Central Park in the Fall — Absolutely Magical! Visiting Central Park in autumn was better than I ever imagined. The colors, the crisp air, the skyline peeking through the trees — it felt straight out of a movie, only real. The park is wonderfully kid-friendly and dog-friendly, full of families, friendly faces, and space to explore. From the winding paths to the shimmering ponds and quiet lakes, every corner is breathtaking. The city views are stunning, and everyone we met was kind and welcoming. Truly one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I’ve ever experienced.

Central Park is more than just the heart of New York City — it’s the city’s soul. Spanning over 840 acres, this green oasis feels like a peaceful escape wrapped inside the chaos of Manhattan. The moment you step in, the city noise fades, replaced by the rustle of leaves, the laughter of joggers, and the sound of musicians under the bridges. Every corner of the park tells a story. From the romantic Bow Bridge arching gracefully over the lake to the grand Bethesda Terrace overlooking the fountain, it’s a photographer’s dream and a wanderer’s paradise. The pathways curve through gardens, open meadows, and quiet wooded areas — perfect for a morning run, a lazy picnic, or simply sitting on a bench and watching life pass by. What makes Central Park truly special is how it reflects the rhythm of New York itself. On one side, artists sketch and performers play violins; on the other, kids race their bikes while couples row across the lake. In winter, the Wollman Rink sparkles with skaters, and in spring, the cherry blossoms paint the park in pastel shades. Whether you’re a tourist seeing it for the first time or a local escaping your busy schedule, Central Park never feels the same twice. It’s timeless yet ever-changing — a living masterpiece right in the middle of skyscrapers. In a city that never sleeps, Central Park reminds you to breathe, slow down, and simply be. ⭐ Rating: 5/5 A must-visit — not just for its beauty, but for the peace and inspiration it offers.

Central Park is the most beautiful place in New York! Perfect for photoshoots, horse rides, and boating on the lake. It’s also one of the best romantic spots for a date. Everywhere you go, you can hear live music, which adds such a magical atmosphere. I love visiting in any season — spring with blooming trees and fall with falling leaves are my favorites. A truly unique place you can’t find anywhere else in the world!

Central Park is an incredible place — a true green oasis in the heart of New York City’s concrete jungle. It surrounds you with peace and nature, making you forget you’re in one of the busiest cities in the world. Perfect for a walk, a picnic, or simply to sit and breathe in the calm beauty of the park.

After the watching the 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow' Broadway show at the Marquis Theatre on W46th St & 7th Ave, we walked the 0.7 miles up 7th Ave to the Central Park entrance at W59th St where I had my first NYC Hotdog from the Nathan's Hotdog stand. It was very tasty if a tad small for $6. We only walked in a very small section of the vast 843 acres, 2.5 miles long and 0.5 miles wide park, from the W59th St & 7Ave entrance to the Model Sailing Boat Lake and could have spent several days explore the different sections of this vast beautiful space, which is enjoyed daily by some many local New Yorkers and tourists. There were lots of people relaxing on the grass, walking, jogging, running, cycling & rollerblading through the park, together with rickshaws and horse drawn carriages carrying their passengers on the one directional circular road running around inside the park. We stopped off at the Le Pain Quotidien kiosk next to the Model Boating Lake for hot drinks & pastries at one of the tables, enjoying the late evening sunshine whilst watching people going by and children sailing their rented remote controlled model boats in the lake. There are public male & female toilets either side of the kiosk and a table service section for a selection of food & drinks. It wasn't too busy when we were there around 6pm on a Saturday evening and it was the perfect place to sit down, take a break, relax and watch the world go by in Central Park whilst enjoying a drink. We were fortunate to be there to listen to the famous Central Park guitar man, David Ippolito, playing some beautiful guitar music from across the boating lake opposite our table, in his regular Saturday slot. On our walk to the Model Boating Lake we passed the 1,800 seat open air Delacorte amphitheater inside the park, where free public shows of Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night' were being performed. My wife is a big fan of Shakespeare's plays and would have loved to have gone to see the play. However, as the vast majority of tickets were allocated via lottery to NYC residents we would have had to queue up in person in a standby line outside the theatre on the day, in the hope of getting one of these few ticket allocations and I didn't like Shakespeare enough to do that. As it was such beautiful warm late summer we decided to walk the 2.2 miles down Lexington Ave, from the park at 74th St down to our hotel at 36th St. Although it took a lot longer than taking the subway we really enjoyed seeing more of the city on foot.

I had never seen such a huge park in the city area. Spread across 800+ acres, this park has a lot of beautiful places to visit. We went to Bethesda terrace as our first spot here and it’s really worth visiting. Great spots to visit, sit, relax, run and click pictures. Loved the bow bridge. Must visit and highly recommended.

Central Park is absolutely beautiful !!! it’s hard to believe a place this big and peaceful exists right in the middle of the city. I loved exploring Belvedere Castle and Bethesda Fountain, and seeing all the iconic spots in person felt so special. Such a perfect place to just wander, relax, and take in the city from a completely different perspective.

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends. From the moment you step onto its iconic walkway, you feel a connection to history, to the countless souls who have crossed before, and to the city itself — alive, vibrant, and full of possibility. Every view is breathtaking: the skyline stretching endlessly, the river shimmering beneath, and the bridge’s architectural beauty standing as a testament to human vision and perseverance. There’s a rhythm to walking here, a pulse that invites reflection, inspiration, and awe. Whether you’re taking photos, pausing to soak it all in, or simply strolling, the bridge feels like more than a path from one borough to another — it’s a bridge between the past and present, between dreams and reality. Walking here reminded me to pause, to appreciate, and to carry a little piece of this city’s energy with me. A truly unforgettable experience.

