Standard Dinner Spots in New York City
Looking for a delicious dinner in New York City without breaking the bank? From affordable eateries to upscale dining experiences, New York City offers a wide range of dining options in the $15-50 price range. Whether you're craving pizza, sushi, or a juicy burger, you'll find plenty of affordable and tasty choices in the Big Apple. Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to the best dining spots in New York City within the $15-50 price range.
1. LaLou, New York City
LaLou is a Brooklyn storefront headlined by its 250-plus list of biodynamic, small-production wines. A market-driven food menu good for light bites or a filling dinner accompanies the extensive vino ensemble.
2. L'Industrie Pizzeria, New York City
Not your average slice shop. No salads or pasta here, just pizza - though on Wednesdays, L'Industrie cooks a particular sandwich. Check their Instagram for specialties of the day, and get in line when they open at noon.
3. June, New York City
Intimate Brooklyn-based dinner spot where the natural wines take center stage. Visit for locally-sourced small plates and to sample from their extensive list of bottles. The outdoor patio is the ideal setting for date night.
4. 19 Cleveland, New York City
Relaxed, contemporary Telavivian cuisine with a penchant for experimentation. Open seven-days-a-week, morning till late. Come for dinner, stay for drinks.
5. Fandi Mata, New York City
Mediterranean-influenced menu in an industrial colorful space. There's a large bar downstairs and a six-seat mezcal bar on the mezzanine. DJs start spinning at 8 pm so you can dance after dinner.
6. Cheeseboat, New York City
A bright and warm Brooklyn spot specializing in Georgian fare. Their namesake dish, the Cheeseboat, should not be missed - a boat-shaped bread served with different toppings. Dine inside or out, weather permitting.
7. Birds of a Feather, New York City
Sichuan noodles, dim sum, and other Chinese plates in Williamsburg. A new venture from Yiming and Xian - of New York's Café China success. Make a reservation. Outdoor dining and delivery are available.
8. Raku, New York City
Tiny Japanese restaurant specializing in udon. The menu includes other dishes such as donburi, sushi, and fried gyozas. An ideal spot for date night or lunch with a friend. Reserve at either NYC location to avoid waiting.
9. Hudson Hound, New York City
Elevated take on the American-Irish pub concept. Hudson Hound is an inviting spot for hearty meals, lively celebrations, and even just casual conversation over beer. Eat well, drink well, and socialize.
10. Bernie's, New York City
The menu here goes by less is more, offering a few powerful main dishes and sides. Grab a drink and try to scope out a seat at the bar. No reservations but the tables flip quickly.
11. 99 Favor Taste, New York City
All-you-can-eat hot pot and Chinese barbecue. An ideal place for a large groups to hang when they're not ready for the party to be over. Open late night. Has four locations throughout the New York area.
12. Aurora, New York City
Classic Tuscan food in a rustic-industrial style space. A restaurant with great respect for seasonality, and with over 150 wines on its menu. Their calamari is a popular dish to start.
13. Barano, New York City
Wood-fired Italian restaurant specializing in seasonal ingredients. All pasta is made by hand on-site, and each pizza features Barano's own in-house Mozzarella. Though best for dinner, the Williamsburg venue also serves brunch.
14. Casa Ora, New York City
Farm-to-table Venezuelan fare served in an elegant and modern setting. Think nostalgic, comfort food. They also offer "Cocktail Fountains", which come in a large crystal vase and hold 10-12 drinks - enough for the table to share.
15. Nami Nori, New York City
Nami Nori is a casual temaki bar specializing in open-style sushi hand rolls. The menu features signature temaki, crunchy varieties, classics, and a special vegan section. Locations in West Village and Williamsburg.
16. Red Rooster, New York City
Creative comfort food by celebrity chef, Marcus Samuelsson. Celebrating the roots of American food in the heart of Harlem - in a space that reflects the same inclusivity as the community that surrounds it.
17. Strangeways, New York City
New American cuisine in a open-air setting. Good for big groups, weekend brunch, and happy hour - the bar stays open until late. Strangeways take natural wines seriously too, so it's a worthy spot for those with a penchant for vino.
18. Rule of Thirds, New York City
Nestled between warehouses in Greenpoint and serving creative Japanese comfort fare in a chic setting. Food perfect for sharing. Good for big group meals and they even have independent bungalows for a more intimate setting.
19. Ugly Baby, New York City
The menu is always evolving with new bold authentic Thai 🇹🇭 flavors. Open Thursday to Sunday and it's reservation only, no lunch. Be honest with how spicy you want your food. Flavors can be... intense.
20. Thai Diner, New York City
Thai 🇹🇭 comfort classics mixed with techno American Thai. Get crab-fried rice, duck noodle soup, and fried chicken laab. Or get a little bit of everything and have leftovers for a late-night meal.