After spending nearly 30 years in New York City before moving to Los Angeles, I still find myself back in Manhattan at least four times a year. There’s just something about the energy, the food, the fashion — NYC has a heartbeat that never really leaves you. So, whenever someone asks about the best places to dine and stay in New York City, I love sharing my tried-and-true favorites alongside new discoveries worth exploring.

Whether you’re planning a getaway or just want the inside scoop on the best places to dine and stay in New York City, here’s where I stay, sip, and indulge when I’m back in the city that raised me.

🍕 Rubirosa – A Slice of Heaven in Nolita

No list of the best places to dine and stay in New York City is complete without a stop at Rubirosa. This Nolita staple is known for its perfectly thin crust pizza—the vodka pie is my personal favorite—and the kind of neighborhood Italian fare that’s both nostalgic and elevated. It always hits the spot, especially after a long travel day. The warm atmosphere and consistently great food make it a forever favorite.

🐟 Milos – Mediterranean Elegance

When people ask me about the best places to dine and stay in New York City, Milos is always top of mind. Whether it’s the original Midtown location or the sleek Hudson Yards outpost, their seafood is impossibly fresh, and the entire experience is refined without feeling fussy. Expect pristine grilled fish, the best tomato salad, and an impeccable wine list. Yes, it’s pricey—but absolutely worth it.

🥩 Raoul’s – A French Bistro with Downtown Soul

Nestled in the heart of SoHo, Raoul’s has been delivering moody French vibes and perfect pepper steak for decades. For anyone seeking the best places to dine and stay in New York City with authentic downtown charm, Raoul’s fits the bill perfectly—sexy, stylish, and soulful. Pro tip: sit at the bar for the full experience.

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🍸 Le Bar Penelope – Uptown’s Chic New Secret

This Upper East Side gem is a new favorite among the best places to dine and stay in New York City. With sultry lighting, stylish crowds, and beautifully crafted cocktails, Le Bar Penelope feels like a reward for making the trek uptown. Dress up, sip slowly, and stay awhile.

🍝 The Corner Store – Downtown Dining, Elevated

From the powerhouse team behind Catch Restaurant, The Corner Store is the latest must-know hotspot downtown. It’s quickly earning a spot among the best places to dine and stay in New York City, thanks to its sexy, energetic vibe and food that lives up to the hype. Snagging a table or even just making it past the doorman feels like a victory worth celebrating.

🥂 Cipriani Downtown – Timeless NYC Glamour

I’ve been going to Cipriani on West Broadway since 2009, and somehow it just never misses. Its iconic status makes it a permanent fixture on lists of the best places to dine and stay in New York City. The food is always excellent—classic Italian with luxury touches—and the people watching is legendary.

☕️ Dominique Ansel Bakery – A Morning Must

Every morning I stay in SoHo, I make a point to walk to Dominique Ansel Bakery. It's easily one of the best places to dine in New York City for breakfast. I didn’t think I’d be a cronut person until I tried one—now, I never leave town without bringing a box home for family.

🛏 Where I Stay: The Dominick Hotel in SoHo

My top recommendation among the best places to stay in New York City is The Dominick Hotel in SoHo. Spacious rooms (by NYC standards), stunning city views, and an unbeatable location make it ideal. I love being within walking distance of my favorite restaurants and bakeries—there’s nothing quite like it.

Want more NYC recs? I’ll be updating this guide regularly, so keep checking back. And if you have a favorite spot I should add next time, DM me on Instagram at @JoannaPallante. I’m always down for a new discovery.