Visiting the Brooklyn Bridge was an unforgettable experience. The weather was a perfect mix of sunny and cloudy, creating amazing light for photos and giving the entire walk a cinematic feel. I was able to grab a few photographers on the spot, negotiate a great deal, and they captured some truly beautiful memories that I’ll cherish forever. The views of Manhattan and the river were absolutely breathtaking, and the energy on the bridge was vibrant yet peaceful. Highly recommend visiting—whether you’re sightseeing, taking pictures, or just enjoying the moment, the Brooklyn Bridge never disappoints.

A Must-Do New York Experience! Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge with family and friends was absolutely unforgettable. The views are phenomenal—Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty in the distance, and endless photo opportunities at every step. My seven-year-old loved it too! It can get windy, so if you’re visiting in winter, dress warmly or bring a windbreaker. The walk is free, fun, and great exercise. Once you reach Brooklyn, you can explore cute shops and fabulous restaurants nearby. It’s the best of all worlds—beautiful views, quality time with loved ones, and a true New York adventure.

Must do in NYC! The view is just breathtaking! You can see the Statue of Liberty from there! And all of the city it’s just so cool! Definitely an amazing spot to walk or run across. It’s free!! And super fun!!

Brooklyn Bridge – A Must-Do in New York! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is an experience you simply cannot miss when visiting New York City! The moment you step onto the wooden walkway, you’re greeted with stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline, the East River, and even a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in the distance. The bridge itself is a masterpiece of architecture with its towering stone arches and intricate cables — it’s as beautiful up close as it is from afar. It’s incredible to think it has been standing strong since 1883, carrying not only cars and bicycles but also thousands of people every day. The walk takes about 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace, but you’ll want to stop often for photos. My advice: go early in the morning or just before sunset to avoid heavy crowds and capture the best light for pictures. At night, the city lights make the bridge feel even more magical. On the Brooklyn side, you can relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park, grab a slice of famous New York pizza, or just sit by the waterfront and take in the views. From the Manhattan side, you’re only steps away from City Hall, Chinatown, and the Financial District. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, stay in the pedestrian lane (cyclists zoom by fast!), and bring your camera — every angle offers a postcard-worthy shot. 🌟 Overall: An unforgettable walk and one of the best free things to do in New York. It’s not just a bridge, it’s a true New York experience!

Iconic walk with stunning skyline views The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-visit for breathtaking views of Manhattan. A great way to experience it is to take the ferry from Pier 11 to DUMBO and then walk back across the bridge toward Manhattan, which provides an amazing perspective of the skyline. The bridge is very close to downtown Manhattan, easily accessible, and the walkway offers plenty of photo opportunities. Crowds can be moderate, but the views more than make up for it. It's iconic, scenic, and perfect for a leisurely stroll with unbeatable city views.

During our previous visit to NYC in 2015 to celebrate my wife's 50th birthday we only walked 1/2 way across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan and never went all the way over to explore Brooklyn, so on our return visit in Sep 2025 to celebrate her 60th birthday we decided to walk all the way across. Our journey started with a 15 min walk from our hotel on Lexington Ave down to Grand Central Station where we took the 6 subway train to the Brooklyn Bridge City Hall station. After exiting the subway we walked to the main entrance of the bridge on the East Side of City Hall Park to begin the 1.1 mile walk across to the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) area of Brooklyn. When we arrived at the bridge at around 11:30am on a Friday morning there were many tourists on the Bridge taking pictures and walking up to the mid point of the bridge with fantastic views of the Statute of Liberty to the right, the Manhattan Bridge on the left and the Manhatten skyline behind. The pedestrian walkway on the bridge is built above the road crossing so we were walking above a steady stream of cars they were passed slowly underneath us due the heavy volume of traffic. Subway trains don't go across the Brooklyn Bridge, however, they do go across the nearby Manhattan Bridge, below the road crossing. We saw a number of locks attached to the metal frame of the bridge, which are left as "love locks", as symbols of romantic commitment. Apparently this practice started around 2009, whereby couples inscribed their names on padlocks, attached them to the bridge, and often threw the keys into the water to signify their love was "unbreakable". However, this tradition has led to safety concerns and damage to the bridge, causing the city to remove thousands of locks and fine people for adding them. Many people only walked up to the mid point of the bridge before walking back to Manhattan, however, we continued walking across to Brooklyn where there was noticeably less people on the bridge in this latter section. It was a beautiful sunny day during our walk, which we enjoyed very much, stopping often to take photos and admire the fantastic views from the bridge

A wonderful use of old elevated train tracks turned into beautiful greenery in the middle of the city. So many different kinds of vegetation and lots of great art to see along the way. We walked about 2 miles of it from The Edge down to Chelsea Market.

The High Line is one of the most unique and enjoyable outdoor experiences in New York City. Built on an elevated historic rail line, it offers a peaceful walkway above the busy streets, with great views of the city and plenty of greenery along the way. It’s a perfect place for a stroll, whether you’re looking to take photos, enjoy the art installations, or just relax in a quieter space. The mix of plants, architecture, and open views of the Hudson River makes it feel both urban and calming at the same time. Depending on how fast you walk, you can explore the whole thing in about 30–60 minutes, making it a great stop that doesn’t take up your whole day. It can get crowded during peak hours, but it’s still a lovely experience overall. A must-visit if you’re in the city and want something scenic, relaxing, and completely free. Please leave a like if you found this helpful!

