Great Neck Dining Secrets: Uncover Local Foodie Gems
ResX
BuvetteNYC The perfect place to brunch in the West Village ☕️ Our server insisted that we get the last order of Pain Perdu (brioche bread with berries & crème) and it did not disappoint!🤤 ✨Pain Perdu ✨Crq Monsieur ✨Jambon Cru ✨Belgian Waffle
Melanie Yu
Foxface Natural is a natural continuation of Foxface sandwiches. We're going wild and natural! During Halloween week 10/30-11/3 Foxface Natural will be offering a five course special wild game menu (with an optional blood & guts focus for Halloween).
Eater
The Opening of Din Tai Fung NYC For Din Tai Fung fans, the grand opening is the restaurant event of the summer. The New York location was first announced two years ago. For some, the wait has felt longer. “We’ve been waiting for this for years,” says David Zhang, a Queens resident. There’s no shortage of soup dumplings in New York City. Lots of places serve them, from famous establishments like Joe’s Shanghai to local chains like Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. Tell that to Din Tai Fung fans: They insist there’s something special about the ones served here. “The thinness of the soup dumplings is impeccable,” according to Zhang.
Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
![NYC Must Try: Foxface Natural 🦊
Foxface Natural is a continuation of NYC’s famous Foxface sandwich shop which served unconventional meats - camel, elk, hare and more. They change their menu every few days to weeks, but there are several that stay on longer, like the kangaroo tartare which I came to Foxface just to try! Must tries are definitely any dishes that has their super popular fluke (melts in your mouth!) as well.
Also, all meats are sustainably sourced and from non-endangered species! This was the epitome of casual fine dining - absolutely amazing and I’d love to go back again!
If these items are ever on the menu again, find my must-tries below. Pro tip - make a reservation!
What I ordered:
- Point Judith Squid - black aguachile, fermented tomatillo, crispy berkshire pork ear, pickled ramp
- Tajarin Pasta - our sake cured mullet roe (karasumi)
- [must-try] Kangaroo Tartare - warm spices, charred eggplant, sardinian flatbread
- [must-try] Maine Uni - wood oven roasted seafood quenelles, nantua sauce (seafood)
- Sweetbreads Schnitzel - melted leek, chestnut purée, fermented sourdough mustard](https://storage.googleapis.com/s.kikihub.com/posts/66efaa14c59c46c52cd6a8da/img-preview/9docow8mtw.webp)
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Foxface Natural 🦊 Foxface Natural is a continuation of NYC’s famous Foxface sandwich shop which served unconventional meats - camel, elk, hare and more. They change their menu every few days to weeks, but there are several that stay on longer, like the kangaroo tartare which I came to Foxface just to try! Must tries are definitely any dishes that has their super popular fluke (melts in your mouth!) as well. Also, all meats are sustainably sourced and from non-endangered species! This was the epitome of casual fine dining - absolutely amazing and I’d love to go back again! If these items are ever on the menu again, find my must-tries below. Pro tip - make a reservation! What I ordered: - Point Judith Squid - black aguachile, fermented tomatillo, crispy berkshire pork ear, pickled ramp - Tajarin Pasta - our sake cured mullet roe (karasumi) - [must-try] Kangaroo Tartare - warm spices, charred eggplant, sardinian flatbread - [must-try] Maine Uni - wood oven roasted seafood quenelles, nantua sauce (seafood) - Sweetbreads Schnitzel - melted leek, chestnut purée, fermented sourdough mustard
Melanie Yu
In the heart of New York City resides Thirteen Water, a sushi bar that promises an intimate and casual dining experience. This gem offers a variety of sushi dishes that will leave your taste buds satisfied. With the option for reservations and catering services, Thirteen Water ensures a seamless dining experience for all. While dogs are not allowed, the friendly staff and delicious food make up for it. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a novice, Thirteen Water is a must-try for any food lover in the Big Apple.
