New York City’s Most Iconic Restaurants

It’s hard to believe that Quality Meats is over twelve years old; the place still feels hip and modern, with a bustle and buzz usually reserved for newer hot spots. The menu is devoted to steakhouse classics, and you can’t go wrong with any of them—but if you’re in the mood for a splurge, go for anything from the Butcher’s Cut section.

For a Midtown power lunch or dinner, head to Casa Lever, an Italian restaurant in the architectural landmark Lever House. Andy Warhol originals line the wood-paneled walls, and Mad Men–types dine on Italian dishes like vitello tonnato, spaghetti with clams, or whole, roasted branzino.

While it may not be the most authentic or low-key Chinese restaurant in town, Buddakan certainly has its perks: it’s fun, it’s glizy, it’s sceney, and the food is—somewhat shockingly—delicious. Order a bunch of dishes from the dim sum section of the menu along with the short ribs, lamb chops, and tea-smoked chicken, and you’re in for a fun—and raucous—evening.