Lovely for an autumn walk and lots of great photo opportunities. Clean bathrooms. Lots of city views. Surrounded by buildings with unique architecture. Lots of benches and viewing areas, including one where you can watch traffic. Landscaping and sculptures.

This walk is so nice, it's hard to believe it's free (privately funded, donations accepted). We stopped for several minutes to listen to a mockingbird perform his concert! Super clean bathrooms, and there are no pets allowed, so with all the plants, it smells nice too. Not too crowded on weekdays.

The Experience: This is a fantastic spot for a nice walking experience above the city streets. It offers a unique perspective of Manhattan and serves as a great path to get to Hudson Yards, offering a perfect, looming view of The Edge as you approach. Accessibility Note: Be mindful of where you enter. I found the stairs to be very steep at the access point I used. If you have heavy bags or mobility issues, you definitely want to double-check the map for elevator access beforehand, as the stairs can be a workout. Verdict: Despite the climb up, I thoroughly enjoyed the walk. It’s a refreshing break from the traffic below.

A unique and beautiful walkway throughout New York City. From Hudson yards to Little Island, an extraordinary yet calm walkway above the streets. And offer a serene and calm experience. Would highly recommend.

This might be the best urban park that I've ever visited! What a great way to meander through the Chelsea neighbourhood with some elevated views of New York City. I imagine it can get extremely busy on a nice day, but its certainly work checking out if you're in the area. Lots of little pockets of space if you want some privacy from all the folks out for a walk.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of freedom, and visiting it feels special from start to finish. The ferry ride itself offers breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Liberty Island is peaceful, clean, and full of great photo spots. The Statue looks massive and impressive from up close, and the museum gives deep insight into its construction, symbolism, and restoration. If you book the pedestal or crown tickets early, the views are even better. Expect lines during peak hours, but the organization is smooth. Overall, it’s a must-visit landmark for anyone coming to New York.

An Amazing Visit to the Statue of Liberty! My visit to the Statue of Liberty was amazing. What a spectacular statue! Today was clear and sunny, which made it a perfect day for pictures and videos. I totally recommend that people come to visit and see this magnificent art. My Recommendations for Your Trip: Book in Advance: Purchase your tickets online before you go. Trust me, the line to buy tickets on-site is insane. Check the Weather: Choose your day wisely and make sure it is sunny. The views are so much better! Charge Your Devices: Make sure your phone and professional camera are fully charged before you leave. You don't want to miss a shot!

We booked to view this historic and iconic landmark via statue city cruises. We had a very smooth experience starting from the queue management, security checking, cruise to the liberty island and back. Very well managed and staffs were there to guide us. The experience is great. This monument stands tall and it reminds us about all the history related to it. Beautiful in short. When you visit NYC, this is the must visit place. Iconic and beautiful.

Our trip to Liberty State Park was fantastic from start to finish. We bought tickets from the NJ side. Parking was easy. Buying tickets on mobile was super smooth, and going through security was a breeze. We went during the week and experienced absolutely no wait time—both on the way there and coming back. The ferry itself was clean and comfortable. The first and second floors are fully heated, which was perfect, and the top deck offers amazing views. Overall, a seamless and enjoyable experience. Highly recommend! Below a Picture of the actual NJ ferry

We really enjoyed our visit to the Statue of Liberty! The entire area was very clean and well maintained, and the museum was full of fascinating information - a great mix of history and insight. The walk around the island was lovely, offering amazing views of downtown Manhattan, New Jersey, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Ellis Island. It’s truly a special perspective of New York. The cafeteria food was decent, with better prices than expected, and the souvenir shop had something for every taste and budget. Overall, a memorable experience that’s absolutely worth it for anyone visiting NYC.

I visited the Statue of Liberty with my mom and sister, and it was such a beautiful and memorable experience. Seeing it up close was honestly breathtaking the statue is much larger than I expected, and the views from the pedestal were beautiful . We took the ferry from Battery Park, which was really easy and gave us great views of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island along the way. Hiking up as far as we could inside the statue was such a cool experience you really get to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of this incredible monument. A few fun facts: the Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886 to celebrate freedom and democracy. She’s made of copper, which has oxidized over time to create her iconic green color, and her full height from base to torch is about 305 feet! The seven rays on her crown represent the seven continents and seven seas, symbolizing liberty spreading across the world. If you’re visiting New York, this is an absolute must-do. It’s historic, inspiring, and truly beautiful an experience that makes you appreciate what the Statue of Liberty stands for. 🗽✨ *UNESCO heritage site*

Amazing tour to one of the most iconic landmarks in New York! We took the ferry from Battery Park all the way to the Statue. Trip is nice and short, full of beautiful views. I highly recommend the tour that includes the access to the crown. It's a 198 steps very narrow way to the top but it's worth it.

We kinda spur of the moment decided to do this, while in NY. So didn't buy tickets in advance, although it wasn't difficult to do so there, as they had computer ordering systems on site to use, we would have been able to see and realize that there is a price difference amongst the different "time slots" and that entry times are set every 15-30mins apart. There is thorough security to get in, and lots of staff around as well. The place was clean, and spacious. The history on your way through was very interesting. The view from the top was really good, we paid extra to go to the 101 floor. And although it wasn't a huge difference from the view of the 85th floor, I'm glad we did it. Defiently recommend visiting the observation deck of the empire state building atleast once. We went up during daylight hours, so I may, someday come back for a night view.

