Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Washington Square | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Washington Square | 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• ME CHICKEN RICE — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, ME CHICKEN RICE is a delightful Thai restaurant that has gained acclaim for its specialty, Hainanese chicken rice. Offering a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere, the restaurant serves comfort food and quick bites, including roasted and fried chicken, and daikon soup. With friendly staff and efficient service, it's no wonder customers keep coming back for the delicious, affordable meals ranging from $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!
• 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.
• All'Antico Vinaio — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into this legendary Florentine institution, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of warm, salt-dusted schiacciata bread and the lively energy of a bustling Tuscan marketplace. Each towering sandwich is a masterclass in texture and flavor, layering velvety stracciatella and artisanal cold cuts between golden, oil-kissed crusts for a sensory experience that captures the very soul of Italian street food.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Bonsignour — French · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, Bonsignour serves up health-conscious comfort food in a casual, trendy atmosphere. Popular for solo dining and family-friendly, their made-to-order menu includes sandwiches, salads, and egg wraps. With offerings like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, and prices in the $10-20 range, this spot is perfect for a quick, delicious bite any time of day.
• 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.
• Don Angie — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this polished West Village jewel box, guests are greeted by a chic, high-energy atmosphere where checkered floors and velvet banquettes set the stage for a bold reimagining of Italian-American soul food. The air hums with sophisticated charm as plates of artfully swirled lasagna and vibrant, citrus-kissed salads arrive at marble tables, blending nostalgic comfort with a sharp, modern edge.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Carriage House NYC — French · rated 4.6/5: Discover the allure of Carriage House NYC, where New American comfort food meets artful cocktails in a polished, glamorous setting. Located at 142 W 10th St, New York, this highly rated spot (4.6/5 based on 92 reviews) seamlessly blends sophisticated ambiance with exceptional service. Offering dinner and dessert, its diverse menu features standout dishes like the lobster pasta and oxtail agnolotti. Take in the refined atmosphere while enjoying expertly crafted drinks and unforgettable flavors. Perfect for making reservations, with easy payment options, Carriage House NYC is the go-to destination for a memorable evening out.
• 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!
• Moustache Pitza — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Moustache Pitza offers a cozy setting for enjoying Middle Eastern fare. With a diverse menu featuring vegetarian and vegan options, this casual eatery serves up comfort food like hummus, pita, and falafel, alongside dishes such as babaganoush and chicken plates. Perfect for solo diners and families alike, Moustache Pitza is a delightful spot for lunch, brunch, dinner, or late-night snacks.
• 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.
• Joseph Leonard — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Joseph Leonard is a beloved spot known for its new American comfort food and charming ambiance. Popular for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, their menu features standout dishes like avocado toast, burgers, and fried chicken sandwiches. With a cozy, rustic interior and friendly staff, this quaint eatery offers a memorable dining experience. Reservations recommended.
• Oscar's Place — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of New York's bustling Hudson Street, Oscar's Place brings you an inviting blend of British and European cuisine. With its charming, cozy atmosphere, this bistro offers indoor and alfresco dining options, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy delectable dishes like fish and chips or bangers and mash, paired with a selection of wines and beers. Family-friendly and boasting a comfortable environment, Oscar's Place is your go-to spot for delicious food and warm hospitality.
• Le Gigot — French · rated 4.6/5: Le Gigot is a charming French bistro nestled on Cornelia Street in New York. Known for its classic French comfort foods like bouillabaisse and beef bourguignon, this cozy eatery offers a warm atmosphere and an extensive wine selection. Perfect for a romantic meal, it serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, and accepts various payment methods. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from 248 reviews, Le Gigot promises a delightful and memorable dining experience.