Rockefeller Center, one of the most iconic and bustling areas in New York City, is a hub of activity that offers something for everyone. From shopping and entertainment to dining and nightlife, this 22-acre complex has it all. When it comes to eating, Rockefeller Center is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Rockefeller Center, highlighting the best places to eat, from classic diners to upscale restaurants, and everything in between.
Classic Diners and Cafes
For a taste of old-school New York, head to the iconic Rockefeller Center Cafe, located in the heart of the complex. This cozy diner serves up classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Another popular spot is Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a retro-style diner that’s been a New York institution since 1987. Here, you can enjoy a delicious meal while being entertained by the diner’s talented waitstaff, who break into song and dance while they serve.
Breakfast and Brunch Options
For a delicious breakfast or brunch, be sure to check out Ellen’s Stardust Diner, which serves up a wide range of morning favorites, including pancakes, waffles, and omelets. Another great option is The Coffee Shop, a casual cafe that offers a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and light bites, including sandwiches and salads.
Breakfast and Brunch Menu Highlights
- Ellen’s Stardust Diner: Pancakes, waffles, omelets, and more
- The Coffee Shop: Coffee drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and salads
Upscale Restaurants
For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of Rockefeller Center’s many fine dining restaurants. Le Cirque is a AAA Five Diamond award-winning restaurant that offers a contemporary French menu in an elegant setting. Another great option is Chipotle Mexican Grill, which serves up fresh, sustainable Mexican cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Steakhouses and Seafood
For a taste of the finest meats and seafood, head to Smith & Wollensky, a classic steakhouse that’s been a New York institution since 1977. Another great option is Blue Fin, a seafood restaurant that offers a wide range of fresh fish and shellfish, all expertly prepared and presented.
Steakhouse and Seafood Menu Highlights
| Restaurant | Menu Highlights |
|---|---|
| Smith & Wollensky | Steaks, chops, seafood, and more |
| Blue Fin | Fresh fish, shellfish, and sushi |
International Cuisine
Rockefeller Center is also home to a wide range of international cuisine, from Italian to Chinese to Mexican. Carbone is a retro-style Italian-American restaurant that serves up classic dishes like veal parmesan and lobster fra diavolo. Another great option is Xi’an Famous Foods, a casual Chinese restaurant that offers a variety of spicy noodles and dumplings. (See Also: Where to Eat in Shinjuku? Culinary Delights Await)
Asian Cuisine
For a taste of Asia, head to Xi’an Famous Foods, which serves up a variety of spicy noodles and dumplings. Another great option is Shake Shack, a modern day “roadside” burger stand that serves up high-quality burgers and hot dogs in a lively atmosphere.
Asian Cuisine Menu Highlights
- Xi’an Famous Foods: Spicy noodles and dumplings
- Shake Shack: Burgers and hot dogs
Food Courts and Markets
Rockefeller Center is also home to a variety of food courts and markets, where you can find everything from classic street food to gourmet cuisine. The Dining Pavilion is a food court that offers a wide range of options, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Another great option is Rockefeller Center Market, a bustling marketplace that offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
Food Court and Market Highlights
The Dining Pavilion offers a wide range of options, including:
- Burgers: Classic burgers and gourmet options
- Sandwiches: Deli-style sandwiches and wraps
- Salads: Fresh salads and soups
Rockefeller Center Market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods, including: (See Also: Where to Eat in K11 Musea? Top Culinary Spots)
- Produce: Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meats: Fresh meats and seafood
- Prepared Foods: Gourmet prepared foods and snacks
Recap
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve taken you on a culinary tour of Rockefeller Center, highlighting the best places to eat, from classic diners to upscale restaurants, and everything in between. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Rockefeller Center has something for everyone. From classic American fare to international cuisine, and from food courts to markets, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
Key Points
- Rockefeller Center offers a wide range of dining options, from classic diners to upscale restaurants
- Classic diners like Ellen’s Stardust Diner and The Coffee Shop offer a taste of old-school New York
- Upscale restaurants like Le Cirque and Chipotle Mexican Grill offer a more refined dining experience
- International cuisine options like Carbone and Xi’an Famous Foods offer a taste of Asia and Italy
- Food courts and markets like The Dining Pavilion and Rockefeller Center Market offer a variety of options
FAQs
Where to Eat in Rockefeller Center?
What are the best places to eat in Rockefeller Center?
The best places to eat in Rockefeller Center include classic diners like Ellen’s Stardust Diner and The Coffee Shop, upscale restaurants like Le Cirque and Chipotle Mexican Grill, and international cuisine options like Carbone and Xi’an Famous Foods.
What kind of cuisine can I find in Rockefeller Center?
Rockefeller Center offers a wide range of cuisine options, including classic American fare, Italian, Chinese, Mexican, and more.
Can I find food courts and markets in Rockefeller Center?
Yes, Rockefeller Center is home to a variety of food courts and markets, including The Dining Pavilion and Rockefeller Center Market.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Rockefeller Center?
Yes, many of the restaurants and cafes in Rockefeller Center offer vegetarian and vegan options, including Ellen’s Stardust Diner and The Coffee Shop. (See Also: Where to Eat in Dorset? Coastal Delights)
Can I make reservations at the restaurants in Rockefeller Center?
Yes, many of the restaurants in Rockefeller Center offer reservations, including Le Cirque and Chipotle Mexican Grill.
