New York is a city unlike any other, where every corner bursts with life and character. Whether you’re into chic spaces or dreamy floral-covered interiors, there’s something for everyone. The city’s modern rooftops and stylish restaurants are a dream for anyone who loves an aesthetic dining experience. If you’re like me, an Instagram-obsessed millennial who loves a good brunch spot, then NYC is your playground. Finding the perfect place that makes you want to go wild with your camera is easier here than anywhere else.
One thing about Instagrammable spots is that they don’t just rely on looks—they also serve incredible food. You might have moments where you admit you’re only there to take photos, but it’s even better when the food is just as great. Some of the city’s best rooftops, cozy cocktail bars, and sweet dessert shops offer a picture-perfect vibe and flavors that keep you coming back. If you’re venturing through NYC anytime soon, you’ll realize that the options are infinite.
I’ve lived in NYC for 4 years, and during that time, I made it my quest to explore some of the most beautiful dining spots. There are many cute shops and eateries that you can’t pass through without snapping at least one photo of a beautifully overpriced dish. It’s not just about the meal; it’s about how the eatery fits into your idea of #goals. Some places are so unreal that they feel like they belong in a viral Facebook video, and I swear I’m only half sarcastic when I say that.
So, if you’re looking for spots in New York City that will make you feel like you’ve walked away with an unforgettable memory, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re into matcha everything, adore millennial pink, or love hopping on the bandwagon of trendy places, NYC has it all. It’s fun to jump into the excitement of discovering new places while indulging in a calm and unique experience. Happy browsing!
1. Magic Hour Rooftop – A Dreamy Pink Paradise
Magic Hour Rooftop is one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in New York, offering a stunning view atop the Moxy Hotel. The scene is set for an unforgettable experience when you enter the colorfully lit tunnel. Once on the rooftop, the first thing to behold is the breathtaking all-pink rose garden decked out with over 10,000 roses. Every detail of this spot makes it perfect for those looking for an aesthetic dining experience with a touch of luxury.
Continuing the pink theme, the menus are just as picture-worthy. They serve rose cocktails, fluffy pink pancakes, gooey pink s’mores, and more. It’s a place where every dish is carefully curated to match the vibe, making it a haven for Instagram-obsessed visitors. Hidden in a corner, you’ll even find a miniature putt-putt course known as Foreplay, adding a fun and unexpected twist to the experience.
One of the best things about Magic Hour is its decor changes with the season, so there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the ambiance remains equally enchanting. Check their website for the latest updates so you don’t miss out on any new surprises.
2. Ladurée – A Taste of Paris in Soho
Ladurée needs no introduction—this famous Parisienne patisserie is known worldwide for its elegant desserts and charming atmosphere. With multiple locations in Manhattan, one of its most gorgeous spots is its boutique and tea salon in Soho. Whether you’re looking for an indulgent treat or a sophisticated setting, this place never disappoints.
The pastry display alone is a feast for the eyes. You can expect to find delicate ispahans, millefeuilles, fraisiers, eclairs, and countless sweet treats, including their signature macarons in various flavors. Every dessert looks like a work of art, making it the perfect spot for those who appreciate both taste and presentation.
For a more relaxed experience, Ladurée’s outdoor garden offers a larger menu that includes brunch and lunch items. Whether you’re sipping tea in the sunshine or indulging in a luxurious pastry, this dreamy spot is an absolute must-visit for those seeking an Instagrammable moment in NYC.
3. PHD Rooftop – Stunning Views and Luxe Vibes
The vibes at PHD Rooftop are always on point, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a glamorous night out. Located at the top of Dream Hotel Midtown, this rooftop destination is a mix of elegance and excitement.
With its indoor and outdoor setup, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan and the dazzling lights of Times Square. Whether you’re here for a relaxed evening or a lively night, the ambiance perfectly complements the city skyline.
PHD is known for its craft cocktails and signature larger-format cocktail buckets, making it perfect for large groups looking to have a good time. The drinks are not only flavorful but also make for an eye-catching addition to your Instagram feed.
Adding to its charm, the impressive decor includes a flower tunnel that changes with the season, ensuring that every visit feels fresh and unique. Whether it’s spring blooms or cozy winter aesthetics, this rooftop is always worth checking out.
4. Serra by Birreria – A Rooftop Escape to Italy
Serra by Birreria is a dreamy escape to the Italian countryside, right in the heart of NYC. Located on the rooftop of Eataly Flatiron, this restaurant offers a truly seasonal dining experience with a rotating menu of carefully curated dishes.
The warm, rustic decor changes with the seasons, making it a must-visit instagrammable restaurant throughout the year. Whether you’re here in the winter under twinkling lights or in the summer surrounded by lush greenery, every visit feels like a brand-new experience.
