The Big Apple is best known for no frills, on the go food. Things like sloppy, cheesy slices of pizza, street-side hot dog carts, and stacked bagels from local delis. All of that is delicious, sure, but there's also a treasure trove of Instagrammable restaurants in New York City, where delicious food is paired with photogenic surrounds for that dream gram snap.
I'm a lover of all things aesthetic interiors, so on my recent trip I made it my mission to seek out the most Instagrammable restaurants in New York. I've compiled a list of seven of the prettiest restaurants I could find. From chic French bistros to colourful taco joints, there's a little bit of everything. Oh, and they're not all style, no substance. Each and every one of these had great food, great vibes, and plenty more to recommend themselves.
Boucherie
West Village
When it comes to Instagrammable restaurants in New York, Boucherie, a charming spot in the West Village, is probably my number one pick. It is, quite simply, stunning. A rose-tinted rendition of a French bistro, with tiled floors, classic wooden dining chairs, and a grand mirrored bar. Vintage French absinthe posters line the walls, whilst potted plant are dotted throughout. There’s also a picturesque street side terrace for warmer days.
Though the vintage ambience and showstopping bar make for a great photo, you'll want to stay for the food. The menu everything you'd expect from a French bistro. Steak tartare, duck confit, even snails if you're feeling adventurous! Don't forget one (or two, I won't tell!) of their beautiful cocktails, and maybe even a cheeky creme brûlée for dessert. Because when in Paris, amiright?
Mono + Mono
East Village
With a library of 15,000 vinyl records , Mono+Mono is an aesthetic East Village restaurant that's a must for music lovers. The industrial space is furnished with plenty of photogenic touches, including a record wall housing intimate tables in oversized frames (pictured), and a flower shop out the front. The menu is Korean, with soju cocktails, kimchee fried rise, and a must-order Korean fried chicken. Go at happy hour for deals on drinks, chicken, and oysters. The most aesthetic tables by the records get booked up, so go early or reserve in advance.
Palma
West Village
If you're looking for romantic vibes, look no further than West Village Italian spot Palma. A cosy, family run restaurant that feels more like stepping into someone's house than a restaurant, Palma is spread across several spaces. There's indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a beautiful event space with a big communal table. It would be the perfect spot for a date night, surrounded by moody lights and flowers. I found myself dining in the rustic courtyard,
The menu itself is short but sweet, with half a dozen pasta dishes and four mains, plus specials. It's on the steeper side, with the cheapest pasta dish coming in at $29. But with high quality ingredients sourced locally, it's not extortionate.
Tacombi
West Village
This one's for the colour lovers. Playful taqueria Tacombi on Bleecker has all the vibes of a Mexican cantina. The interiors combine graphic slogans and pops of colourful tiles, with plenty of photogenic corners. The menu has all the staples, including tacos, tostadas, and quesadillas - plus don't forget a margarita! It gets busy, so I'd recommend aiming for opening to get clear snaps.
Jack's Wife Freda
Soho
Jack's Wife Freda is a breakfast and all day cafe that has become something of an Instagram staple. Whether you're stopping for lunch or simply walking past, the combination of bold awning and rose covered exterior make it a popular Instagram snap. But it's well worth stopping by for a portion of their steak and eggs, with a side of people watching!
Juliette
Williamsburg
If you're looking for an Instagrammable restaurant in Brooklyn, this ones for you. French spot Juliette in Williamsburg is one of the buzziest places to be for a Sunday brunch booking, and with good reason. The main interiors are beautiful in a classic French bistro aesthetic, but the standout is the courtyard space. Filled with foliage and unique decor touches, it's a lovely place to start a day of exploring Brooklyn.
Maison Premiere
Williamsburg
If you're keen on more minimal aesthetics, head to Williamsburg joint Maison Premiere. This New Orleans inspired seafood restaurant and bar is one of the prettiest spots in Brooklyn, with weathered mint hued walls and a chic horseshoe bar. There is also an enchanting outdoor space, which would be the perfect spot to while away a balmy summer evening. I just had drinks (the cocktails are excellent!), so let me know how the food is if you give it a go?
Fandi Mata
Williamsburg
This expansive Williamsburg restaurant is a vibrant mish mash of influences, with art filled walls, bohemian corners, and colourful tiles making it a real feast for the senses. Fandi Mata's menu is Mediterranean inspired, however you'll also notice Latin American touches with an extensive selection of Mezcal, and delicious Mezcal cocktails.
Dante
West Village
Dante is a bit of a New York institution, in particular the historic Caffe Dante known for it's legendary cocktails. However it's their West Village location that is arguably the prettiest, with sage green facades and bistro style alfresco seating, perfectly primed for people watching. The interiors are equally chic, with sleek green booths and an expansive marble bar. I went for breakfast, and found myself swooning over the flatbread with gruyere, prosciutto, and the most moreish homemade butter. Oh, and of course you have to try one of their famous cocktails!
Putting this together has got me drooling, so many incredible restaurants. Brb, looking up flights to NYC...
Do let me know which of these is your favourite, and if you have any more suggestions for Instagrammable restaurants in New York!