Eater
Il Totano The first Top Chef winner, Harold Dieterle, of the late Perilla and Kin Shop, teamed up with Alexandra Shapiro, of Flex Mussels and Hoexters, to open Il Totano, an 80-seat restaurant, hoping to capture the spirit of a 1970 Italian holiday vacation. Aged fish inspires the centerpiece of the menu and the space, which includes a dry-aging fridge in the dining room. In addition to crudo, the menu revives Perilla’s spicy duck meatballs. Don’t miss the pork cotolette, pounded thin and lightly fried, topped with bitter greens and whole anchovies.
See also
Dining in Port Washington Near NYC: Discover Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Spots
Cheryl
this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门
Natasha Husein
Escape to the italian countryside without leaving Manhattan. The most beautiful spring brunch is at Olio e Più | Trattoria & Enoteca this weekend. Pasta, pizza, and aperol spritz! The best way to start off the season. 🍝
Foodie_NYC
WOW! I had an amazing experience at Chef Guo, a world-renowned expert in Chinese imperial cuisine. The chef invited me to the first tasting of his plant-based menu, and it was an absolutely amazing experience. Servers with white gloves, a restaurant that felt more like a palace, and a meal where every item was a perfect celebration for the taste buds. All that with five different kinds of tea servings, a continuous aroma designed by the chef, and a dessert served in an eggshell. While I was the first to experience this meal, the chef hasn’t set a price for it yet, but it is planned to be very affordable. The plant-based tasting menu is planned to be available in October. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in the city, clearly a Michelin star-worthy restaurant.
![NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto
This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange!
Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day.
What I Ordered:
- Tuna Bone [must-try]
- Mentai Udon [must-try]
- Pork Katsu Sando
- Fried Oysters
- Octopus marinated with wasabi
- Shochu Woolong - drink
- Summer Orange - drink](https://storage.googleapis.com/s.kikihub.com/posts/66f54fcdc59c46c52cd6b15f/img-preview/dl2qejqrjc.webp)
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange! Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day. What I Ordered: - Tuna Bone [must-try] - Mentai Udon [must-try] - Pork Katsu Sando - Fried Oysters - Octopus marinated with wasabi - Shochu Woolong - drink - Summer Orange - drink
Food Baby
One of the best restaurants to open this year! CHLOE is back in the SAME location where she originally opened By Chloe. Your best new lunch / quick dinner option in the area, so many things here are so good. The Butternut Nachos are a must to start, the Classic Burger is one of the best vegan burgers in town, and every salad is so good, especially the Quinoa Taco Salad. And all the cookies are a must for dessert! Will be here for lunch all the time. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Secret NYC
NYC’s First & Only Floating Mexican Restaurant Is Open La Barca Cantina offers Mexican fare and delicious cocktails afloat! Hop onboard the three-story boat on the Hudson River and sail around the city for incredible skyline and sunset views with New York Cruise Lines. The boat offers custom artwork by Tlisza Jaurique, the first Mexican-American woman to exhibit at the Met, an incredible top deck for guests to take in the scenery, and most notably, an expansive agave-based spirits menu.
Natasha Husein
Weekends are for pretty brunches 🌸 and for Recette Bklyn Restaurant. Cozy Williamsburg bistro with tasty dishes & unique specials. Number one restaurant on Tripadvisor among almost 3,000 restaurants in Brooklyn!
