Best Restaurants for People Watching in Midtown East

80 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tavern on the Green restaurant

1. Tavern on the Green

4.7

Exceptional(18709)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Booked 137 times today

Tavern On The Green will be offering our Holiday Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from November 30th-December 29th. This is priced at $95 per adult, $65 per child and does not include beverages or tax. A 20% gratuity will be added to all checks. Dress Code: Smart Casual. Jacket and Tie are Not Required. * We do not permit sleeveless shirts for gentlemen nor athletic/running/jogging attire for any patrons in the main restaurant. Reservations as early as 60 days out through our Reservations Department at 212-877-8684 or reservations@tavernonthegreen.com

2. TAO Uptown

4.4

Awesome(14444)

Price: Expensive

• Pan-Asian • Midtown East

Booked 131 times today

A 16-foot Buddha, which floats above a reflecting pool filled with Japanese carp, presides over the scene at Tao. A favorite destination for celebrities and athletes, this Pan Asian restaurant specializes in authentic Hong Kong Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines. Tao has three levels of dining including the prized "Skybox" which offers views of this former movie theater unparalleled in New York. In addition to its 300 seats, Tao includes a sushi bar, lounge and two bars at which to enjoy the food and the show. Appetizers range from $8 - $18; Entrees: $16 -$39. Offering $31.50 Prix Fixe Lunch Menu year round.

A photo of Central Park Boathouse restaurant

3. Central Park Boathouse

4.6

Exceptional(894)

Price: Very Expensive

• Continental • Upper East Side

Booked 63 times today

Dine with us in the beautifully updated restaurant that reimagines the Boathouse's iconic history and charm. Reviving old traditions and making new ones – we’ve got something for everybody.Monday - FridayLUNCH: 12pm -5pmSaturday & SundayBRUNCH: 11am - 5pmIn addition, our outdoor Express Cafe, is open daily from 8am to 5pm. *For parties of 10 or more: please contact us at info@centralparkboathouse.com **Please Note** Our restaurant is located inside of Central Park, which means all guests must arrive on foot, there is no parking at our property. The closest entrance and cross streets are 72nd street and 5th Ave.

4. Joe Allen

4.7

Exceptional(4670)

Price: Expensive

• American • Theater District

Booked 89 times today

Please note; we only take reservations up to one week in advance.With Broadway's staggered start times, things get tricky, so if you're desired time is unavailable online, please give us a call, as we hold a certain number of tables for phone reservations only. For parties of six or more, please call the restaurant directly.Since 1965, Joe Allen has been a quintessential New York restaurant serving a classic American menu in the heart of the Theater District. Just two blocks from Times Square, it has been a favorite of Broadway performers, locals, and tourists for almost 50 years.We begin taking reservations seven days in advance starting at midnight online and at 11 a.m. over the phone. Because of staggered theatre times we can only guarantee reservations made online for one-and-a-half hours for parties of two, and two hours for parties of three or more.For reservations after theatre, please check your show's running time at http://joeallenrestaurant.com/show_info

5. The Smith - Nomad

4.7

Exceptional(5783)

Price: Moderate

• American • Gramercy Park

Booked 183 times today

The Smith is a casual American brasserie with four upbeat locations in New York City: The Smith East Village, The Smith Midtown, The Smith Lincoln Square, and The Smith NoMad, as well as locations in DC and Chicago. We care about every meal and every moment. The menu features bistro classics, seasonal fare, and craft cocktails. Walk in the door and you’re in for a great time. Whether it’s date night, drinks on the town, a big birthday bash, a working lunch, a boozy brunch, or an I-don’t-want-to-cook-tonight night, we’ve got you covered.

A photo of La Pecora Bianca - Midtown restaurant

6. La Pecora Bianca - Midtown

4.8

Exceptional(1102)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Midtown East

Booked 47 times today

La Pecora Bianca ("the white sheep") offers an unforgettable Italian dining experience in NYC, ideal for private dining, brunch, and takeout. Our menu showcases authentic Italian flavors with house-made pastas, like our signature rigatoni vodka and tagliatelle bolognese, alongside delicious pizzas-all crafted daily with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Join us for brunch, where Italian favorites meet modern tastes, or unwind with spritzes, negronis, and La Pecora Rosa organic rosé during aperitivo hour. Whether you're dining in our stylish space or enjoying our dishes at home, we bring the best of Italian cuisine to every meal.

7. Cecconi's Dumbo

4.5

Awesome(5210)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary Italian • DUMBO

Booked 201 times today

In support of the regulations issued by the city of New York, Cecconi’s Dumbo is now open for outdoor seating until 11pm. Cecconi’s Dumbo is a modern day classic Italian restaurant near Brooklyn Bridge park, specializing in hand-made pasta, wood-fired pizza and other Italian staples. Originating in Venice and with outposts in London and West Hollywood, Cecconi’s has become a critically acclaimed dining destination featuring simply prepared Venetian inspired food. With waterfront views of the Manhattan Skyline, join us in our main dining room, bar or patio dinner and weekend brunch seven days a week. Cecconi’s offers an elegant and relaxed dining experience for all guests.

