20 Best Restaurants in the Financial District (FiDi) (2024)

Post Overview: Best restaurants in FiDi NYC

During my first visit to New York City few neighborhoods made my eyes glisten like the Financial District (also called FiDi). The soaring skyscrapers turn the streets into canyons of concrete and steel that make it impossible not to keep looking up. Hell, it took me a week to work out the kink in my neck!

And ever since I moved to the Big Apple six years ago I’ve put in some serious man hours exploring the neighborhood. And you know what happens after you walk around from sun-up to sun-down lugging around a heavy camera? You get hungry!

So believe me when I say I know the best restaurants in FiDi. I’ve devoured my fair share of food at both sit-down restaurants and quick grab & go shops. So regardless of whether you’re just making a pit-stop or your hotel is the neighborhood, you’ll be eating good tonight!

The benefit of restaurants in the Financial District is that neighborhood caters to both everyday, working class folks and posh Wall Street executives. This means that you can often spend as little or as much as you want, and we’ll cover all the best in this article of the best restaurants in FiDi.

Are you ready to get to the good stuff? Because I sure am!

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide onWhere to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time?Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC,hands down.

#20. Luke’s Lobster

Opened in 2009, Luke’s Lobster is a family owned business bringing Maine-style lobster rolls to the masses. It didn’t take long for the small shack to expand, now operating in ten states and being responsible for one of the best restaurants in FiDi.

I know seafood can be pricey, but believe me the expense is worth it. By owning their own seafood purchasing business Luke’s Lobster is able to buy directly from trusted fishermen and you can taste the quality with every bite.

The quality leaves little room to wonder if Luke’s Lobster is truly one of the best restaurants in FiDi. They don’t skimp on the seafood either. The ratio of lobster to roll is generous and extremely filling. The menu should come with a warning label that says,caution: highly addictive.

Thenationally recognized lobster rollsare the star of the show, but the menu has a few other options. There’s also crab and shrimp rolls, as well as lobster mac & cheese and an amazing clam chowder.

Address: 26 S William St, New York, NY 10004

#19. Nish Nush

It’s no secret that New Yorkers love Mediterranean cuisine. What you may find surprising however is that one of the best restaurants in FiDi, Nish Nush, specializes in fully vegetarian Mediterranean food.

The ingredients are fresh (they have to be, there’s no over-powering meat flavor) and smell even better. The seasonings are mixed in perfectly and the flavors remind me of the street food I enjoyed while visiting Israel.

Even better, Nish Nush is one of the best-value restaurants in the Financial District too. Take the falafel trio platter for example, which comes with falafel, hummus, Israeli salad and an array of vegetables. It’s enough food for my wife and I to civilly share (we’re usually hungry dogs, fighting over scraps), and it costs less than $20!

As with most vegetarian restaurants you’ll also find an array of vegan options. Nish Nush makes a vegan schwarma (using soybeans) and although I can tell it’s not the real deal, it’s pretty dang savory.

Address: 41 John St, New York, NY 10038

#18. Dorlan’s Tavern & Oyster Bar

Dorlan’s Tavern & Oyser Bar has the laid back atmosphere of a neighborhood dive bar without the decades-long buildup of dirt and grime. Even through the casual atmosphere could serve as one of the best restaurants in FiDi for a date or get-together.

The wide array of pub-food is nothing to scoff at either. The boneless wings (and I’m usually a bone-in type of guy) are non-neogotiables and the burger and fish & chips aren’t too far behind.

The staff is surprisingly warm for a place that sees thousands of tourists on the daily and make for pleasant conversation while you order drinks.

Speaking of which, since Dorlan’s is a tavern, by default it’s one of the best restaurants in FiDi for anybody who likes beer. The namesake Dorlan’s IPA is my recommendation, especially if you like citrus-forward beer.

Address: 213 Front St, New York, NY 10038

#17. Pisillo Italian Panini

Every neighborhood has hidden gems, and as far as restaurants in the Financial District go that crown belongs to Pisillo Italian Panini. And wait – before you come for my head saying this joint is already well known I want you to know I agree with you, but not to the level it deserves.

