Best Restaurants for People Watching in Lincoln Square

80 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tavern on the Green restaurant

1. Tavern on the Green

4.7

Exceptional(18709)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Booked 140 times today

Tavern On The Green will be offering our Holiday Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from November 30th-December 29th. This is priced at $95 per adult, $65 per child and does not include beverages or tax. A 20% gratuity will be added to all checks. Dress Code: Smart Casual. Jacket and Tie are Not Required. * We do not permit sleeveless shirts for gentlemen nor athletic/running/jogging attire for any patrons in the main restaurant. Reservations as early as 60 days out through our Reservations Department at 212-877-8684 or reservations@tavernonthegreen.com

2. TAO Uptown

4.4

Awesome(14444)

Price: Expensive

• Pan-Asian • Midtown East

Booked 131 times today

A 16-foot Buddha, which floats above a reflecting pool filled with Japanese carp, presides over the scene at Tao. A favorite destination for celebrities and athletes, this Pan Asian restaurant specializes in authentic Hong Kong Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines. Tao has three levels of dining including the prized "Skybox" which offers views of this former movie theater unparalleled in New York. In addition to its 300 seats, Tao includes a sushi bar, lounge and two bars at which to enjoy the food and the show. Appetizers range from $8 - $18; Entrees: $16 -$39. Offering $31.50 Prix Fixe Lunch Menu year round.

A photo of Central Park Boathouse restaurant

3. Central Park Boathouse

4.6

Exceptional(894)

Price: Very Expensive

• Continental • Upper East Side

Booked 63 times today

Dine with us in the beautifully updated restaurant that reimagines the Boathouse's iconic history and charm. Reviving old traditions and making new ones – we’ve got something for everybody.Monday - FridayLUNCH: 12pm -5pmSaturday & SundayBRUNCH: 11am - 5pmIn addition, our outdoor Express Cafe, is open daily from 8am to 5pm. *For parties of 10 or more: please contact us at info@centralparkboathouse.com **Please Note** Our restaurant is located inside of Central Park, which means all guests must arrive on foot, there is no parking at our property. The closest entrance and cross streets are 72nd street and 5th Ave.

4. Joe Allen

4.7

Exceptional(4670)

Price: Expensive

• American • Theater District

Booked 89 times today

Please note; we only take reservations up to one week in advance.With Broadway's staggered start times, things get tricky, so if you're desired time is unavailable online, please give us a call, as we hold a certain number of tables for phone reservations only. For parties of six or more, please call the restaurant directly.Since 1965, Joe Allen has been a quintessential New York restaurant serving a classic American menu in the heart of the Theater District. Just two blocks from Times Square, it has been a favorite of Broadway performers, locals, and tourists for almost 50 years.We begin taking reservations seven days in advance starting at midnight online and at 11 a.m. over the phone. Because of staggered theatre times we can only guarantee reservations made online for one-and-a-half hours for parties of two, and two hours for parties of three or more.For reservations after theatre, please check your show's running time at http://joeallenrestaurant.com/show_info

5. The Smith - Nomad

4.7

Exceptional(5783)

Price: Moderate

• American • Gramercy Park

Booked 183 times today

The Smith is a casual American brasserie with four upbeat locations in New York City: The Smith East Village, The Smith Midtown, The Smith Lincoln Square, and The Smith NoMad, as well as locations in DC and Chicago. We care about every meal and every moment. The menu features bistro classics, seasonal fare, and craft cocktails. Walk in the door and you’re in for a great time. Whether it’s date night, drinks on the town, a big birthday bash, a working lunch, a boozy brunch, or an I-don’t-want-to-cook-tonight night, we’ve got you covered.

6. Pappardella

4.6

Exceptional(2794)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Upper West Side

Booked 53 times today

Welcome to PappardellaPappardella restaurant brings to you the flavors and food of Tuscany. Established in 1983, Pappardella offers a romantic setting of timeless charm with 20 foot ceilings, French doors; a stunning mural of Florence.Menu and service reflect the warmth and attention of the old world, as well as the diversity and techniques of today. we feature homemade pasta, artisanal pizza; other great Italian staples, like chicken parmagian, grilled branzino; scrumptious tiramisu.A beautiful outdoor terrace makes for great people watching in the warm months. Pappardella is conveniently located near the beacon theater, the museum of natural history &Central Park offering lunch; dinner pre fix, brunch.

