For the millions of AKC.org readers, when you’re in New York City for the 148th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, the excitement and fun is going to work up your appetite. If you’re not familiar with the area, finding a good place to eat can be a challenge; there are just so many options! But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered courtesy of AKC President Dennis B. Sprung. Plan your visit with this list of some of the best eateries in the Big Apple, and welcome!
Best Steakhouse: Benjamin Steakhouse
Benjamin’s continues to be a must visit, the ultimate place to go, and certainly the No. 1 steakhouse in Manhattan. The team of Benjamin Prelvukaj, Ben Sinanaj, and Victor Dedushaj provide New York’s best steak—or, if you prefer, excellent seafood. The atmosphere, service, and quality are first class. Celebrities galore. Best table in the house is No. 54. The famed maître d’s Mario Buqaj and Johnny Martinaj run the restaurant with top quality and welcoming precision. Monday through Friday breakfast, lunch and dinner and Saturday dinner.
52 East 41st Street, between Madison and Park Avenues
Reservations: 212.297.9177
benjaminsteakhouse.com/
Best Italian: Il Postino
Truly the No. 1 most amazing Italian cuisine served with class and in a beautiful setting. This gorgeous ristorante sits just two blocks from Bloomingdale’s and is certainly the best with “must try” specials galore including northern to southern upscale dishes. Excellent service and fine dining made it the favorite of celebrities. Bring your friends. A huge excellent wine selection awaits you. Congratulations to Luigi and Maria Russo on another giant success. Be sure to make reservations in the main room and request Table 2. Lunch and dinner served.
133 East 61st Street (corner of Lexington)
Reservations: 212.688.0033
ilpostinonyc.com/
Best Seafood: The Sea Fire Grill
This classical and beautiful East Midtown restaurant serves incredible seafood (as well as steaks) and features a limitless wine list. It offers a sophisticated ambiance that is friendly and makes you feel at home. Rated in the top New York City restaurants, maître d’s Alex Bogolli and Jay Dozza are the most caring professionals. Table No. 28 is perfect for people watching. Open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner and Saturday dinner.
158 East 48th Street, between Lexington and Third Avenues
Reservations: 212.935.3785
theseafiregrill.com/
Best New Restaurant in New York: Four Twenty Five
It’s new, it’s breathtaking, and it’s open! Four Twenty Five Restaurant by Jean-Georges. An exquisitely decorated ambiance with excellent food and first-class service. Reservations must be made—try 30 days in advance. At the front desk, you will be greeted by Shay leading a most wonderful and professional staff. Just a short walk from AKC. Of note, the Restaurant is open for dinner from 5:00-9:30 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 5:00-10:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and lunch beginning March 26th. Table 6 is special.
425 Park Avenue between 55th and 56th Streets
Reservations: 212.751.6921
425parkrestaurant.com/
Best Chinese: Hwa Yuan
This is the upscale restaurant in Chinatown that everyone is still talking about, said to be “A modern experience with traditional Chinese and a twist.” First, try the cold sesame noodles—which this restaurant made famous in America—and then order the finest Peking duck you have ever tasted. Owned by Chef Lien Tang, son of the legendary Chef Shorty Tang. It will make you come back for more. Sit on the main floor and choose table 1, 4, 7, or 9.
42 East Broadway, between Catherine and Market Streets
Reservations: 212.966.6002
hwayuannyc.com/
Best Greek: Periyali
Established in 1987, this first-class Greek restaurant is newly redecorated in a stunning setting. Classic favorites to start include: chicken livers with warm lentils, or red and yellow beets with garlic sauce. Don’t miss the mousakas. Ask for the fantastic maître d’s Demetri or Philippe and table 53. Enjoy lunch or dinner here. Next door to fabulous Chocolat Moderne, featured below.
35 West 20th Street, between 5th and 6th Avenues
Reservations: 212.463.7890
periyali.com
Best Spanish: Toledo
Since 1975 the finest Spanish food in town in a quiet atmosphere is Toledo, located close to Madison Square Garden. Called by Zagat “classic, old-world and handsome.” Owner Manuel Lorenzo serves the best Spanish classic fare in a very sophisticated setting. The paella dishes are simply superb and the flan is amazing. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner.
6 East 36th Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenues
Reservations: 212.696.5036
toledonyc.com/
Best Japanese: Nobu 57
The finest is the modern, trendy atmosphere, Nobu 57—chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s main international location—offers a chic uptown environment and modern Japanese cuisine. Keep an eye out for celebrities as it remains a prime spot for stargazing.
40 West 57th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
Reservations: 212.757.3000
noburestaurants.com/fifty-seven/
Best Special Treat: Chocolat Moderne
Maintaining its rating as the very BEST handmade chocolates ever in New York and beyond is Chocolat Moderne. Located between 5th and 6th Avenues in an office building, there on the 9th floor lies the most artistic and exquisite chocolates imaginable. The brilliant company, founded by Joan Coukos and managed with husband Jim Todd, offers “Art to Eat”—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even vegan chocolate. A treat everyone deserves to take with you, or they will ship; since last year’s review many dog people countrywide rave about the quality. P.S. — think gifts throughout the year!
27 West 20th Street
212.229.4797
chocolatmoderne.com