NYC Shines Bright with Four New Additions to the 2025 Restaurant List
New York City has once again showcased its culinary prowess, claiming four spots on the prestigious New York Times’ 2025 Restaurant List. This year, the list features a total of 50 restaurants across the United States, but NYC’s vibrant dining scene continues to steal the spotlight with fresh and innovative establishments that are redefining comfort food and fine dining.
Leading the charge is Borgo, the eagerly awaited Manhattan outpost from renowned Brooklyn restaurateur Andrew Tarlow. Known for his iconic Williamsburg establishments like Diner and Marlow & Sons, Tarlow’s latest venture feels like a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern flair. Diners can expect mouthwatering dishes such as paper-thin focaccia dripping with molten fontina, ravioli enveloped in Sungold tomatoes, and a stunning whole branzino that’s almost too beautiful to eat. With an inviting martini cart and candlelit ambiance, Borgo is poised to become a beloved fixture in the Manhattan dining landscape.
On the Lower East Side, Ha’s Snack Bar proves that great things come in small packages. The creative duo, Anthony Ha and Sadie Mae Burns-Ha, have crafted a menu that challenges traditional notions of comfort food. Dishes like vol-au-vent with tripe and head cheese with chile crisp invite diners to take a leap of faith, showcasing their adventurous culinary instincts. With plans for a larger version of the restaurant in the works, Ha’s Snack Bar is set to expand its influence on the local dining scene.
Chef Paul Carmichael adds a touch of Caribbean flair to the Momofuku empire with Kabawa, a prix fixe experience that serves as a heartfelt tribute to Barbados and its culinary traditions. The menu features innovative takes on classic dishes, such as chewy bammy bread and pepper shrimp reimagined as crudo. The standout offering, goat braised in a fiery habanero sauce, is a testament to the restaurant’s bold flavors. Just next door, Bar Kabawa keeps the energy high with lively offerings like patties and shave-ice daiquiris, proving that a fun atmosphere can coexist with exceptional cuisine.
Lastly, Smithereens offers a unique seafood experience that diverges from typical beachy vibes. Chef Nicholas Tamburo focuses on often-overlooked fish like bluefish, whiting, and mackerel, transforming them into exquisite dishes. Creative broths and foams give new life to bones and scraps, while chowder arrives with creamy rice and hidden quahogs, reminiscent of a treasure hunt. To top it off, Smithereens serves a cider doughnut that might just set a new standard for dessert.
As more than half of the restaurants on the list are newcomers, New York City once again demonstrates its status as a heavyweight champion in American dining. With its rich tapestry of culinary talent, from Brooklyn royalty to innovative Lower East Side upstarts, NYC continues to deliver unforgettable meals that resonate with diners across the country. Whether you’re exploring the latest hotspots or indulging in classic favorites, the city remains a gastronomic playground that never ceases to amaze.