SoHo Food Secrets: The Ultimate Dining Experience

Discover the untold culinary gems of SoHo with Kikihub's exclusive local food secrets. Unveil the foodie paradise nestled in NYC's trendiest neighborhood, where chic bistros and hidden dining spots await. From must-try brunch nooks to dinner experiences that redefine gourmet, our platform provides real opinions and secrets you won't find in typical reviews. Indulge in bustling eateries with handcrafted cocktails, farm-to-table restaurants celebrated for their innovative cuisines, and late-night hotspots that reflect SoHo's eclectic spirit. The magic of SoHo's gastronomic tapestry awaits you—where each meal offers a story that only locals know. Dive into the ultimate dining experience, and be in the know of where and what’s trending.

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.
👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽

Food Baby

October 17, 2024 15:56

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. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽

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!

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. 💛

New York Locals

October 15, 2024 11:44

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. 💛

👻1

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

July 23, 2024 11:18

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.

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.

Eater

September 15, 2024 05:51

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.

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!

ResX

July 5, 2024 07:44

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!

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.

Eater

July 20, 2024 05:37

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.

See alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook Near NYC

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

Melanie Yu

September 26, 2024 12:13

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

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.

Natasha Surti

September 26, 2024 12:35

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.

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

Eater

July 15, 2024 07:59

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

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

Melanie Yu

September 23, 2024 09:14

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

🥩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.

Natasha Surti

October 1, 2024 18:13

🥩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.

CLASSIC ❗️ I had a fabulous evening at Empire Steakhouse, such a timeless establishment. The food was incredible—the steak literally melted in my mouth. The vibe was amazing, so classic that I almost expected Ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, to walk in any minute…

Every part of the meal was a masterclass in classic flavors, and the service was equally impeccable.

A real class of its own 🌟

Foodie_NYC

October 4, 2024 14:57

CLASSIC ❗️ I had a fabulous evening at Empire Steakhouse, such a timeless establishment. The food was incredible—the steak literally melted in my mouth. The vibe was amazing, so classic that I almost expected Ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, to walk in any minute… Every part of the meal was a masterclass in classic flavors, and the service was equally impeccable. A real class of its own 🌟

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.

Time Out New York

October 23, 2024 12:14

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.

🍷2

✈️2

🥖2

Discover SoHo's Best Local Food Secrets

SoHo, nestled in the heart of NYC, is a foodie's paradise, brimming with culinary delights that cater to every palate. From trendy eateries to hidden gems known only to locals, the dining experience here is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're searching for a cozy brunch spot, an exquisite dinner venue, or a place to sip on craft cocktails, SoHo has it all. Our Kikihub community has shared their favorite local secrets to help you navigate the vibrant food scene.

Iconic Brunch Spots

Brunch in SoHo is more than just a meal; it's a cherished ritual. Head over to Balthazar, a beloved institution known for its French bistro charm and delectable pastries. Locals rave about their Eggs Benedict and fluffy Pancakes with fresh berries. If you're looking for something more contemporary, Sadelle's is another favorite. Their hand-rolled bagels and decadent cinnamon buns are the talk of the town.

For a more intimate setting, try Two Hands. This Australian café offers a light, health-conscious menu that includes their famous avocado toast and açai bowls. Their coffee is also top-notch, sourced from Stumptown roasters.

Hidden Dinner Gems

When it comes to dinner, SoHo offers an array of options that cater to every culinary craving. Raoul's is a must-visit for those seeking a classic NYC dining experience with a touch of French flair. Known for their steak au poivre and crispy duck confit, this cozy bistro has been a neighborhood favorite for decades.

If you're in the mood for something exotic, Jack's Wife Freda serves up a unique blend of American and Mediterranean cuisine. Standout dishes include the green shakshuka and the mouthwatering peri-peri chicken. The atmosphere is casual yet chic, making it a versatile spot for any occasion.

