Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Murray Hill | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Murray Hill | 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Vegan On The Fly — American · rated 4.8/5: Located at 24 W 45th St in Midtown Manhattan, Vegan On The Fly is a lively vegan eatery offering quick bites for lunch and dinner. Specializing in vegan versions of comfort foods like gyros, cheesesteaks, burgers, drumsticks, and desserts, the restaurant provides Halal and vegetarian options with "beef" or "chicken" substitutes. With limited seating, takeout is a popular choice. Friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere make it a delightful spot to enjoy flavorful vegan fare.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Pando 39 — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in Midtown South's GIT Times Square, Pando 39 is a locally owned American restaurant and bar, specializing in comfort food and a wide selection of beer and cocktails. Popular items include burgers, wings, and guacamole. The modern, inviting decor sets a relaxed atmosphere perfect for solo diners, families, and groups. With friendly service and fast attention, this trendy spot offers a memorable dining experience.
• 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.
• 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!
• Tony's Di Napoli — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Located at 147 West 43rd St, New York, Tony's Di Napoli invites you to indulge in generous, shareable Italian comfort food. Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 or 11:00 PM, this bustling restaurant boasts a 4.6-star rating from over 6,600 reviews. Perfect for families and groups, Tony's features attentive service, hearty portions, and a lively atmosphere. Reservations are recommended to experience this culinary gem. Enjoy a menu brimming with delightful dishes, fine wines, and irresistible desserts.
• Pizza Town — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Park Slope, Pizza Town is a cherished family-owned pizzeria serving the Brooklyn community since 1988. Famed for its Italian comfort food, including pizzas by the slice, lasagna, and irresistible garlic knots, it’s a hit among lunch and dinner crowds. With a cozy, casual ambiance, it’s ideal for families, kids, and solo diners alike. Don't miss their renowned grandma pie and impeccable staff service!
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Kwik Meal NYC — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Kwik Meal NYC, located in Midtown Manhattan's Theater District, is a well-loved street food cart offering an array of halal comfort foods. Known for its marinated chicken and lamb over rice, gyros, falafel, and biryani, this cart has been delighting customers for over 20 years. With quick service and a casual atmosphere, Kwik Meal is a go-to spot for a delicious and affordable meal, often between $10-$20.
• 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.
• 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.