Their menu features Italian classics like calamari, spiedini, skewers, and seasonal pasta dishes. One standout is the Cavatelli di Spinaci con Agnello e Piselli, made with housemade spinach pasta, paired with a rich lamb and spring pea sauce. Served family-style, every dish brings a taste of Italy to your table in a setting that feels straight out of a postcard.
5. Fleur Room – A Chic Rooftop Bar with Nightlife Vibes
Fleur Room is a gorgeous rooftop bar that transforms from a stylish lounge into a high-energy club at night. Whether you’re here for the craft cocktail experience or the electric vibes, this spot is perfect for those who love a mix of sophistication and fun.
The interior is nothing short of breathtaking, with floral decor, high ceilings, and disco balls creating an ambiance that’s both elegant and lively. It’s the perfect place for after-work drinks or a wild night out on the town. The transition from laid-back evening cocktails to a buzzing dance floor makes it a must-visit.
Make sure you don’t skip the bites—their cheese boards, caviar sando, and other plates are just as impressive as the drinks. Every dish is carefully crafted to complement the overall experience, making this rooftop destination a true NYC gem.
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6. Cecconi’s Dumbo – Iconic Views and Italian Classics
For front-row views of the Brooklyn Bridge, paired with A+ pizzas and a tiramisu that rivals the best ones in Italy, look no further than Cecconi’s Dumbo. This spot is a true New York classic, combining breathtaking scenery with an authentic Italian dining experience. Whether you’re here for the food or the unbeatable backdrop, this restaurant delivers on all fronts.
7. Felix Roasting Co. – Where Coffee Meets Craft Cocktails
@felixroastingco is a must-visit for coffee lovers, offering an incredible selection of coffees that go beyond the ordinary. They’re known for their indulgent Whipped Ricotta Toast and innovative cocktail-esque coffee drinks, making it a haven for those who appreciate both style and flavor.
One standout on the menu is the Espresso Tonic, which features house-made tonic water, reduced Campari, rose water, Thai basil, mint, lemon, and espresso. This unique combination of ingredients delivers a refreshing yet bold coffee experience, proving that Felix Roasting Co. is far from your average café.
8. Pietro NoLita – A Rosy Pink Italian Escape
Pietro Nolita is not just an Italian restaurant—it’s a pink lover’s dream. The entire space is painted rosy pink from floor to ceiling, making it one of the most eye-catching spots in NYC. Everything, from the charming outdoor booths to the cozy indoor seating, stays true to its signature color.
While the décor is stunning, the food is just as impressive. Come for their delicious pasta, and stay for their homemade tiramisu, a sweet treat that perfectly rounds out the experience. This is the place to be if you’re looking for a stylish and satisfying restaurant.
9. Restoration Hardware Restaurant – A Rooftop Dining Oasis
Restoration Hardware Restaurant is as swoon-worthy as the curated furniture it’s known for, making it one of the most instagrammable restaurants in New York. The rooftop, nestled on the 6th floor of a luxury furniture store, offers a dining experience like no other. Arriving via a glass elevator, guests are greeted by an indoor oasis, where they dine beneath glittering chandeliers, surrounded by trickling fountains and indoor trees.
The ingredient-driven menu elevates the experience, featuring a long list of artisan wines and craft beers to complement the refined atmosphere. Popular items include avocado toast, cheese boards, truffled grilled cheese, and the RH burger, all crafted with high-quality ingredients that match the restaurant’s elegant setting.
10. Beauty & Essex – A Hidden Gem Behind a Pawn Shop
It’s the secret entrance that makes @beautyandessexnyc so unique. This hidden restaurant is tucked away behind an unassuming pawn shop, making the experience feel exclusive from the moment you arrive. Guests walk through the real pawn shop before stepping into a gorgeous 2-level space that instantly captivates.
The atmosphere is vibey, complete with a stunning skylight, while the food is incredible from start to finish. Be sure to end your meal with their signature Wonder Wheel dessert, the perfect sweet finale to an unforgettable dining experience.
11. Dear Irving on Hudson – Sky-High Elegance with Stunning Views
Dear Irving on Hudson is an elevated experience in every sense, located on the 40th and 41st floors of the Aliz Hotel. As the highest open-air hotel bar and lounge in Manhattan, it offers an unmatched setting for a night out in the city.
The chic decor and breathtaking views make this a must-visit destination for those who appreciate style and atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping on one of their expertly crafted drinks or simply soaking in the skyline, every moment here feels effortlessly sophisticated and solid.
12. Taiyaki NYC – Whimsical Ice Cream with an Asian Twist
Taiyaki NYC is a dessert lover’s paradise. It serves a luscious Asian-inspired soft serve that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. You can expect flavors like hojicha and matcha, along with exciting seasonal specialties that keep the menu fresh and unique.
