Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Midtown East | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Midtown East | Upscale Soul Food Food

• 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.
• Shawarma Bay — Middle Eastern · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Midtown West, Shawarma Bay serves up beloved Middle Eastern comfort food from a cozy food truck. Open for dinner and late-night cravings, their menu features delicious options like chapli kebabs, shawarma, falafel, and chicken souvlaki. With reasonable prices and friendly service, it’s perfect for solo diners and families alike. Don’t miss the chicken chapli kebab and fish masala-crowd favorites!
• Muna — Middle Eastern · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Midtown East, Muna offers a delightful Indian dining experience with a Himalayan twist. Enjoy familiar comfort foods like samosas, chicken tikka masala, and lamb biryani, alongside hearty vegetarian and vegan options. Guests praise the welcoming atmosphere, spacious dining area, and exceptional service. With $20-30 per meal, you can indulge in delicious desserts and a fine selection of wines. Family-friendly and perfect for solo dining, Muna ensures a memorable visit. Curbside pickup, takeout, and delivery are available.
• Benny John's Bar and Grill — Steakhouse · rated 4.8/5: Located in Midtown East, Benny John's Bar and Grill offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all occasions. This casual bar and grill delights guests with American comfort food, happy hour specials, live entertainment, and both indoor and outdoor seating. With popular dishes like lobster bisque and filet mignon, plus a diverse drinks menu, there's something for everyone. Ideal for groups and children, Benny John's ensures a pleasant dining experience from start to finish.
• 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.
• Reilly's Plates & Pours — American · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of New York, Reilly's Plates & Pours offers a delightful mix of comfort food, blending pizza and sushi with refreshing beer, wine, and cocktails. With a stellar 4.7 rating from 197 reviews, it's a great spot to catch a game or enjoy the outdoor seating. Open from early morning until late night, it ensures a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Visit for an exceptional dining experience!
• Fasano Restaurant New York — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of New York, Fasano Restaurant offers an exquisite blend of Italian comfort food and an impressive wine list. Located at 60 E 49th St, this modern eatery provides a casual yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for a business lunch or a romantic dinner. Guests can indulge in delectable desserts, savor a fine selection of wines, and enjoy private dining with a touch of jazz. Reservations are recommended.
• Il Monello — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Midtown East, Il Monello offers a cozy Italian dining experience featuring authentic comfort food for lunch and dinner. The menu highlights fresh pasta dishes, juicy steaks, and delectable seafood, with favorites like cacio e pepe, tiramisu, and porterhouse steak. Enjoy the inviting ambiance, attentive service, and a selection of desserts, coffee, and cocktails, all at 337 E 49th St, New York.
• OBAO Midtown — Thai · rated 4.7/5: OBAO Midtown is your go-to spot in Midtown East for delicious Thai and Vietnamese comfort foods with a twist. Known for its cozy and elegant ambiance, this Asian fusion restaurant serves popular dishes like pad thai, pho, and drunken noodles. With options great for kids, a fantastic tea selection, and prompt, attentive service, OBAO ensures a delightful dining experience for everyone. Enjoy a meal for $20-30 at this sleek destination, where the service shines just as brightly as the food.
• 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.
• La Bellezza Pizza — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Located on 145 E 49th St in Midtown East, La Bellezza Pizza offers quick bites and comfort food with a focus on delicious pizza by the slice. The menu features crowd favorites like cheese and pepperoni pizza, stromboli, and garlic knots. Family-friendly and highly rated, this laid-back spot is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Enjoy the flavors that have earned it a 4.6-star rating from over 200 satisfied patrons!
• Verdure — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Verdure is a cozy, family-owned vegan restaurant in Canarsie, Brooklyn, known for its healthy comfort food. Their menu features Jamaican specialties like ackee and stew, as well as popular items like vegan mac and cheese and fried mushrooms. With a welcoming ambiance and friendly staff, Verdure offers a delightful dining experience for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy a range of smoothies, juices, and a salad bar, all in a child-friendly setting. Prices range from $10-$20, making it an affordable option for delicious, conscious eating.
• The Pho Lexington — Vietnamese · rated 4.6/5: Located in Lenox Hill, The Pho Lexington offers a delightful array of Vietnamese comfort food for lunch and dinner. Popular dishes include pho, vermicelli noodle bowls, and banh mi. The casual atmosphere and fast service make it perfect for solo diners and those seeking a quick, satisfying meal. With generous portions and reasonable prices, it's a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
• 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.
• Souvlaki GR Kouzina — Greek · rated 4.6/5: Souvlaki GR Kouzina in Midtown East is a trendy Greek restaurant that transports you straight to Santorini with its cozy, next-level ambiance. Specializing in comfort food and small plates, the menu features authentic Greek dishes such as souvlaki, pita, and baklava. With vegetarian and healthy options, as well as happy hour drinks, it's perfect for both solo diners and families. Don't miss their saganaki appetizer and chicken souvlaki. Rated 4.6 stars with fast, attentive service, it’s a must-try for Greek cuisine enthusiasts.
• The Dawson Restaurant & Bar — American · rated 4.6/5: Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan's Little Brazil, The Dawson Restaurant & Bar is a family-owned Irish establishment offering a warm, cozy atmosphere. Popular for its comfort food, craft beer, and cocktails, this venue is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy a lively happy hour Monday to Friday, along with swift service and friendly staff. Ideal for groups, after-work drinks, or catching a game on TV.
