15+ Best Restaurants Near Rockefeller Center
Let’s be real, you’re at Rockefeller Center, you’ve seen the Tree, maybe you even face-planted on the ice rink. Now you’re starving. Finding good food in this part of Midtown can feel like a tourist trap minefield, but there are actually some gems. Here’s a rundown of the best restaurants near Rockefeller Center NYC has, whether you’re with your family, on a date, or just need a decent bite that isn’t a sad street pretzel.
Just a heads up: This is prime Midtown. Prices and wait times can be wild, especially during the holidays. Always check the official websites for the latest menus, hours, and reservation info.
The Best Restaurants Near Rockefeller Center NYC Has to Offer
Bar SixtyFive at Rainbow Room
If you’re looking for the absolute best restaurants near Rockefeller Center with a view, this is it. Located 65 floors up at 30 Rock, the views of the Empire State Building and downtown are just insane. It’s pricey, but worth it for a special occasion drink and a small bite.
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisine: American / Cocktails
- Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 65th Fl, New York
- Contact: https://www.rainbowroom.com | 212.588.8601Â
- Pro Tip: There’s a dress code, so don’t show up in your I ❤️ NY sweatshirt. Reservations are essential, especially for a window seat at sunset.
NARO
If you’re looking for something elegant and unique near Rockefeller Center, Naro is a fantastic pick. From the team behind Atomix and Atoboy, this modern Korean restaurant inside Rockefeller Center offers a refined take on traditional flavors with stunning presentation. It’s sleek, quiet, and ideal for a date or special lunch when you want to escape the Midtown chaos.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Korean
- Location: 610 5th Ave, Concourse Level, New York
- Contact: https://www.naronyc.com | info@naronyc.com Â
- Pro Tip: Try their lunch set for a taste of their artistry without splurging on the full dinner tasting menu.
Jupiter
Looking for Italian restaurants near Rockefeller Center that the whole family will like? This is a great bet. Also located right on the Rink Level, Jupiter serves up fantastic house-made pastas in a bright, modern setting. It’s relaxed and a solid choice for a high-quality, sit-down meal.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 20 West 50th Street, New York, New York 10020Â
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/jupiter.newyorkÂ
- Pro Tip: It’s one of the best kid friendly restaurants near Rockefeller Center that doesn’t feel like a kid’s restaurant.
Bill’s Bar & Burger
If you just need a good, reliable burger and a shake, Bill’s is your spot. It’s a classic American burger joint and one of the best casual restaurants near Rockefeller Center. It’s loud, busy, and perfect for families.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American / Burgers
- Location: 16 W 51st St, New York
- Contact: https://www.billsbarandburger.comÂ
- Pro Tip: This place is a constant recommendation on any “best restaurants near Rockefeller Center Reddit” thread for a reason. It’s dependable and relatively affordable for the area.
Tony’s Di Napoli
A few blocks over in Times Square, but this is the answer for large groups or families. They serve massive, family-style platters of red-sauce Italian-American classics. It’s not subtle, but it’s a ton of fun and you will not leave hungry.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Location: 147 W 43rd St, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.tonysnyc.com | team@tonysnyc.comÂ
- Pro Tip: One order of pasta can easily feed three or four people. Do not over-order, no matter how hungry you are.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner
This is not about the food. Let’s just get that out of the way. You go to Ellen’s for the experience. The servers are all aspiring Broadway stars who belt out show tunes while slinging burgers and shakes. It’s one of the most fun places to eat near Rockefeller Center and an absolute must-do if you have kids.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American Diner
- Location: 1650 Broadway, New York
- Contact: https://www.ellensstardustdiner.com | +1 212-956-5151 | tjordan@lessings.comÂ
- Pro Tip: The line looks terrifying, but it moves. This is a quintessential “tourist” thing that is actually worth doing once.
The Capital Grille
Need a classic, high-end steakhouse for a business lunch or a fancy holiday dinner? This is it. It’s got all the dark wood, big steaks, and pricey wine you’d expect. It’s an institution for a reason.
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Location: 120 W 51st St, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/thecapitalgrilleÂ
- Pro Tip: Their “Plates” lunch menu is a surprisingly good deal for the quality and atmosphere.
