There is sooo much to see in New York, so you want to make sure you plan wisely. Check out this guide on how to spend a weekend eating in New York City. Of course, we’ll only be scratching the surface. Someone can spend years and still not discover all of the restaurants and bars this city has to offer. Spoiler alert: this post involves a LOT of food.
Table of Contents
Friday: Arrive and Settle into Weekend Mode
Korean Dinner at Barn Joo Nomad
Fill up on shareable snacks at Barn Joo Nomad to kickstart your night. I cannot recommend this place enough – I LOVED the food. The dishes are sharing-style, so pick out a bunch for your table. There is literally no such thing as a bad order here. For drinks, I recommend their Serrano margarita (it has a spicy burn in the best way).
Dueling Pianos at Bar Nine
I am a SUCKER for a great piano bar. And Bar Nine delivered. The piano players and singers are incredibly talented. I swear they are able to play any song request and the drop of a hat. Quick humble brag: I requested Hall & Oates and the bar went wild (you’re welcome). The crowd comes here to rock out and have fun! This is a great spot to end a night singing along to the songs with a group of friends.
Saturday: New York Foodie Day
Walk the High-Line
Start Saturday morning by grabbing a coffee (very necessary after a long night out singing) and heading to the High Line. The High Line is a 1.5 mile elevated pedestrian path that flows through western Manhattan. There are some great viewpoints for pictures, various sculptures and artwork pieces to admire along it, and plenty of seating to pause and simply people-watch. You can literally sit here for hours and just watch the world go by. If you read most of my other posts, you know I treat people-watching as a sport.
Chelsea Market
While you are on the High Line, be sure to head to the nearby Chelsea Market. This market is full of art shops, a plethora of food options, and various events and classes. Drink and eat, shop, or just wander – there are so many great stores to check out! Knowing you have a brunch reservation after this, try your hardest not grab a bite at one of the many restaurants inside.
Brunch at ABC Cocina
ABC Cocina is a fabulous brunch spot. The dishes are tapas style, so I recommend ordering a mix of the menu to share. Some of my recommendations include: patatas bravas, guacamole, and flounder tacos – all are great to share for a light brunch.
Afternoon Aperitivo at the Eataly Rooftop
At Eataly’s SERRA Rooftop, no matter what time of year you come, you instantly transport to a spectacular rooftop garden. In nice weather, the retractable rooftop opens letting in sunshine and a cool breeze. This is a great spot to grab an afternoon charcuterie board and Aperol spritz.
Late Dinner at Chinese Tuxedo
Where are we eating next in New York City? Head to Chinatown for a late dinner at Chinese Tuxedo. At night the streets of Chinatown are quiet. However, head down Doyer Street, which turns into a pedestrian-only alley by night, and you’ll find a bustling crowd of people sprawled in the street waiting for their table at this Cantonese restaurant. The portions are fairly small and pricey, but absolutely delicious. You’re also likely to have a celebrity sighting or two.
If you are craving a night-cap after dinner, head directly next door to Peachy’s. There is a funky retro theme equipped with unique signature cocktails. However, it does fill up quick, so you may need to wait in line outside.
Sunday: Walk the City and Brunch
Walk the West Village
Spend the last day enjoying the city. I recommend meandering the shops in the West Village and making your way down the famous Bleecker Street. Here, you’ll find bakeries, boutiques, popular chains, and more. You’ll likely stumble upon weekend farmer’s markets and stalls.
Brunch at Pastis
One of the most popular brunch spots in the city is New York’s beloved Pastis. It’s a must-go-to place for a weekend in New York. The menu offers a wide variety of French favorites. Keep in mind, I recommend dressing well; the city dines here to see and be seen. (Although, I feel like I could say that for almost any popular NYC spot).
I hope you enjoyed a weekend eating in New York City and feel completely rejuvenated (and full). Time with friends in a fun city will do that! I hope you enjoy these suggestions. Let me know if there are other ways you enjoy spending a weekend eating in New York in the comments below.
For more USA travel guides and itineraries check out: