Are you looking for a culinary adventure in the heart of New York City? Look no further than the exotic restaurants in NYC that offer flavors from around the world. From authentic Mexican dishes at Casa Enrique to contemporary Korean cuisine at Oiji, these restaurants will transport you on a flavor journey without ever leaving the city. So put on your stretchy pants and get ready for a culinary tour of the world with these must-try exotic restaurants in NYC.
1. Casa Enrique
Casa Enrique is the place to be if you’re craving some authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. Located in Long Island City, Queens, this family-owned restaurant serves up mouth-watering dishes like mole, tamales, and ceviche that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. And the best part? Casa Enrique has been run by the award-winning chef Chef Cosme Aguilar since it opened in 2012!
Plus, did you know that this spot has been awarded 7 Michelin Stars for its exceptional food at an affordable price? Not to mention, they also have a variety of food options and an impressive selection of margaritas. So, join us at Casa Enrique, where every bite is a fiesta in your mouth.
Watch this to get a glimpse of the place and the food:
2. La Vara
La Vara is the spot to be if you’re craving a taste of Spain without leaving the city. This cozy Brooklyn restaurant serves up traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist, featuring dishes such as Pulpo De Roca, Gazpachuelo, and Torrijas that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
The restaurant was opened by married chefs Alex Raij and Eder Montero in 2013 with the goal of bringing the flavors of Spain to New York. And let me tell you, they’ve succeeded! Critics rave about the delicious food and warm atmosphere, and two of the standout dishes are the cumin lamb and the spiced chickpeas. Plus, they have a carefully curated wine list to pair with each and every one of their meals.
3. L’Appart
L’Appart is a French restaurant located in the Financial District, New York City. The food in L’Appart is curated by Chef De Cuisine Antoine Boullay and Sous Chef Alice Douay, who have been praised for their culinary skills and commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients.
Therefore, it is no surprise that the restaurant has been awarded not one but five Michelin Stars. Such a place prides itself in serving some of the best classic French dishes such as different Canapes, Endives with Middlebury blue cheese, and tarts.
The restaurant also offers a tasting menu and wine pairing, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. And since L’Appart is one of the most sought-after restaurants in the city, we highly recommend reserving a table before visiting.
Watch this to find out more:
4. Chama Mama
Are you looking for a taste of the Caucasus in the Big Apple? Look no further than Chama Mama, a Georgian restaurant located in the Upper East Side of NYC. This cozy spot serves authentic dishes like Khachapuri, a delicious cheese-filled bread. To make such bread, Chama Mama uses Toné, a large clay oven.
And don’t forget the Qvevri, a traditional clay vessel used for the fermentation and aging of Georgian wine. Trust us; you haven’t lived until you’ve tried Chama Mama’s wine. But let’s be honest; the Upper East Side is not only a perfect place for restaurants but also a perfect place to relocate to if your budget allows it. So, if you’re planning a long-distance move, you should know specialists are the best choice which is why you should get help when looking for them.
5. Sigiri
Sigiri, located in the vibrant East Village neighborhood of NYC, is a must-visit for foodies in search of exotic flavors. This Sri Lankan restaurant, founded by Tanya DeSilva and Mala Rajapakse in 2005, serves up a delicious array of traditional dishes, each bursting with the unique blend of herbs and spices that defines Sri Lankan cuisine.
If you’re a fan of chicken, Sigiri’s dishes are a must-try. With a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds, Sigiri is one of the best exotic restaurants in NYC.
6. Sripraphai
Sripraphai is a Thai diner that has been providing authentic Thai cuisine to the New York community since the 1990s. The restaurant is known for its beautifully prepared dishes with strong aromatic components and a spicy edge.
The menu features a complex symphony of at least three fundamental taste senses in each dish: sour, sweet, salty, bitter, and spicy. If it’s your first time trying Thai food, Sripraphai promises not to disappoint. With two locations, one in Woodside and another in Williston Park, you can enjoy their delicious flavors in either location.
Watch this to get a glimpse into Sripraphai:
7. Sushi Amane
Sushi Amane, located in the heart of NYC, is a true sushi lover’s paradise, and as you know – we love Sushi at NYSF and have a whole section about Sushi. With 5 Michelin Stars, this restaurant is a culinary gem. The menu at Sushi Amane is centered around the traditional Omakase experience. This is where the Chef selects the freshest and most premium fish of the day.
The mastermind behind this sushi magic is Executive Sushi Chef Tomoyuki Hayashi, who apprenticed under top sushi masters in Tokyo for many years before coming to the US. It’s worth noting that Sushi Amane is unable to accommodate vegans/vegetarians, guests with no-rice requests, and gluten allergies. Furthermore, the age requirement for this restaurant is 12 years or older, so beware if you plan a day out with your little ones.
8. Oiji Mi
At Oiji Mi, diners are treated to a culinary experience that combines traditional Korean flavors with a modern twist. Owner and Executive Chef Brian Kim brings his passion for Korean cuisine to life in every dish, building on the success of his beloved East Village restaurant, Oiji.
The 5-course prix-fixe menu at Oiji Mi is a true feast for the senses, offering a taste of the best in Korean dining. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the menu, the restaurant cannot accommodate any dietary restrictions or allergies. For those looking for a unique and delicious dining experience, Oiji Mi is an absolute must-visit!
Check out this tour of Oiji Mi:
9. Tuome
Tuome, located in the trendy East Village neighborhood of NYC, is the brainchild of Chef Thomas Chen. A Michelin Star restaurant, Tuome offers a contemporary American dining experience with Asian influences, reflecting Chef Thomas’ heritage as a first-generation Chinese-American.
This makes it one of the most exotic restaurants in NYC. Previously an accountant, Thomas pursued his passion for cooking at the International Culinary Center. Afterward, he perfected his skills at the renowned Eleven Madison Park before opening Tuome in 2014. The restaurant has continued to receive accolades from diners and critics alike. Some noteworthy ones are a 2-star review from The New York Times and a 4-star review from Eater. However, let’s not forget a Michelin Star for the past four years. For those with a sweet tooth, Tuome’s Valentine’s Day menu features delectable desserts like chocolate cakes with honeycomb and hazelnut.