They’re known for their legendary fish-shaped ice cream cones, but if you want something different, you can skip the Japanese fish-shaped waffle cone and go for an equally Instagrammable unicorn cone instead. And don’t forget to try their popular soufflé pancakes, which are as fluffy as they are delicious.
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13. POPULAR – A Luxurious Peruvian Jungle Escape
Dining at POPULAR feels like stepping into a luxurious, lush tropical jungle, where every detail adds to the immersive experience. Helmed by Chef Diego Muñoz—from the World’s 50 Best restaurant, Astrid Y Gastón in Lime—this restaurant offers an impressive, globally inspired Peruvian menu that’s as flavorful as it is beautiful.
The main dining area is lush, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable meal. Come for the pisco cocktails, ceviches, and wood-fired delicacies, each dish bursting with authentic flavors.
14. Electric Lemon – Elevated Dining at Hudson Yards
Electric Lemon is a sleek and modern dining destination located on top of the Equinox Hotel in Hudson Yards. With an indoor-outdoor space, it provides a refined atmosphere perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, their thoughtfully curated menus ensure a memorable dining experience with breathtaking city views.
15. Milk & Cream Bar – A Nostalgic Cereal Lover’s Dream
@milkandcreambar, located in New York’s Chinatown, takes soft serve to a new level. They make a luscious soft serve by blending your favorite breakfast cereals right in front of you, creating a customized and fun experience. Treat yo self by selecting the base, your favorite cereals, and toppings, then watch as it all gets dumped into a mc-flurry-esque machine for the perfect mix of flavors.
While this may not be much of an Instagrammable restaurant, their pretty all-dressed ice creams deserve a mention. The French Toast Crunch and Honey Bunches of Oats are featured here, proving that this spot is as nostalgic and delish as it gets.
16. Sweet Rehab – A Parisian Pastry Dream in NYC
Sweet Rehab is a must-visit pastry shop offering beautiful and delicious French pastries that are as stunning as they are indulgent. Their dessert jars and millefeuille are all created right before you order, making for a truly interactive dessert experience.
Their giant millefeuille serves 2 and features a thick, crispy pate sablée layered with 100% vanilla cream, homemade compote, vanilla chantilly, fresh fruit cubes, and garnishes—a perfect treat to share. The dessert jars are equally tempting, filled with dollops of chantilly, biscuit, fruit, and toppings, ensuring that every bite is a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
17. Bryant Park Grill – Elegant Dining in a Floral Oasis
Bryant Park Grill, located within the lush Bryant Park, is the perfect blend of sophistication and charm. The restaurant facade is decked out in florals, creating a dreamy setting that feels timeless and romantic. Known for its elegant and sophisticated dining experience, this spot is ideal for those looking for a refined meal in a picturesque environment.
For a more laid-back option, Bryant Park Cafe next door offers more casual fare. It makes it easy to enjoy the park’s beauty with a relaxed dining experience.
18. The Press Lounge – Breathtaking Skyline Views in NYC
The Press Lounge offers some of NYC’s most dramatic skyline views, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate a rooftop with a view. Located atop the Ink48 Hotel, this chic rooftop bar provides an unparalleled city perspective. As the sister venue to PRINT, it carries the same dedication to quality, ensuring that the ambiance and offerings are exceptional.
19. HANDS DOWN – The Best Gelato in New York
This is HANDSDOWN my favorite gelato in New York! With a mix of fun and classical flavors, this spot delivers a creamy, dreamy gelato experience that stands out in the city’s dessert scene. Whether you love traditional flavors or enjoy trying something new, this place has something for everyone.
20. Rag Trader & Bo Peep – A Hidden Cocktail and Piano Bar
Rag Trader and Bo Peep is a must-visit underground cocktail and piano bar, offering an intimate and vintage-inspired atmosphere. Expect plush velvet seating, dimly lit lampshades, and a serious cocktail program, making it the perfect escape for a classy night out.
The true highlight here is the live piano, creating an immersive experience that feels both nostalgic and lively. You’ll even catch guest appearances from the ever-so-talented waiters and waitresses, adding a unique charm that makes this bar stand out. Pair it all with small plates and expertly crafted drinks, and you’ve got a night to remember.
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Trendy and Unique Dining Spots in NYC
When friends visit and look for trendy, Instagram-able restaurants and bars, NYC has no shortage of spots with stunning interiors, unique food presentations, and unforgettable experiences. From the Greenwich Village charm of Sveta to the upscale elegance of Buddakan and Veronika in Flatiron, there’s something for everyone. If you’re into quirky aesthetics, Oscar Wilde and Chinese Tuxedo make great recommendations for tourists, especially during the holidays. However, while Bad Roman is the epitome of Instagrammable, many find the food and service awful, so proceed cautiously.
