Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Flatiron District | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Flatiron District | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Joe's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The rhythmic slap of hand-tossed dough and the warm glow of the stone oven define this bustling neighborhood staple, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour. Each slice offers a masterclass in simplicity, featuring a perfectly charred, foldable crust topped with a vibrant tomato sauce that captures the soul of traditional Italian street food. It is a vibrant, flour-dusted sanctuary where the frantic energy of the city gives way to the timeless, savory comfort of a classic pie.
• The Winslow — British · rated 5/5: The Winslow pulses with the spirited energy of a modern public house, where the aroma of bubbling jalapeño mac and cheese and golden-fried pickles invites guests into a lively, communal atmosphere. The kitchen masterfully bridges continents, pairing the traditional crunch of perfectly golden fish and chips with the bold, spicy glaze of gochujang duck wings and savory Scotch eggs. Whether settling in for a towering signature burger or a hearty pork belly BLT, diners find a vibrant sanctuary where elevated comfort food and neighborhood charm collide.
• Food Gallery 32 — Korean · rated 5/5: This vibrant, multi-level culinary sanctuary pulses with the energy of a Seoul night market, drawing guests into a neon-lit maze of enticing aromas and sizzling sounds. Diners navigate the bustling stalls to discover a kaleidoscope of flavors, where the comforting steam of spicy noodle bowls and savory street snacks meets the whimsical sweetness of golden, custard-filled taiyaki.
• Mala House — Chinese · rated 4.9/5: Mala House vibrates with the electric energy of a Sichuan kitchen, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted chilies and the signature numbing tingle of peppercorns. Guests gather around bubbling pots of crimson broth and sizzling woks that transform fresh ingredients into a symphony of heat and spice, creating a sensory journey that celebrates the bold, fiery heart of Chinese soul food.
• Joa Kitchen — Korean · rated 4.9/5: Located at 46 W 36th St., New York, Joa Kitchen is a welcoming deli and coffee shop in Midtown South that thrives on serving Korean comfort food and quick bites. With offerings of sandwiches, salads, smoothies, and popular dishes like bibimbap, the place is celebrated for its tasty meals, generous portions, and friendly staff. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Joa Kitchen also provides takeout and delivery services, ensuring quality and convenience.
• Jos Tacos — Mexican · rated 4.9/5: Welcome to Jos Tacos, a casual spot in New York's East Village, known for its delicious and authentic Mexican comfort food. Offering a range of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and vegan options, this family-friendly restaurant is perfect for both lunch and dinner. With great reviews praising the friendly staff, superb service, and cozy atmosphere, dining here is always a treat. Visit us at 226 E 14th St or call +1 646-998-4440 to reserve a table.
• EJ BBQ & Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Chelsea, EJ BBQ & Sushi is a newly opened gem offering a delightful blend of Japanese and Korean comfort food. With a menu featuring fresh sushi, sashimi, bulgogi, and kimchi, the restaurant caters to both casual diners and families alike. Praised for its friendly service and welcoming ambiance, EJ BBQ & Sushi offers a range of healthy options and small plates at an affordable price point.
• Mala House 安逸成都川菜馆21街店 — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan's Flatiron District, Mala House offers a delightful journey into authentic Sichuan cuisine. Enjoy a casual dining atmosphere while savoring generously portioned favorites like Dry Pot and Dan Dan Noodles. With a reputation for exceptional service and a menu that features both comfort food and small plates, Mala House ensures a rewarding dining experience for all guests. Dine in or opt for takeout; either way, satisfaction is guaranteed.
• Pranakhon — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Pranakhon captures the electric spirit of Bangkok’s historic heart, immersing guests in a vibrant space where the air hums with the sizzle of woks and the fragrance of crushed lemongrass. Each dish is a masterclass in balance, layering the fiery heat of bird’s eye chilies with the cooling brightness of lime and the deep, savory richness of traditional ferments. The experience is a rhythmic dance of bold street-food flavors and soulful hospitality, offering a sensory escape that lingers long after the last bite.