See alsoExplore the Vibrant Community in Port Washington: Anonymous Local Discussions, Networking Events & More Near NYC
New York City Dreamland
REYNA NYC is one of those restaurants that provides the best is the food!! There is absolutely no shortage in options of places to have a delicious meal, a refreshing cocktail, or an overall great experience in a beautiful space to enjoy the day/night.✨ Its Mediterranean brunch menu offers everything from Baklava French Toast to Short Rib Grilled Cheese. And don’t skip on the cocktail menu! REYNA has curated some very creative and intriguing brunch cocktails inspired by the vibrant cuisine across the Mediterranean to include on their list.🥘🥂 Step inside this new hot spot for a fun brunch outing with your friends, a solo drink at the bar, or a date night for a romantic dinner. You’ll leave with the urge of wanting to go back for more!🏙️💫
Eater
Nanchang dry rice noodles at We Noodle Some new noodles in town originated in Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi, an inland province northwest of Fujian and southwest of Shanghai: The area is known for the high quality of its rice, so don’t be surprised that this dish ($12) features delicate rice noodles slicked with sesame oil laced with ginger, garlic, and chiles. Heaped on top, there’s ground pork, roasted peanuts, and scallions, for a distinctively flavored bowl of noodles. Other characteristic Nanchang dishes found at We Noodle, just north of Baruch College in Curry Hill, include soups with beef tripe or pig intestines, and stir-fried noodles with tomatoes and eggs.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
Time Out New York
Ess-a-Bagel has been a Manhattan staple since 1976, and local love for the family-owned business radiates throughout all of the five boroughs. Now, its expertly rolled, boiled and baked beauties are available right here in Brooklyn. Choose your own adventure with a doughy, fluffy everything, pumpernickel or cinnamon raisin bagel, and schmear it with all manner of decadent cream cheese options. Or, leave it to the experts and choose a sandwich from their curated menu of NYC faves.
Secret NYC
A Fantastically Fungi-Focused Restaurant Has Opened In The East Village! Third Kingdom focuses on all fungi varieties–from chanterelle and lion’s mane to oyster and black pearl–and each plate is thoughtfully prepared and more delicious than the next. Ravi DeRossi, founder of Overthrow Hospitality and 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Outstanding Restaurateur, has officially unveiled Third Kingdom, a revolutionary new vegan all-mushroom restaurant. And though mushroom-focused desserts may not have been on your 2024 bingo card, their sweet offerings cannot be missed. Dessert options feature dishes such as Lava Cake with rosemary and porcini ice cream and a Candied Shiitake Chocolate Crumble.
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
FIRST LOOK: Serendipity3 Opening 💗 Times Square just got a whole lot sweeter! The iconic New York City restaurant (and home of the world-famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate!) has opened a second location. In addition to all the favorite menu items of the original location, the menu has special additions such as the Chicken Dinner Sundae, two new sandwiches, three new ice cream flavors, and more. The new location also features a bar area with over-the-top cocktails, AND a full dessert bar. The new space is similar in size to the original restaurant space, and reminiscent of the same fun and funky look - including glass mosaic installations. Bonus- you may even see Marin Monroe and Andy Warhol. A perfect spot for your next serendipitous moment.
Natasha Surti
🥩The steaks are high🥩 🍽Where I went: Le Relais de Venise - L’Entrecôte ✔️What I got: Salad, Steak & Fries 💰What I paid: $32 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This restaurant is arguably one of my favorites in the city. They only serve salad, steak (cooked to your preference), and fries for a fixed price of $32. That being said, this steak is cooked to perfection and what really makes entrecôte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.
See alsoNetworking Events & Trending Community Gatherings in Port Washington Near NYC | Local Insights & Socializing
New York Locals
Charoen Krung Thai is bringing the vibrant flavors of Bangkok’s famous Charoen Krung Road to Midtown East! 🇹🇭 Founded by Avirut Lerddirekrat, this restaurant pays homage to one of Thailand’s oldest and most culturally rich streets, blending traditional Thai recipes with modern Asian flair. ✨ Signature dishes like Hunk-Lay, Hor Mok, and Nam-Yar Crabmeat take inspiration from Bangkok’s renowned street food, offering an authentic taste of Thailand right here in NYC. 🍲✨Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a welcoming dining experience, Charoen Krung Thai is the perfect spot to enjoy a fusion of heritage and innovation in the heart of the city. 💛
ResX
Antidote Chinese Restaurant is a place where the food is designed in order to please all palates🍚 🥢 This Williamsburg Chinese restaurant is a favorite! Antidote‘s menu draws influence from Sichuan and Shanghai. It’s a great spot for a group dinner!