Go see it, you won't regret the time you spend exploring this iconic building. We're from NZ, so this was a bucket list visit and I loved everything about the museum walkthrough, old footage and experiential stuff. Views are phenomenal, breath taking even on a good day like we had. We just looked and looked at the vast expanse of this city and didn't want to leave. So much NY history in the one place, it's worth the entry fee for sure. If you are remotely interested in the Empire State Building you'll love it.

From the 86th floor, the city lights stretch in every direction—Times Square glows, traffic forms ribbons of color, and the skyline looks its best after dark. Crowds are lighter at night, so it’s easier to enjoy the view and take photos without rushing. Overall, the nighttime atmosphere feels calm and memorable. If you want a classic view of Manhattan with less daytime noise, this visit is worth it.

I chose the ESB over the Rock and other viewing platforms for it's historical significance. Built in 1931, in one year and 45 days, featured in many famous movies and recognized around the world. It even has it's own zip code! My first time in NYC so definitely had to go all the way up to the 102nd floor which is completely enclosed so good for cold weather! But you have great views from the 86th floor also which is open air and enclosed. Reservations are required and earlier is less busy.

I found the 86th floor to be pretty adequate for photos.I didn't see a point to go all the way to the top, To be honest. The views are pretty spectacular.You get to take photos from both the eightieth floor and then open air eighty sixth floor. There's lots of museum and stuff to look through before you get up to the elevators, you can either look at it or skip it.It's up to you. Then, at the end, of course, there's a gift shop. I would highly recommend this. I would probably recommend it over some of the other tall buildings because of the history surrounding this one. And it's pretty centrally located, so you can see everything from the eighty sixth floor.

I must say, this is the most magical place on earth, if you go to New York, this is a must. The prices of the tickets are affordable and the experience makes you feel like you’re on top of the world. We went in the evening and seeing the lights of New York was magical. It bought the city to life. The staff were really friendly and the museum part was interesting as it taught you about the Empire State building. Will definitely come back and visit.

One of the great things about traveling to any city is obviously the people that you meet. In my brief visits to New York, though, I've found it difficult to meet and to engage with local folks. On Nov. 12, 2025, I woke up in the morning thinking about how cool it would be to make one great human connection that day. I whispered to the Universe that I’d like that kind of encounter – a chance to get to know the real New York. It turned out that I had been looking for such a connection in the wrong place because I wasn't looking up. That's when my wife (Won-ok) and I decided to tour the Empire State Building. That was one of the things that was on my life bucket list, something that is a quintessentially American experience. When we made it to one of the lookout areas, a very kind woman named Renita greeted us with such warmth that it was overwhelming. Some people just radiate goodness and kindness, and spending time with Renita was the only time that trip that we felt the sun. My aunt happens to have the same name so the name struck a particular chord with me. Renita asked if there is anything that we would like to know. I was a little embarrassed by how little I know about the city. Renita Immediately helped me overcome my sheepishness and began answering questions from me and Won-ok. It didn't take long for one thing to lead to another and for the three of us to find ourselves in a deep, soulful conversation. Renita told us she has been working at the building for many decades. A native New Yorker, she saw the World Trade Center go up – and she witnessed the horror of the towers going down. I learned more about the history and spirit of New York in the moments I spent with her than I did on the entire rest of my trips there combined. Renita is a credit to the Empire State Building and to the city of New York. My wife and I saw a lot of amazing things on that trip but the experience that made the greatest impact on us was Renita -- New York’s ambassador in the sky.

We had such a lovely time at The Lounge at Le Bernardin. We couldn't get a table at the main restaurant as this was a last minute trip to New York unfortunately. The food at the lounge was still outstanding — the skate dish in particular was absolutely perfect, delicate and full of flavor, showcasing the precision and finesse the restaurant is known for. What truly stood out, though, was the kindness of the team. Even though our son’s birthday is still a month away, they went out of their way to celebrate him and make him feel special. That thoughtful gesture meant the world to us and turned a wonderful meal into a beautiful family memory. Thank you to everyone at Le Bernardin for such a warm and memorable experience — we’ll treasure it and can’t wait to return! We'll make sur to make a reservation ahead next time to try the main restaurant.

Le Bernardin is an exceptional French fine dining restaurant where Chef Eric Ripert’s refined seafood creations truly shine. Despite its Michelin-star prestige, the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming — even our young child felt completely at ease and enjoyed the experience. The service was impeccable from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond, pampering us with thoughtful attention and perfectly timed food and drink service. We chose the three-course prix fixe menu, and every dish was beautifully executed. The appetizer trio offered fresh, flavorful bites of seafood. The bread assortment was among the best we’ve ever had — warm, varied, and perfectly baked. For our main courses, the lobster in a rich, aromatic broth and the steamed Halibut with baby vegetables were both outstanding — truly the best halibut we’ve ever tasted. Desserts, including a decadent chocolate tart and an assortment of small bites, provided the perfect sweet ending to a memorable meal. Overall, Le Bernardin delivers an extraordinary dining experience — refined yet approachable, luxurious yet comfortable. We’ll definitely return every time we’re in New York.

Every single dish was amazing! Too many courses that I lost count. I wish it was proper to ask for a whole 8" plate of their tiny portions, but that would be weird and waaay out of our budget. Cocktails are perfect. Left full & satisfied. Service is as-expected for the type of establishment. Interior and decor are a bit dated and dark. It is well-maintained and clean which is what matters most. Overall, we would love to visit again.

