Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Little Italy | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Little Italy | Upscale Soul Food Food

• The Wren — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in a warm, convivial glow, this spirited gathering spot invites guests to linger over a vibrant array of elevated snacks and shareable plates designed for social dining. The air hums with energy as tables fill with charred shishito peppers, smoky brisket croquettes, and velvety whipped ricotta, each bite celebrating bold textures and communal flavors. Whether diving into a golden-fried chicken sandwich or sampling colorful vegetable dips, diners find a welcoming retreat where sophisticated comfort food takes center stage.
• Pecking House — Chinese · rated 5/5: Pecking House reimagines the classic fried chicken joint as a vibrant crossroads of Southern comfort and bold Sichuan heat, where the air hums with the aromatic scent of toasted chilies and sizzling poultry. Diners dive into shatteringly crisp chili chicken and spice-dusted wings that pair perfectly with smoky turkey bacon fried rice and the refreshing, charred crunch of wok-fried lettuce. From the fiery kick of handmade wontons to the savory depth of their signature sandwiches, every bite offers a masterclass in texture and a soulful celebration of cross-cultural flavors.
• Chomp Chomp Thai kitchen — Thai · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Chomp Chomp Thai Kitchen serves up authentic Thai street food in a cozy, casual setting. The menu features a variety of comfort foods, including vegetarian and healthy options. Popular dishes such as Pad Thai, drunken noodles, and khao soi are crowd favorites. With generous portions, attentive service, and a welcoming ambiance, it's perfect for both families and quick bites. Dine in, takeout, and delivery options are all available.
• Belo — Mediterranean · rated 4.9/5: Discover Belo, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Sunnyside, Queens. Offering a delightful blend of comfort food, cocktails, and beer, Belo's cozy atmosphere invites you to relax and enjoy. Kids are welcome, making it a perfect family spot. With a 4.9-star rating from 246 reviews, the friendly staff and flavorful dishes, like the standout Moqueca, ensure an exceptional dining experience. Outdoor seating, brunch options, and valet-free parking provide extra convenience. Visit us at 48-06 Skillman Ave for delicious food, great vibes, and excellent service. For reservations, call +1 718-255-7587.
• Dumpling N' Dips — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table, unveiling hand-pleated parcels that glisten with savory juices and vibrant, jewel-toned wrappers. This lively destination celebrates the art of the perfect bite, where a curated array of bold, aromatic dipping sauces invites diners to customize their journey through the rich, comforting flavors of modern Chinese soul food.
• Kabisera — Filipino · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Canal Street Market, Kabisera offers a delightful experience of Filipino comfort food in a laid-back ambiance. This casual eatery is perfect for lunch or dinner, featuring popular dishes like pork adobo, spam musubi, and various ramen options. With vegan choices available, it's well-suited for solo diners and families alike. Rated 4.8 stars, Kabisera also offers catering and accepts various payment options, ensuring a convenient visit.
• Streecha — Ukrainian (Note: The · rated 4.8/5: Tucked in the basement of 33 E 7th St, New York, Streecha offers a cozy escape into the heart of Ukrainian cuisine. With a simple menu brimming with comfort foods like pierogies, borscht, and stuffed cabbage, this intimate spot is perfect for a warm, hearty meal. Run mostly by volunteers, dining here supports the Orthodox Church's mission to aid Ukraine. Open Friday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, this cash-only gem ensures a satisfying and affordable culinary experience.
• YUBU SoHo — Korean · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of SoHo, YUBU SoHo serves up delightful Korean comfort food, including yubu-wrapped sushi, quick bites, and coffee. With a menu brimming with healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options, this casual eatery is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Fans rave about the spicy chicken, salmon, and crabmeat yubu. With friendly staff and a cozy ambiance, it's a charming spot where most meals cost between $10-$20.
• Eat Offbeat — Middle Eastern · rated 4.8/5: Nestled inside Chelsea Market, Eat Offbeat offers a delightful culinary journey with a unique blend of Sri Lankan, Nigerian, and Venezuelan cuisines. Savor comfort foods like chicken shawarma bowls, jollof rice with curry, and vegetarian or vegan options in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. The friendly staff and affordable prices enhance the dining experience. A hidden gem worth exploring!
