Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in Union Square | Cheap & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in Union Square | Cheap & Carnivore

• Bar Jamón — Spanish · rated 5/5: Stepping into this intimate, wood-clad enclave feels like discovering a hidden corner of Madrid, where the rhythmic slicing of prized Pata Negra sets the tempo for an evening of spirited conversation. Small plates celebrate the bold simplicity of the Iberian Peninsula, from the crunch of tomato-rubbed bread and golden salt-cod croquetas to the smoky char of octopus seared on the plancha. It is a vibrant sanctuary where guests linger over chilled glasses of sherry and delicate crudos, savoring a communal dining experience that captures the soulful essence of a traditional tapas crawl.
• Malii Gramercy — Thai · rated 5/5: Malii Gramercy unfolds as a chic, sun-drenched sanctuary where global culinary boundaries blur amidst a backdrop of understated elegance. The kitchen masterfully balances delicate artistry with hearty comfort, pairing the silken grace of tuna sashimi and hand-pressed ravioli with the bold, savory crunch of a peanut-crusted steak. From the first tear of warm bread dipped into vibrant spreads to the last bite of a perfectly seared fish of the day, the experience is a soulful celebration of contemporary flavors and refined neighborhood charm.
• Naks — Filipino · rated 5/5: This vibrant destination pulses with the soulful energy of Filipino street culture, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of charcoal-grilled liempo and garlic-laced adobo rice. Diners feast on a playful evolution of tradition, from the satisfying crunch of golden kanto fried chicken to the delicate, citrus-cured brightness of fresh kinilaw, all culminating in the tropical sweetness of charred mango skewers.
• Long Island Dumplings — Chinese · rated 5/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with translucent crystal shrimp and vibrant, jewel-toned dumplings like the earthy Beets by Jay and the verdant Green Jade. The air hums with energy as diners tear into pillowy steamed buns and shatter the golden, crispy shells of savory spring rolls, creating a modern sanctuary where traditional dim sum is reimagined with a playful, contemporary flair.
• Noona's — Korean · rated 5/5: Noona’s transforms the simple joy of a frozen treat into a sophisticated exploration of heritage and whimsy, where the air is sweet with the scent of toasted grains and warm spices. Silky scoops of earthy matcha and vibrant ube latte mingle with playful, texture-rich creations like crunchy honeycomb and chewy banana pudding mochi. It is a modern creamery that celebrates cross-cultural flavors, inviting guests to rediscover nostalgic comforts through a bold, artisanal lens.
• Dough Doughnuts — American · rated 5/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the air is thick with the scent of warm yeast and toasted sugar, and oversized, pillowy brioche doughnuts are elevated to an edible art form. Lustrous glazes in hues of hibiscus pink and deep blueberry coat each handcrafted ring, while textures range from the delicate crunch of cocoa nibs and toasted almonds to the zesty brightness of lemon poppy seed. Whether indulging in a classic cinnamon sugar dusting or a sophisticated café au lait creation, every bite offers a decadent escape into a world of bold, imaginative flavors.
• Saperavi — Mediterranean · rated 4.9/5: Saperavi invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the warm glow of amber lighting meets the intoxicating aroma of wood-fired breads and herb-infused oils. Each plate is a vibrant celebration of the coast, bringing together the crunch of garden-fresh produce with the smoky depth of grilled meats and the bright, zesty tang of house-made mezze. It is a place where time slows down over shared carafes of wine, offering a soulful dining experience that captures the generous spirit and timeless flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Fortuna — Italian · rated 4.9/5: Fortuna captures the soulful essence of Italy in a space where warm, honeyed lighting and the hum of spirited conversation create an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Hand-rolled pastas and sun-ripened ingredients take center stage, delivering a parade of bold, rustic flavors that feel both deeply nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Every meal unfolds as a leisurely celebration, where the clink of crystal and the aroma of slow-simmered ragu invite diners to linger long after the last drop of wine is poured.
• Çka ka Qellue — Mediterranean · rated 4.8/5: Stepping through the doors feels like a journey to a rustic Albanian village, where rough-hewn stone walls and antique artifacts create a space steeped in old-world charm. The kitchen breathes life into centuries-old traditions, filling the air with the aroma of slow-simmered stews and golden, layered pastries that arrive at the table with a sense of heartfelt hospitality. It is a place where every bite of tender, wood-fired meat and house-made bread tells a story of heritage, inviting diners to linger in the warm, candlelit glow of a truly transportive dining experience.