Le Bernardin continues to justify its legendary status as one of New York City’s finest dining establishments. Our recent prix fixe lunch experience reaffirmed why this restaurant has maintained its position at the pinnacle of seafood cuisine for decades. From the moment we were seated the service struck the perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive. Every member of the staff demonstrated genuine warmth and deep knowledge of the menu. Our sommelier deserves special recognition and his wine recommendations were impeccably matched to our dish selections, elevating each course and creating harmonious pairings throughout the meal. The culinary journey itself was extraordinary. The opening amuse-bouches set an elegant tone with refined, delicate flavors that showcased the kitchen’s precision. The caviar service was presented with theatrical flair, accompanied by perfectly executed blinis and traditional accompaniments. The raw fish course demonstrated the restaurant’s mastery of preservation techniques—silky, perfectly seasoned, and visually stunning. The main course was a masterclass in technique: impeccably cooked fish adorned with toasted almonds, vibrant vegetables, and a sauce that brought everything together without overwhelming the star ingredient. Each element on the plate had purpose and demonstrated the kitchen’s respect for premium ingredients. Le Bernardin’s continued excellence isn’t just about maintaining standards — it’s about evolution while honoring tradition. Chef Eric Ripert’s vision remains as relevant and inspiring today as ever. This is destination dining at its finest, and our lunch was worth every moment. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a world-class seafood experience in New York City.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Date of visit: 8/8/25 Went for our wedding anniversary. Ordered the Chef tasting, we didn't order the wine pairing as we don't drink. All dishes were great especially the Tuna. The best lemonade I've ever tasted. Service was impeccable. As regular New Yorkers, price is steep, maybe eat here once in a lifetime for a very special occasion. If you're traveling to NYC, this is worth a romantic visit. Book a month in advance as slots fill up quick.

It can be tough to get a reservation here, but it's definitely worth the effort! I recommend calculating how far out you can make it and being ready to try as soon as availability opens up online. It's also worth noting that you can do their full tasting menu during lunch hours (this is what we did) if you're having trouble getting dinnertime reservations. The food, as expected, is all absolutely fantastic. The tasting menu is a tour of seafood and had some truly standout dishes, including the dover solar almondine and the yellowfin tuna carpaccio. I also really enjoyed the dark chocolate tarte dessert. We did the wine pairing with our meal and the wine was a great variety of some unique vintages that paired perfectly with each course. Be warned that the pours are quite generous (this is not a bad thing by any means but come prepared!) and there is one for each of the eight courses so you will definitely be feeling it by the end.

The Most DISAPPOINTING 3-Star Restaurant in NYC My wife and I have always enjoyed Michelin-starred restaurants and rarely been disappointed — but Le Bernardin fell short, big time! I can’t believe this is a three-Michelin-star restaurant flooded with 5-star reviews. Do people not understand that Expensive ≠ Good!? We dined here on a Friday evening around 5:30 p.m. It was quite busy, but we were still warmly greeted. The atmosphere, however, was loud and cramped — tables are packed tightly, and servers constantly squeeze by with plates, drinks, utensils, and dirty dishes. It was uncomfortable to sit there with so much chaos around us; I felt like I was at Chelsea Market on a Saturday night. 2 out of 5 for atmosphere. The major disappointment was the food. Not a single dish met my expectations for a three-star restaurant. I’ve dined at many 1-, 2-, and 3-star establishments, as well as other top-rated spots, and the food at Le Bernardin tastes like Blue Apron meal kits at best. The dishes lack depth and creativity, with flat, uninspired flavors. You can easily tell the chef assumes that tossing fish, lobster, and caviar into a sauce and slapping on a high price tag will make customers think it’s fine dining. No — what a disappointment! At $500 per person (tax and tip included), this is a total money grab. Don’t come here. The one-star reviews are right — those people actually have taste!

Snagged an early dinner reservation for five at Semma. I went in with mixed feelings, not sure if it would live up to the hype but it absolutely did. This was hands down the best non–North Indian food I’ve had in New York. We tried a variety of dishes, and I’d recommend every single one. The paniyaram were light and airy lentil dough balls, the scallops came with a unique sweet-tangy sauce, and the tiger prawns packed a bold, spicy, peppery punch. The masala dosa was such a hit that even though we ordered two for the table, they disappeared instantly. I’d go back just for the dosa. The beef short rib was outstanding 😋melt-in-your-mouth tender with a distinct peppery flavor. Definitely order the kal dosa and parotta to soak up the incredible sauces. The eggplant was another highlight, enjoyed equally by the meat eaters at the table, and the biryani was flavorful with just the right kick from green chilies without being overwhelming. We finished with the rice pudding, even though we thought we had no room left. Honestly, I can’t pick a favorite. Each dish had its own distinct personality. The food is exceptional, the service is warm, friendly, and informative, and the experience really showcases the rich flavors of South Indian cuisine. Yes, it’s pricey but absolutely worth it. Highly recommend Semma!

Obviously had high expectations when I saw the Michelin star at the front of the restaurant. But it lived up to the hype honestly. The dosa app was super flavorful, and had a great spice level. Short Rib was so tender, so delicious, and paired really nicely with the Parrota bread. Scallops might've been the bite of the night. Pineapple and mango flavor, in a buttery, perfectly cooked scallop. Only 2 pieces for $23 but I thought it was absolutely amazing. The Lobster Tail was also so good. I'd recommend ordering coconut rice on the side, as the curry that came with the lobster paid beautifully with the rice. Overall excellent experience. For a Michelin star restaurant with this much social media hype, the prices were not too bad. Would absolutely come back.

