DineGuides

What's Hot in Washington Heights

25 restaurants in Washington Heights. Part of our New York What's Hot guide.

Addey Ababa
#1What's Hot
6 photos

Addey Ababa

Ethiopian·$$$
📍 736 W 181st St ↗

This family-run Ethiopian spot is a neighborhood treasure, offering authentic flavors that transport you straight to Addis Ababa. The warm hospitality makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in, with generous portions and a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for any occasion.

🍽️98Food
✨92Vibe
💰90Value
💬

“Restaurant and bathroom were both fresh and clean”

💬

“Every time it's better than the last time”

💬

“The food took me right back home”

Ideal for
Ethiopian food first-timers seeking guidanceFamilies seeking welcoming, kid-friendly diningSolo diners and small groups
Terravita Uptown
#2What's Hot
6 photos

Terravita Uptown

Mediterranean·$$$$
📍 4193 Broadway ↗

Terravita Uptown is a Washington favorite that feels like a cozy hug, offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for both intimate dates and lively group gatherings. The kitchen delivers consistently impressive dishes with a unique blend of Latino and Mediterranean flavors, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails from a full bar.

🍽️95Food
✨95Vibe
💰75Value
💬

“Fine dining prices from midtown downtown Manhattan in the hood”

💬

“Servers literally make it feel like a hug”

💬

“Tucked away on an unassuming block”

Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDate nights and romantic dinnersGroups seeking elevated upscale experience
Talkin' Tacos Washington Heights
#3What's Hot
6 photos

Talkin' Tacos Washington Heights

Mexican·$$
📍 4179 Broadway ↗

This Washington Heights spot is a go-to for flavorful, halal tacos with a vibrant, casual atmosphere. Many celebrate the friendly staff, especially Sabrina and Jonathan, who make diners feel like family.

🍽️95Food
✨90Vibe
💰85Value
📍70Location
💬

“Food is always fresh and delicious”

💬

“Music was a tad loud”

💬

“Love the vibe it's so retro”

Ideal for
Halal-conscious dinersCasual group meals or datesTaco enthusiasts seeking authenticity
Niccolo Pizzeria
#4What's Hot
6 photos

Niccolo Pizzeria

Pizza·$$

Niccolo Pizzeria is a neighborhood haven for authentic Italian pizza, where fresh, imported ingredients and a passion for quality shine through in every bite. The owner and staff treat every customer like family, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes this spot a true local favorite. From perfectly crisp crusts to creamy gelato, it's clear that care is put into every detail.

🍽️95Food
✨88Vibe
💰90Value
💬

“One of the best pizzas I've had in NYC”

💬

“Prices fantastic; add burrata $2.50”

💬

“Calm and inviting; authentically Italian”

Ideal for
Authentic Italian pizza enthusiastsNeighborhood diners seeking quality over chain restaurantsGroups valuing genuine hospitality
Tinto Tapas Restaurant & Wine Bar
#5What's Hot
6 photos

Tinto Tapas Restaurant & Wine Bar

Spanish·$$

This cozy Washington Heights spot offers a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for dates or relaxed group dinners. Chef Abraham's kitchen turns out flavorful Spanish and Latin-inspired tapas and entrees, complemented by a well-chosen wine list.

🍽️95Food
✨90Vibe
💰85Value
💬

“The food was amazing - tuna tartare superb”

💬

“Background music was low and pleasant, making it very easy to talk”

💬

“I've eaten there three times now and each time was great”

Ideal for
Special occasions and date nightsWine enthusiasts and tapas loversNeighborhood regulars seeking consistency
L Chingon Mexican Cuisine
#6What's Hot

L Chingon Mexican Cuisine

Mexican·$$
📍 400 Audubon Ave ↗

This cozy Mexican spot serves up authentic flavors with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. It's a go-to for delicious, generously portioned dishes that consistently satisfy.