Eater
Clara: Fun Place to Try in NYC Summer is a great time to catch up on your museum-going. While the next-door American Museum of Natural History will be mobbed, the New-York Historical Society is very often less crowded. The exhibit of New York paintings and the Tiffany lamp collection are unrivaled. And there’s a wonderful restaurant on the ground floor named Clara where you can linger over your burger or meal-size salad, and where the bloody marys are strong. There is even a seating area outside with a view of Central Park, and you don’t have to pay museum admissions if you go directly to the restaurant. 170 Central Park West, at 77th Street, Upper West Side
Natasha Surti
Ramen love with you ❤️ 🍽Where I went: Ichiran ✔️What I got: Classic Tonkotsu Ramen 💰What I paid: $18.90 ⠀ 🤔What I think: The setup of the restaurant in itself is extremely unique as they have individual booths where you have to order by filling out a form. They use this setup because they want the people who come to their restaurant to be able to focus on the flavor of the ramen without any distractions. Ichiran only serves tonkatsu ramen, and they've clearly mastered it. The broth is rich and perfectly seasoned, the pork is tender and tasty, the noodles are made to your texture preferences (here we went with firm), and of course the egg just adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Overall one of the better bowls of ramen you can get in NYC.
Infatuation
A vegan and a meat-eater enter a plant-based Ethiopian restaurant. A couple of hours later, they both leave completely satisfied—and with the newfound knowledge that vegan nacho cheese is far superior to the real (fake) stuff. Such miracles can happen at the second location of Ras Plant Based in Greenwich Village. The menu here is essentially the same as their original spot in Crown Heights, except for the injera nachos, which you must order, because that’s where that melty vegan cheese comes into play. Add on a few cocktails and a mercato platter, with lots of spongy injera for scooping up creamy ground chickpeas, and you’ve got a feast for friends who love legumes, and those who'd normally rather be eating meat.
katya ann
MUST TRY brunch spot in the West Village, NYC!🥞🥑✨ Commerce Inn: hidden gem with the fluffiest pancakes & bomb breakfast plate.
Foodie_NYC
I had a great dinner at Kalye (“Street” in Tagalog). It’s an amazing, affordable Filipino restaurant on Broome Street specializing in Filipino street food. Kalye, a small, unassuming restaurant, delivered an amazing parade of unique, delicious food based on the owner’s chef heritage, as seen on the restaurant’s page. “Our menu is full of Rob’s cherished family recipes, offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will make you feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Philippines. From our famous Ube Sliders to other traditional Filipino favorites, every bite is a celebration of our culture and love for good food. Whether you’re here to dine in, taking food to go, or having it delivered to your doorstep, Kalye makes enjoying Filipino food easy and convenient.” Totally enjoyable unique experience. Salamat, Chef 💖🙏🏼💖
See alsoCocktails in Port Washington: Discover Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Dashi Okume Dashi Okume is both a store and a restaurant cafe packed into one beautifully minimalist but intricately put together building in the most popular part of Brooklyn! It comes from a Tokyo location that’s been around in the Tokyo location in the Tsukiji Fish Market since the 1870s. Walking in, you’ll see a cute DIY high quality dashi-making shop in the front of the store and a lifestyle shop Cibone selling upscale tea sets, kitchenware, and other traditional Japanese work on the right. Walking toward the back of the building, you’ll find a small cafe area selling only Teishoku (a meal set) that comes with your select tea, fish, rice, Kyuri no Asazuke (Japanese cucumber pickles), miso soup, and Kobachi (sides of the day) priced anywhere from $35-$150+ depending on your choice of specially prepared fish. I generally don’t even prefer to eat cooked fish but it was absolutely mind-blowing how delicious everything was, and I left so full but not bloated AT ALL because they only use additive-free ingredients - love everything here! What I ordered in my teishoku set meal: - Haiboshi Saba (because they were out of stock with the most popular Saikyo Zuke!) - Nasu Agebitashi: deep-fried juicy eggplant soaked in their in-house dashi - Tomato Tosazu Zuke: tomato pickled in a sweet vinegar, soy sauce, and their in-house dashi - Kabocha Nitsuke: simmered kabocha squash - Hojicha Tea Bonuses - I got to try my friend’s sides too: - Nikujaga: gently stewed pork, carrots, and potatoes in sweetened soy sauce - Donko Shiitake Umani: dried donko shiitake simmered in lightly sweet soy sauce
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.
