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The Best of New York · Seasonal · New Year’s

The best restaurants open on New Year’s Day

Updated September 2026. 16 places.

After a late New Year’s celebration, waking up with a potential headache and cooking might be the last thing on your mind. No worries! There are tons of great restaurants open on New Years day in NYC to choose from. Most restaurants are open on January 1st, but not all of them are created equal. It can prove to be difficult deciding which of them are worth your time (and let’s be honest, your money).

I’ve put together this list of restaurants open on New Years day in NYC that are worth getting out of bed for, and just tempting enough to make you want to start your diet next week.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best restaurants open on New Year’s Day, 2026

  1. BalthazarsRestaurant · SoHoSince its opening in 1997 by Keith McNally, the food has been exceptional.
  2. Bills Bar & BurgerRestaurant · Midtown & Financial DistrictBill’s Bar & Burger stands out as one of the few spots open late until 11:00 PM on New Year’s Day in NYC.
  3. La Grande BoucherieRestaurant · MidtownThe romantic interior could make anyone fall in love and the food is delicious.
  4. Quality MeatsRestaurant · MidtownEverything I’ve tasted at Quality Meats has been perfectly tender and juicy, practically melting in my mouth.
  5. Rosemary’sRestaurant · West VillageThe kind staff, lingering Christmas decorations, and charming ambiance, enhanced by wreaths and ceiling lights, make it a standout.
  6. Serra By BirreriaRestaurant · Flatiron DistrictThe snow dusted branches that blanket the ceiling make this one of the most charming restaurants open on New Years day in NYC.
  7. The SmithRestaurant · Multiple LocationsOf all the meals I had at The Smith, I find myself coming back, time and time again for the brunch.
  8. Zou Zou’sRestaurant · ChelseaBeyond the captivating experience, the food at Zou Zou’s is unforgettable, leaving you with a lasting craving.
  9. BeccoRestaurant · MidtownThe price is hard to beat and this is a great restaurant open on New Years Day in NYC for a date night (or if you’re just craving unlimited pasta).
  10. Cafe D’AlsaceRestaurant · Upper East SideOpen on New Year’s Day in NYC, the lively atmosphere is filled with local chatter and the infectious excitement of the new year.
  11. Carmine’sRestaurant · Midtown & Upper West SideThe place is usually busy (which is a good sign) and the service is great.
  12. Carnegie Diner & CafeRestaurant · MidtownI personally think Carnegie Diner & Cafe has perfected breakfast plates.
  13. Five Napkin BurgerRestaurant · Midtown & Upper West SideFive Napkin Burger is my preferred choice after a night out.
  14. KymaRestaurant · Flatiron DistrictIt wasn’t until I got home (and couldn’t stop thinking about my meal) that I did a little research and discovered Kyma was a Michelin star rated restaurant.
  15. Olio e PiùRestaurant · West VillageOlio e Più serves some of the best Italian food in New York City.
  16. Quality BistroRestaurant · MidtownFor anyone looking for a great steak and delicious appetizers, I can’t say enough good things about Quality Bistro.

On the map

Where they are

9 neighborhoods, Midtown and West Village most of all.

Midtown

Flatiron District

Midtown & Upper West Side

West Village

Chelsea

Midtown & Financial District

Multiple Locations

SoHo

Upper East Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15 Restaurants Open on New Years Day in New York City (Including Links For Reservations).