19 Trendy Restaurants in the West Village, NYC for 2025
A visit to New York wouldn’t be complete without exploring the best restaurants in the West Village. Considered one of New York City's most charming neighborhoods, the Village’s culinary scene offers everything from some of the best burgers in New York to Italian trattorias that have served generations of New Yorkers. Whether you're searching for great date night ideas in New York or planning to enjoy a birthday dinner in the Big Apple, this magical pocket of Manhattan offers a diverse dining scene that’s worth checking out.
Feature image via Sant Ambroeus
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- Best Lunch Restaurants in the West Village
- Romantic Restaurants in the West Village
- Low Cost Restaurants in the West Village
- Restaurants in the West Village FAQs
Best Lunch Restaurants in the West Village
1. Don Angie
Italian-American cuisine might seem ubiquitous in New York City, but Don Angie really sets itself apart from the other best restaurants in the West Village by offering a creative and elevated take on classic dishes. Start your meal with their signature tear-apart, stuffed garlic flatbread or the refreshing Chrysanthemum salad generously topped with grated Parmesan. While every dish is worth savoring, the lasagna pinwheels are a true highlight — arguably the best in the city. Don Angie’s drinks menu holds its own, too. Sip on a Nonna’s Little Nip, a bright mix of grapefruit, Campari and prosecco, or try the Pinky Ring, a bold blend of rye, Carpano Antica, Galliano and Campari. Located in a charming corner of Greenwich Village, this is by far one of the top restaurants in the West Village.
2. Lavaux Wine Bar
Lavaux is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for an authentic Swiss dining experience. Their menu is small but thoughtfully curated, featuring Swiss classics like raclette and charcuterie boards alongside three types of cheese fondue, each served with unlimited bread, mini potatoes, pickles and radishes. The fondue is undoubtedly the star of the show here, but there are also salads and dishes like beef tartare for variety. Be sure to pair your meal with a selection from their impressive Swiss wine list while taking in the restaurant’s laid-back alpine ambiance. You’ll find unique touches like a window table set inside an enclosed ski lift car, weathered wooden tables equipped with built-in bread slicers and walls adorned with enough copper pots to rival Julia Child’s kitchen.
3. Sant Ambroeus
For the best lunch in the West Village, head to Sant Ambroeus — a beloved New York institution perched at the corner of West 4th Street and Perry. Its outdoor tables are ideal for people-watching, whether you're savoring a morning espresso or sharing a bottle of wine at sunset. The menu is a celebration of classic Italian dining and features homemade pastas, seasonal dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients and delicate desserts like their much-loved Principessa cake. Once emblematic of the understated glamor that defined the West Village, Sant Ambroeus remains a cherished holdout and one of the best restaurants in the West Village, and dining here feels like escaping to old New York.
4. Morandi
If you’re looking for warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York, be sure to check out Morandi, a lovely bustling trattoria with charming, wood-paneled interiors that feels like stepping into one of those cooking classes near you where Italian grandmothers share their secrets. You’re guaranteed a lively dining experience here, whether you’re digging into comforting bowls of pasta or enjoying an aperitif, martini or a glass of wine. Sundays are particularly special, thanks to their lasagna, a decadent masterpiece layered with prosciutto, bolognese, béchamel and parmesan. Did someone say seconds?
5. 4 Charles Prime Rib
One of the best restaurants in the West Village, 4 Charles Prime Rib is a must-visit. This intimate spot channels the vibe of a luxe, speakeasy-style den with dim lighting, cozy nooks and a high-energy vibe. Reservations are released online exactly 21 days in advance at 9 a.m. and if you’re lucky enough to snag a table, prepare to enjoy the best lunch in the West Village.
Start with the American Cheeseburger which can be elevated with bacon and a fried egg for an unforgettable bite. The prime rib is juicy, tender and served with all the right sides, like golden fries begging to be dipped into creamed spinach. Finish your meal with a sundae or, if you can’t resist, another burger; both are worth the indulgence.
6. Sushi Katsuei
Sushi Katsuei is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for creative sushi at surprisingly reasonable prices. The menu often features rare and unique selections like firefly squid and barracuda, while the omakase experience is a must-try at just $65, and includes nine pieces of expertly prepared nigiri and a handroll. Even the side dishes, like the salads, showcase elevated attention to detail; think dressings that rival the artistry of the main courses. For those inspired by the artistry of Sushi Katsuei, exploring online cooking classes can be a great way to bring some of this culinary magic into your own kitchen.