The fresh meats, cheeses and veggies that go into the flavor loaded sandwiches are fresh and mouthwatering. Not to mention the folks behind the counter load them up like you’re a malnourished child and they’re your grandma.

There are over two dozen combinations to choose from, but be warned all the sandwiches are enormous. With most sandiwches clocking in around $20 you might think they’re expensive, but hell you can enjoy it over two meals.

The namesake Pisillo comes with prosciutto di parma, bufala mozz, porchetta, roasted peppers, aragula and balsamic vinegar. This sandwich alone warrants Pisillo Italian Panini a spot amongst the best restaurants in FiDi.

Address: 97 Nassau St, New York, NY 10038

Something to note: Although Pisillo Italian Panini is one of the best restaurants in FiDi, they do not accept credit card. This joint is cash only!

#16. Los Tacos No. 1

Perhaps the most well known taqueria in New York City, Los Tacos No. 1 has a lot of well deserved hype behind it. The founders (originally from Tijuana & California) noticed a lack of authentic tacos in New York City and opted to bring that Mexican flavor to Manhattan creating one of the best restaurants in FiDi.

Whilst they’re not the cheapest tacos you’ll find in NYC — they are the best. You can get 2 for around $10 and enjoy one of the best restaurants in the Financial District.

A simple menu pays homage to the traditional flavors of our southern neighbors. Things like corn tortillas made in house (always get corn) and pineapple slivers in their bestselling adobada tacos have helped propel them above their competition.

Even the ambience is authentic. Mexican music plays in the background, there are jugs ofaguas frescas(Mexican drinks) and standing counters to eat at rather than tables.Since this is one of the best restaurants in FiDi, expect there to be a line. Luckily it moves quickly and the tacos are well-worth the wait!

Address: 136 Church St, New York, NY 10007

#15. Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine

Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine was introduced to NYC in 1997, becoming one of the best restaurants in FiDi from the day it opened. Over the last 25+ years the Cuban powerhouse has gone on to expand to more than 10 locations across the Big Apple!

Founded by a Peruvian immigrant who enlisted the help of a Cuban chef, the restaurant is a prime example of NYC bringing folks together. At Sophie’s you’ll find an extensive menu full of Cuban staples that will have your mouth watering in no time.

If you’re in need of recommendations I suggest ordering the oxtails, which are served over a bed of rice cooked to peak juiciness. And while you’re there, be generous with the green sauce you’ll find on the tables, trust me.

Address: 76 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038

#14. Da Claudio

How can we talk about the best restaurants in FiDi without mentioning at least one Italian joint? Luckily Da Claudio is here to fill that void, stuffing you with carbs and an impressive wine list.

The seafood is (mostly) caught wild, the pasta is house-made and the menu changes with the seasons. All this to say, the food at Da Claudio is both fresh and sustainable.

As far as ambience goes, this place is great for a date. The modern design is sure to impress your partner before the food hits the table and the staff offer superb service.

Address: 21 Ann St, New York, NY 10038

#13. The Malt House

The Malt House is one of the best restaurants in the Financial District for bottomless brunch.

Boasting two locations (Greenwich Village & Financial District) Malt House provides double the opportunity to partake in a fun bottomless NYC brunch. With the purchase of an entree, patrons have access to 90 minutes of bottomless brunch co*cktails.

And don’t for a second think these are just your basic drinks either. Sure, there are mimosas and sangrias, but there’s a few unique drinks too. The maltmosa, made with wheat beer, champagne and orange juice is especially memorable.

The Malt House serves as one of the best brunch restaurants in FiDi to get your drink on. You’ll be hard pressed to find another restaurant in the Financial District that offers this much bang for your buck.

Address: 9 Maiden Ln, New York, NY 10038

Further Reading: Love brunch and want more recommendations? We got you! Check out 15 Best Spots to Grab Brunch in The Financial District NYC.

#12. Harry’s

If you’re looking for an affordable fine-dining experience, one of the best restaurants in FiDi is Harry’s.

