$
13. Ristorante Il Melograno
For one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for Southern Italian food, try Ristorante Il Melograno — or just “Il Melograno.” Created by two Sicilian restaurateurs, Il Melograno seeks to honor the traditions of “the Grandma” with original recipes and handcrafted pastas.
The Vibe
Small, dim and cozy, Il Melograno is rustic without feeling too casual. It has a friendly atmosphere and a fantastic wine list, making it another great place for everything from a date to a solo outing.
What to Order
At the risk of sounding unimaginative, the spaghetti al pomodoro here is fantastic — fresher and lighter than anything you could make at home, with a delightful sauce. Their specials are absolute magic as well, so keep that in mind when you visit.
Ristorante Il Melograno | 501 W. 51st St., New York, NY 10019 | $$
14. Pure Thai Cookhouse
If you ask a local about the best Thai restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen, they’ll tell you about Pure Thai Cookhouse. Thai food lovers rejoice; this is the place for you. They pride themselves on hand-pulled noodles and the freshest ingredients for their authentic dishes.
The Vibe
You won’t have a lot of room to move around in this cozy restaurant, but despite its small size, you’ll be grateful you visited. You won’t mind bumping elbows with strangers at one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen while you chow down on noodles.
What to Order
The pork and crab dry noodles is the restaurant’s most popular dish, so that’s a great place to start. If that’s not quite your speed, you can’t go wrong with pad thai.
Pure Thai Cookhouse | 766 Ninth Ave. #2, New York, NY 10019 | $$
15. Peachy Keen
Looking for a true American-style restaurant with retro vibes? Peachy Keen might be the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for you. The food is comforting, the space is unique and the cocktails are fantastic.
The Vibe
The bright and colorful dining space will throw you back into the 70s. It feels like a cool lounge mixed with a welcoming diner. Come here with your friends!
What to Order
There’s something for everyone here, but we recommend the chocolate banana bread French toast regardless of what time of day it is. You won’t regret this sweet breakfast classic at one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen.
Peachy Keen | 325 W. 44th St., New York, NY 10036 | $
16. Ariana Afghan NYC
This spot may not be on your radar yet, but it’s still one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen. Ariana Afghan is a family-owned spot specializing in food from Afghanistan. If you’re new to Afghani food and you want an affordable meal, it’s the place for you.
The Vibe
It’s a small restaurant that feels homey and warm. You can tell it’s family-owned and that the family puts a lot of love into what they do. You’ll feel welcome.
What to Order
Try one of their famous shish kebabs. They have lamb, beef and chicken. If you eat meat-free, don’t worry: There are plenty of vegetarian options as well.
Ariana Afghan | 787 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $
17. Marseille
Looking for the best restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen for French cuisine? Try Marseille. This well-known brasserie has been in business for almost two decades and is loved by locals and tourists alike. It’s excellent at any time but is one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen for brunch.
The Vibe
This brasserie is calming and elegant, with enough quaint, rustic touches to keep it from feeling stuffy.
What to Order
While everything is great here from lunch through dinner, we recommend the spinach and goat cheese omelette for brunch, paired with bottomless mimosas.
Marseille | 630 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10036 | $$$
18. Ardesia Wine Bar
Ardesia Wine Bar isn’t just a bar; it’s one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen. It has fantastic small plates to share, and they offer over 100 wines by the bottle.
The Vibe
Ardesia has sophisticated vibes, but it’s casual enough for a fun night out with friends. Because their plates are all shareable, you’ll have a great time here testing out new foods and socializing over a great glass of wine.
What to Order
We recommend asking for a waiter’s recommendation based on your wine of choice. That said, the house selection charcuterie board is fantastic.
Ardesia Wine Bar | 510 W. 52nd St., New York, NY 10019 | $$
19. Mari
Yet another Korean restaurant on our list of best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen. Mari is actually Kochi’s sister restaurant, but it has different offerings that are inspired by Korean street food and traditional hand rolls. The food is high-end and delicious.
The Vibe
Like Kochi, Mari feels sophisticated and modern. Even though you’re eating hand rolls, it will be clear that you’re in a fine-dining establishment. The waiters are attentive, and the atmosphere is quiet but friendly.
What to Order
Like Kochi, Mari offers a tasting menu. This is the best option for newcomers who want to get the most out of their meals at one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen.
Mari | 679 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10036 | $$$$
20. Tradisyon
If you were hoping for Filipino food in our list of best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen, you’re in luck. Tradisyon is the perfect spot for Filipino comfort food. This small space is best suited for takeout, but you can dine there for one of the most filling meals you can get in the city.
The Vibe
By far, this is one of the most relaxed spaces on our list. The plates are disposable, you’ll be a bit too close to your neighbors, and the atmosphere is loud and boisterous. It’s not fancy like some of the other best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen, but you'll feel welcome and comfortable as long as you don’t mind close quarters.
What to Order
You can’t miss the vegetable lumpia here for a meal that tastes straight out of the Philippines. Get the ube cheesecake for dessert.
Tradisyon | 790 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $$
21. Yakitori Torishin
Do you love yakitori? If so, Yakitori Torishin could be the best Hell’s Kitchen restaurant for you. It claims to be the only truly authentic yakitori restaurant in the United States, making it one of the most brag-worthy places to eat in NYC. They seem to be doing it right, too, because locals find it to be one of the best restaurants Hell’s Kitchen has to offer.
The Vibe
It’s clear right away that authenticity was the priority when Yakitori Torishin was being designed. The main dining room has both private seating and a counter seating area where you can watch the chefs prepare your food. There’s also a casual bar area if you prefer to dine alone or wait for your table with a drink.
What to Order
Get the Chef’s omakase. You’ll have your choice of several courses, including dessert, but the chef personally chooses the six meats and two vegetables for your skewers, guaranteeing the freshest and most choice cuts for your experience.
Yakitori Torishin | 362 W. 53rd St., New York, NY 10019 | $$$
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So which of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen will you try first? Regardless of your favorite cuisine, Hell’s Kitchen truly has it all. From Thai to classic American, your options are limitless and ever-expanding. Visit one of the best restaurants in Hell’s Kitchen on your next venture into the city.
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