• Naks — Filipino · rated 4.8/5: Naks pulses with the high-octane energy of a Manila night market, where the air is thick with the smoky perfume of charcoal-grilled skewers and the sharp, bright tang of calamansi. This vibrant sanctuary elevates regional Filipino soul food into a sophisticated communal experience, inviting guests to explore a bold landscape of fermented funk, crispy textures, and unapologetic island heat.
• Sushi Dairo — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Sushi Dairo invites guests into a serene, minimalist sanctuary where the rhythmic dance of the chef’s blade transforms the morning’s freshest catch into exquisite edible art. Each hand-pressed piece of nigiri is a masterclass in balance, marrying warm, vinegared rice with buttery seafood that melts upon the palate to reveal deep, umami-rich flavors. This intimate experience honors the quiet precision of Japanese tradition, turning every bite into a fleeting, flavorful moment of pure culinary grace.
• Soothr — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Soothr transports diners to the heart of Bangkok with a high-energy atmosphere where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the intoxicating scent of Thai basil fill the air. The kitchen honors time-tested family recipes, serving up vibrant plates that dance between fiery spice and cooling citrus against a backdrop of warm wood and nostalgic decor. It is a spirited celebration of regional flavors, inviting guests to linger over aromatic
• LOULOU — French · rated 4.7/5: LOULOU transports guests to a chic, sun-dappled corner of Paris where the air is perfumed with the scent of fresh herbs and the irresistible allure of sizzling butter. Within this lush, velvet-clad sanctuary, classic French soul meets modern elegance through velvety sauces, crisp artisanal breads, and a curated wine list that sparkles under the soft glow of flickering candlelight.
• Tara Rose — American · rated 4.7/5: Cascading florals and plush velvet nooks transform this neighborhood gem into a whimsical sanctuary where the air hums with the clink of artisanal glassware and lively conversation. The kitchen breathes new life into American comfort, layering nostalgic flavors with modern flair to create soul-warming plates that pair effortlessly with botanical-infused cocktails. From sun-drenched afternoon brunches to intimate, candlelit evenings, every corner invites guests to linger in an atmosphere that feels both vibrantly social and charmingly tucked away.
• Yum Cha — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic procession, unveiling translucent shrimp dumplings and honey-glazed pork buns that perfume the air with ginger and five-spice. The space hums with the convivial energy of shared stories and clinking porcelain, creating a vibrant backdrop for a leisurely feast where the ancient art of tea-drinking meets a kaleidoscope of handcrafted delicacies.
• Olympia Pita — Mediterranean · rated 4.7/5: The air at Olympia Pita is thick with the irresistible scent of pillowy bread emerging warm from the oven and the smoky char of spiced meats sizzling over an open flame. Vibrant plates of velvet-smooth hummus and zesty, herb-flecked salads bring the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean to life in a space that hums with the convivial energy of a bustling market. Every bite offers a harmonious balance of crunch, spice, and freshness, turning a simple meal into a soulful celebration of traditional craftsmanship.
• Pommes Frites — French · rated 4.6/5: This vibrant haunt captures the spirited essence of a French bistro, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of sea salt and potatoes crisping to a perfect gold. Guests indulge in authentic, hand-cut frites that boast a legendary crunch and a fluffy interior, all designed to be swiped through an adventurous palette of creamy, house-made dipping sauces. It is a masterclass in simplicity and technique, offering a warm, communal atmosphere that celebrates one of France’s most beloved culinary traditions.
• Planta — American · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in natural light and adorned with cascading greenery, this chic sanctuary reimagines American comfort through a vibrant, plant-forward lens that feels both indulgent and refreshing. From the first bite of artfully composed plates to the lingering notes of botanical cocktails, the experience is a high-energy celebration of seasonal ingredients served in a space that pulses with modern sophistication.
• Boqueria Spanish Tapas — Spanish · rated 4.6/5: Boqueria transports diners to the heart of a bustling Spanish market, where the air hums with the energy of shared laughter and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and smoky chorizo. Sunlight filters through a space defined by rustic textures and communal warmth, inviting guests to linger over vibrant tapas and chilled carafes of sangria that capture the sun-drenched spirit of the Mediterranean.
• BaoDega — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into BaoDega feels like entering a vibrant urban sanctuary where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the sweet, yeasty aroma of steaming dough create an immediate sense of warmth. Hand-pleated bao arrive in delicate clouds of vapor, revealing succulent fillings that burst with ginger and soy, while bowls of silken noodles swim in deeply savory, long-simmered broths. This lively corner brings together the soulful comfort of traditional Chinese street food with a sleek, contemporary energy, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of flavor.