7. Buvette
One of the top restaurants in the West Village, Buvette has an intimate, welcoming atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Parisian café. Chef-owner Jody Williams curates a menu that celebrates simple yet exceptional ingredients, from warm anchovy toast spread with cool butter to hearty staples like cassoulet and croque monsieur. The wine list is another highlight, reflecting Williams’ passion for thoughtfully selected bottles. Sip a rosé during brunch with friends or share a Loire Valley vintage over charcuterie in the evening.
Romantic Restaurants in the West Village
8. Justine’s On Hudson
Justine's On Hudson is one of those warm and cozy restaurants near West Village, New York that live up to the hype. This polished wine bistro features a warm walnut bar complete with a brass foot rail reminiscent of classic saloons, velvet banquettes and a striking Murano glass chandelier that anchors this inviting space. With a focus on peak-season produce sourced from the owners’ family farm, the menu evolves regularly so that every visit feels fresh and exciting. Opt for a mix of smaller plates to savor the seasonal produce or dive into one of the larger, meat-forward entrées for a more substantial meal. Wine enthusiasts will find themselves right at home with the restaurant’s all-European wine list, carefully curated to complement each dish. And the thoughtful pairing guidance makes exploring the menu a delight for both novices and connoisseurs alike.
9. The NoortwyckÂ
The Noortwyck reinvents New American dining with a level of creativity that makes even familiar dishes feel fresh and exciting. Start your meal at one of the best restaurants in the West Village with raw scallops served in-shell, paired with vibrant English peas and a hint of grapefruit for a surprising twist. While the menu isn’t exclusively Italian, their pastas are among the best in the West Village. Be sure to save room for dessert, as the pastry chef here crafts exceptional creations that are magical without being overly sweet. The space itself strikes the perfect balance: relaxed enough for casual after-work drinks but refined enough to celebrate a special occasion.
10. I Sodi
Among the best restaurants in the West Village to enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, I Sodi offers a quaint, intimate dining experience with white tablecloths and weathered wooden floors. The menu is a love letter to Italian tradition and features perfectly executed antipasti, house-made pasta dishes and hearty secondi. Signature dishes include crispy fried artichokes and the irresistible tagliatelle al limone, both brimming with flavor. While reservations are highly coveted, early diners can often score a seat at the walk-in bar, where inventive Negroni variations are the perfect pairing for the rustic Italian dishes.
11. Semma
Since opening in 2021, Semma has become a go-to destination for lovers of South Indian cuisine, and it’s easy to see why. Under the expert guidance of Chef Vijay Kumar, this West Village hotspot transforms traditional Tamil Nadu recipes into a fine dining experience while staying true to its roots. The menu is filled with life-changingly delicious dishes, like the crispy gunpowder dosa, served with spiced potatoes and the Kanyakumari Nandu Masala, a vibrant Dungeness crab curry. Make sure to pair your meal with one of their inventive cocktails for a perfect complement to the rich and aromatic spices. With attentive service and an inviting atmosphere, Semma is one of the best restaurants in the West Village for an authentic and innovative dining experience.
12. Libertine
One of the best restaurants in the West Village to experience real Parisian-style cuisine, Libertine is a top choice for both cozy dinners and animated get-togethers. The menu includes refined dishes like scallops and seaweed with monkfish à la Normande. For something different, don’t miss the Jambon Persillé, a unique example of French culinary tradition combined with a modern touch. Pair your meal with a glass from their thoughtfully curated all-natural French wine list, and soak in the ambiance of this charming bistro.
13. Bangkok Supper Club
For a taste of Bangkok in the West Village, you can’t go wrong with the lively Bangkok Supper Club NYC. The menu is packed with bold, exciting flavors and features incredible dishes like deep-fried octopus, tender beef tongue slow-cooked in lemongrass, and a luxurious brown butter poached lobster. Adventurous diners will find plenty to love, particularly in the creative cocktails crafted with unexpected ingredients like banana vermouth and beet-infused moonshine. The restaurant’s shareable plates make it ideal for groups eager to explore the diverse menu, while the staff members are always happy to guide you through the spicier selections.
14. Via Carota
Housed in a charming converted townhouse, Via Carota has earned its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the West Village. The rustic farmhouse decor provides the ideal setting for a menu that celebrates traditional Italian flavors. Signature dishes like their svizzerina — a perfectly seasoned beef patty — fried rabbit, and handmade pasta selection are crafted with a focus on fresh, authentic ingredients. Must-tries include the classic cacio e pepe and their rich, house-made ragù.
