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Places to Eat Near the Empire State Building

You can’t visit New York City without going to the Empire State Building. After all, together with the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building is arguably the most famous landmark in this world-renowned city. It’s found in Midtown Manhattan, one of the best-known areas of a world-famous city. 

restaurants surrounding the Empire State Building

If you decide to visit New York City, enjoy a tour of the Empire State Building. And of course, explore the other cultural attractions that New York City has to offer.

You’re sure to work up an appetite on all these adventures, so check out my list of the best restaurants near the Empire State Building below!


Jongro BBQ

22 W 32nd St 2nd floor, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-473-2233
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Jongro BBQ
Source: Jongro BBQ

Jongro BBQ is a Korean-cuisine fixture found just half a mile away from the Empire State Building.

If you love Korean BBQ, make sure you head over to Jongo BBQ on West 32nd Street. I enjoyed the famous Beef Platter.

This dish includes an impressive array of marinated short rib (also known as Kalbi), marinated chuck, ribeye, skirt steak, and brisket. 

This restaurant focuses on the tradition of Korean BBQ food, providing the best experience you’ll find anywhere.

Some of the most popular dishes include the aforementioned Beef Platter, as well as the USDA Prime Ribeye, Spicy Rice Cake Special, and Pork Belly. 


Baekjeong NYC

1 E 32nd St, New York, NY 10016
Phone: 212-966-9839
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Baekjeong NYC
Source: Baekjeong NYC

Baekjeong NYC is another fantastic Korean BBQ restaurant located conveniently close to the Empire State Building.

Whether you want to sample small plates or partake in full dishes, you can do so at Baekjeong NYC. 

Ask a local about Baekjeong NYC and you’re sure to get a glowing testimonial. This restaurant has been mentioned on Food Network, as well as in publications such as Insider, Eater, and Thrillist. 

Choose among the plethora of Korean BBQ dishes available at Baekjeong NYC. Some of the most popular menu items include the Prime Rib Eye, Marinated Pork Collar, Spicy Pork Belly Lunch, and Prime Boneless Short Rib. 


Barn Joo 35

34 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-564-4430
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Barn Joo 35
Source: Barn Joo 35

Barn Joo 35 is the place to go if you crave Korean food but in tapas-style servings. Close to the Empire State Building, Barn Joo offers to dine both indoors and outdoors.

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Locals and tourists alike enjoy heading to Barn Joo 35 for tapas accompanied by drinks on an exciting night out. 

This well-known local eating spot holds a happy hour between 4-6 pm. 

There’s one thing to keep in mind when going to Barn Joo 35 — the kitchen closes 45 minutes before closing.

All the more reason to get over there as soon as you can! In my opinion, Spicy Pork at Barn Joo 35 is the best.


Royal 35 Steakhouse

1 E 35th St, New York, NY 10016
Phone: 212-804-7276
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Royal 35 Steakhouse
Source: Royal 35 Steakhouse

This is a top-notch traditional steakhouse with outstanding dry-aged steaks. All beef is certified USDA Prime. 

There are 130 seats in the cozy yet impressive dining room. This restaurant features rich mahogany wood wall paneling, as well as high ceilings that add to the space’s top-notch atmosphere. 

When I went to Royal 35 Steakhouse, I ordered the Prime New York Strip. I enjoyed the French Onion Soup before my entree. Both menu items are popular for a reason — they’re just outstanding!


STATE Grill and Bar

Empire State Building, 21 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10118
Phone: 212-216-9693
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STATE Grill and Bar
Source: STATE Grill and Bar

STATE Grill and Bar is actually in the Empire State Building itself! Don’t miss out on the elegant and upscale experience STATE Grill and Bar has in store.

The chefs here use only the best and freshest ingredients from farmers in the region between Hudson Valley and North Fork. 

This chic Empire State Building restaurant features an open kitchen, so you can watch as your dish is being prepared.

I ordered the Jumbo Grilled Shrimp as my starter and the STATE Beef Burger as the entree. The verdict? Absolutely delicious and highly recommended. 


Izakaya MEW

Multiple Locations
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Izakaya MEW
Source: Izakaya MEW

Japanese Izakaya tapas fans should definitely head to Izakaya MEW, another popular restaurant in close proximity to the Empire State Building.