Westlight in Williamsburg offers a stunning atmosphere for breathtaking views of Manhattan, with a perfect mix of upscale and casual food, drinks, and city skyline views. If you’re looking for a retro vibe, Eavesdrop delivers with its craft cocktail bar, hi-fi speakers, and music, making it ideal for reservations and walk-ins. Meanwhile, Good Bar and Kaleidoscope are fun options, though some have left feeling disappointed. Potluck Club in Chinatown blends an iconic setup with an exceptional fine dining kitchen and bar experience for something more immersive.
For a more hidden experience, The Little Shop in Two Bridges and Seaport functions as both a speakeasy and a corner store, serving playful bites like spicy popcorn, jelly beans in a glass cup, and unexpected surprises. If Michelin-starred dining is on your list, Crown Shy delivers an energetic vibe with refined dishes. For cocktail lovers, Lovers of Today in East Village is a dark, hidden bar with a cozy, unique aesthetic, while Jongro in Ktown transports you to a Korean village with marble decor, offering a Korean BBQ with a Squid Game twist. Pocha 32 creates a moody atmosphere with dim lights, metal walls, soju caps covering the ceiling, and watermelon. Soju is an absolute must-try.
For desserts, Grace Street is one of the most picturesque spots. At the same time, Omakase at Shinn East offers an amazingly intimate setting, with a cheap (<$70) plate option, a covered, heated outdoor space, and only six seats for an exclusive chef experience. Other Instagram-worthy restaurants include Lovers, Crown Shy, Westlight, and Eavesdrop, all featuring great food, visually stimulating cocktails, and stunning spaces. If you’re in the mood for a fun Japanese dive bar, Katana Kitten serves playful drinks and bar bites, while Pinto Garden has a cute back room. Mono+Mono has a nice interior, and Davelle impresses with an Instagrammable menu featuring curry, uni, and mentaiko pasta.
Festive and Luxurious Dining Experiences
For a seasonal treat, Rolf’s German Restaurant is a Christmas wonderland, boasting fantastic food and a festive atmosphere. Over in Brooklyn, Rocka Rolla is one of the favorite places for coffee or drinks, offering a nostalgic NYC coffee cup experience that makes for iconic NYC pics. Serra at Eataly is gorgeous in the winter, with a charming menu that includes sushi and reasonably priced to-go boxes. Domodomo, Bondi, and Sugar Fish are excellent options if you’re craving sushi. Beauty & Essex is another solid pick for out-of-towners, offering a mix of exclusivity and fun, best enjoyed with a reservation for groups.
For a highly Instagrammable experience, Panna II Garden is as extra as it gets, with a top-tier Instagramable scale, while RH Rooftop is a fantastic brunch destination. La Grande Boucherie delivers an elegant rooftop dining experience, and for those who want a winter escape, 230 Fifth’s rooftop igloos offer the perfect seasonal outing. Casino in LES provides a hip and trendy atmosphere, while Oscar Wilde, despite being extremely Instagrammable, has a bit of a trashy lol vibe for some.
Veronika and Restoration Hardware’s caviar bars are top-tier choices for pure sophistication, while Polo Bar remains one of the most difficult reservations to secure. If you’re looking for beauty, Swan Room is undoubtedly one of the prettiest bars in NYC. Corner Bar, with its dining room and bar room, is a great mix of casual and upscale. Meanwhile, the Baccarat Hotel offers an unforgettable tea experience, while Hawksmoor is an excellent spot for a classy meal.
For those wanting an immersive dining experience, Serra at Eataly Flatiron has a stunning rooftop restaurant that changes with the season, transforming into a winter-themed wonderland with a menu to match. The entire space is set-dressed to the nines, with guests encouraged to get gussied up for a night of cocktails, smoke, and glitter-filled Instagram photos. Whether you’re there for the food, drinks, or ambiance, there’s a reason this spot is highly recommended.
For something new, Moono and Tin Building offer good food options, making them exciting additions to NYC’s Instagrammable dining scene. No matter your taste, the city is packed with visually stunning restaurants, trendy bars, and iconic foodie destinations that make every meal an experience worth capturing.
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Conclusion
Hope this guide to the most Instagrammable restaurants in New York helped you plan your next meal! If you’re looking for more city foodie guides for inspo, be sure to check out my recommendations, including the Foodie’s Guide to the Most Instagrammable Coffee Shops in San Diego and the top afternoon tea spots in NYC.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below or message me on Instagram @touristguidepro! I love sharing hidden gems and foodie finds.
And as always, thanks for stopping by!
— Shway