🍽️95Food
✨85Vibe
💰88Value
💬

“The food is among the best in New York”

💬

“Good music and homey feel”

💬

“Favorite in the Heights”

Ideal for
Authentic Mexican food lovers seeking quality over pretenseNeighborhood regulars and repeat customersGroups and families valuing warm hospitality
Monkey Brothers Lab
#7What's Hot
6 photos

Monkey Brothers Lab

Dominican·$$
📍 206 Audubon Ave ↗

This Dominican fast-food truck serves generous portions at affordable prices, making it a go-to for late-night cravings. Standout dishes include the churrasco sandwich and chicken patacón, all served with a side of friendly, efficient service.

🍽️90Food
✨80Vibe
💰90Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

“This is our favorite Chimi truck to visit late night”

💬

“Not sure if they possibly got a new chef but the quality has not been the same”

💬

“Structured into a parking lot, you'd be forgiven to wonder if you're at the right place”

Ideal for
Late-night Dominican food cravingsGroups wanting generous, affordable portionsCasual walk-up diners in Washington Heights
Halal Munchies
#8What's Hot
5 photos

Halal Munchies

Middle Eastern·$$
📍 3750 Broadway ↗

This neighborhood spot serves up some of the best halal food in the area, with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a go-to for late-night cravings, offering fresh, flavorful dishes that satisfy picky eaters and seasoned halal fans alike.

🍽️95Food
✨80Vibe
💰85Value
💬

“$12 for a combo platter. Probably the best halal”

💬

“Everything is quick, easy and amazing”

💬

“Very nice employees, albeit a bit difficult to hear”

Ideal for
Late-night halal cravingsBudget-conscious diners seeking valueNeighborhood regulars and repeat visitors
Manolo Tapas
#9What's Hot

Manolo Tapas

Spanish·$$
📍 4165 Broadway ↗

This Washington Heights tapas spot transports you to Spain with its rustic ambiance and lively atmosphere. It's a neighborhood favorite, offering a genuine taste of Spanish cuisine with attentive service that makes every visit feel special.

🍽️90Food
✨90Vibe
💰70Value
💬

“Consistently delicious since they opened.”

💬

“Portion to price ratio is completely off.”

💬

“Remarkably attentive and go above and beyond.”

Ideal for
Special occasions and datesSpanish food enthusiastsDiners with cash and parking flexibility
Las Palmas Restaurant
#10What's Hot

Las Palmas Restaurant

Mexican·$$
📍 3891 Broadway A ↗

This neighborhood spot serves up authentic Mexican fare with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. It's a go-to for generous portions and consistently delicious dishes, especially the margaritas and quesabirria.

🍽️92Food
✨85Vibe
💰80Value
🛡️70Safety
Ideal for
Neighborhood locals seeking authentic MexicanGroups celebrating or casual family dinnersDiners who speak Spanish or are multilingual
Native Noodles
#11What's Hot
6 photos

Native Noodles

Singaporean·$$

This cozy, family-run spot serves up authentic Singaporean comfort food, with standout dishes like the Laksa and honey-roasted pork. It's a casual favorite where friendly service and flavorful, well-portioned meals make for a satisfying meal.

🍽️92Food
✨80Vibe
💰88Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

“Food was ready so fast”

Ideal for
Adventurous eaters seeking authentic Singaporean cuisineBudget-conscious diners wanting fresh, quality foodTakeout/delivery orders (despite timing inconsistency)
Falafel Crunch
#12What's Hot

Falafel Crunch

Middle Eastern·$$

Falafel Crunch serves up some of the crispiest falafel and fluffiest pitas in the city, with a creamy hummus that's truly on point. The friendly staff, particularly David, often go the extra mile, sometimes even offering complimentary drinks and desserts.

🍽️95Food
✨80Vibe
💰85Value
💬

“Amazing customer service I've ever experienced”

💬

“Felt like I was back in the shuk”

Ideal for
Falafel and Israeli cuisine enthusiastsKosher-observant dinersQuick, fresh lunch or casual dining
Budda Kitchen & Bar
#13What's Hot

Budda Kitchen & Bar

Mixed/Fusion·$$$
📍 4325 Broadway ↗

Budda Kitchen & Bar buzzes with a lively atmosphere, fueled by a full bar and a DJ spinning tunes. It's a spot that caters to both intimate date nights and larger celebrations, offering a casual vibe that encourages lingering.