For a true hidden gem, venture into Rubirosa on Mulberry Street. Known for its thin-crust pizzas and family-style Italian dishes, this unassuming spot offers some of the best comfort food in the area. Local favorites include the vodka pizza and the truffle fettucine.

Trending Eateries

SoHo is always on the cutting edge of food trends, and there's no shortage of buzzworthy spots where you can sample the latest culinary innovations. Estela is frequently mentioned in foodie circles for its inventive small plates and trendsetting ambiance. Their beef tartare and burrata with salsa verde are dishes you can't miss.

Lure Fishbar offers a trendy, upscale dining experience where seafood takes center stage. From sushi rolls to lobster rolls, the menu is a seafood lover's dream. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails for the full experience.

Another spot gaining traction among the locals is Black Tap. While known for their outrageously adorned milkshakes, their burgers are equally impressive. The indulgent Greg Norman Burger, made with wagyu beef, is a local favorite, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Top Places for Craft Cocktails

SoHo's nightlife is just as vibrant as its food scene, and there's no shortage of establishments where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. Angel's Share is a speakeasy-style bar known for its impeccable drinks and cozy atmosphere. If you can find the hidden entrance, you'll be rewarded with some of the best cocktails in NYC.

For a more laid-back vibe, Mother's Ruin offers an extensive cocktail menu alongside a selection of draft beers and wines. Their happy hour is particularly popular among locals, featuring tantalizing drinks like the mezcal-based 'Smoky Paloma.'

If you prefer a rooftop setting, head to Jimmy at The James Hotel. This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline, making it a picturesque spot to enjoy a drink. The signature 'Johnny Bravo,' with bourbon and black tea honey, is a favorite amongst regulars.

Honest Reviews from Real People

One of the best ways to ensure you're dining at the right spot is through honest reviews from real people. Our Kikihub community provides detailed insights into various eateries around SoHo, ensuring you get authentic and unfiltered opinions. Users frequently highlight the exceptional service at Shuka, a Mediterranean restaurant known for its vibrant dishes and warm atmosphere. Their lamb kebabs and whipped ricotta are repeatedly recommended by the locals.

A recurring mention in our Kikihub discussions is Emmett's, a Chicago-style pizzeria right in the heart of SoHo. Locals appreciate the deep-dish pizza and often suggest pairing it with their house salad for a balanced meal. The casual, welcoming ambiance makes it a favorite for both families and solo diners.

Another restaurant receiving rave reviews is Boqueria. This Spanish tapas restaurant is celebrated for its lively atmosphere and delicious small plates. Highlights from our community include the patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo, along with the expertly curated wine list that adds to the dining experience.

Local Insider Tips

SoHo's food scene is ever-evolving, and knowing a few insider tips can enhance your dining experience. Locals suggest visiting popular restaurants during off-peak hours to avoid long waits. For example, arriving at La Esquina for an early dinner ensures you get a prime seat and prompt service. This trendy taqueria offers authentic Mexican cuisine and is known for its hidden, speakeasy-style entrance to the dining area below.

Another tip is to explore side streets and alleys, where some of the best unmarked food spots are tucked away. Fanelli Café, one of the oldest operating bars in NYC, serves classic American fare with no frills. It's a great spot for a laid-back meal with character and history.

Finally, keeping an eye on seasonal menus and special events can offer a fresh twist to your dining experience. Establishments like Blue Ribbon Brasserie are known for their seasonal dishes, which highlight the freshest ingredients available. Locals often check their social media for updates on special tasting events, providing a unique and memorable dining adventure.

SoHo Food Secrets: The Ultimate Dining Experience

See alsoDining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC

See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Local Community in Willowbrook Near NYC - Engage in Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts

See alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook Near NYC

See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC

Discover SoHo's Best Local Food Secrets

Iconic Brunch Spots

Hidden Dinner Gems

Trending Eateries

Top Places for Craft Cocktails

Honest Reviews from Real People

Local Insider Tips