• Lulla — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Lulla is a family-friendly gem offering a delightful blend of Italian comfort food and top-notch hospitality. Located at 113 W 24th St, the restaurant boasts a cozy ambiance with live music, outdoor seating, and a versatile menu suitable for all ages. With a 4.7-star rating from 70 reviews, Lulla is known for its exceptional service, delectable dishes, and inviting atmosphere. Reservations are welcomed, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a variety of drinks, including wine and cocktails, in this accessible and vibrant eatery.
• Classic Arepas — Spanish · rated 4.7/5: Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Classic Arepas is a cozy gem offering authentic Venezuelan comfort food. From tequeños and cachapas to arepas and empanadas, the menu is a delight for both kids and solo diners. Fast, friendly service and a charming venue make this a must-visit spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. Don't miss their shop for Venezuelan treats! Prices range from $10-20, making it a great value for a taste of Venezuela.
• Unregular Forno Pizza — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Located in Lower Manhattan, Unregular Forno Pizza is a delightful spot offering a range of comfort foods for lunch and dinner. Featuring pizza by the slice, vegan options, garlic knots, and desserts, it caters to varied tastes. The casual atmosphere is perfect for families and kids. With catering, takeout, and delivery options, convenience is a top priority. Enjoy this highly-rated (4.7) eatery with a cozy setting and friendly staff.
• 8 Bit Bites — American · rated 4.7/5: 8 Bit Bites is a fast food gem located in Midtown Manhattan's vibrant Chelsea neighborhood. Its nostalgic ambiance, complete with LED lights and retro video games, invites diners to savor 80s and 90s-themed comfort food. The menu features favorites like chicken sandwiches, tater tots, and milkshakes. A hit with both kids and solo diners, this spot promises a delightful experience with dishes like the smashburger and Nashville hot chicken sandwich.
• Street Taco — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Street Taco captures the electric spirit of a sun-soaked plaza, where the air is thick with the aroma of charred chilies and the rhythmic press of fresh masa. Vibrant plates overflow with tender, slow-cooked meats and zesty house-made salsas, offering a sensory explosion of bright citrus and smoky heat that honors the soul of Mexican street food. It is a lively, unpretentious sanctuary where every bite feels like a festive celebration of bold flavors and urban energy.
• 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.
• NaNa Thai Street — Thai · rated 4.6/5: NaNa Thai Street transports diners to the heart of Bangkok with its high-energy atmosphere, where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the intoxicating scent of charred chilies fill the air. Vibrant plates burst with the bold, unapologetic flavors of authentic street food, balancing zesty lime and fragrant lemongrass against the deep, smoky heat of traditional spices. It is a lively urban escape where every bite captures the soulful, bustling spirit of Thailand’s iconic night markets.
• Handsome Rice — Korean · rated 4.6/5: This minimalist urban sanctuary elevates the traditional Korean lunchbox into a vibrant art form, where the nutty aroma of toasted sesame oil mingles with the savory sizzle of perfectly charred, soy-glazed proteins. Each thoughtfully composed bowl balances a kaleidoscope of crisp, seasonal banchan against the deep, fermented warmth of house-made sauces, offering a soulful and sophisticated reimagining of classic comfort food.
• Il Cantinori — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, Il Cantinori serves upscale Italian cuisine with an inviting ambiance. This cozy yet classy restaurant offers a diverse menu, including pasta, swordfish, calamari, and vegetarian options, complemented by an extensive selection of wine and cocktails. Popular for romantic dinners and family lunches, it has received high praise for both its comfort food and exceptional service. Perfect for children and groups, Il Cantinori ensures an enjoyable dining experience for all.
• Milu — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Discover Milu, a fast-casual Chinese eatery nestled in the heart of the Flatiron District. With a relaxed ambiance, it’s perfect for family meals or a quick solo bite. The menu boasts comfort food staples like brisket, pineapple buns, and soft serve, along with vegetarian and vegan options. Enjoy a delightful meal at Milu, where welcoming staff and reasonable prices ($10-$20) make every visit enjoyable.
• S&P Lunch — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of NYC’s Flatiron District, S&P Lunch offers an authentic New York experience with its bustling atmosphere and old-school charm. Specializing in classic Jewish deli fare, the menu features beloved comfort foods like pastrami, tuna melts, and matzo ball soup. Known for its friendly staff and fast service, S&P is a popular spot for both quick bites and relaxed meals, appealing to both solo diners and families.
