The intimate layout, cozy bar, rustic vibes, soft candlelight, and hundreds of fresh flowers strewn over every surface by Palma herself, make us feel like we've arrived at a private home in the south of Italy or France. Most of the seating is in their enclosed back garden, which has a glass roof that opens up when the weather's nice. We like to come as a group to share the Meatballs, Cacio e Pepe Ravioli, Carciofi “crispy artichoke”, and their Arancini (they have fabulous gluten-free options). You should not leave without trying the Olive Oil gelato - it is our favorite frozen treat in the whole city. Reservations are a must!

There are many places to get Italian food in NY, but Aperitivo in midtown never lets us down! The open-concept space has a rustic vibe and vibrant energy. Here you can close your eyes and point to anything on the menu and land on a favorite. A few of our go to dishes are the Arugula Salad, the Orecchiette, the Penne Alla Vodka, the Baked Clams, and our favorite Branzino in the city (we eat a lot of Branzino, and we swear this is the #1).

This is not your typical NY slice. Are we in trouble if we say this is better? It’s a pan pizza that's airy, crunchy, and topped with homemade mozzarella, zesty tomato sauce, and creative toppings. Our favorite is the Pepper Trio, topped with pickled jalapeños, sweet cherry peppers, and green bell peppers, and finished with a sambal chili honey. Chef Matt also makes an amazing ranch dressing if you are an 80's baby and love that creamy, cooling addition to your slice. Don't judge! While Aces started in Brooklyn, the smaller Rockafeller location shop is fun, funky, and no fuss. We love to get a few pies and share, but if it's just you, they have a personal size for under 10 bucks!

You'll find this little secret hiding behind giant, red, floor-to-ceiling curtains in the lobby of the Thompson Hotel. The casual atmosphere is perfect for lunch or dinner when we want a no-fuss vibe. They serve classic burgers, plant-based burgers, fries, shakes, beers, and even desserts. We like our burger with "the works" - making it a truly dirty moment. Don't judge. Do ask for a pen at the register so you can add your name to the graffiti-covered walls! Send us a photo if you can find the BEZJON!

Chef Maria Loi is not just a celebrity chef with a television show, 36 cookbooks, multiple international restaurants, and her own retail brand, she is our beloved neighborhood Greek mother! If you’re lucky enough to dine on a night when she is in town, she will greet you, and feed you like family. Once you fall in love with the food here you’ll be happy to discover that you can find Maria’s dips in local grocery stores around Manhattan. Don't miss her stuffed grape leaves, spinach pie, perfectly done fish options, and her famous dips! Loi is at the top of our list for delivery as well - it's the perfect menu for a cozy night in.

Shuka is always a good idea! When our crew wants to get together for a meal and wants chill vibes, Shuka is the place! The blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors feels ancient and comforting. We like to order for the table so everyone can share the whipped feta with pistachios, the fried halloumi and warm dates, and all the delicious kebabs and turmeric rice.

A discrete green awning with no name is all that marks this iconic location. On a beautiful day, we take advantage of their gorgeous outdoor seating area. However, no matter where you sit you’ll enjoy a chic and intimate vibe full of French sophistication. They serve classic French-bistro fare including Mussels & Fries, and the best Steak Frites in town, but the greatest delights of the menu come in some of the more unexpected creations like the buttery Cajun Chicken that has become one of our favorites. Bilbouquet has been around since 1986 and has stayed at the top of the list of French Restaurants in NY for good reason!