Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Kips Bay | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Kips Bay | Upscale Soul Food Food

• 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.
• Shokudo — Japanese · rated 4.9/5: Shokudo transports diners to the heart of a bustling Tokyo eatery, where the air is thick with the savory steam of slow-simmered dashi and the rhythmic clatter of a busy open kitchen. This vibrant sanctuary offers a heartfelt tribute to Japanese comfort food, where soul-warming bowls of ramen and golden, crispy katsu celebrate the simple, honest joy of a shared meal.
• Cozy Rice — Chinese · rated 4.9/5: Located inside the 38 Food Hall at 42 W 38th St #4, New York, Cozy Rice is a delightful Asian eatery offering comfort food staples like fresh rice rolls and Chinese crepes. This family-friendly spot is perfect for solo lunches or casual dinners with a fair-priced menu, including kids' options. Popular dishes include custard egg buns and steamed empanadas. Open Monday to Saturday, it's a must-visit for delicious, fresh-made Asian cuisine.
• 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.
• Katsu Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Discover Katsu Sushi, a hidden gem located at 42 W 38th St Ste 6, New York. With a high user rating of 4.8, this inviting eatery offers fresh and authentic sushi at a fair price. Known for its quick and friendly service, Katsu Sushi provides plenty of seating and a clean, comfortable environment. Perfect for a delectable lunch or dinner, Katsu Sushi ensures both accessibility and convenience near other great food options.
• Bonchon New York - 1st Ave — Korean · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of Gramercy Park, Bonchon New York - 1st Ave is a family-friendly eatery that specializes in Korean fried chicken and other tantalizing Asian fusion dishes. With a vibrant atmosphere and a delicious menu featuring comfort foods like bulgogi fries, coleslaw, and house fried rice, this spot is perfect for dine-in, takeout, or catering. Open daily, Bonchon offers a welcoming and clean space, making it an ideal destination for both quick bites and leisurely meals. Join the community of satisfied diners and discover why this venue enjoys a high rating with over 500 reviews!
• Marko's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Located at Waterside Plaza, Marko's Pizzeria offers delightful all-you-can-eat comfort food in a casual setting. With a menu featuring pizza, pasta, salads, and even breakfast options, there's something for everyone. Highlights include their grandma pie, pepperoni pizza, and calzones. The friendly staff and fast service make it a popular spot. Enjoy their happy hour specials, beer, wine, and outdoor seating while taking in the scenic views. Open daily with convenient dine-in, takeout, and delivery options.
• Nom Nam — Vietnamese · rated 4.7/5: Nom Nam transports diners to the vibrant heart of Vietnam, where the intoxicating aroma of charred lemongrass and slow-simmered broths fills a space alive with energy and warmth. Each dish is a masterclass in balance, pairing the crunch of garden-fresh herbs and pickled vegetables with the deep, savory soul of traditional street food. This lively sanctuary celebrates the bright, bold spirit of Southeast Asian cuisine, inviting guests to savor the delicate harmony of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors in every bite.
• 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.
• Lan Larb Esan — Thai · rated 4.6/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a bustling night market, thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted rice and charred chilies that signals the arrival of authentic Northeastern Thai soul food. Vibrant plates burst with the sharp tang of lime and the deep, savory funk of fermented fish sauce, while smoky, flame-kissed meats find their perfect companion in baskets of warm, hand-pressed sticky rice. Every bite is a sensory explosion of heat and herb-forward freshness, creating a communal dining experience that transports guests straight to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Esan region.
• Sam's Place — American · rated 4.6/5: Sam's Place is a quintessential neighborhood cornerstone where the comforting clinking of silverware and the aroma of sizzling griddles invite guests to settle into cozy, leather-clad booths. The kitchen transforms simple ingredients into soulful American staples, serving up everything from golden-crisp comfort foods to succulent, hand-pressed burgers that celebrate the bold, honest flavors of the American table.
• 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.
• Roma Pizza & restaurant — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Welcome to Roma Pizza & Restaurant, a family-owned gem in Midtown Manhattan at 980 6th Ave. Enjoy delicious comfort food, from diverse pizza slices like pepperoni and chicken bacon ranch to hearty pasta, subs, and salads. With a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere and options for dine-in, takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery, Roma Pizza promises great service and unforgettable flavors. Open daily.
• 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.
• Isla & Co. - Midtown — American · rated 4.6/5: Isla & Co. - Midtown, nestled in the Hendricks Hotel in Manhattan, offers a delightful Australian-inspired menu featuring comfort food favorites like steak, oysters, and espresso martinis. This charming spot is perfect for both casual and special occasions, boasting a relaxed atmosphere with counter service, live music, and a full bar. Enjoy their unique drinks, friendly service, and stylish decor. With options for brunch, lunch, and dinner, Isla & Co. is a must-visit.