Harry’s is steakhouse that looks fancier than it actually is (which is a good thing). The interior doesn’t match the price tag, especially if you join them for brunch. The spot is both elegant and sleek and the quality of the food makes it one of the best restaurants in FiDi for a date.

Every Sunday, Harry’s offers a champagne brunch special. With the purchase of an entree, for 90 minutes you’ll be served complimentary champagne with your meal.

Now before you attack me for calling this spot affordable, I’m not necessarily claiming it’s a $20/per person type-of-joint. Instead I mean it’s a spot where you can dress up and celebrate a special occasion without breaking the bank.

Thanks to the complementary champagne during brunch, alcohol won’t be an added expense. So keeping your tab under $100 for two isn’t impossible (unless you’re go-to order is steak, then you’re on your own).

Address: 1 Hanover Square, New York, NY 10004

#11. Xi’an Famous Food

Named after Xi’an, China — one of the easternmost cities in China (and last stop on the Silk Road!) — Xi’an Famous Foods offers the best cheap eats in NYC (it’s also one of my personal favorite restaurants in FiDi). Traditional noodle-centric meals are made from family recipes with the motto, “if it’s not spicy it’s not as good”.

Now the food won’t knock you out of your chair (unless you want it to) but most dishes have a customizable spiciness level so you’re fully in the drivers seat. Just bear in mind, the house made chili oil is what adds the kick, but it’s also what contains the flavor.

There are a handful of options under $10. The best selling B1 pork burger and B2 spicy cumin lamb burger are both under $7 and are some of the best meals you can get at a restaurant in the Financial District.

For the New Yorkers who want more of a sit-down meal I suggest the A2 Liang-Pi, which is a stir-fried noodle dish with scallions, bean sprouts, cilantro, cucumbers and spongy cubes of house made gluten. It’s *chef’s kiss*. Trust me when I tell you this is one of the few restaurants in FiDi you’ll keep coming back to (to the point where they’ll learn your name).

Address: 8 Liberty Pl, New York, NY 10038

#10. Kuu Ramen

Kuu Ramen is a small joint, but luckily the service is quick and the food comes out fast. However – don’t mistake their speed for low quality, Kuu Ramen is well worth a spot among the best restaurants in FiDi.

Surrounded by buildings of concrete and steel, Kuu Ramen adds a bit of warmth to the neighborhood. The still-steaming ramen is the perfect compliment to a rainy day, especially if you order something with some spice.

Outside of ramen, this Financial District restaurant is famous for its donburi. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a bowl of rice topped with a variety of meats and vegetables (like Japanese Chipotle).

And if you visit with friends, be sure to order the fried chicken, you’ll be pleasantly surprised! Far from what you’ll find at Popeyes the chicken is tender and served with spicy mayo, and is alone worth the pit-stop.

Address: 20 John St, New York, NY 10038

#9. Crown Shy

Elegant and posh, Crown Shy is where you bring someone you really want to impress. It’s one of the best restaurants in FiDi to celebrate an anniversary or promotion, or if you got it like that, a regular random dinner.

You’ll find an array of upscale American cuisine that is presented beautifully, on par with the setting you’ll be enjoying it in. The food is colorful and appetizing, only made better when you actually start chowing down.

It’s no wonder Crown Shy is one of the handful of restaurants in FiDi with a Michelin Star! Hell if I was a reviewer for the Michelin Guide I’d have bumped it up to two stars simply thanks to the delectable octopus.

You can expect to pay a pretty penny (especially if you order drinks) but hey, Crown Shy is the type of joint you visit when you want to splurge. As my mother would say, treat yourself!

Address: 70 Pine Street Ground Floor, New York, NY 10005

#8. Luchadores NYC

If you’ve ever been to Seaport odds are you’ve seen Luchadores NYC. The Financial District restaurant is quite literally a hole in the wall, where you can walk up to counter for easy Mexican eats.

It isn’t a sit down restaurant by any means – you won’t find enchiladas or fajitas. Luchadores is more like food carts found on California streets serving simple tacos and burritos off the griddle. The menu is catered for folks on the go, that doesn’t mean Luchadores isn’t one of the best restaurants in FiDi for a fun hangout.