Reservation is very tough to get but it’s totally worth it if you can get. We noticed there were ppl waiting in queue and slowly were given table at the bar but it was a long wait. We were seated right away with the reservation. We got to celebrate my birthday here. It was an experience trying delicious food and meeting chef Vijay. Our server was very friendly and we told him if we can meet chef and say hi as we are from india and heard so much about him and I was so surprised to see chef walking to me and wishing me happy birthday. He is very polite. Now let’s talk about the food. Presentation to taste everything was beautiful and worth the hype. Most of the food we tried was very nice but the star of the show were the lamb chops, gun powder dosa and paniyaram. The restaurant does feels lively all the time but that does mean compact seating and crowded atmosphere.

I had the pleasure of taking my father to Semma in the West Village for his 80th birthday dinner last night, and it was a fantastic experience! 🌟 The South Indian cuisine was exquisitely good and offered a delightful eclectic mix of flavors that truly impressed us. Each dish was incredibly tasty, showcasing the authenticity and creativity of the menu. Additionally, the process of organizing our large event was seamless and stress-free, making our celebration even more enjoyable. I can't recommend Semma enough for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience filled with exceptional food and service! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Fortunate to be able to dine at the bar as the restaurant was fully booked during a break in NYC. I ordered the starter Paniyaram, mains Kozhi Allepay (Poussin) with coconut rice and dessert Shahi Tukda. I’ve sampled allot of Indian food and this felt like a new experience. I really enjoyed it and felt it was a very refined set of dishes. Thanks to the accommodating staff service was excellent.

We finally got a reservation after months of trying, using the Dorsia app. Found it impossible using resy through their website, even checking at 9am every morning. We had to advance pay $300 on the Dorsia app, but it all went towards the final bill. So great app, try it out and you get 30 days free. We arrived a little late fighting traffic on a Saturday night and we did past the 15 min late rule by a few minutes, but they welcomed us with open arms. Our server Shady was amazing. Decor and atmosphere is a little underwhelming tbh for the # 1 restaurant in NYC. Might be due for an upgrade there. Now let’s get to the food. We tried I believe 12-13 items on the menu. All the very popular dishes (except the oxtail). Started with the mung bean salad, paniyarum, tiger prawns, gun powder dosha, scallops, short rib, porotta, and for entree the lobster, lamb chops, and biriyani. The mung bean salad had a real kick, my wife enjoyed it. The best apps were the paniyarum, prawns, scallops and short rib all great. The stand out dishes to me that were amazing were the dosha and the lobster. The curry on the lobster was so good, especially with the porotta. We loved all the desserts as well. They even gave us a “happy anniversary” free ice cream, which was nice of them. The most underwhelming dish was the biriyani. It was below average and you could get better biryani almost anywhere. I would improve that. The lamb chops were cooked perfectly, however even with all that curry on it, it lacked flavor. And I remember some food influencer on IG saying the same thing. I think they can improve on that. Another critique. Their cocktails are very underwhelming. We have an Indian restaurant by us in the suburbs and they use Indian spices in their drinks. I was expecting that type of next level cocktails for an award-winning restaurant. It was not there. Very average to say the least. I think they can take their cocktails to the next level by infusing more Indian flavors and even some spices in there, like other Indian restaurants do. All in all, definitely worth it. Patrick the manager also was very friendly. Shadi was great and the service was excellent. We saw the owner Vijay come out for two seconds to talk for the staff and went back to the kitchen. It would have been nice if he came around the tables and said hello, especially since all of the guests are coming for his food and he has a huge following online. Thanks for a great experience and hope you enjoy the feedback.

Thanks Shadi for the great experience. What a treat. Really loved the lobster and dosas. Ridiculously good portions. Comfortable seating and the chef was so kind. Must try the Dosas here. Very good value!

Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi is a culinary triumph. More than a meal, it is a celebration of African American culture and cuisine uniquely interpreted through the lens of New York. The food here is bold, thoughtful and reverent with each dish telling a unique story. Its more than nostalgia, but heritage and tradition reinterpreted for the modern era. The cooking here insists that African American food belongs in the same conversation as other haute cuisine and is comfortable on the city's most competitive stage. The unique juxtaposition of Tatiana within Lincoln Center is itself a statement, with its stark style and urban cultural influence (from the Bronx to Harlem) standing alongside an institution that was synonymous with European high art such as opera and ballet. The dishes here a refuse easy categorization and there are elements of Africa, the Caribbean and New York simultaneously fused together. Must tries include the curried goat patties (a wink to Jamaican and New York street food), dukes shrimp (a throwback to shrimp boils from deep south), wagyu pastrami (an elevated and indulgent version of a deli staple) and the cosmic brownie with powdered donut ice cream (a bodega homage). The energy in Tatiana is equally buzzy and feels closer to a nightclub or block party than a fine dining restaurant. The playlist is immaculate, sampling R&B, Hip-Hop and rap greatest hits from the late 90s and 2000s (think TLC, Jay-Z, Neo, Destiny's Child, J.Cole) which adds to the atmosphere and performance. I will caution that the demand for Tatiana is insatiable and the kitchen and dining room operate at full capacity at all times. Reservations are still hard to come by (be prepared to book your table the second it opens on Resy) and be prepared to wait when you are there (for your table, to get drinks, to put in your order, to get your cheque, etc). Like many of New York's most in demand restaurant, there are most guests than staff which easily overwhelms the kitchen. But staff here are sincere and hardworking and try their best to stay on top. Also budget approximately $150/person with tax and tip. Make no mistake, Tatiana is still a fine dining restaurant.

