NoHo, a charming neighborhood nestled between SoHo and Greenwich Village, boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Finding the perfect lunch spot amidst the numerous options can be overwhelming. This guide highlights 15 of the best lunch restaurants in NoHo NYC, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this curated list ensures a satisfying lunchtime experience. This article will explore the best of NoHo lunch options, considering factors like atmosphere, menu variety, and overall value.
Upscale Lunch Delights in NoHo
These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, perfect for a special occasion or a treat.
1. Via Carota: Rustic Italian Charm
Via Carota consistently earns high praise for its authentic Italian cuisine. Their lunch menu features handmade pasta, fresh salads, and delicious pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. The warm, inviting atmosphere adds to the overall experience. Expect to pay a bit more, but the quality of the food justifies the price.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: Italian
Highlight: Their seasonal pasta dishes are always a must-try.
2. Balthazar: Classic French Brasserie
Balthazar, a renowned French brasserie, is a NoHo institution. Their extensive lunch menu offers classic dishes like steak frites, onion soup, and croque monsieur. The bustling atmosphere and impeccable service make it a memorable dining experience. However, be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: French
Highlight: Their oysters are incredibly fresh and delicious.
3. Carbone: A Taste of Old-School Italian Glamour
Carbone offers an extravagant and stylish lunch option, reminiscent of classic Italian-American restaurants. Think perfectly cooked red sauce dishes, impeccable service and an undeniably glamorous atmosphere. While it's on the pricier side, the overall experience is worth it for a special occasion.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: Italian-American
Highlight: Their spicy rigatoni vodka is a legendary dish.
Casual & Affordable NoHo Lunch Spots
These restaurants are perfect for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly lunch.
4. Prince Street Pizza: New York Slice Perfection
A NoHo staple, Prince Street Pizza is famous for its classic New York-style pizza. Their large slices are generous and flavorful, offering a quick and satisfying lunch option. It's a perfect casual spot for a grab-and-go lunch or a quick sit-down meal.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Pizza
Highlight: Their classic cheese slice is a masterpiece.
5. La Esquina: Hidden Gem of Mexican Flavors
Tucked away on a side street, La Esquina offers a vibrant and delicious Mexican lunch experience. Their tacos are a must-try, and their margaritas are incredibly refreshing. It's a fun and lively spot for a casual lunch.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Mexican
Highlight: The vibrant atmosphere and delicious tacos.
6. Jack's Wife Freda: Mediterranean Fusion
Jack's Wife Freda offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Their lunch menu is full of flavorful dishes such as shakshuka, salads, and pita bread. The atmosphere is both trendy and casual.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Mediterranean Fusion
Highlight: Their rose harissa hummus is a must-try.
Diverse Lunch Options in NoHo
These restaurants offer unique cuisines and dining experiences.
7. Dimes: Healthy & Delicious
Dimes is a popular spot for those seeking a healthy and delicious lunch option. Their menu features fresh salads, grain bowls, and juices. It's the perfect spot for a light and nutritious meal.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Healthy
Highlight: Their vibrant salads and fresh juices.
8. Rubirosa: Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Rubirosa is another fantastic pizza option in NoHo. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, offering a delicious and authentic taste. This is a great option for pizza lovers seeking something a bit more upscale.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Neapolitan Pizza
Highlight: Their coal-fired pizza.
9. Ippudo: Ramen Perfection
For ramen lovers, Ippudo is a must-visit. Their rich broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and flavorful toppings make it a satisfying and comforting lunch option.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Japanese Ramen
Highlight: Their signature tonkotsu ramen.
Sweet Treats & Coffee Breaks
10. Magnolia Bakery: Classic Cupcakes
No trip to NoHo is complete without a visit to Magnolia Bakery. Their famous cupcakes are a delightful treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Bakery
Highlight: Their classic vanilla cupcake.
11. Abraço Espresso: High-Quality Coffee
Abraço Espresso is a popular spot for those seeking a high-quality coffee fix. Their expertly brewed coffee is the perfect accompaniment to a pastry or a light lunch.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Coffee Shop
Highlight: Their perfectly pulled espresso.
More NoHo Lunch Gems
12. Locanda Verde: Stylish Italian-Mediterranean
Locanda Verde offers a stylish and sophisticated Italian-Mediterranean lunch experience. Their menu features fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and wood-fired pizzas.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: Italian-Mediterranean
Highlight: Their fresh seafood dishes.
13. Sadelle's: Elegant Jewish Deli Experience
Sadelle's offers a unique and luxurious Jewish deli experience. Their lunch menu features classic deli dishes like bagels, smoked fish, and pastrami on rye. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: Jewish Deli
Highlight: Their legendary bagels and smoked fish.
14. Nomo Soho: Creative Asian Cuisine
Nomo Soho offers a creative and contemporary take on Asian cuisine. Their lunch menu offers innovative dishes and stunning presentation.
Average Lunch Price: $$
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Highlight: Their innovative and artistic dishes.
15. Superiority Burger: Vegetarian Delight
Superiority Burger offers a completely vegetarian menu featuring innovative and delicious plant-based dishes. Their burgers are unbelievably good.
Average Lunch Price: $
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Highlight: Their unique and flavourful vegetarian burgers.
Conclusion: Your NoHo Lunch Adventure Awaits!
NoHo's diverse culinary scene offers an array of fantastic lunch options to suit every taste and budget. From upscale dining experiences to casual and affordable eateries, this list provides a starting point for your NoHo lunch adventure. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and reservations, especially during peak lunch times. Happy eating!