You’ll notice folks sitting outside, and that’s definitely the preferred way to dine thanks to the charming string lights and outdoor seating. However, there is a trailer (yes you read that right) outfitted with a few tables where you can eat if the weather is less than desirable.

And if you read this whole section in anticipation on what the heck Luchadores even means, I’m going to tell you. Luchadores is spanish for “wrestlers” and the athletes are well known for their colorful masks and high-flying acrobatics. And as one of the best FiDi restaurants Luchadores creates a whimsical atmosphere with fun mask decorations.

Address: 87 South St, New York, NY 10038

#7. Manhatta

You can’t be in a neighborhood full of soaring skyscrapers and not enjoy a meal a few hundred feet in the air! So if you’re looking for the best restaurants in FiDi with a view, you’re not going to want to miss Manhatta (and no, it’s not a typo).

The restaurant oozes a fanciful vibe and you can’t help but feel like a socialite when visiting. This is especially true when you get the bill, up 60 stories and overlooking Manhattan, your visit will come with a premium price tag. 😉

The menu is full of innovative and modern flavors, mostly revolving around American staples. There is an array of fancy meats and seafood (like eel, you ever tried eel?) are seasoned and cooked masterfully by Manhatta’s expert kitchen.

And here’s a little bonus tip, if you can’t get reservations (which I recommend you do) but still want to check out the view, Manhatta’s bar opens an hour before the restaurant. You’ll get to enjoy the atmosphere of one of the best restaurants in FiDi without having to go through the whole ritual of a fancy sit-down restaurant.

Address: 28 Liberty St 60th floor, New York, NY 10005

#6. Temple Court

Okay we’ve covered a few fancy FiDi restaurants, but Temple Court has to to be the creme de la creme. Found in the legendary Beekman Hotel, the restaurant not only serves flavorsome food, it has the looks to match.

There are stained glass windows, chandeliers and a quiant, elegant charm that can be felt throughout. The waitstaff plays the part too, being very attentive and making you feel like a VIP.

As far as food goes, Temple Court has a lavish menu that’s fit for a special occasion. Celebrity chef Tom Colicchio (formerly of Gramercy Tavern, head judge on Bravo’s Top Chef TV show) really put his whole pizazz into curating the selection of starters, entrees and desserts.

It’s safe to assume that since Temple Court is one of the most elegant restaurants in FiDi it’ll be on the pricier side, but if you’re trying to save a buck (and in this city, everyone is) the restaurant offers a special too good to pass up. On Sundays you can enjoy a three course meal at a still-steep but more feasible $75 per person.

If you decide Temple Court is one of the handful of restaurants in the Financial District you want to visit I strongly recommend making reservations. Chef Colicchio celebrity status draws people in in droves!

Address: 5 Beekman St, New York, NY 10038

#5. Industry Kitchen

If you’re after a waterfront view while dining, one of the best restaurants in FiDi for this is Industry Kitchen. The waterfront restaurant is both modern and chic and the unobstructed views of the East River are some of the most calming.

When it comes to the cuisine, anything goes at Industry Kitchen. You can expect to find all sorts of dishes, like salads and grilled pinwheel sausages all the way to ahi tuna nachos and wood-fired pizzas.

Industry Kitchen checks all boxes as far as meeting spaces go. As one of the best restaurants in FiDi located on the water, you can meet with friends for a drink, link up with a date at night or treat the in-laws to a relaxing weekend brunch.

Like me, half of the city considers Industry Kitchen one of the best waterfront restaurants in FiDi.Make reservationsin advance to guarantee a table.

Address: 70 10005 South St At, New York, NY 10005

#4. O’Hara’s Restaurant & Pub

O’Hara’s Restaurant & Pub is as old-school and classic as Irish pubs in New York City get. Not to mention, the history packed into this one neighborhood bar is worth the visit alone.

Opened in 1983, O’Hara’s has stood the test of time and has proven to be one the best bars and restaurants in FiDi. In its heyday it was a hub for locals to gather, but what once served as a safe-haven was tragically destroyed in the September 11th attacks.