• Concrete — 8a343d02-4079-4df8-aed5-590af526fa56 · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy, Concrete is a family-run Italian eatery renowned for its authentic Sicilian dishes and Neapolitan-style pizzas. The cozy venue, featuring live music and a charming bar, offers vegetarian and gluten-free options alongside Italian comfort food. With excellent service and a warm atmosphere, Concrete is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don't miss their signature espresso martini and delightful desserts.
• Her Name is Han — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights and surrounded by rustic timber, this intimate space captures the nostalgic essence of a Korean soul food kitchen. Diners gather over steaming stone pots of savory stews and perfectly charred proteins, where every bite celebrates the balance of bold spice and the deep, fermented complexity of traditional home-style cooking.
• Hao Noodle — Chinese · rated 4.5/5: Sunlight streams into a chic, plant-filled oasis where a minimalist aesthetic provides a serene backdrop for the vibrant, bold flavors of regional Chinese soul food. Silky, hand-pulled noodles swim in aromatic broths while the air hums with the numbing sizzle of Sichuan peppercorns and the comforting steam of slow-simmered clay pots. It is a sophisticated yet soulful retreat that elevates traditional staples into an artful dining experience, seamlessly blending modern elegance with deep-rooted culinary heritage.
• Claudette — French · rated 4.5/5: This airy sanctuary captures the rustic elegance of a Provençal farmhouse, where whitewashed brick and breezy linens create an atmosphere of effortless coastal charm. The air hums with the fragrance of herb-crusted roasts and vibrant Mediterranean spices, inviting guests to linger over soulful plates that celebrate the sun-kissed bounty of Southern France. It is a warm, light-filled escape where the sophisticated spirit of the
• Dorado — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: Dorado transports diners to a sun-drenched coastal escape where the air hums with the sizzle of the grill and the bright, citrusy tang of freshly shaken margaritas. Earthy, hand-pressed tortillas serve as the canvas for a kaleidoscope of bold flavors, from the crisp snap of pickled radishes to the rich, lingering heat of slow-simmered meats that celebrate the vibrant soul of Mexican street food.
• Glur Thai — Thai · rated 4.5/5: Glur Thai captures the convivial spirit of a Bangkok gathering, wrapping guests in a warm, light-filled space perfumed with the fragrance of crushed lemongrass and sizzling garlic. The kitchen artfully navigates the delicate dance of sweet, salty, and spicy, serving up vibrant plates that pulse with fresh herbs and bold aromatics for a dining experience that feels like a heartfelt invitation into the soul of Thai comfort food.
• Hakata TonTon — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Steaming cauldrons of rich, collagen-packed broth take center stage at this intimate sanctuary, where the air hums with the convivial energy of a bustling Japanese izakaya. Guests gather around bubbling hot pots and sizzling iron plates to savor the deep, soul-warming flavors of Fukuoka’s legendary comfort food, creating a sensory journey that feels both rustic and deeply restorative.
• Peacefood - Union Square — American · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, Peacefood is a laid-back vegan destination renowned for its global comfort food and cozy, artsy vibe. Menu highlights include chickpea fries, key lime pie, and quiche, alongside a delightful selection of coffee, tea, and desserts. Perfect for families, gatherings, and everyday dining, the restaurant is loved for its accommodating staff and relaxing atmosphere. Visit for a memorable plant-based meal that everyone can enjoy.
• DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying Baja-style fish tacos, burritos, and other Mexican comfort foods. The menu caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians, with gluten-free options available. Known for its friendly staff and speedy service, DORADO is an ideal spot for families and solo diners alike. Enjoy your meal indoors or take advantage of the outdoor seating. A must-try for anyone craving authentic flavors with great value!
• Joe Jr. — American · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in Gramercy Park, Joe Jr. offers a cozy, old-school diner experience with American comfort food staples like burgers, pancakes, and omelets. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, ideal for a quick bite or leisurely meal. Breakfast favorites include pancakes and omelets, while the cheeseburgers are a hit throughout the day. With quick, friendly service and reasonable prices, Joe Jr. stands out as a beloved local gem.