I went to Tatiana during my birthday trip to New York, and honestly, it ended up being one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had! We showed up on a Saturday around 3:50 with no reservation, and there was already a line forming. By 4:30, the staff came out with complimentary tea for everyone waiting, which I thought was such a thoughtful touch. Right at 5:00, the doors opened and we were able to choose between sitting outside or at the bar we went with the bar, and I’m so glad we did! The energy was perfect great music, good vibes, and the friendliest staff you could ask for. Everyone was so polite, warm, and genuinely happy to be there. We ordered the lamb ribs, pastrami, oxtails, and curry goat empanadas. Let me tell you the lamb ribs were the best thing I’ve ever eaten in my life. I’m still thinking about them days later! The empanadas and oxtails were also full of flavor and perfectly cooked. The pastrami was just okay to me, but everything else completely made up for it. Since it was my birthday, they surprised us with a complimentary dessert a brownie, powdered doughnut, and ice cream and it was the sweetest ending to an amazing meal. Between the food, atmosphere, music, and incredible staff, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. If you’re ever in NYC, Tatiana is a must. I’d rate it 10/10 highly recommend!

As good as you have been told, however I really want to highlight the service which may have been the best I have experienced. The waitress was an older Latina woman who was spectacular. The braised ox tail was the tenderest version of it I have ever had. The stewed chicken was the perfect amount of spice, I loved it. The mango chutney with the empanadas was awesome. The rib was great also. The side car cocktail was awesome. The rice, doubles and the cosmic brownie was great but I definitely have had better versions. The music was perfect pure vibes and at the correct volume. The staff really shines here I cant explain how good they were. Overall worth the hype they receive. Would absolutely return.

great service friendly and knowledgeable staff and very accommodating. Great place for special event the food is eclectic and delicious! Get their riff on pastrami ruben and all the appys! The Jamaican patties were just out of this world. It's an original take on Caribbean cuisine that's sophisticated and elegant the chef really has mad skills! highly recommend

I’m gonna give this a perfect score. I feel like people commonly criticize the prices but my feeling was yes, they are a bit high and going even higher in the last year, but look at it as a location surcharge. Look at where you are dining. They probably have rent to pay like any restaurant and I’m sure it’s not cheap. Overall the food, service and atmosphere were top notch. The most unforgettable element for us was the service. From the minute we stepped in the door we were treated like the most important people in the room, and this was made all the more impressive later in our meal when we realized Jay Z and Beyoncé were dining on the other side of the restaurant. This didn’t stop the maitre d from checking on a couple of walk ins multiple times throughout our meal, and our server offering us a complimentary dessert because he could tell we were really torn between two options. It’s incredible to feel so taken care of. Beyond that, everything we ordered was delicious, hot, complex and really interesting. Hats off to this team, we will be back!

Wow, what an amazing meal. The chef refers to this restaurant as his "love letter to nyc" and boy do you feel it! The short rib pastrami is exactly that...a love letter to nyc. The curried goat patties and piri salad are also amazing. The core value cocktail is to die for if you like an old fashioned or a manhattan as it's kind of a combo of the two. We had a reservation but others in line didn't and were able to get in so give it a try.

Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi is one of the most celebrated and award-winning restaurants in New York City. Featured on lists of the best restaurants in the country, praised by The New York Times and Pete Wells, nominated for a James Beard Award — and honestly, every foodie I know dreams of getting a table here. Many of my friends have tried to book and failed. We got lucky thanks to a friend: he went to the bar, spoke with the manager, and got a tip — come at 4:00 PM, one hour before opening, stand in the walk-in line, and you might get seated. He did exactly that. I joined at 5:00, and by 5:40 we were sitting on the patio. At first, we were a bit disappointed to be outside, but it turned out to be perfect — the dining room was loud (music, conversations, dim lighting), while on the patio it was bright, calm, and quiet. They say people often come here before a show at Lincoln Center, but we made the trip just for the food — and it was absolutely worth it. The crowd was stylish, with guests in beautiful dresses and suits — a very nice dressed-up crowd. Our waitress (wearing striking silver-framed glasses) was fantastic and guided us through the menu so well we couldn’t resist her suggestions. The star of the night was the Short Rib Pastrami — marinated for five days! Served with caraway bread, braised red cabbage, and mustard sauce — you assemble your own sandwich. The portion is large, perfect for two. At $120, it’s the most expensive dish on the menu, but worth every penny — every table seemed to order it. As for starters — you can’t go wrong with any. We especially loved the “wontons” filled with crab and oxtail. Every dish came with its own unique spice profile: sorrel here, celery there, a twist on mustard, hot pepper, paprika… Many flavors felt exotic and warm, with clear African influences. Everything was incredibly tasty and made with top-quality ingredients. Service was outstanding — the manager poured us a glass of wine to celebrate the fact that we made it in. We stayed for hours, even though the short ribs took a little longer to arrive. The space is beautifully designed down to the restrooms, which have great music and lighting. Highly recommend!

I have been wanting to try this place for years and I finally made it. We just happened to come on a Thursday which is the only day they offer a happy hour special. Well worth it waiting till Thursday if you just want to check it out have a few items and enjoy the historic location. We have oysters clams and new England clam chowder. The soup was really good just the perfect balance of clams, taste and thickness of the soup. Calamari was also fresh, tender and included a nice red sauce for dipping. And of course the little neck clams and bluepoint oysters were amazing especially at $1.25 and $1.55/ea respectively. If you want the happy hour special you have to eat at the saloon bar in the back or the lounge area. Probably have to ask for the happy hour menu as they do not tell or offer it to you by choice.