8. MR CHOW - 57th

4.7

Exceptional(2901)

Price: Very Expensive

• Chinese • Midtown East

Booked 41 times today

Opened in 1979 by world famous restaurateur Michael Chow. MR CHOW started in London in 1968 and continues to enjoy generations of devoted clients from art, fashion, music, and entertainment. Recently awarded the 5 Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for its excellence, service, and cuisine this restaurant described by Givenchy as a "Precious Jewel Box" is one of the most beautiful restaurants in New York City serving high Chinese Cuisine with impeccable service. The menu at MR CHOW is a combination of old authentic Beijing, Original Recipes, and the signature dishes such as Chicken Satay, MR CHOW Noodles, and Ma Mignon. MR CHOW also serves one of the best Beijing Ducks in the world.The famous nightly handmade noodle show is presented in every location since the opening of London in 1968. "Elegant Midtown Chinese and its newer TriBeCa sibling offer “big-league” eats in “welcome-to-the-’80s” digs..." - ZAGAT

A photo of The Champagne Bar at The Plaza restaurant

9. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

4.3

Awesome(83)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Overlooking Fifth Avenue and the Pulitzer Fountain, The Champagne Bar at The Plaza, is reminiscent of the Champagne Porch that was in the same location when the hotel opened its doors in 1907. The most exclusive of The Plaza’s dining venues, which has welcomed legendary figures, celebrities, athletes and government officials, The Champagne Bar has become a favorite destination of today’s social set. The Champagne Bar specializes in delicious food featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by The Plaza's culinary team. Known for its finest champagne, caviar and wine, whether you’re ordering a multi-course meal or grabbing a specialty cocktail at the bar, The Champagne Bar's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining with friends, family, clients and business associates.

A photo of RH Guesthouse, The Dining Room restaurant

10. RH Guesthouse, The Dining Room

4.8

Exceptional(852)

Price: Very Expensive

• American • Meatpacking District

Booked 62 times today

A grand yet intimately scaled space, The Dining Room at The Guesthouse offers a live-fire dining experience in a setting defined by floor-to-ceiling travertine, a monolithic hearth, and embedded Molteni rotisseries. The menu features fresh ingredients from select sources, simply and elegantly prepared, along with a selection of Champagnes and wines from around the world.For group dining inquiries, please email: GHNYDR@rh.com

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sarah
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We went to The Smith Nomad for Thanksgiving dinner. The portions were perfect, the food was out quickly but we didn’t feel rushed at all! The restaurant was extremely clean and all the staff were happy and helpful. We would definitely recommend and definitely go back!
More info
The Smith - NomadPrice: Moderate• American• Gramercy Park
•
4.7
O
Orlando
Denver / Colorado •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Took our daughters for dinner. The atmosphere was electric. The food was delicious. And the cocktails were amazing, especially the Last Emperor.
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TAO UptownPrice: Expensive• Pan-Asian• Midtown East
•
4.4
H
Heather
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
If I could give my experience today, 10 stars, I would! Nicole was an amazing server. She was attentive, professional, and very kind. She made my delicious meal a wonderful experience. Additionally, management was personable and professional , and making sure everything ran very smoothly. This was one of my favorite dining experiences at Tavern on the Green. Thank you again Nicole for providing such an impeccable service!
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Tavern on the GreenPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
•
4.7
K
Kristinvip
Philadelphia County •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great place for before show dinner! Great food, cocktails, and even better service
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Joe AllenPrice: Expensive• American• Theater District
•
4.7
A
Autumn
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The restaurant's location is unbeatable, with expansive windows framing Central Park. It feels as though the beauty of the park has been invited inside to complement the elegant, yet comfortable decor. The menu is outstanding and offers amazing cocktails. This restaurant is more than a dining spot—it's an experience. Perfect for a romantic dinner, celebratory brunch, or simply a treat for yourself, it checks every box. With its exceptional staff and unparalleled view of Central Park, it’s no wonder diners leave with full hearts and happy palates. Five stars, without question.
More info
Central Park BoathousePrice: Very Expensive• Continental• Upper East Side
•
4.6

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Midtown East

Best Restaurants for People Watching in Midtown East

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80 restaurants available nearby

1. Tavern on the Green

2. TAO Uptown

3. Central Park Boathouse

4. Joe Allen

5. The Smith - Nomad

6. La Pecora Bianca - Midtown

7. Cecconi's Dumbo

8. MR CHOW - 57th

9. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

10. RH Guesthouse, The Dining Room

See what locals rave about

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