Local Dining Experiences in Great Neck Near NYC
Discovering the local dining scene in Great Neck, a charming suburb just a stone’s throw from NYC, offers a wealth of eclectic flavors and dining experiences. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or someone venturing out for a casual bite, this neighborhood promises to deliver. Thanks to Kikihub, the go-to platform for gaining local insights and opinions, you can uncover some of the area's treasured dining secrets and trendy spots that remain hidden from the everyday visitor.
Foodie Favorites: Where to Indulge
Great Neck boasts an array of restaurants that cater to diverse culinary preferences. Heading the list of foodie favorites are the locally celebrated Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eateries. These establishments not only serve authentic regional flavors but also have mastered the art of crafting delightful, modern twists. Kikihub users rave about their experiences at these spots, often highlighting the vibrant mezze platters and succulent kebabs as standouts.
For those looking to delight in a seafood-centric menu, Great Neck does not disappoint. Coastal-inspired joints offer fresh catches of the day, often paired with handmade pastas that are to die for. Local insiders recommend trying the clam linguine or the grilled octopus, boasting a perfect char with a zesty lemon finish.
Trending Spots That Capture the Scene
As dining trends evolve, so does Great Neck’s vibrant restaurant scene. If you're on the lookout for trending spots, you'll discover unique bistros that have popped up, often fusing different global cuisines into one cohesive menu. These restaurants are not just about food; they become a place where ambiance meets the allure of a gastronomical adventure.
Explore establishments offering elevated takes on traditional dishes, often served tapas-style for shared enjoyment. Frequent Kikihub chatters praise these places for their creativity and ever-changing seasonal menus, ensuring each visit is unique. Be sure to inquire about the chef’s specials as these are often where the culinary magic truly lies.
Dinner in Great Neck: A Memorable Affair
When it comes to dinner experiences in Great Neck, the choices are as varied as they are alluring. Unplug in this suburban oasis with dinner settings that range from elegant fine dining to cozy, candle-lit hideaways. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a lively get-together, the dinner scene in Great Neck provides the perfect backdrop.
Local recommendations often lead to tucked-away gems known for their extensive wine lists and expertly crafted cocktails. These venues pride themselves on their warm service and atmosphere, welcoming guests to relax and enjoy the flavors of expertly curated dishes. For those who wish to experience a bit of NYC sophistication without the hustle and bustle, Great Neck's upscale venues offer a touch of luxury sans the city clamor.
Brunch: A Delightful Start to Your Day
Perhaps one of Great Neck’s best-kept secrets is its booming brunch culture. Held during the leisurely weekend mornings, brunch here is nothing short of divine. From family-style brunch staples to inventive menu items like avocado-toast Benedicts and buttermilk pancakes made with a twist, the options abound. Kikihub often spotlight these brunch hotspots for their cozy, laid-back atmospheres that encourage lingering over the savories.
Whether you opt to settle into a classic diner setting or choose a more trendy café vibe, brunch in Great Neck provides a perfect mix of tradition and novelty. Be prepared to sip on endless cups of freshly brewed coffee or join the locals in choosing a breakfast cocktail to accompany your meal.
Cocktails and Conversations
The local dining scene doesn’t end at food; Great Neck is home to a myriad of locations where craft cocktails and engaging conversations are in abundance. Mixologists in the area take pride in their creative concoctions, often using local and artisan ingredients to elevate traditional recipes. There's a little something for everyone, from spirit-forward classics to inventive signature beverages.
Insiders suggest heading to venues with rooftop bars or intimate alfresco settings. Nothing complements a warm evening quite like a delicious cocktail and stunning suburban views. The Kikihub community frequently shares insights about hidden gems known for their extraordinary happy hours, making it easier for you to both unwind and explore the local scene.
In conclusion, Great Neck near NYC offers a diverse and delightful dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in search of trending dining spots, foodie favorites, or a perfect brunch venue, this neighborhood is a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be explored. Utilize Kikihub to unlock local insights and secrets about the best dining experiences in Great Neck, and dive into a dining adventure that you'll not soon forget.