🍽️80Food
✨90Vibe
💰85Value
🔊55Noise
💬

“Server Luis was amazing very attentive and so were the other servers”

💬

“I tried calling twice to see if they had seating available. Nobody answered”

💬

“The music was so loud. I had to wear ear plugs lol”

Ideal for
Cocktail/happy hour enthusiastsSocial dining on a budgetMusic/nightlife-forward groups
Tampopo Ramen
#14What's Hot
3 photos

Tampopo Ramen

Japanese·$$
📍 1 Bennett Ave ↗

This cozy, hole-in-the-wall ramen shop is a neighborhood staple, serving up consistently delicious bowls with a focus on authentic flavors. It's a place where you can watch the chefs at work, making it a vibrant spot for a quick lunch or a casual meal.

🍽️95Food
✨80Vibe
💰85Value
💬

“Service was outstanding - our food arrived quickly”

💬

“You really get a bang for your buck”

💬

“Small, but totally worth it”

Ideal for
Authentic ramen enthusiastsSolo diners or couplesLunch special seekers
Charlie's Pizza
#15What's Hot

Charlie's Pizza

Pizza·$

This Washington Heights institution has been serving up classic New York slices since the 90s. It's a family-friendly spot where the pizza is consistently good, especially the mushroom and cheesy garlic knots.

🍽️85Food
✨80Vibe
💰85Value
🛡️65Safety
💬

“Wonderful service. Feels like home”

💬

“Very small shop sandwiched in between others”

💬

“Never disappoints. ***NEW AND IMPROVED***”

Ideal for
Neighborhood regulars seeking nostalgiaQuick takeout slices on a budgetFamilies with childhood ties to Heights
Tu Sonrisa
#16What's Hot

Tu Sonrisa

Dominican·$$
📍 132 Audubon Ave ↗

This small spot serves up authentic Dominican flavors that taste like they were made with love. It's the closest many have found to the food they grew up offering a true taste of home.

🍽️95Food
✨75Vibe
💰88Value
💬

“The ladies who make and serve are very sweet”

Ideal for
Dominican food enthusiastsBudget-conscious dinersNeighborhood regulars seeking comfort food
Blue Mountain Heights
#17What's Hot

Blue Mountain Heights

Caribbean·$$$$
📍 499 W 158th St ↗

This Washington Heights spot brings the island vibe with a full bar and a menu that offers vegan and vegetarian options. It's a casual, family-friendly place that works for dates or solo visits, with reggae music setting a relaxed mood.

🍽️88Food
✨88Vibe
💰65Value
⏰45Wait
💬

“Bartender was very nice I would be coming back”

💬

“Oxtail was so good I had a dream”

💬

“Waiting an hour for my pickup order”

Ideal for
Caribbean food enthusiastsDate nights and group gatheringsDine-in casual meals with cocktails
Locksmith Bar
#18What's Hot

Locksmith Bar

Peruvian·$$
📍 4463 Broadway ↗

This Washington Heights spot is a neighborhood staple that transforms into a lively lounge after dark, fueled by strong drinks and a DJ spinning Spanish music and hip-hop. It's a versatile venue, equally suited for casual weeknight dinners, lively group gatherings, or intimate dates.

🍽️82Food
✨92Vibe
💰75Value
⏰60Wait
💬

“Great customer service from Kaelyn. She was very attentive and helped us choose the best options.”

💬

“Favorite in the heart of the city with an amazing vibe that's a perfect combination of hip-hop and pop culture.”

💬

“My only complain would be the noise levels from vehicles while eating.”

Ideal for
Late-night drinks and dancingCasual burgers and Peruvian foodGroup celebrations with DJ/music scene
Lake Como Pizza
#19What's Hot

Lake Como Pizza

Pizza·$

Lake Como Pizza offers a reliable kosher dairy option in Washington Heights, excelling in service and accommodating large orders on short notice. While the pizza itself can be a gamble, the garlic knots are a consistent highlight, described as soft, pillowy pockets of deliciousness.