• Shokudo 34 — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Located at 138 E 34th St, New York, Shokudo 34 is an easygoing Japanese restaurant perfect for families and casual food enthusiasts. Specializing in comfort dishes like ramen, udon, and yakitori, the restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere complemented by fast service and attentive staff. Popular dishes include spicy miso ramen and okonomiyaki. Guests typically spend $20-30, enjoying options for lunch and dinner.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Omar’s Mediterranean Cuisine/Halal — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Discover Omar’s Mediterranean Cuisine/Halal, a welcoming spot in Midtown South, New York, serving flavorful Mediterranean comfort food. With popular dishes like hummus, chicken shawarma, and falafel, it's a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Guests appreciate the attentive staff and the option to dine in or take out. Enjoy a meal here while spending $10-$20, and don't miss the complimentary baklava! For reservations, call +1 212-213-0009.
• Molly's Shebeen Bar + Restaurant — American · rated 4.5/5: ### About Molly's Shebeen Bar + Restaurant Nestled in the heart of Gramercy Park since 1895, Molly's Shebeen Bar + Restaurant is a beloved Irish pub known for its cozy wood-burning fireplace and welcoming atmosphere. Featuring classic comfort food like burgers, shepherd's pie, and fish and chips, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a pint, catch a game, or savor a hearty meal with friends. Rated 4.5 stars by over 1,000 patrons, Molly's promises a memorable experience for anyone seeking a taste of Ireland in New York City.
• Thai Delight NYC — Thai · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Gramercy Park, Thai Delight NYC offers a warm and cozy ambiance perfect for enjoying traditional Thai cuisine. With options ranging from comfort food to health-conscious dishes, their menu features popular items like pad Thai, green curry, and drunken noodles. Known for kind and efficient service, this restaurant is ideal for a quick bite or a relaxed dinner. Visit them at 175 3rd Ave, New York, or call +1 212-228-9997.
• Take31 — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Take31 welcomes guests into a rustic, wood-paneled sanctuary where the warm glow of Edison bulbs illuminates a lively scene of communal dining and creative Korean comfort food. The air hums with conversation as diners dive into inventive small plates and sizzling iron skillets, all complemented by the smooth, creamy notes of house-made makgeolli infusions.
• Little Ruby's Murray Hill — American · rated 4.4/5: Welcome to Little Ruby's Murray Hill, a delightful spot in Kips Bay where Australian-influenced comfort food meets a cozy, laid-back vibe. Open from morning till night, this eatery uses local-sourced ingredients to craft delicious meals for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Popular dishes include the burger, shrimp pasta, and sweet potato fries. Enjoy friendly service, quick food delivery, and an inviting atmosphere at 442 3rd Ave, New York.
• Handcraft Kitchen & Cocktails — American · rated 4.4/5: Located in the heart of Manhattan's Kips Bay neighborhood, Handcraft Kitchen & Cocktails offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Known for its creative takes on American comfort food and an impressive selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, this spot is a local favorite. The decor features recycled materials and salvaged wood, creating a relaxed, unpretentious vibe. Enjoy live performances, happy hour specials, and attentive service. Come experience a blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and great company at this hip, industrial-chic gem.
• Mimi's Hummus — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Flatbush, Mimi's Hummus is an acclaimed Middle Eastern eatery known for its delightful array of Israeli comfort food, including hummus, shawarma, and the must-try shakshuka. Ideal for families and solo diners alike, this cozy restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. With glowing reviews for its impeccable service and charming ambiance, Mimi's Hummus is a local favorite. Visit: 1209 Cortelyou Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218. 🌐 [mimishummus.net](http://www.mimishummus.net/) 📞 +1 718-284-4444
• Döner Haus — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 240 E 14th St, Döner Haus offers a cozy takeout experience with a focus on traditional German doner kebabs. Featuring mouth-watering halal options, this relaxed eatery combines excellent value and flavorful dishes. With a current rating of 4.4 from over 850 reviews, it's a must-visit for hearty comfort food. Convenient parking, curbside pickup, and a friendly staff make Döner Haus a delicious and easy choice for your next meal.
• Pio Pio 7 — Spanish · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Kips Bay, Pio Pio 7 offers a cozy ambiance and tantalizing Peruvian comfort food. Known for its rotisserie chicken, ceviche, and sangria, this laid-back spot is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. With a menu featuring healthy choices and quick bites, you can also savor South American and Latin American flavors. Popular among families, Pio Pio 7 provides quick service and a dining experience that visitors love to return to.