New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A bar · SoHo · on two New York Dearest lists

Balzem

Worth it. Balzem, a standout among NYC’s Mediterranean restaurants, is possibly the best.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizFrom my list Best bars in SoHo
Address
202 Mott St Directions
Website
balzem.com

Everything I’ve written about Balzem. It’s on two of my lists, Best restaurants in SoHo and Best bars in SoHo.

  1. Best restaurants in SoHoWorth it
  2. Best bars in SoHoWorth it

Every list it’s on

Worth it. Been? Say if you agree.

Best restaurants in SoHo

No. 15 on that list
Worth it
What I wrote thereFold it away

Out of all the delicious Mediterranean restaurants in SoHo, Balzem just might be the best. The wine bar is perfect for a romantic night out. Expect a quaint but lively candlelit dinner, that can be either a quick bite or an hour-long chat (you can blame it on the wine).

It doesn’t help that the food is incredible either. I struggle deciding whether I want to wolf my meal down or savor every bite like it’s my last. For those who have always wanted to try octopus, try it at Balzem. It may be the best in the city and is my favorite dish.

Best bars in SoHo

No. 1 on that list
Worth it

The candlelit dinner, whether a quick bite or an extended chat, always leads to effortless and enjoyable conversations (courtesy of the wine).

What I wrote thereFold it away

Balzem, a standout among NYC’s Mediterranean restaurants, is possibly the best. This SoHo wine bar, with its warm lighting, brick walls, and lively ambiance, sets the stage for a perfect romantic night out. The candlelit dinner, whether a quick bite or an extended chat, always leads to effortless and enjoyable conversations (courtesy of the wine).

Despite being one of SoHo’s top wine bars, Balzem prioritizes its Mediterranean cuisine, offering an incredible dining experience. The dilemma between savoring every bite and devouring the meal quickly speaks to the irresistible food quality. Don’t miss the chance to try the octopus!

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest
On The Best of New York

I put Balzem on two of my best lists

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