A photo of Friedman's - 72nd St restaurant

7. Friedman's - 72nd St

4.6

Exceptional(107)

Price: Moderate

• American • Upper West Side

Booked 23 times today

A little about us & the culture that has been created… Friedmans is a family run business, which operates locations throughout New York City. Friedmans was named after the famous economist Milton Friedman who popularized the phrase, “there ain’t no such thing as a free lunch”. This phrase has gone on to be used in science, economics, finance, statistics, technology, sports, & now food. However, to put it simply, “to get one thing we like, we usually have to give up another thing we like.” Our mantra is simple, “Eat good food” and this is what we strive to deliver to our guests. For us, it has two meanings. Firstly, eat food that tastes good. Secondly, be proud of the food you serve. We know where our food comes from. We communicate regularly with our farmers and are proud to serve antibiotic free meats & local vegetables. Our mission is for you to love, respect, & enjoy, not only the food you serve, but also the team you work with.

8. Cecconi's Dumbo

4.5

Awesome(5210)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary Italian • DUMBO

Booked 201 times today

In support of the regulations issued by the city of New York, Cecconi’s Dumbo is now open for outdoor seating until 11pm. Cecconi’s Dumbo is a modern day classic Italian restaurant near Brooklyn Bridge park, specializing in hand-made pasta, wood-fired pizza and other Italian staples. Originating in Venice and with outposts in London and West Hollywood, Cecconi’s has become a critically acclaimed dining destination featuring simply prepared Venetian inspired food. With waterfront views of the Manhattan Skyline, join us in our main dining room, bar or patio dinner and weekend brunch seven days a week. Cecconi’s offers an elegant and relaxed dining experience for all guests.

A photo of The Champagne Bar at The Plaza restaurant

9. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

4.3

Awesome(83)

Price: Expensive

• American • Midtown West

Overlooking Fifth Avenue and the Pulitzer Fountain, The Champagne Bar at The Plaza, is reminiscent of the Champagne Porch that was in the same location when the hotel opened its doors in 1907. The most exclusive of The Plaza’s dining venues, which has welcomed legendary figures, celebrities, athletes and government officials, The Champagne Bar has become a favorite destination of today’s social set. The Champagne Bar specializes in delicious food featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by The Plaza's culinary team. Known for its finest champagne, caviar and wine, whether you’re ordering a multi-course meal or grabbing a specialty cocktail at the bar, The Champagne Bar's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining with friends, family, clients and business associates.

A photo of Red Rooster Harlem restaurant

10. Red Rooster Harlem

4.7

Exceptional(10557)

Price: Moderate

• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Harlem

Booked 72 times today

Located in the heart of Harlem, Red Rooster Harlem serves comfort food that celebrates the roots of American cuisine and the neighborhood's diverse culinary traditions. We seek to share the story of Harlem with our guests and offer a space that celebrates local artists, musicians and culinary talents alike. We embrace today's Harlem with a spirit of inclusiveness and community by hiring our family of staff from within the community, inspiring better eating through neighborhood cooking classes, and buying from local purveyors.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sarah
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We went to The Smith Nomad for Thanksgiving dinner. The portions were perfect, the food was out quickly but we didn’t feel rushed at all! The restaurant was extremely clean and all the staff were happy and helpful. We would definitely recommend and definitely go back!
More info
The Smith - NomadPrice: Moderate• American• Gramercy Park
•
4.7
O
Orlando
Denver / Colorado •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Took our daughters for dinner. The atmosphere was electric. The food was delicious. And the cocktails were amazing, especially the Last Emperor.
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TAO UptownPrice: Expensive• Pan-Asian• Midtown East
•
4.4
H
Heather
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
If I could give my experience today, 10 stars, I would! Nicole was an amazing server. She was attentive, professional, and very kind. She made my delicious meal a wonderful experience. Additionally, management was personable and professional , and making sure everything ran very smoothly. This was one of my favorite dining experiences at Tavern on the Green. Thank you again Nicole for providing such an impeccable service!
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Tavern on the GreenPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
•
4.7
K
Kristinvip
Philadelphia County •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great place for before show dinner! Great food, cocktails, and even better service
More info
Joe AllenPrice: Expensive• American• Theater District
•
4.7
A
Autumn
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The restaurant's location is unbeatable, with expansive windows framing Central Park. It feels as though the beauty of the park has been invited inside to complement the elegant, yet comfortable decor. The menu is outstanding and offers amazing cocktails. This restaurant is more than a dining spot—it's an experience. Perfect for a romantic dinner, celebratory brunch, or simply a treat for yourself, it checks every box. With its exceptional staff and unparalleled view of Central Park, it’s no wonder diners leave with full hearts and happy palates. Five stars, without question.
More info
Central Park BoathousePrice: Very Expensive• Continental• Upper East Side
•
4.6

Best Restaurants for People Watching in Lincoln Square

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80 restaurants available nearby

1. Tavern on the Green

2. TAO Uptown

3. Central Park Boathouse

4. Joe Allen

5. The Smith - Nomad

6. Pappardella

7. Friedman's - 72nd St

8. Cecconi's Dumbo

9. The Champagne Bar at The Plaza

10. Red Rooster Harlem

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