This restaurant opened back in 2013, and it focuses on the flavors and traditions of Japanese cuisine while adding a contemporary twist. 

This spot offers a casual and laidback atmosphere that is fostered by industrial and vintage decor.

Izakaya MEW is a pub at heart, and it offers Japanese beer and shochu (Japanese liquor) along with all its tasty food. 

Izakaya MEW continues to be a vital part of culinary culture in Midtown Manhattan. I highly recommend trying the Spicy Tuna Roll on your visit. 


Market Crates

26 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-203-1991
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Market Crates
Source: Market Crates

The food at Market Crates is equal parts healthy and delicious! This restaurant prides itself on using the most sustainable ingredients from local suppliers, and its intense farm-to-table focus makes it quite unique in such an urban location. 

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I love the wholesome vibe at Market Crates, and I found this to be a great place for lunch. I’m a big fan of smoked salmon, so I tried the Smoked Salmon Sandwich. It is served with cucumbers and chive cream cheese on a pumpernickel. 

If you feel like having breakfast at Market Crates, check out the ever-popular French Toast or Egg White Veggie Omelet. 


Tacombi

23 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10118
Phone: 212-967-5555
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Tacombi
Source: Tacombi

A Mexican restaurant bringing you the spirit of the beach right in the heart of Manhattan near the Empire State Building, Tacombi is a breath of fresh air. The atmosphere here is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff and plenty of seating space. 

Many Empire State Building visitors make their way over the easy distance to Tacombi to enjoy the food they offer.

Choose from an exciting menu with several popular dishes, including the Sweet Potato Taco, Shrimp Taco, Baja Crispy Fish, and Corn Esquites. And the cocktails here are not to be missed. I enjoyed their Margarita!


Antoya Korean BBQ (Formerly Samwon Garden)

37 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-695-3131
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Antoya Korean BBQ (Formerly Samwon Garden)S
Source: Antoya Korean BBQ (Formerly Samwon Garden)

Located a mere half-mile away from the Empire State Building, Antoya Korean BBQ is well-known across the county. In fact, it won the distinction of being included in Michelin’s 2021 Bib Gourmand Restaurant Guide. 

If you love spicy BBQ flavors, include Antoya Korean BBQ in your New York City itinerary. You can enjoy both lunch and dinner at this restaurant.

I had lunch at Antoya Korean BBQ, and I went with the Gyeran Jjim Lunch. It was outstanding, and I definitely recommend it!


Food Gallery 32

11 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-967-1678
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Food Gallery 32
Source: Food Gallery 32

If you’re looking for a casual, food court environment with a range of multicultural options, look no further than Food Gallery 32.

No matter what kind of food you like, you’ll probably find it here. Examples of well-loved dishes here include Fried Chicken, Pork Cutlet Over Rice, Kimchi Pork Bun, Black Bean Noodle, and Chicken Hatsu, just to name a few. 

You’ll find Food Gallery 32 just 316 feet from the Empire State Building! So, if you want a convenient place for a quick — but delicious — meal, head over to Food Gallery 32. 


Turntable Chicken Jazz

20 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 212-714-9700
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Turntable Chicken Jazz
Source: Turntable Chicken Jazz

When I heard about Turntable Chicken Jazz and its mouth-watering fried chicken, I knew I had to get over there as soon as possible.

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So, it goes without saying that I ordered this restaurant’s legendary Fried Chicken when I went there for a meal. It was some of the best I’ve ever tried. 

Other popular dishes you might want to consider include Kimchi Fried Rice, Chicken Wings, Bulgogi Burger, Stir Fry Rice Cake, Korea Chicken, and Seafood Fried Rice. 

Turntable Chicken Jazz is located in close proximity to the Empire State Building, so it’s easy to visit during your trip to the Big Apple. 


Now that you know about the fantastic restaurants near the Empire State Building that I’ve listed above, you will have several ideas for where to go. 

And don’t stop at just one of these restaurants. Dining out is one of the best features of Midtown Manhattan and the whole of New York City, so check out some of the best places to eat breakfast in the Big Apple.

Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment and we’ll check it out!

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Written by Ryan F.

Ryan is a local foodie who enjoys checking out the area's restaurant scene every chance he can. Ryan also enjoys traveling and checking out local eateries in every city he visits.