The Best Restaurants in South Street Seaport, Manhattan

The South Street Seaport district offers a great variety of dining options in Lower Manhattan
The South Street Seaport district offers a great variety of dining options in Lower Manhattan | © Ian Dagnall Commercial Collection / Alamy Stock Photo
Alexis DeFillipo

The South Street Seaport is one of the most scenic and historic areas of Manhattan. Where Fulton Street meets the East River, there are many places to go and have a meal for a reasonable price. Whether you are looking for something fast or a sit-down meal, this area has you covered. Here is our round-up of this neighborhood’s top restaurants.

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Cowgirl Sea-Horse

In July of 2009, owner Sherry Delamarter opened Cowgirl Sea-Horse’s doors. Delamarter, who is no amateur when it comes to the restaurant business, owns other successful establishments such as Tortilla Flats, Gulf Coast and their well-known sister restaurant, Cowgirl, in the West Village. This Tex-Mex and seafood restaurant offers a variety of drinks and dinner specials every day of the week as well as interactive game nights, such as trivia on Wednesdays. This multi-colored and creatively decorated restaurant gives off a cozy vibe and is an ace place to dine in Lower Manhattan.

Inhabiting an 1885 smokehouse where they found their name on an old advertisement, Fresh Salt was opened in 2004 as a neighborhood American bar and café. Ever since it opened, their customers have always been unique, ranging from businessmen and women in the daytime to musicians and sailors at night. This bar has an old-school feel and a charm that is indescribable, which is why it is remains so popular. Fresh Salt provides good music and signature sandwiches.

Barbalu Restaurant

After having their first restaurant, Barbarini Alimentari, completely destroyed by Superstorm Sandy, power couple Stefano Barbagalla and Adriana Luque pulled together and re-built Barbalu where their old eatery once stood. With bright string lights lining the ceiling and bar and table seating, this business aims to please by serving delicious food that looks great as well. With almost all meals priced lower than $20 (£15), Barbalu is a great place for a fine meal to enjoy with friends and family.

The Paris Café

The Paris Café has been around since 1873, which makes it one of New York City’s oldest pubs. So much history lies within the four walls of this restaurant. For instance, Thomas Edison used this place as his second office, and Theodore Roosevelt would come in for a pint during his time as the head of the New York City Police Department. Not only famous for its history, this establishment is well known for their wide variety of craft beers and wholesome cooking. The Paris Café, which overlooks the East River, is the go-to place to watch sporting events while having a great meal.

Industry Kitchen

With a breathtaking view of the waterfront from any seat in the house complemented by their vintage, eco-friendly style, the Industry Kitchen is the place to go for atmosphere. Executive chef Sean Chudoba gets creative with his meals and serves a variety of American dishes, from pizza for dinner to chocolate pizza for dessert. His creations are not to miss. New Yorkers and tourists alike love this place for its matchless ambience and simply delicious food.

SUteiShi

From corner to corner on South Street, you will find numerous pubs with American cuisine, but if you look closely, you will find SUteiShi, the most wonderful hidden gem the seaport has to offer. Indoor and outdoor seating with a view of the Brooklyn Bridge is only a fraction of what makes SUteiShi so great. Not only does their main menu feature delectable Japanese dishes, but they also have a brunch menu, all of which is fairly priced. Great food with a cozy vibe makes SUteiShi a go-to spot at the Seaport.

MarkJoseph Steakhouse

If you are in search of the best burger in New York City, look no further than MarkJoseph Steakhouse. Although it may be on the pricier side, the premium meat, all handpicked by the owner, makes any money spent completely worthwhile. Beginning as a quaint restaurant on a cobblestone street, this place has blossomed into a can’t-miss stop at the Seaport.

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