15 Places to Eat Dinner in the West Village Right Now

updated May 2023

With thousands of places to eat around New York City and many top rated options in the West Village alone, it’s hard to narrow down where to eat. Below is a list of places I have been back to multiple times and would recommend to any of my friends or family. The list was based on price, ambiance, and overall quality. Here are 15 places you need to eat dinner right now, all located in the West Village.

1. Bobo

A neighborhood restaurant inspired by nature and family. This French-inspired cuisine is located in a townhome with french country decor, dim lighting, and a lively atmosphere makes you feel cozy and welcomed. They have a great happy hour downstairs. Food to try is the French onion soup, and main course is either the chicken or steak. For dessert, try the madeleines if on the menu.

2. Wilfie and Nell

An upscale American bar and restaurant known for good drinks and locally sourced food. The vibe is young professionals with a dimly lit and intimate feel, even though many of the seating is community table style. My favorites included the loaded tater tots, the burger, and the steak and spinach salad. Unique cocktails.

3. Wild

A gluten-free Italian establishment that you would never know is totally gluten-free. A small cozy restaurant that gives you all the quintessential NYC vibes. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but I highly recommend the chicken parm.

4. Joseph Leonard

A laid back, warm, and lively neighborhood spot. A small and intimate place with a few tables. All drinks are fabulous, expect a wait. If you can’t make it for dinner, also great for brunch!

5. Buvette

Locally sourced, historic and charming French restaurant specializing in tapas that change seasonally. This spot is your typical close seating west village arrangement but the overall ambiance is divine. Expect a wait no matter what time you come, they don’t take reservations and your whole party must be there to be seated. I recommend trying at least one plate from every category. Breakfast is also delish here.

6. Jeffrey’s Grocery

Cozy vibes, great seafood, and fabulous cocktails. One of my go to spots when someone is in town or need a last minute resy. I love the hot crab dip, lobster roll, and espresso martinis.

7. Nami Nori

A modern and upscale temaki bar with a dining experience unlike most. Basically sushi taco deliciousness. I would recommend the furikake fries with the mentaiko mayo, the chefs set for temaki and then a few others from the list, and a must is both dessert options – they are amazing.

8. Bird Dog

A southern Italian restaurant, not southern Italy but think fried chicken Deep South and pasta. They have a pasta happy hour every day so check the hours, but this is a tasting menu with lots of food for a good price. The restaurant is very and I mean very tiny but has pictures of neighborhood docs in costumes which is so fun. You will need a resy to sit indoors here.

9. Hudson Clearwater

With candlelit lighting, lively conversations, and a variety of handcrafted cocktail selections, this American fare is perfect for a date night, a night with the girls, or dinner with the parents. Make reservations. They also have a little private terrace garden for seating as well.

10. The Leroy House

An intimate American neighborhood restaurant and bar is the perfect spot for a quick snack, a family night out, or a date night. A must have for drinks is the Leroy and you can’t go wrong with the shishito peppers, calamari, baked chicken and burger.

11. Casa La Femme

A spacious, whimsical, and lively Egyptian oasis. Behind the curtains, you walk into a whole new world. From belly dancers, live DJ, and private tents you can bet your night will be anything but boring. The private tents are prix fixe and fun but eating at a normal table is just as good and you can choose what you want. I would recommend Egyptian Ottomanelli ground beef sliders to start, the moussaka, and the lamb chops. Drinks are fresh and reasonably priced. Unlike many of its neighbors, Casa La Femme is also good for large groups.

12. Palma

My favorite Italian place in West Village. Request to sit in the garden, its super authentic, aesthetic and delish. They have homemade gluten free pasta items which is rare to find. Arancini, any specials, and the affogato are amazing.

13. Emily

A seasonal and popular spot in the village, you will most likely need a reservation a couple of weeks in advance or plan to have a couple hour wait if you are a walk in. I thought it was overhyped but it lived up to what everyone told us. A must-try is the burger and either one of these two Detroit style pizzas (or both): The Colony and The Emily. This restaurant has a quaint and charming vibe and best for groups under 4.

14. Via Carota

Inspired by old-world Italy, the food and decor both encompass the detail and influence of the owner’s villa and lives in Florence. There will be a line since there are no reservations, I repeat the lines will long, so get there early and put your name in and plan to grab a drink nearby while you wait, they also own the bar across the street Bar Pisellino where many hang out.

15. L’Artusi

This Italian gem Opened in December of 2008. L’Artusi is named for Pellegrino Artusi, (1820-1911) and his self-published cookbook La Scienza in The Science of Cookery and the Art of Eating Well. The lively atmosphere with 110+ seats, two story, open kitchen layout somehow feels both intimate and spacious at the same time. Their dishes are known for a combination of both comfort and creativity

The West Village is home to cafes, restaurants, and bars on literally every street and corner. The charming neighborhood has a vibe with a balanced mixture of both laid back intimate and boastful liveliness. You can find something to do or in the case eat, for anyone in your group.

For my favorite burgers click here!