Over time, many New Yorkers will compile their list of favorite restaurants in Manhattan. These are the places that you return to over and over, bring out-of-town guests to, and can count on for great atmosphere, interesting decor, and an unforgettable meal. ABC Kitchen, The Meatball Shop, and East End Kitchen are three Manhattan restaurants that hit all these notes and more.

ABC Kitchen

At ABC Kitchen, you’re guaranteed a meal that’s fresh, delicious, and totally unique. They’re so dedicated to the farm-to-table ethos, much of the produce that shows up on the plate is actually grown in their rooftop garden. The menu constantly changes to reflect seasonality and showcase produce at its peak. Not only are the ingredients top-notch, they’re also prepared to perfection, resulting in amazingly creative dishes as memorable as they are mouthwatering. The impressive quality of the food is matched only by the gorgeous, ethereal decor, much of which is sourced from the attached ABC Carpet and Home.

The Meatball Shop

The concept is daring in its simplicity: It’s all meatballs, all the time. And in the expert hands of the creators of The Meatball Shop, it works to perfection. Available in different meat options (as well as a vegetarian version), their meatballs are flavorful and light, with great texture; the classic tomato sauce is delicious. For dessert, they serve fresh-baked cookies (which they can transform into ice cream sandwiches using their homemade ice cream flavors), along with root beer floats, affogatos, and more.

It’s simple food, done well, and as restaurants in Manhattan go, it’s extremely well priced. It’s also one of Manhattan’s most convenient restaurants: With five locations all over the city, you’re likely to be near one, no matter where you are. The Meatball Shop doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it does take good food seriously — making it a prime destination for affordable, gourmet-grade comfort food served up in a playful setting.

East End Kitchen

East End Kitchen is a hidden gem on the Upper East Side. Tucked snugly away between York and East End Avenues, this spacious eatery serves simple dishes with a high-end spin. Everything on the menu is a cut above average, presented in a beautiful way and cooked to perfection. Even the salads are fresh and creative, incorporating delicious seasonal produce that you don’t typically have in your kitchen at home. Leave room for dessert: Their donuts are amazing — light and fluffy, served with a dusting of sugar and three silky dipping sauces on the side.

The ambience at East End Kitchen is as delightful as the food. Fresh and relaxing, the decor features lots of soothing white and wood pieces. The service is friendly, and you can typically get a table right away without a reservation on a weeknight. East End Kitchen is a hideaway from the hustle and bustle where you can relax with a glass of wine and enjoy a leisurely, delicious meal that you’ll remember for years to come.

Image Source: Flickr/Adam Fagen

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