• Super Taste — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Super Taste, located at 1502 1st Ave., New York, serves up authentic Chinese comfort food with a cozy, informal atmosphere. Featuring world-famous noodle dishes, dumplings, and sandwiches, this eatery on the Upper East Side offers both dine-in and takeout options. Popular menu items include Sichuan-style dumplings and beef noodles. Open daily from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM, it's a must-visit for delicious, affordable meals priced between $10-$20.
• Spring Cafe — American · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Chinatown's Canal Centre Building, Spring Cafe offers a cozy haven for vegan cuisine enthusiasts. Featuring plant-based comfort food from burgers and sandwiches to bento boxes, this spot is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Patrons love the welcoming staff and charming atmosphere, making it a favorite for solo dining. Visit us at 153d Centre St, New York, and enjoy a delightful meal with us! 🌱
• Cafe Katja — German · rated 4.7/5: This rustic Lower East Side sanctuary envelops guests in the warmth of polished wood and glowing candlelight, creating an intimate atmosphere that hums with the conviviality of a traditional European tavern. The kitchen breathes life into Alpine soul food, from the satisfying crunch of golden-brown schnitzel to the savory snap of house-made sausages served alongside tangy, slow-simmered kraut. Each plate is a celebration of hearty, honest flavors, best enjoyed with a cold, frothy stein amidst the lively chatter of a neighborhood favorite.
• Jerrell's BETR BRGR - SOHO — American · rated 4.7/5: Located in the heart of SoHo, Jerrell's BETR BRGR is a must-visit vegan eatery specializing in 100% plant-based burgers, waffle fries, and shakes. This Black-owned gem caters to a meat-free lifestyle with fresh, made-to-order dishes that delight the taste buds. With outdoor seating and curbside pickup options, it's a perfect spot to enjoy delicious, vegan comfort food in New York City. Rated 4.7 by over 600 guests, Jerrell's promises top-notch quality and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Cafe Himalaya — Indian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the vibrant East Village, Café Himalaya offers a cozy, casual atmosphere perfect for savoring authentic Tibetan and Himalayan cuisine. Specializing in comfort food with vegetarian and vegan options, popular dishes include momos, thukpa, and pan-fried dumplings. The quick service and kind staff enhance the experience, making it an ideal spot for a delicious, affordable meal.
• Guyanese Treats — Indian · rated 4.7/5: Guyanese Treats in Elizabethport offers a cozy, casual setting perfect for lunch or dinner. Specializing in Caribbean comfort food, the menu features jerk chicken, curry chicken, roti, and fried sweet plantains. With options for takeout and curbside pickup, it's convenient for solo dining or family meals. Open Monday through Saturday, this small gem invites you to savor flavorful dishes in a relaxed atmosphere without breaking the bank.
• L’Amore Restaurant — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Little Italy, L’Amore Restaurant offers a cozy, romantic ambiance perfect for enjoying classic Italian comfort food. Known for its friendly and swift service, the menu boasts delicious options like lobster ravioli, homemade lasagna, and the best tiramisu you'll ever taste. Reservations are accepted, and with a rating of 4.7 stars from over 1,900 reviews, it's an ideal spot for lunch or dinner in NYC.
• Revelie — French · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Soho, Revelie delights with a blend of comfort food and French classics, offering everything from burgers and sandwiches to mouthwatering desserts. With a rating of 4.7 stars from satisfied diners, it's perfect for a casual meal, brunch, or a lively sports viewing with a glass of wine. Conveniently located at 179 Prince St, New York, Revelie combines a retro vibe with modern amenities, making it a must-visit.
• Baba's Pierogies — Middle Eastern? No. · rated 4.7/5: Located at 295 3rd Ave in Brooklyn, Baba's Pierogies offers a delightful culinary experience featuring both traditional and innovative pierogi fillings. With a 4.7-star rating from 880 reviews, this casual eatery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with beer and wine. Ideal for families, the restaurant provides free street parking, wheelchair accessibility, and options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. A true gem for comfort food lovers!
• Kennedy: Chicken and Burgers — American · rated 4.7/5: "Kennedy: Chicken and Burgers" in the Bronx is your go-to destination for delicious comfort food, highly recommended for late-night cravings. With glowing reviews lauding their fresh, flavorful dishes and exceptional customer service, this family-friendly spot is perfect for a satisfying meal. Open daily from 10 AM to 3 AM, they offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. Located at 12 E 167th St, Bronx, NY 10452.
