Long Island City is a great destination for travelers because it’s so close to Manhattan so it’s an easy neighborhood of NYC to explore when people are visiting New York City. It’s easy to access on the 7 train from midtown Manhattan and a quick ride for any traveler looking to add a Queens restaurant to their NYC travel plan.
August 1, 2023
Finding a great place to eat in NYC, Queens is pretty high on travelers NYC bucket list. There are a lot of travel shows that highlight the diversity of Queens and how different neighborhoods like Astoria, Jackson Heights, Flushing and Long Island City are attracting all the foodies due to their diverse cuisine like Mexican, Greek & American Barbecue. Long Island City is a great destination for travelers because it’s so close to Manhattan so it’s an easy neighborhood of NYC to explore when people are visiting New York City. It’s easy to access on the 7 train from midtown Manhattan and a quick ride for any traveler looking to add a Queens restaurant to their NYC travel plan.
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NYC is big and there are so many restaurants in NYC that finding a place to eat can be hard. But that’s why we’re here, to help travelers find the best places to eat in NYC and fun things to do. Tell us your must-see attractions, favorite foods, and the number of days you’re in New York City, and our team will hand-crafted a travel plan that matches your travel style.
Ok, on to the list ...
John Brown BBQ in Long Island City is a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Known for their mouthwatering Kansas City specialties like burnt ends, pulled pork and cornbread, this eatery offers some of the best BBQ bites in the city. Located in their inviting backyard, you can indulge in their delectable menu items throughout the day from 12-8pm. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or simply seeking a flavorful dining experience, John Brown BBQ is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Mexican food enthusiasts know that any discussion about the best Mexican cuisine in NYC must include Casa Enrique in Long Island City. This renowned, first-come, first-served restaurant offers sidewalk seating and an exceptional dining experience. Explore their menu of exquisite dishes, including mouthwatering enchiladas, savory chicken with a rich, chocolate-y mole, and flavorful chile relleno in tomato sauce. And be sure to save room for their delectable tres leches cake, the perfect finale to a memorable meal.
Inkan in Long Island City is a haven for Peruvian cuisine enthusiasts, offering a diverse and mouthwatering menu. From tempting ceviches to savory ribs, stuffed avocados, and flavorful empanadas, there's something for everyone. However, the true star of the show is their signature rotisserie chicken accompanied by the irresistible green sauce. Pair this juicy and crispy delight with a refreshing pisco sour for a perfect combination. And for seafood aficionados, the selection of fresh ceviche options especially makes Inkan a must-try.
Chef Hugue Dufour, renowned for his meat-centric expertise from Montreal's Au Pied de Cochon, brings a unique and lively bistro atmosphere to M.Wells in Long Island City. The menu is a delightful fusion of rich flavors, offering mouthwatering dishes like foie gras katsu sandwiches, sliced lamb leg, succulent New York "Galbi" with fries, and a standout caesar salad that may be one of the best in LIC. The vibrant space exudes a casual and energetic ambiance, providing a refreshing departure from traditional steakhouse settings that perfectly complements the menu.
Tuk Tuk is a charming Thai Restaurant where you can experience the colorful flavors of Thailand. Located in the heart of Long Island City, Tuk Tuk offers an authentic taste of Thai cuisine with a diverse menu featuring classic curries, flavorful noodles, and enticing Northern specialties. Treat your taste buds to the delightful curry puff appetizer, a savory pastry bursting with flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to savor their signature sausage, known for its bold and spicy profile, perfectly accompanied by fragrant sticky rice. It’s also popular to complete the experience with a refreshing and bold Thai iced tea.
Woodbines is a beloved neighborhood bar in Long Island City that captures the essence of a true local hangout. With its impressive array of handcrafted cocktails and a menu showcasing classic pub favorites and innovative creations, Woodbines is a destination worth exploring. Indulge in the irresistible flavors of scotch eggs, fish and chips, and sausage rolls, or savor the mouthwatering combination of a juicy lamb burger topped with creamy goat cheese. Complement your experience with delectable bar bites like curry fries and short rib spring rolls, perfect for sharing among friends. Offering a relaxed and affordable setting with an inviting front patio, Woodbines is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, providing an enjoyable and memorable afternoon in Queens.
Anable Basin Sailing Bar & Grill offers a unique outdoor drinking experience in Long Island City. Tucked away behind warehouses, this hidden gem provides a quieter and less crowded atmosphere compared to other bars along the East River, allowing visitors to enjoy unobstructed views of Manhattan. Operating from 3 pm to 11 pm on weekdays and 12 pm to 11 pm on weekends, Anable Basin invites patrons to bring their own drinks and food to the picnic tables at the far end of the space, away from the bar's loud trance music. Regardless of where you choose to sit, you'll be treated to a scenic view of Midtown. Their menu features a delectable selection of sausages with pita bread, including Kielbasa, Chorizo, and Chevapi—a flavorful grilled Balkan beef sausage.
Tournesol, a renowned French bistro situated in Long Island City, offers a delightful dining experience curated by restaurateur Pascal Escriout and his sister Patricia. Despite the initial risk of opening a French restaurant in the area, Tournesol has thrived by presenting a menu of classic bistro dishes at affordable prices. The focus is on timeless favorites rather than trendy offerings, with highlights including the impressive hanger steak served with a luscious bearnaise sauce and a generous portion of skinny frites, all priced at $28. To complement the cuisine, Tournesol offers a thoughtfully curated selection of predominantly French wines, providing a well-rounded dining experience.
You can savor a culinary adventure at Adda, an exceptional Indian spot celebrated as one of LIC's premier dining destinations. With an impressive array of dishes, including their renowned butter chicken and the specialities from the sizzling tandoor grill, Adda is a haven for food enthusiasts.. Don't miss out on the can't-miss favorites like the delectable pav bhaji and the aromatic goat biryani. The spice levels at Adda are dictated by the chefs, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors. Adda now also offers outdoor dining, providing a charming setting with eight tables available for reservation from 5 pm to 9 pm, except on Mondays.
Indulge in a truly Peruvian culinary adventure at Jora, a local favorite situated near the Pulaski Bridge in LIC. Named after an Andean corn variety traditionally used to make the beloved chicha beverage, Jora has become a go-to destination for authentic Peruvian cuisine and street food. One cannot miss Jora's Ceviche Mixto, a refreshing blend of market fish, squid, shrimp, octopus, red onion, aji pepper, choclo, and cancha, marinated in zesty lime juice. To complement your meal, be sure to pair it with one of their specialty craft pisco cocktails. Jora is renowned for serving one of the best pisco sours in the city, available in both frozen and regular variations.
If you’re looking for Italian cuisine in LIC, with breathtaking views of Manhattan, Maiella is where you go. Step inside to find a charming circular bar, adorned with an impressive tower of bottles, inviting guests to savor craft cocktails skillfully prepared by knowledgeable bartenders. Don't miss the delightful Maiella cocktail, boasting a refreshing blend of strawberries and figs. The restaurant's menu is expansive, featuring an array of enticing options, from mouthwatering clam and oyster cocktails to exquisite fresh fare. On warmer days, outdoor seating provides a perfect vantage point overlooking Gantry State Park and the city's famed Pepsi sign. Embracing the Queens Italian heritage, Trattoria L'incontro masterfully combines traditional dishes with more elaborate offerings, including delectable crudo, mouthwatering pizzas, and sumptuous risottos, meats, and seafood. To complement the dining experience, the wine list impressively leans towards the rich flavors of Italy. Whether you're a local foodie or an adventurous visitor, Maiella promises an unforgettable Italian culinary journey with a view that will take your breath away.
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Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems
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