🍽️80Food
✨75Vibe
💰80Value
🎯60Consistency
💬

“Extremely fresh fluffy delicious excellent pizza”

💬

“Slices are outstanding size and prices are very competitive”

💬

“They change chefs too much. Sometimes it's okay & sometimes it's bad”

Ideal for
Kosher-observant dinersQuick, casual pizza lunchLarge group catering orders
888 Hudson Thai
#20What's Hot
6 photos

888 Hudson Thai

Thai·$$
📍 812 W 181st St ↗

This cozy neighborhood Thai spot delivers authentic flavors with a diverse menu, making it a go-to for locals. While not a fancy establishment, the food is consistently delicious and reasonably priced, with many vegetarian options available. It's a reliable choice for a quick weeknight meal or a casual dine-in.

🍽️85Food
✨75Vibe
💰75Value
💬

“The food is delicious, the prices are very reasonable”

💬

“Cozy, hidden gems, perfect location”

Ideal for
Casual neighborhood Thai diningDrunken noodles & curry loversBudget-conscious families
Tampopo Kitchen
#21What's Hot

Tampopo Kitchen

Japanese·$$
📍 805 W 187th St ↗

Tampopo Kitchen is a neighborhood sushi spot that shines with its house-made noodles and fresh, quality fish. It's a cozy, small space that excels at takeout, offering a welcome addition to the area.

🍽️85Food
✨80Vibe
💰75Value
⏰55Wait
💬

“Loud generic pop music could be more interesting.”

💬

“The tuna wasn't fresh & rice tasted old.”

💬

“Raw cracked egg with shell in it.”

Ideal for
Lunch special seekers in Washington HeightsSushi connoisseurs wanting fresh fishTakeout regulars with flexible timing
Jalao NYC
#22What's Hot
6 photos

Jalao NYC

Dominican·$$$

This Washington Heights spot offers a vibrant taste of Dominican culture, particularly shining with its flavorful vegan options and lively atmosphere. It's a place that aims to make you feel at home, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out.

🍽️85Food
✨88Vibe
💰60Value
🔊65Noise
💬

“The decor is stylish and reminiscent of the Dominican Republic”

💬

“The music was extremely loud on this day”

💬

“So the restaurant is inside of a hotel which makes it very cozy”

Ideal for
Special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries)Hotel guests seeking upscale Dominican diningDiners who prioritize ambiance and drink quality
San Francisco
#23What's Hot

San Francisco

Dominican·$

This spot offers quick service and solid food, making it a convenient stop when you're in the neighborhood. While the atmosphere is generally casual and pleasant, there are concerns about transparency regarding food preparation.

🍽️80Food
✨75Vibe
💰60Value
💬

“Food was okay, but at the prices they aren't a great value”

💬

“Grade in the window has been pending for months”

💬

“Spanish food the way mommy used to make it”

Ideal for
Local Dominican food enthusiastsBudget-conscious lunch dinersCasual weekday breakfast
Pizza Heights
#24What's Hot

Pizza Heights

Pizza·$$

Pizza Heights offers authentic Neapolitan pizza with a sourdough crust, a welcome addition to Washington Heights. Beyond pizza, they serve excellent espresso drinks and have a selection of vegan and gluten-free options.

🍽️85Food
✨80Vibe
💰55Value
💬

“Service is incredible and friendly”

💬

“Feels like I'm at a place in Italy”

💬

“About 10 min from start to finish”

Ideal for
Neapolitan pizza enthusiastsCoffee and pastry loversCasual neighborhood quick-bites
Chimi Luisa
#25What's Hot

Chimi Luisa

Mixed/Fusion·$$

This small Dominican street food counter serves up authentic chimi sandwiches and frituras that transport diners straight to the DR. It's a no-frills spot where the focus is squarely on deeply flavorful, fried favorites.

🍽️92Food
✨75Vibe
💰60Value
💬

“The lady is not friendly, but the food is excellent”

💬

“Small take out spot with a counter and a few stools”

💬

“Its the same taste everytime and they never disappoint”

Ideal for
Dominican food enthusiastsLate-night cravings, takeout onlyNostalgic diners seeking authentic flavor