The Best Restaurants in the Lower East Side
The Lower East Side is a fascinating New York City neighborhood filled with rich history and an interesting mix of eating establishments old and new. Whether you are in search for a traditional pastrami sandwich that you’ll find at Katz’s Delicatessen (serving the neighborhood since 1888) or in the mood for modern cuisine, that can be enjoyed at Freemans Restaurant, you’ll discover that the Lower East Side is filled with delicious excitement. With that in mind, here are the best restaurants in the Lower East Side.
Mission Chinese Food – 171 East Broadway
First, an honorable mention has to go to Danny Bowien’s Mission Chinese Food which is taking over Rosette’s old storefront. It is not open yet but there is a lot of buzz about Mission Chinese Food finally returning to the neighborhood.
Cafe Petisco – 189 East Broadway
Cafe Petisco is a neighborhood restaurant where the food is just stunning. If it is your first time here, try the seafood risotto or the skirt steak. Both have never failed to hit the spot!
Doughnut Plant – 379 Grand St
If you are looking for something sweet, you can’t beat the Doughnut Plant. All their doughnuts are excellent but the crème brulee doughnut is something very special.
Clinton St. Baking Company – 4 Clinton St
Clinton St. Baking Company is a top notch breakfast spot known for their pancakes. There can be long wait times here so you do have to get there early if you want to avoid the hour plus wait.
Katz’s Delicatessen – 205 E Houston St
Katz’s Deli is an icon in the neighborhood and attracts people from all over the globe for some of their scrumptious pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup.
Freemans Restaurant – 191 Chrystie Street #2F
Freemans Restaurant is located in the back of an alley off of Rivington Street so it is very easy to miss and in fact it is one of the best hidden restaurants in New York City. Freemans is a rustic American restaurant with gems like their devils on horseback, seared filet mignon and beer battered fish sandwich.
The Fat Radish – 17 Orchard St
The Fat Radish is a popular brunch spot in the Lower East Side with British influences. We love, love their full English breakfast which has sausages, bacon, eggs and more!
Vanessa’s Dumpling House – 118 Eldridge St
The Lower East Side is only a few blocks away from Chinatown so it is no surprise to see some Chinese restaurants in the neighborhood. Vanessa’s Dumpling House is one of the more popular dumpling shops in New York City. Juicy dumplings here cost 4 for $1.25 so lunch is a great bargain.
Georgia’s Eastside BBQ – 192 Orchard St
Georgia’s Eastside BBQ is often an overlooked BBQ option in New York City but their ribs are just amazing. The sides and their fried chicken are equally good so be sure to come to Georgia’s Eastside BBQ hungry!
The Boil – 139 Chrystie St
The Boil is THE go to spot for fresh, succulent seafood. The lobsters, the crabs, the crawfish and the shrimp are all very good and full of flavor. As an appetizer, we also love their catfish. It can be crowded during the weekends and they don’t take reservations so you have to plan accordingly.