21 Best Celebrity Restaurants in NYC
New York City is a culinary paradise, and when it comes to dining, nothing captures the essence of this vibrant metropolis quite like celebrity-owned restaurants. These eateries not only offer delicious food but also provide a unique dining experience infused with the personality of their famous owners. Whether you’re a fan of Hollywood stars, music icons, or sports legends, here’s a guide to the 21 best celebrity restaurants in NYC that you must try!
1. Nobu New York
Celebrity Owner: Nobu Matsuhisa and Robert De Niro
Nobu New York, located in the trendy Tribeca neighborhood, is a world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant. Known for its signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, Nobu offers a sleek and upscale dining experience. The chic atmosphere and top-notch service make it a favorite among celebrities.
Must-Try Dish: Black Cod Miso
2. Café Habana
Celebrity Owner: Rachael Ray
Café Habana, nestled in Nolita, serves up delicious Cuban-Mexican cuisine in a lively setting. Rachael Ray’s influence is apparent in its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes. The restaurant is famous for its elote (grilled corn) and Cuban sandwiches.
Must-Try Dish: Elote (Grilled Corn)
3. Carbone
Celebrity Owner: Mario Carbone
Carbone, located in Greenwich Village, is a high-end Italian-American restaurant that draws a celebrity crowd. With its retro vibe and classic dishes, Carbone offers an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is known for its spicy rigatoni vodka and tableside service.
Must-Try Dish: Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
4. The Spotted Pig
Celebrity Owner: Jay-Z
The Spotted Pig, a charming gastropub in the West Village, is co-owned by music mogul Jay-Z. This cozy spot is known for its British and Italian-inspired menu, as well as its famous burger, which is made with Roquefort cheese and served with shoestring fries.
Must-Try Dish: Chargrilled Burger with Roquefort Cheese
5. Bodega Negra
Celebrity Owner: Paul Hemings
Bodega Negra, located in the Dream Hotel, is a vibrant Mexican restaurant that attracts a hip crowd. With its edgy decor and lively atmosphere, this celebrity hotspot serves up mouthwatering tacos and innovative cocktails.
Must-Try Dish: Tuna Tacos
6. Gigi’s
Celebrity Owner: Anna Wintour
Gigi’s, a chic eatery in the heart of New York City, is co-owned by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Known for its elegant decor and seasonal Italian menu, Gigi’s offers a refined dining experience. The restaurant’s pasta dishes are particularly popular.
Must-Try Dish: Tagliatelle Bolognese
7. Catch
Celebrity Owner: Marc Murphy
Catch, a seafood-centric restaurant in the Meatpacking District, has become a favorite among the A-list crowd. Co-owned by celebrity chef Marc Murphy, Catch is known for its rooftop views and delicious seafood dishes, including its famous miso-glazed black cod.
Must-Try Dish: Miso-Glazed Black Cod
8. Red Rooster Harlem
Celebrity Owner: Marcus Samuelsson
Red Rooster, located in Harlem, is a vibrant restaurant that celebrates African-American culture and cuisine. Co-owned by chef Marcus Samuelsson, this spot features live music and a menu filled with Southern comfort food. The restaurant’s fried chicken is a must-try.
Must-Try Dish: Fried Yardbird (Fried Chicken)
9. Momofuku Noodle Bar
Celebrity Owner: David Chang
Momofuku Noodle Bar, founded by celebrity chef David Chang, is a casual eatery that has become synonymous with modern Asian cuisine. Known for its ramen and pork buns, this spot is a favorite for locals and celebrities alike.
Must-Try Dish: Pork Buns
10. Scarpetta
Celebrity Owner: Scott Conant
Scarpetta, located in the Meatpacking District, is an Italian restaurant co-owned by chef Scott Conant. The sleek atmosphere and elegant menu make it a popular spot for celebrity sightings. Scarpetta’s signature spaghetti with tomato and basil is a crowd-pleaser.
Must-Try Dish: Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil
11. Blue Ribbon Brasserie
Celebrity Owners: Bruce and Eric Bromberg
Blue Ribbon Brasserie, located in Soho, is a beloved eatery known for its diverse menu that ranges from fried chicken to sushi. Co-owned by the Bromberg brothers, this restaurant attracts a loyal following, including many celebrities.
Must-Try Dish: Fried Chicken
12. TAO
Celebrity Owner: Marc Packer
TAO, located in the Meatpacking District, is a pan-Asian restaurant that combines delicious food with an extravagant atmosphere. Co-owned by Marc Packer, TAO is famous for its sushi and glamorous decor, making it a hotspot for celebrities.
Must-Try Dish: Crispy Tuna Tartare
13. Pasta e Vino
Celebrity Owner: Robert De Niro
Pasta e Vino, located in the West Village, is a cozy Italian restaurant co-owned by Robert De Niro. With its warm ambiance and homemade pasta, this spot is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
Must-Try Dish: Homemade Tagliatelle
14. Upland
Celebrity Owner: Chris Cracchiolo
Upland, located in Flatiron, is a California-inspired restaurant co-owned by celebrity chef Justin Smillie. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, Upland’s menu features a mix of dishes ranging from pasta to wood-fired meats.
Must-Try Dish: Spaghetti with Sea Urchin
15. Fig & Olive
Celebrity Owner: Philippe Benhaim
Fig & Olive, with multiple locations in NYC, is a Mediterranean restaurant co-owned by Philippe Benhaim. Known for its fresh ingredients and olive oil-infused dishes, Fig & Olive offers a healthy yet flavorful dining experience.
Must-Try Dish: Crostini with Tomato and Mozzarella
16. The Capital Grille
Celebrity Owner: Darden Restaurants
The Capital Grille is an upscale steakhouse chain with a location in NYC. Known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list, this restaurant is a popular choice among celebrities looking for a fine dining experience.
Must-Try Dish: Bone-In Dry Aged NY Strip
17. The Meatball Shop
Celebrity Owner: Adam Gertler
The Meatball Shop is a casual eatery that focuses on the humble meatball. Co-owned by Adam Gertler, this spot allows diners to customize their meatball dishes with various sauces and sides.
Must-Try Dish: Classic Meatballs with Marinara Sauce
18. The Jones
Celebrity Owner: The Smashing Pumpkins
The Jones, a vibrant American eatery, has gained popularity among the music crowd, including members of The Smashing Pumpkins. Known for its hearty brunch and lively atmosphere, The Jones offers a diverse menu.
Must-Try Dish: Jones Burger
19. Marea
Celebrity Owner: Michael White
Marea, located near Central Park, is a fine-dining Italian seafood restaurant co-owned by chef Michael White. Known for its luxurious seafood dishes and elegant decor, Marea is perfect for special occasions.
Must-Try Dish: Fusilli with Octopus and Bone Marrow
20. Balthazar
Celebrity Owner: Keith McNally
Balthazar, a classic French bistro in SoHo, is co-owned by Keith McNally. This iconic restaurant is known for its bustling atmosphere and delicious brunch menu, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Dish: Steak Frites
21. Sushi Nakazawa
Celebrity Owner: Daisuke Nakazawa
Sushi Nakazawa, located in the West Village, is a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant co-owned by chef Daisuke Nakazawa, who gained fame from the documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” The restaurant offers a sushi tasting menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients.
Must-Try Dish: Omakase Tasting Menu
Conclusion
Dining at celebrity-owned restaurants in New York City offers not just great food but also a chance to soak in the ambiance and personality of the stars themselves. From upscale dining to casual eateries, these 21 spots provide a variety of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. So the next time you’re in NYC, make sure to visit one (or more!) of these fantastic restaurants. Bon appétit!