New York is a city filled with personalities. And the man who chronicles their style, ethos, and comings and goings is native New Yorker Nicolas Heller better known as @newyorknico. The 36-year-old spends his time combing the city for the untold stories of those contributing most to the city. It's the stories that we needed to hear, but didn't know we needed.
And for Heller, it's yielded some fascinating moments including collaborating with the MTA on public service announcements from some familiar voices (think Fran Lebowitz, Whoopi Goldberg, and Jerry Seinfeld to name a few) to snapping pics on an iPhone at the Met Gala.
After visiting countless spots over the years, Heller has accumulated a list of his favorite places, from delis to barbershops, narrowing it down to his top 100 in New York Nico's Guide to NYC.
However, below, we had Heller focus on what matters most: restaurants.
What are your favorite restaurants in New York?
La Bonbonniere
One of the best greasy spoons in the city and my go-to spot for lunch meetings. A few years ago, Marina and Gus even honored me with my own sandwich—the New York Nico Turkey Club. While you’re there, make sure to stop by Casa Magazines just a few doors down, grab an obscure art magazine, and enjoy it with a plate of French toast.
Ensenada
My go-to date night spot. This incredible Mexican seafood restaurant offers one-of-a-kind mezcal cocktails and dishes you won’t forget. Don’t sleep on the tuna tostadas—they’re a standout.
Casa Adela
A quintessential, family-run small business serving incredible, no-frills Puerto Rican food. Luis makes the best rotisserie chicken in the city—it’s a must-try.
Cuts & Slices
NYC might have thousands of pizza spots, with hundreds that are top-tier, but Cuts & Slices stands out. Randy blends his Caribbean roots into his pizzas with toppings like oxtail, curry shrimp, chicken and waffles, and more. You won’t find anything like it anywhere else.
Johnny’s Reef
Johnny’s Reef has the best fried seafood in the city. Located on City Island—a destination worthy of a full day trip—you can feast on fried lobster tails, clam strips, shrimp, or even frog legs if you’re feeling adventurous.
Address Book
Casa Adela
66 Loisaida Ave, New York, NY 10009
Cuts & Slices
93 Howard Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233
Ensenada
168 Borinquen Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Johnny’s Reef
2 City Island Ave, Bronx, NY 10464
Katz's (Bib Gourmand)
205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
La Bonbonniere
28 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Red Hook Tavern
329 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
