When you’re in New York City for the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, all 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 around the Big Apple, and enjoy!
Best Steakhouse: Benjamin Steakhouse
A must visit! Still in first place on this list, and rated 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 great maître d’ Mario runs the restaurant with classical and warm precision.
52 East 41st Street, between Madison and Park Avenues
Reservations: 212.297.9177
benjaminsteakhouse.com/
Best Seafood: The Sea Fire Grill
This beautiful East Midtown restaurant provides incredible seafood (as well as steaks) and is coupled with a limitless wine list. It has a sophisticated ambiance that is friendly and makes you feel at home. Rated in the top 25 of Zagat 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.
158 East 48th Street, between Lexington and Third Avenues
Reservations: 212.935.3785
theseafiregrill.com/
Best Japanese: Nobu 57
For a modern, trendy atmosphere, Nobu 57—chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s primary international location—offers a chic uptown environment and modern Japanese cuisine. Keep an eye out for celebrities as it remains a prime spot for star gazing.
40 West 57th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
Reservations: 212.757.3000
noburestaurants.com/fifty-seven/
Best Italian: Il Postino
Truly amazing Italian cuisine served with class and in a beautiful setting. This newly updated restaurant sits just two blocks from Bloomingdale’s and is certainly the best with specials galore. Combined with excellent service it has become the favorite of dog people and celebrities. Bring your friends. Congratulations to Luigi Russo on another big success. Be sure to make reservations in the main room and request Table 2.
133 East 61st Street (corner of Lexington)
Reservations: 212.688.0033
ilpostinonyc.com/
Best Greek: Periyali
A first-class Greek restaurant in a beautiful setting. Favorites to start include: chicken livers with warm lentils, or red and yellow beets with garlic sauce. Don’t miss the mousakas. Ask for maître d’s Demetri or Philippe and table 53. If with a crowd, sit in the Pink Room.
35 West 20th Street, between 5th and 6th Avenues
Reservations: 212.463.7890
periyali.com
Best Spanish: Toledo
The finest Spanish food in town in a quiet atmosphere is at Toledo, located close to Madison Square Garden. Owner Manuel Lorenzo serves classic fare in a very sophisticated setting. The paella dishes are simply superb and the flan is amazing.
6 East 36th Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenues
Reservations: 212.696.5036
toledonyc.com/
Best Chinese: Hwa Yuan
This is the upscale restaurant in Chinatown that everyone is talking about. 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 Tang. It will make you come back for more. Sit downstairs and choose table 1, 4, 7, or 9.
42 East Broadway, between Catherine and Market Streets
Reservations: 212.966.6002
hwayuannyc.com/
Best Dessert: Veniero’s
Save room for dessert and head over to the historic Veniero’s Pasticceria and Caffe. Specializing in Italian desserts since 1894, their over-the-top assortment of cheesecakes and other pastries are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try the pignoli cookies or the famous almond torte. Eat in, or take out!
342 East 11th Street, between First and Second Avenues
212.674.7070
venierospastry.com/
Best Special Treat: Chocolat Moderne
The BEST handmade chocolates ever in New York and beyond are at Chocolat Moderne, in an office building between 5th and 6th Avenues. There on the 9th floor lies the most beautiful and artistic chocolates imaginable. The company, founded by Joan Coukos and managed with husband Jim, offers “Art to Eat”—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even vegan chocolate. A treat you deserve to take with you, or they will ship. P.S. — think Mother’s Day!
27 West 20th Street
212.674.7070
chocolatemoderne.com