• Champion Pizza — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Located within the bustling Rego Center in Rego Park, Champion Pizza offers a haven for pizza enthusiasts. With a focus on comfort food, the menu highlights a variety of pizzas, including specialties like the truffle, buffalo chicken, and margherita pesto slices. The casual and kid-friendly atmosphere, coupled with gracious and attentive staff, make it an inviting spot for families and groups. Whether you're dining in or taking out, Champion Pizza promises a delightful experience.
• Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Nolita, Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar is a warm, brick-lined haven offering a delightful array of ramen, sushi, and Japanese-inspired comfort foods. With a cozy ambiance perfect for families and solo diners, patrons can enjoy a diverse menu featuring vegetarian options and happy-hour specials. Renowned for its fresh ingredients and friendly service, Zutto provides a memorable dining experience.
• Tiptara : Thai Food — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the Lower East Side, Tiptara serves up authentic Thai comfort food in a cozy, informal setting. Whether you're dining in or opting for takeout, you'll enjoy fast service and a menu boasting popular dishes like pad Thai, red curry, and mango sticky rice. Particularly loved for its accessible price range and friendly staff, this spot is a gem for anyone looking to savor true Thai flavors.
• Café Habana — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: This vibrant urban retreat pulses with energy, drawing guests in with the intoxicating scent of charred corn, zesty lime, and slow-simmered spices. Inside, neon lights and retro accents create a lively backdrop for savoring bold Mexican flavors, from smoky, cheese-dusted elote to tender meats infused with the heat of sun-drenched chilis. It is a sensory celebration of street-food soul, where every plate captures the spirited warmth and festive rhythm of a bustling neighborhood cantina.
• Chow House — American · rated 4.6/5: Chow House pulses with the energy of a modern gathering place, where the clinking of craft cocktail glasses mingles with the savory aroma of wood-fired specialties and artisanal comfort food. The sun-drenched dining room provides a relaxed backdrop for an elevated American menu that transforms familiar favorites into culinary art, ensuring every visit feels like a celebration of local flavors and genuine hospitality.
• Potluck Club — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Potluck Club pulses with the electric energy of a modern Chinatown dinner party, where neon-lit accents and the lively clatter of shared plates create a backdrop of spirited nostalgia. The kitchen breathes fresh life into Cantonese soul food, delivering aromatic dishes that balance deep, savory traditions with bold, contemporary flair. This vibrant communal haven invites guests to linger over a feast that feels both intimately familiar and thrillingly new, capturing the soulful pulse of a neighborhood in motion.
• Coffee Break — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Coffee Break is a relaxed kosher eatery that offers a delightful menu of comfort food, including sandwiches, pizza, and create-your-own salads. With a child-friendly environment and a kid’s menu, this spot is ideal for families and solo diners alike. Known for its inviting ambiance, Coffee Break serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with delicious coffee and desserts. Enjoy the fast service and explore popular dishes like eggplant rice sandwiches and avocado salad wraps. Visit Coffee Break for a memorable meal in a community-oriented setting at 683A Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn.
• Shu Jiao Fu Zhou — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in NYC's vibrant Chinatown, Shu Jiao Fu Zhou offers mouthwatering Chinese comfort food, perfect for both adults and children. Specializing in dumplings and noodle dishes, this affordable eatery ensures quick service and delicious flavors. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM, it’s an ideal spot for a quick, satisfying meal. Enjoy free street parking and takeout options, making it a convenient choice for any day.
• Asia — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in Middle Village, this family-owned Chinese restaurant offers a delightful range of comfort food for lunch and dinner. Loved for its warm, casual atmosphere, it’s a hit with families and children. Popular dishes include chicken with broccoli, fried rice, and egg rolls. With a focus on quick bites and late-night fare, the service here is consistently praised as excellent. Dine in or opt for convenient takeout.
• Meat and Bread — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the Lower East Side, Meat and Bread is a cozy halal eatery offering a delightful range of comfort food including burgers, wings, and fries. With popular dishes like chicken sandwiches, ribeye, empanadas, and brunch options like chicken and waffles, there's something for everyone. Featuring live music, this inviting venue is perfect for families and solo diners alike. Enjoy their lunch deals, vegan and vegetarian options, and don't miss out on their crispy fries!
• Sullivan Taqueria — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of SoHo, Sullivan Taqueria offers an inviting and laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Mexican comfort food. From chicken mole tacos to birria quesadillas, the menu is crafted with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes. Perfect for solo diners or families, this taqueria is praised for its excellent staff and quick service. Popular among locals, it’s a solid spot for a satisfying meal in NYC.