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Best Restaurants for People Watching in Rockefeller Center

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74 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Russian Tea Room - NYC restaurant
4.3
Awesome(5683)
Price: Very Expensive
• Continental • Midtown West
Booked 38 times today
For ninety-eight years, New York's defining cultural moments have taken place at Russian Tea Room. Ever since members of the Russian Imperial Ballet founded the restaurant in 1926, it has been a second home for boldface names and the intellectual elite-an exclusive enclave where actors, writers, politicians, and businessmen planned their next deals and feted their friends' latest Carnegie Hall performances.
A photo of The Champagne Bar at The Plaza restaurant
4.3
Awesome(84)
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 Sea Fire Grill restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3946)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Midtown East
Booked 44 times today
Offering seasonally focused, contemporary American seafood, where only the finest and freshest seafood is highlighted. Guests will be enchanted by the superb selection of raw bar favorites and delicious appetizers which include East & West Coast Oysters, Chilled Lobster, and expertly seasoned Yellowfin Tuna Tartare. Entrée selections are sure to delight, with succulent Alaskan King Crab Legs, elegant Herb Basted Black Bass and the menu wouldn't be complete without the addition of Sea Fire Grill's Surf & Turf - tender filet mignon and buttery steamed lobster and grilled shrimp.
A photo of Boucherie - West Village restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3120)
Price: Expensive
• French • West Village
Booked 87 times today
BOUCHERIE is a traditional French brasserie and steakhouse, celebrating Joie de Vivre in the heart of West Village. The restaurant prepares a menu of French classics and timeless bistro favorites, in addition to the dry-aged steaks. An absinthe-inspired bar offers classic drinks, signature cocktails and craft beers. Located in the building that used to house the prominent Circle Repertory Theater, the 320-seat restaurant provides a diverse array of dining options from the spacious dining room, a seat at the butcher counter, the intimate second-floor gallery with private dining and outdoor cafe.We look forward to welcoming you! (you can find the hours of operation on this page)**Please note that kitchen hours may differ
A photo of MR CHOW - 57th restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2941)
Price: Very Expensive
• Chinese • Midtown East
Booked 46 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 La Pecora Bianca - Midtown restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1121)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Midtown East
Booked 25 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.
A photo of Grand Brasserie restaurant
4.3
Awesome(138)
Price: Expensive
• French • Midtown East
Booked 32 times today
About Grand BrasserieTimeless elegance of historic Grand Central Terminal with the laid-back elegance of French design. Landmark Vanderbilt Hall, once the Terminal's main waiting room, has been transformed into Grand Brasserie, a New York City meeting place with Parisian flair. Open daily from 5:30 AM to 2 AM, our brasserie features two impressive bars and dining rooms, offering a menu filled with timeless French classics. Whether you're seeking a morning espresso, a leisurely lunch, or a late-night drink, Grand Brasserie is your go-to destination for authentic French cuisine in the heart of New York City. What you need to knowHow to get to. Located inside Grand Central Terminal, in the grand Vanderbilt Hall. 89 E 42nd St. Entrance to Grand Central Terminal at 42nd Street & Park Avenue. Grand Brasserie is an airy 400-seat restaurant and bar, open during the terminal’s hours, 7 days a week. Brunch from 5:30 AM - 3 PM. Dinner until 2 AM. Lunch Prix Fixe menu available daily.
A photo of Cecconi's Dumbo restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(5326)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • DUMBO
Booked 168 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.
A photo of Strip House restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3430)
Price: Expensive
• Steak • Greenwich Village
Booked 83 times today
A sultry steakhouse in New York City where old-world glamour meets modern style and sophistication. Experience the combination of charred cuts perfectly paired with decadent sides, such as Truffle Creamed Spinach and Goose Fat Potatoes. Pair your meal with our extensive wine list in our dining rooms that are adorned with siren red interior and black and white vintage photography. And be sure to save room for the famed 24-Layer Chocolate Cake.
A photo of Sicily restaurant
4.4
Awesome(578)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Hell's Kitchen
Booked 45 times today
Located on Restaurant Row in the heart of Manhattan in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood and Theater District, Sicily Osteria is a dining destination that appeals to local residents and office workers, as well as Broadway theatergoers. The restaurant offers several dining experiences, from its more formal main dining room that exudes a rustic elegance enhanced by vintage green walls, exposed brick, custom tiled floor and white tablecloths. It's front dining room features an expansive bar, perfect for casual dining; plus, several bistro-style tables; and in the far back, a spacious, naturally lit, enclosed patio garden and atrium transports guests to a lush garden oasis.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AuraVIP
    New York City •106 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    They provide a special menu for Valentine’s Day which is delicious and fairly priced. We love dining here anyway as the extensive regular menu is also inviting. We love the lobster, oysters Rockefeller and several pasta dishes we’ve had. The staff is wonderful. Alex and Jay are absolutely great. Looking forward to seeing you again.
    More info
    Sea Fire GrillPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Midtown East
    4.8
  • LarryVIP
    New York City •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Every thing was great.The food was better on other occasions .It was a fixed menu on Valentines night and selections were limited to a fixed menu.I love eating here and the staff could not be nicer.
    More info
    MR CHOW - 57thPrice: Very Expensive• Chinese• Midtown East
    4.6
  • Navjeet
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Came here for the first time with my girlfriend on Valentine’s Day. We were welcomed and seated quickly. Our waitress was very attentive even though it was a busy evening. The food came out fast and was absolutely delicious (we ordered the salmon, steak frites, mac and cheese and mash potatoes). Only small complaint was that the mash potatoes was cold but the waitress addressed this issue easily and got us another one. The drinks were delicious and the atmosphere was very romantic. Our waitress even helped us take some pictures together. Overall wonderful experience and we will be going back for sure. 10/10 would recommend.
    More info
    Boucherie - West VillagePrice: Expensive• French• West Village
    4.6
  • Amanda
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This restaurant is just gorgeous. The food is great and there is a wonderful, glamorous, grown up vibe. It could not be better for a pre-Carnegie Hall dinner (or any other type for that matter.) I would highly recommend this sumptuous confection of a restaurant- the service is impeccable and the atmosphere is very relaxed and deeply sophisticated.
    More info
    Russian Tea Room - NYCPrice: Very Expensive• Continental• Midtown West
    4.3
  • PhilipG
    Yorkshire •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 15, 2024
    Superb evening. Staff fantastic, food and drinks too drawer. Best part of our trip was the evening here. Thanks so much to all the staff there.
    More info
    The Champagne Bar at The PlazaPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
    4.3
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