After closing and rebuilding over seven months O’Hara’s reopened, becoming even more of a sanctuary through its resilience. In the present it’s become one of the most iconic bars and restaurants in the Financial District.

This neighborhood staple has become a hot-spot for firefighters, policemen and folks from all over to get together and share a cold beer and reminisce.

Pro Tip:Ask to see the scrapbook of all the photos, news articles and aftermath clippings of 9/11. O’Hara’s survived the tragedy and pays tribute to those we lost.

Address: 120 Cedar St, New York, NY 10006

#3. Mad Dog & Beans Mexican Cantina

Anyone in need of a drink (desperately) must immediately strap on their shoes and march right over to Mad Dog & Beans Cantina, one of the best restaurants in FiDi for drinking. The joint is rarely empty but the staff always does a great job taking care of you.

At Mad Dog you can expect some of the freshest-tasting margaritas you’ll ever have. Folks are given the choice of adding a flavor (and there’s plenty to choose from) like mango, coconut, pomegranate, guava, cucumber and more.

And if you’re really looking to party consider ordering a margarita tower! With 100 ounces of the sweet, sweet nectar you’ll need to have a party of at least four to even have a crack at it.

It’s equal to about 10 drinks and flavors can be added too, just like with a regular margarita. It’s only available on the rocks (can you imagine having to blend 100 oz. of margarita?) and will leave you feeling warm & fuzzy inside. Not many restaurants in FiDi can offer the same level (or size) of a drink, so take advantage while you can.

Locations: 5 E 38th St, New York, NY 10016

#2. Trinity Place

One of the most unique bar and restaurants in the Financial District is Trinity Place. To access the bar you’ll have to walk through a front door made out of an old bank vault that was once owned by Andrew Carnegie (luckily it’s already open, you won’t have to crack it).

Once inside you’ll find a charming restaurant staffed by kind waiters and bartenders. It’s not necessarily a fancy FiDi restaurant, but it is a good spot for a casual meetup.

And if you’re looking to save a few dollars, Trinity Place is one of the best restaurants in FiDi for happy hour. The selection is small but enough has enough variety to get you buzzed on a budget. There are sub $10 co*cktails and buckets of beer available too! Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 – 6PM.

Address: 115 Broadway, New York, NY 10006

#1. The Fulton

Another one of the great waterfront restaurants in FiDi is The Fulton. It’s one of the most mesmerizing places to grab a bite, thanks to the jaw-dropping views of the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO.

The restaurant can be found on the first floor of Pier 17 and oozes a modern, elegant vibe. You won’t be out of place if you choose to clean up a bit, The Fulton is a great spot for an anniversary or intimate birthday.

There are floor to ceiling windows that help it stay open regardless of the season or weather. Hell, I even had a reservation once on a foggy day and debated on canceling, but I’m so glad I didn’t. There was an extra sense of romance added by the coziness of The Fulton.

And when the weather is nice they open up the windows and have outdoor dining available too. It’s a win-win, you can visit any day of the year and be thoroughly impressed.

The menu is made up of a modern take on American seafood and not only does the food taste incredible, the looks alone will have your mouth watering. Add in a little wine and there are few better waterfront restaurants in FiDi.

Address:89 South St, New York, NY 10038

Best Restaurants Financial District NYC (Post Summary)

1. The Fulton
2. Trinity Place
3. Mad Dog & Beans Mexican Cantina
4. O’Hara’s Restaurant & Pub
5. Industry Kitchen
6. Temple Court
7. Manhatta
8. Luchadores NYC
9. Crown Shy
10. Kuu Ramen
11. Xi’an Famous Food
12. Harry’s
13. The Malt House
14. Da Claudio
15. Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine
16. Los Tacos No. 1
17. Pisillo Italian Panini
18. Dorlan’s Tavern & Oyster Bar
19. Nish Nush
20. Luke’s Lobster

FiDi Restaurants (Map)

And there you have it my friends, the best restaurants in FiDi according to yours truly. If you think we missed a spot, leave a comment and we’ll make sure to check it out.

Cheers!