It’s well-known that New York is a very diverse place. That means there are a lot of restaurants with different cuisines. So if you need inspiration on what restaurants to visit during the Mid-Winter Break below are some recommendations in no particular order.

5. 886

Started in 2018 by Taiwanese Michelin star chef Eric Sze, 886 is a Taiwanese restaurant that serves Taiwanese food with an American twist. Some of their most popular dishes include popcorn chicken, beef noodle soup, and lo ba beng (pork over rice). The ambiance and decor are another reason why 886 stands out compared to other restaurants. Inspired by restaurants in Taiwan, they incorporate colorful LED lights, wooden tables, and plastic chairs. 

4. Wenwen

Wenwen is a sibling restaurant to 886 as it is also owned by Eric Sze. Having only opened in 2022, Wenwen has already received multiple positive reviews and 2 Michelin stars. Their BDSM  whole fried chicken (brined, deboned, soy, milk chicken with slaw) is definitely one of their most popular dishes. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, try the whole striped bass with fish paste black sugar-yuzu vinaigrette, and water spinach that’s wok-hei (flavors and tastes created with a wok by a huge smoky fire). Reservations are required and can be made here.

3. Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant

Opened in 2001, Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant is an American restaurant that serves breakfast and brunch. They are also a baking company where people can order cakes and baked goods in advance. They are most famous for their pancakes since they sell anywhere from 200 to 300 pancakes per day. Their buttermilk fried chicken is worth trying, too. Reservations are recommended at Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant due to the crazy rush hours.

2. Taqueria Ramirez

Taqueria Ramirez is a Mexican restaurant that opened their doors in 2021. They have a simple menu as they only serve tacos. The Pastor taco (Marinated pork butt with pineapple) and Campechano taco (Suadero and longaniza combo) are the public’s favorites. Fun fact: the Campechano taco was part of the New York Times’s “NYC Top 7 Dishes of 2022”. However, they also have Consomé Ranchero Beef & pork broth (no meat) and drinks. Just make sure to keep in mind that there is limited seating since it’s a dine-in-only taco counter. 

1. Taste of Heaven

Just like the restaurant name suggests, Taste of Heaven was rated as the #1 place to eat on Yelp in 2022. It is a soul food restaurant started in 2015 that serves sides and main entrees ranging from BBQ jerk chicken, cornbread, fish & chips, and fish & shrimp dinner. Moreover, Friday specials include salmon, beef short ribs, and oxtail with white rice & cabbage. Be sure to ask about their Chef’s special menu as it includes lasagna, rasta pasta, and shepherd’s pie.

It’s important to eat well so make sure to eat at least three meals a day by giving these restaurants a try!