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant This place is a true New York classic. You can feel the history as soon as you walk in. The raw oysters here are incredible, so fresh and full of flavor. The Oysters Rockefeller are rich and delicious, and the New England clam chowder is everything you want it to be, creamy, comforting, and loaded with clams. My server Mary was that girl. Fast, friendly, and really knows her stuff. She took the time to explain the different oysters and helped me pick exactly what I’d like best. You can tell she cares about giving you a great experience. If you’re in Grand Central and craving amazing seafood, this is the spot.

This restaurant impressed us with its huge size and extensive menu. Excellent selection of oysters and seafood - everything was fresh and delicious. Service was outstanding, and prices were very reasonable. The place was packed even on a weekday, which says it all. An unexpectedly great experience for a station restaurant. Highly recommended.

Glad that we can have this restaurant just right next to the hotel we are staying at. Food quality is good and match its price. Service is excellent. They have a wide variety of raw oyster choices and they are very knowledgeable and willing to answer your questions before taking your order. Vibe is warm and casual.

My wife and I had oysters, recommended by the waiter, clam chowder and red snapper with rice. The oysters were excellent and so good. They seemed little smaller than I expected but oh boy they are good. “White” clam chowder was another beauty!! The red snapper was super. The service was excellent.

Can’t believe I lived in New York for almost my whole life went never went here, I surely missed out. We have a lot of similar places in Vegas but for this one feels a little different in a good way. The location is great, the atmosphere is fantastic and the the staff were all extremely attentive. I absolute loved my fried oyster po boy, and the squid risotto (which i forgot to photo) was just the right texture and that a dish you can mess up the texture in all sorts of ways 🤣. I would go back if I were in New York especially for the lunch specials. It’s not the most amazing seafood place but it’s extremely solid with fresh ingredients, and the ambience really pushes it over the edge, I have to give it 5 stars.

Dining here was a lovely experience. 💗 The menu could get a bit overwhelming due to the number of options, so it might be best to stick with their bestsellers. The oysters and other seafood were fresh.

We had a nice early dinner here on our trip to the city. The service was outstanding and the atmosphere is everything you’d expect. The food was great but did not quite live up to the expectations. We ordered the steak frites, gougeres, onion soup, ravioli, and short rib. Of the meal we would recommend the steak frites—the fries were amazing! The onion soup is also a must-order. The short rib was a bit dry. One thing to be mindful of when dining here is the proximity to neighbors, they really pack everyone they can get in here. Overall, would recommend going to cross it off the list.

I went to Balthazar on a Monday night and had such a great experience! I was seated right away and my server, Madeline, was super kind and attentive. She offered me a complimentary mocktail as soon as I sat down — it was originally a champagne, but since I don’t drink, she happily swapped it for a ginger mocktail, which was really good. This was my first time at Balthazar, and everything I ordered was amazing — the French onion soup, steak frites, profiteroles, and coffee. The soup was rich and flavorful, my steak was cooked perfectly (medium well, just right), and dessert was the perfect finish. Service was excellent — Madeline checked on me at just the right times, and I never had to look around for her. Everything was delicious, and I left super happy with my experience. I’ll definitely be back to try more of the menu!

We had a lovely early dinner here during our city trip. The staff were super friendly, and the vibe was warm and lively. The food was delicious—especially the truffle fries and onion soup! The short rib could’ve been a bit more tender, but overall everything was great. Tables are a little close, but that’s part of the charm. Definitely worth a visit!

Our plane back to NY was delayed so we cancelled our reservation and ended up at Balthazar at 11p on a Wednesday. The dining was lively and mostly full when we arrived. We were seated I a 2 top, corner booth that was perfect, and very comfortable. I ordered a gin martini that was served ice cold. My wife and I split the endive salad (I love the pickled pears), a cheeseburger with fries delicious), haricot vert (perfectly cooked and so fresh) and a caramelized and bruleed banana tart (gorgeous and excellent). When we left, well after midnight, the bar was still crowded with patrons enjoying themselves and bartenders who weren’t trying to rush them. What a nice and fun night! Thanks Keith. Also, I really enjoyed your book.

Breakfast at Baltazar had been on my bucket list for a while. I had the opportunity to return to New York City this past week and took advantage. With the publication of Keith McNally‘s memoir earlier this year, the experience was even more poignant. The service, as expected, was outstanding. The ambience was perfect, transporting you to a Parisian brasserie. And let’s not forget the food. Simply amazing.

✨ A little slice of Paris in the heart of New York! We walked into Balthazar on a rainy day without a reservation — and somehow got lucky with a table outside. The drizzle only added to the charm and made the experience unforgettable. The portions are generous, the flavors divine. Every dish felt carefully prepared, fresh, and satisfying. The atmosphere was buzzing, yet cozy — and the service was fast, warm, and attentive. Perfect spot for a delicious lunch with that unmistakable French touch. Highly recommend booking in advance — we were lucky, but this place fills up for a reason.

WOW!!!!! First and will definitely be a staple for all future NYC trips!!! Amazing staff, gorgeous interior and other worldly food and drinks, and I spent the better part of 12 years in restaurants and this tops anything I’ve ever tasted!! The presentation, the flavors and atmosphere all made for an unforgettable experience!!! See for yourself!!