• Strip House — Steakhouse · rated 4.6/5: Steeped in a sultry, old-world glamour, this iconic destination envelops guests in a sea of crimson velvet and vintage black-and-white photography that whispers of a provocative, bygone era. The air hums with sophisticated energy as expertly charred, salt-crusted prime cuts meet the table alongside decadent, multi-layered desserts, creating a sensory feast that is as visually striking as it is culinarily indulgent.
• Loring Place — American · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the warm glow of an open kitchen and framed by rustic brick, this Greenwich Village gem hums with a vibrant energy that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Here, the seasons take center stage as locally sourced ingredients are transformed into a kaleidoscope of wood-fired flavors, from charred vegetables bursting with sweetness to soulful, market-driven plates. Every dish captures the essence of the harvest, offering a dining experience that celebrates the artistry of modern American cooking in a space designed for lingering over shared stories.
• Tabetomo — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Steam rises from bubbling cauldrons in this high-energy sanctuary, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of tonkotsu broth simmered to a velvety, collagen-rich perfection. Diners engage in the tactile ritual of tsukemen, dipping chilled, house-made noodles into concentrated elixirs that burst with deep umami and smoky complexity. Amidst the industrial-chic surroundings, every bowl becomes a celebration of patience and craft, delivering a bold, soul-stirring experience that redefines the boundaries of traditional ramen.
• Pylos Restaurant — Greek · rated 4.6/5: Under a striking canopy of suspended clay pots, Pylos captures the soulful essence of a refined Greek home where the air is perfumed with the scent of lemon, wild oregano, and slow-simmered stews. The dining room glows with a warm, terracotta hue, setting the stage for an experience that elevates humble, time-honored recipes into a vibrant, communal celebration of Mediterranean heritage.
• noreetuh — Hawaiian · rated 4.6/5: Noreetuh reimagines the vibrant spirit of the islands through a lens of sophisticated urban elegance, where the warmth of polished wood and soft lighting sets the stage for a refined exploration of Hawaiian soul. The kitchen transforms humble staples into artful masterpieces, balancing the savory depth of glazed musubi with the bright, crystalline freshness of the Pacific. This intimate sanctuary pairs its bold, tropical flavors with an exceptional wine list, creating a transportive dining experience that feels both deeply nostalgic and strikingly modern.
• Sathi — Indian · rated 4.6/5: Sathi transports guests to the heart of the subcontinent, where the rhythmic sizzle of the tandoor and the vibrant glow of copper serving bowls create an atmosphere of communal warmth. Each dish is a masterclass in balance, layering complex spices into silken sauces and fragrant biryanis that celebrate the diverse and soulful culinary heritage of India.
• Just Salad — American · rated 4.6/5: Step into a sun-drenched, modern space where the rhythmic chop of chef-knives and the vibrant scent of garden-fresh herbs signal a refreshing departure from the ordinary. Here, oversized bowls become a canvas for a kaleidoscope of seasonal harvests, blending crisp textures and bold, house-made dressings into a nourishing ritual that fuels the body and delights the senses.
• Olde City — American · rated 4.6/5: Olde City captures the spirit of a bustling neighborhood tavern where the aroma of seared beef and toasted rolls drifts through an inviting space of exposed brick and warm wood. It is a place where the clink of chilled pint glasses punctuates lively conversation, offering a soulful tribute to American classics through perfectly charred burgers and authentic, melt-in-your-mouth cheesesteaks.
• The Laurels — American · rated 4.6/5: The Laurels invites guests into a sun-drenched space where polished wood and lush greenery create a refined yet relaxed backdrop for a soulful exploration of American flavors. The kitchen breathes new life into regional classics, balancing the smoky depth of hearth-fired proteins with the vibrant, crisp notes of farm-fresh harvests. Whether lingering over a botanical cocktail or sharing a celebratory feast, every visit feels like a warm, sophisticated embrace of modern hospitality.
• S'MAC — American · rated 4.5/5: This vibrant East Village sanctuary celebrates the ultimate comfort food, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of melting cheeses and the cheerful clatter of cast-iron skillets. Each dish emerges from the oven with a perfectly charred, golden crust that gives way to a molten, velvety interior, offering a nostalgic yet elevated journey through every gooey, cheese-laden bite.