Duomo 51
This spot is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s an upscale Italian restaurant near Rockefeller Center that’s actually on the 7th floor of a hotel, offering a unique terrace view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s a quieter, more romantic option.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 25W 51st St 7th floor, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.duomo51.com | (646) 398-8098 | Duomo51@outlook.comÂ
- Pro Tip: Ask for a table on the terrace if the weather is good. It’s a great way to get a “view” without the 60-story price tag.
La Pecora Bianca
With a few locations in the city, the one near Rock Center is a reliable, vibrant spot for modern Italian. It’s great for a group of friends or a casual business lunch. The atmosphere is bright and a bit trendy.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Italian
- Location: 950 2nd Ave, New York (short walk)
- Contact: https://www.lapecorabianca.comÂ
- Pro Tip: The weekend brunch is very popular. They have a great cocktail list.
Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar
For a long time, it was tough to find good sushi right in this area. Blue Ribbon is a game-changer. It’s located on the Rink Level and offers high-quality, fresh sushi in a sleek, casual space.
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Japanese / Sushi
- Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Rink Level, New York
- Contact: https://www.blueribbonrestaurants.comÂ
- Pro Tip: It’s small, so it’s better for a pair or solo diners. You can also grab sushi to-go and eat it on the plaza.
Best Affordable Restaurants Near Rockefeller Center
Los Tacos No. 1
This is, without question, one of the best quick bites in the city. It’s always chaotic, there’s nowhere to sit, and the line is long. It is 100% worth it. Get the Adobada (pork) taco or quesadilla.
- Price: $
- Cuisine: Mexican / Tacos
- Location: 229 W 43rd St, New York
- Contact: https://www.lostacos1.com | +1 212-256-0343 | info@lostacos1.comÂ
- Pro Tip: The line moves very fast. Have your order ready. You’ll eat it standing up, and you won’t care.
Breads Bakery
Another fantastic quick option. Known for its chocolate babka (which you should absolutely get), Breads also has great sandwiches, pastries, and salads. It’s perfect for grabbing a quick lunch.
- Price: $
- Cuisine: Bakery / Cafe
- Location: 1290 6th Ave, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.breadsbakery.com | +1 212-633-2253 | info@breadsbakery.com Â
- Pro Tip: It gets slammed at lunchtime. Go slightly before 12 PM or after 2 PM to avoid the worst of the office rush.
Black Seed Bagels
Want a real NYC bagel? Head to the Rink Level. Black Seed makes artisan, Montreal-style bagels that are a bit smaller and denser than a typical NYC bagel, but absolutely delicious.
- Price: $
- Cuisine: Bagels
- Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Rink Level, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.blackseedbagels.com | info@blackseedbagels.comÂ
- Pro Tip: Try one of their signature bagel sandwiches, like the one with lox, cream cheese, tomato, and capers.
Magnolia Bakery
Yes, it’s the “Sex and the City” cupcake place, but the real reason to go here is for the banana pudding. It’s one of the best affordable restaurants near Rockefeller Center for a quick dessert.
- Price: $
- Cuisine: Bakery / Dessert
- Location: 1240 6th Ave, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.magnoliabakery.com | Hello@magnoliabakery.comÂ
- Pro Tip: Skip the cupcakes and get the banana pudding. Seriously.
Daily Provisions
A little bit of a walk, but worth it. This is an all-day neighborhood spot from Danny Meyer (of Shake Shack fame). The crullers are legendary, and the breakfast and lunch sandwiches are excellent.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: Cafe / American
- Location: 550 Madison Ave, New YorkÂ
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/dailyprovÂ
- Pro Tip: Get the Maple Cruller. It’s non-negotiable.
City Winery
This is a seasonal pop-up right on the plaza. It’s one of the most fun places to eat near Rockefeller Center because you’re literally in the middle of all the action, with a great “view” of the rink and the flags. It’s a wine garden with snacks.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American / Wine Bar
- Location: Rockefeller Plaza, between 50th & 51st St
- Contact: https://citywinery.com/rockefeller-center | +1 646-751-6033Â Â
- Pro Tip: Perfect for a break from sightseeing. Grab a glass of wine on tap and watch the skaters go by.
Still Hungry for More?
After you’ve refueled, you might be looking for a different kind of view. Once the weather gets nice, there’s nothing better than grabbing a drink with a skyline view. For the city’s best high-altitude spots, check out our guide to the 20+ Best Rooftop Patios In NYC.
More…