The extensive wine list showcases exceptional Italian producers, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal. While reservations are available 30 days in advance, the restaurant’s popularity often means a wait. Fortunately, the surrounding neighborhood offers plenty of great spots to grab a drink while you wait for your table.
Low Cost Restaurants in the West Village
15. Faicco’s Italian Specialties
For over a century, Faicco's has been a cornerstone of the West Village, earning its reputation as the go-to spot for Italian deli classics. The star of the menu is their legendary chicken cutlet sandwich; a colossal creation that is as satisfying as it is massive. Loaded with premium meats, fresh mozzarella and perfectly seasoned ingredients, it’s a sandwich that’s big enough to share (if you’re feeling generous). Beyond the sandwiches, Faicco's doubles as a compact Italian grocery. Shelves are stocked with imported delicacies, artisanal cheeses, and house-made specialties like jarred pesto. While technically a deli rather than a sit-down restaurant, Faicco's is still considered one of the best restaurants in the West Village for avid foodies.
16. L’Industrie
At L’Industrie, sourdough pies made with premium Italian ingredients take center stage. Giant basil leaves, freshly grated parmesan and indulgent optional toppings like creamy burrata and crispy soppressata make for unforgettable combinations. And while the menu offers elevated flavors, the foldable, perfectly greasy slices stay true to New York pizza tradition, so don’t forget the extra napkins!
17. El Jalapeño
One of the best restaurants in the West Village is actually a food truck called El Jalapeño. It's a cash-only spot that's a lifesaver for late-night cravings. This place truly comes alive after midnight when the post-bar crowd lines up for some of the best Mexican food in the area. The menu offers a full spread of tacos, burritos, gorditas and nachos. Packed with tender, caramelized pork, rice, beans and toppings, and finished with a fiery tomato chili sauce, the spicy pork burrito is a must-try for spice lovers.
18. Mama’s Too
This West Village newcomer (an expansion from their Upper West Side origins) has quickly become one of the best restaurants in the West Village, with lines that snake down the block. Mama’s Too signature offerings include an indulgent vodka sauce slice topped with whipped ricotta and a fiery number featuring Calabrian chili oil that'll wake up your taste buds.
While you’re at it, don't miss the pepperoni slice or their ingenious cacio e pepe pizza, which translates the much-loved pasta dish into pie form with remarkable success. For the adventurous, the poached pear slice offers an unexpected sweet-savory experience that somehow works brilliantly, while the Angry Nonna delivers a perfect harmony of heat, richness and honey-tinged sweetness.
19. Corner Bistro
Looking for an authentic dive bar experience in New York? Look no further than Corner Bistro, a casual bohemian bar that keeps things delightfully simple with paper plates and surprisingly affordable prices. Most items ring in under $15, a rare find in today's West Village, and the star attraction is their legendary cheeseburger, which is a favorite of Bravo TV host Andy Cohen.
The menu is intentionally streamlined with perfectly executed classics like crispy fries and grilled cheese alongside their famous burgers. The cash-only policy adds to its old-school charm, and the casual atmosphere draws an engaging mix of locals and tourists. Whether you're stopping in for an after-work drink or craving a satisfying meal, Corner Bistro is one of the best restaurants in the West Village.
Restaurants in the West Village FAQs
Is West Village a rich neighborhood?
The West Village is one of New York City’s most coveted neighborhoods, particularly due to its prime location along the Hudson River and its historic landmarks. With its narrow streets, brownstone-lined avenues and a rich sense of Old New York, it’s no surprise that properties here command a premium. In fact, the 10014 ZIP Code boasts the highest median price per square foot of residential real estate in the city — reaching $2,3 million as of December 2024, according to data from Realtor.com.
Why is the West Village so popular?
The West Village is a cozy neighborhood that offers a more laid-back, intimate atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of Manhattan. It feels more like a small town within the city and most people like that it provides a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere in New York.
New York is a city of contrasts, and nowhere is this evident than in its culinary scene. This selection of the best restaurants West Village offers a glimpse into its diversity and represents the neighborhood's impressive range. As real estate prices rise and the area becomes more exclusive, these hidden gems in NYC keep the vibrant spirit of the West Village alive and are essential stops on any foodie's trip.
What is the prettiest street in West Village?
Just a short stroll from Washington Square Park, Commerce Street is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque streets in all of NYC. This enchanting lane takes you back in time with stunning row houses that date back to the 18th century and tree-lined sidewalks that create a serene and timeless ambiance.
For even more fun NYC ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