• Fogo de Chão — Steakhouse · rated 4.5/5: The air hums with the energy of a traditional Southern Brazilian churrascaria, where gaucho chefs navigate the dining room in a continuous, rhythmic parade of fire-roasted meats carved expertly at your table. This immersive experience centers on the centuries-old culinary art of churrasco, pairing succulent, salt-crusted cuts of beef and lamb with a vibrant market table overflowing with fresh seasonal harvests and authentic Brazilian sides.
• NAYA Express — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of the Levant, thick with the enticing aroma of slow-roasted shawarma and the earthy fragrance of toasted za'atar. Here, the bright crunch of pickled vegetables and zesty salads meets the velvety richness of house-made hummus, offering a customizable feast that captures the soulful, sun-soaked essence of Middle Eastern street food in every bite.
• Canaletto — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in New York's bustling East 60th Street, Canaletto offers a cozy escape with its traditional Northern Italian cuisine. Indulge in comfort foods like pizza and pasta in a relaxed ambiance, complemented by a carefully curated wine list. With a 4.5-star rating from over 160 patrons, the restaurant is family-friendly and also serves coffee, beer, and delightful desserts. Perfect for lunch and dinner, Canaletto provides a memorable dining experience. Reservations welcome!
• Il Gattopardo — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Il Gattopardo, located at 13-15 W 54th St in New York, offers an upscale dining experience with traditional Southern Italian comfort foods in an elegant setting. With a 4.5-star rating from 690 reviews, the restaurant is known for its flavorful pasta, extensive wine list, and cozy atmosphere. Dine-in and outdoor seating are available, and the menu includes lunch, dinner, brunch, and desserts. Reservations are recommended.
• Milk N Honey — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Milk N Honey, conveniently situated near Maimonides Hospital in Borough Park, is a delightful Kosher dairy restaurant offering a variety of comfort foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Highly rated with a 4.5-star average and praised for its fast service, this eatery serves everything from pizza and falafel to vegan options and soft serve ice cream. Ideal for families and solo diners alike, Milk N Honey also provides takeout and delivery services, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all.
• Frida Midtown — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in Midtown East, Frida Midtown is a chic restaurant and cocktail bar merging Mexican and Peruvian flavors. With favorites like ceviche, birria tacos, and lomo saltado, the menu spans comfort food, vegetarian options, and late-night bites. Enjoy brunch or happy hour in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that suits both family outings and group celebrations. Known for its remarkable service, Frida Midtown promises a delightful dining experience.
• Certé — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in Midtown West, Certé is a cozy spot known for its delicious comfort food and late-night eats. Featuring a delectable menu that includes sandwiches, pizza, and soup, it caters to a variety of tastes with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners. While not reservable, the restaurant offers takeout, delivery, and even catering services for events. With a 4.5-star rating and rave reviews about its food and service, Certé is a must-visit for a delightful dining experience.
• Urban Space — American · rated 4.4/5: Urban Space captures the pulse of the city within a sun-drenched, industrial-chic setting where the aroma of charred oak and sizzling prime beef fills the air. This vibrant hub reimagines American classics through a contemporary lens, pairing artisanal comfort food with inventive craft cocktails that invite guests to linger long after the last bite.
• Blue Willow — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Blue Willow transports guests into a sophisticated realm where the delicate artistry of classic porcelain meets the bold, fiery spirit of authentic Chinese soul food. Amidst an atmosphere of understated elegance, the kitchen orchestrates a symphony of numbing Sichuan peppercorns, aromatic garlic, and silken textures that turn every shared plate into a vivid celebration of tradition and spice.
• Foxy John's Bar & Kitchen — American · rated 4.4/5: Foxy John’s Bar & Kitchen invites guests into a spirited, rustic haven where the warm glow of the bar and the irresistible aroma of sizzling comfort food set the stage for a quintessential American feast. Elevated classics take center stage, featuring juice-dripping burgers and savory, hearth-fired plates that pair perfectly with a cold pint and the lively hum of neighborhood conversation. This vibrant social anchor blends soulful flavors with a convivial energy, transforming every meal into a spirited celebration of good company and honest cooking.
• 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.
• Bloom's Tavern — American · rated 4.4/5: Bloom's Tavern, located at 208 E 58th St, New York, is a cozy Irish pub perfect for enjoying laid-back comfort food, hearty brunches, and a lively happy hour scene. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu featuring burgers, shepherd's pie, and other pub favorites, it's a great spot for groups and sports enthusiasts alike. Don't miss their extensive selection of draft beers, wines, and cocktails!
• TBar — Steakhouse · rated 4.4/5: Welcome to TBar, an upscale New American restaurant nestled in Lenox Hill. Known for its cozy and trendy ambiance, TBar serves a delightful mix of comfort food and vegetarian fare, perfect for lunch and dinner. The menu features standout dishes like chicken, tuna, oysters, and rice balls, complemented by delectable desserts such as apple crisp and strawberry sundae. With a robust selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, it's a great spot for solo dining or groups. Advance reservations for dinner are recommended. Join us at 116 E 60th St, New York, for an exceptional dining experience. Reservations: +1 212-772-0404 Website: [tbar.nyc](http://tbar.nyc/)