New York is home to the largest Jewish population in America, so there is no doubt the city is filled with some of the best kosher food. Although this dietary law prohibits the consumption of dairy and meat products simultaneously, there are still plenty of iconic restaurants that offer unique and flavorful dishes that abide by the rules, like pizza and sushi. Here are our picks for the best kosher restaurants in NYC.
See Also: The Best Matzah Ball Soup In Manhattan For Passover And Beyond
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45 E. 34th St. / 212.481.4222 / Website
Named after the ancient city by the Sea of Galilee, this restaurant has been a “purveyor” of Kosher dining and catering since 2011. This menu has options perfect for every family member and craving including pizza, pasta, sushi, salads and even their iconic chocolate milkshakes for your sweet tooth. Be sure to try one of their fish entrees, like the glazed sea bass in a glazed honey reduction or the 24-hour marinated teriyaki salmon filet with mashed potatoes and assorted vegetables for a fresh and flavorful feast. With outdoor seating and options for take-out or delivery, this eatery is open six days a week and is the only full-service Kosher restaurant in the heart of Manhattan.
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150 W. 46th St. / 212.869.0900 / Website
A “well-done” steakhouse is “rare” to come by, but Le Marais is serving exquisite Kosher meals that have never been seen before. The restaurant’s history dates back to 1995 when partners of a popular French brasserie were asked to turn their entire restaurant kosher. Now, co-founder Jose de Meirelles and executive chef Mark Hennessey are showing “there’s more to kosher than pastrami” through their mouthwatering French-inspired flavors and ambiance. This elegant yet comfortable steakhouse is highly notable across the city offering platters like “Confit de Poulet, Succotash de Maïs,” which translates to chicken confit and sweet corn succotash served with chimichurri sauce.
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209 W. 38th St. / 212.921.2152 / Website
What started as a local dairy restaurant and bakery in the late 60’s has now transformed into a showstopping business and landmark for many loyal customers. Chez Lenu, Mr. Broadway himself, changed the concept of the establishment first in 1985 to a full Mediterranean Glatt Kosher restaurant and later was recognized as the first midtown Kosher place to offer a full sushi menu in 2000. Now, they are a staple in the NYC kosher dining community serving twists on traditional Jewish Mediterranean dishes, like their homemade schwarma and dozens of sandwich options. This restaurant rich in family history will get a standing ovation as you yell encore for more.
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211 E. 46th St. / 212.461.1001 / Website
Joshua Kessler began his career in the corporate insurance industry but found his deep-rooted passion as he began quietly working in kitchens around NYC. Now, he celebrates enjoyment with growing menus prepared with seasonal ingredients, carefully crafted cocktails and a lively musical atmosphere, making it an “unrivaled kosher food experience.” The elegance and beauty of the space fit well with their unique menu offerings, like the aged barbecue beef ribs, polenta fries and even short rib gnocchi. Highlighting taste, texture and presentation in every dish they serve, Barnea Bistro takes pride in quality and experience making sure every customer leaves happy and satisfied.
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491 Columbus Ave. / 212.712.2222 / Website
Don’t mind if I “noi due” is what you will be saying once you take a bite of this Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Known for their brick-oven pizza and dairy-rich menu, their dishes combine the best of both worlds with their novel and contemporary red sauce perfect for vegetarian and kosher diners. For the sweet lovers, you can not pass on the cinnamon challah french toast or the Belgian waffle with Nutella and vanilla gelato served at brunch. Perfect for date night as “noi due” means “two of us” in Italian, be prepared to fall in love with this restaurant that undoubtedly is a go-to spot for the community.
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43 E. 34th St. / 212.725.8100 / Website
We all know the iconic Empire State Building is a symbol of New York but get ready to meet their neighbors as they become your new go-to Chinese and Sushi restaurant. With over 60 Chinese dishes and 100 sushi items, this fast-paced entirely kosher restaurant has been around for over 25 years and is perfect for a quick bite with a friend or co-worker. Plus, they offer delivery and catering if you are looking to avoid the crowded streets and enjoy your cravings at home or in the office. At Eden Wok, you can get everything from wonton soup to fresh salmon nigiri to hummus and pita bread, making it a neighborhood favorite for a delicious and versatile meal.
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127 2nd Ave. / 212.505.8065 / Website
One of the oldest kosher dairy lunch counters in NYC, B&H Diary keeps it old school. Located in the East Village, this mainstay serves up traditional Eastern European comfort food, including cabbage rolls, pierogis, matzo and challah. Expect to find friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere, all the charm of a classic diner and food that is so good you'll find yourself becoming a regular. Bring some friends so you can try every dish! You might even find yourself on their TikTok page!
Whether it is that classic deli sandwich or the modern veal chop, these are just a few of the Kosher restaurants that are staples in the New York scene.
Photography by: Getty
