A Comprehensive List of Restaurants Where Celebs Eat In New York City And How To Meet & Greet Them

Tara Bedford
3 min readSep 22, 2023

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Dining with the Stars: Your Guide to Celeb Hotspots in NYC and How to Rub Shoulders with Fame

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts and star-spotters! New York City, the city that never sleeps, is not just famous for its towering skyscrapers and iconic skyline; it’s also a playground for celebrities. And guess what? They love to eat just like us! So, grab your forks and get your cameras ready because we’re about to unveil a list of NYC restaurants where you might just share a meal with your favorite A-lister. Plus, we’ll spill the beans on how to turn that chance encounter into a memorable meet and greet.

1. The Spotted Pig:

Nestled in the charming West Village, The Spotted Pig is a cozy gastropub that’s known to attract celebs. Swing by for their legendary burger and, who knows, you might find yourself sipping beer next to a Hollywood star.

2. Carbone:

Greenwich Village’s Carbone is an Italian haven adored by the likes of Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of your favorite celebrity while savoring their classic Italian-American dishes.

3. Nobu Downtown:

Owned by none other than Robert De Niro, Nobu Downtown is a high-end Japanese restaurant that’s a magnet for celebrities. Try their signature black cod miso and keep your eyes peeled for A-listers.

4. Balthazar:

This iconic SoHo brasserie is famous for its French cuisine and is a breakfast hotspot for stars like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner. Enjoy a croissant and coffee while keeping your celeb radar on.

5. The Polo Bar:

Owned by fashion mogul Ralph Lauren, The Polo Bar is a fashionable hangout for both fashionistas and celebrities. Don’t miss their Polo Bar burger and keep your camera handy.

6. L’Artusi:

Celebrities can’t resist the contemporary Italian cuisine at L’Artusi. Order the ricotta gnocchi, and you just might find yourself dining next to your favorite actor.

7. Catch NYC:

Catch NYC offers stunning rooftop views and fresh seafood that attract the likes of Justin Bieber and Kim Kardashian. Head here for dinner and a chance at a star-studded selfie.

8. The Grill:

Located in Midtown, The Grill exudes Old New York charm and is a top choice for celebs looking for a quintessential NYC dining experience.

9. Momofuku Noodle Bar:

David Chang’s noodle bar is a hotspot for food-loving celebrities. Slurp your ramen while keeping an eye out for your favorite actor.

10. ABC Kitchen:

Situated in the Flatiron District, ABC Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant known for its fresh ingredients and celebrity clientele. You might spot Emma Stone or Gwyneth Paltrow here.

How to Turn Chance into Reality:

So, you’ve picked your restaurant, and you’re all set to spot a celeb. Here’s how to make the magic happen:

  1. Be Respectful: Remember, celebrities are just people. Approach them politely, ask for a quick photo or autograph, but respect their personal space and privacy.
  2. Timing is Everything: Opt for off-peak dining hours like late lunches or early dinners when restaurants are less crowded, and celebrities are more relaxed.
  3. Dress Comfortably and Stylishly: New Yorkers have a unique sense of style. Dress well, but stay true to yourself. You want to feel comfortable while looking your best.
  4. Follow Them on Social Media: Celebrities often share their whereabouts on social media. Keep tabs on their posts to get a heads-up on where they might be dining.
  5. Respect Their Privacy: Sometimes, celebs just want to enjoy a meal in peace. If they decline a photo or seem disinterested, be understanding and give them the space they need.

Now that you’re armed with the inside scoop on celebrity hotspots and how to make a star-studded encounter happen, it’s time to live out your NYC dream. Book a table at one of these celeb-approved restaurants, and keep your eyes peeled. Your next NYC meal might just come with a side of fame!

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