Flatiron Building | Best Eats and Iconic Spots Nearby

The Flatiron Building, completed in 1902, has been a quintessential New York City landmark for over a century. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, this 22-story triangular skyscraper has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. But the Flatiron Building isn’t just an architectural marvel; it’s also surrounded by some of the best dining options in the city.

As you explore the Flatiron District and the neighboring Gramercy area, you’ll discover a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every palate and budget. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy taverns and trendy fusion spots, there’s no shortage of excellent food within walking distance of the Flatiron Building. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the best restaurants near this iconic landmark, ensuring that you’ll never go hungry while admiring its beauty.

Top Restaurants in the Flatiron District

SESAMO | Italian Restaurant Hell’s Kitchen

A hidden gem nestled on 10th Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen, SESAMO is a cozy Italian-Asian fusion restaurant that offers a unique dining experience.

The chef masterfully combines Italian pastas with Asian spices, creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting, such as the plump tortelloni filled with porcini mushrooms in a white curry cream sauce and the spicy chicken parmesan with Sichuan peppercorns.

The restaurant also offers a creative brunch menu, featuring dishes like miso-glazed salmon over coconut milk grits and yuzu avocado toast with orange tobiko. The warm, inviting dining room, friendly staff, and laid-back vibe make this spot the perfect choice for a casual dinner with friends or a relaxing weekend brunch.

Cosme

For those seeking an upscale Mexican dining experience, Cosme is the place to be.

The duck carnitas, a tender and flavorful duck confit served with fresh tortillas and a variety of salsas, is a must-try. The dish perfectly balances the richness of the duck with the bright, fresh flavors of the accompaniments. And if you have a sweet tooth, the husk meringue, a dessert featuring corn mousse, will satisfy your cravings while highlighting Olvera’s creative use of traditional Mexican ingredients.

Cosme’s sleek and modern interior provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. The high ceilings, warm lighting, and minimalist decor create an elegant atmosphere that complements the refined cuisine.

The restaurant’s popularity means that reservations can be challenging to secure, but trust us, it’s worth the effort. Treat yourself to a night of elevated Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails at Cosme. You’ll be glad you did.

Cote

If you’re in the mood for a unique and trendy dining experience, look no further than Cote. This Korean steakhouse concept has taken the Flatiron District by storm, offering a chic and inviting atmosphere complete with dark wood accents and industrial elements.

The star of the show at Cote is the Butcher’s Feast, a prix-fixe menu that includes a selection of prime cuts of beef, cooked tabletop on a grill built into each table. Alongside the high-quality meats, you’ll enjoy a variety of Korean side dishes (banchan), salads, stews, and dessert. It’s an interactive and satisfying dining experience that’s perfect for groups.

Cote also offers an à la carte menu featuring a range of steak cuts and Korean-inspired dishes like bibimbap and kimchi stew. The dry-aged beef is a particular standout, with the aging process taking place in-house to ensure the highest quality. And don’t forget to check out their impressive bar program, which focuses on creative cocktails and a well-curated wine and spirits selection.

The lively atmosphere and communal dining style make Cote a great spot for a night out with friends or a celebratory dinner. The attentive staff and expert grill masters ensure that your meal is cooked to perfection and that your dining experience is memorable from start to finish.

Milu’s

Milu, a casual eatery, offers some of the best bowl food in the city, featuring Sichuanese-inspired dishes that pack a punch. Must-try items include the crispy and bold Sichuan-spiced cauliflower, savory and aromatic soy-roasted chicken with garlic ginger, and fluffy pineapple buns for those craving something sweeter.

With its convenient location, casual atmosphere, generous portions, and reasonable prices, Milu is an ideal spot for a quick lunch break or a relaxed dinner. The menu features a range of bowl options, each with a base of rice or noodles and topped with your choice of protein, veggies, and sauce.

Milu’s commitment to sustainability is commendable, as the restaurant uses eco-friendly packaging and sources ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible. This allows customers to feel good about supporting a business that cares about its impact on the environment.

Hawksmoor NYC

Hawksmoor NYC, the first U.S. outpost of the renowned U.K.-based chain, offers a classic steakhouse experience with a British twist. Located in the historic United Charities Building, the restaurant boasts an opulent dining room with soaring ceilings, intricate woodwork, and plush leather booths.

What sets Hawksmoor NYC apart is its commitment to offering high-quality steaks at affordable prices, with the Express Menu featuring a choice of rump steak or hamburger served with fries and a sauce. The menu also includes a range of other cuts, from the classic filet mignon to the adventurous bone-in prime rib, alongside impressive sides like creamed spinach and beef dripping fries.

The extensive wine list, creative cocktail program, and knowledgeable staff ensure a top-notch dining experience. The atmosphere perfectly blends classic steakhouse elegance with modern sophistication, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion or a memorable night out, just a short walk from the Flatiron Building.

TKK Fried Chicken

TKK Fried Chicken, a Taiwanese chain that opened its first NYC location in 2018, is a must-visit spot for crispy, juicy fried chicken. Known for its extra-crunchy exterior and tender, skinless meat, TKK’s secret lies in its unique cooking process, which involves marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and coating it in a special batter before frying it to perfection.

In addition to the namesake chicken, TKK offers a range of decadent sides, including the kwa kwa bao, a unique combination of mushroom sticky rice wrapped in crispy chicken skin. Thirsty customers can also enjoy a selection of bubble teas, with classic milk tea and more unusual flavors like matcha and taro.

With its casual atmosphere, friendly service, reasonable prices, and generous portions, TKK is a great spot for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner. If you’re in the mood for top-notch fried chicken, TKK won’t disappoint.

Notable Eateries in Gramercy

Gramercy Tavern

Gramercy Tavern, an iconic restaurant part of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, has been a staple in the neighborhood since 1994. Chef Michael Anthony’s seasonal American cuisine is the star of the show, with the menu constantly evolving to showcase the best local ingredients. The elegant dining room, complete with warm lighting and rustic decor, provides the perfect backdrop for a special occasion or a romantic night out.

• The menu is divided into two parts: the more formal dining room and the casual tavern area. In the dining room, you can opt for a three-course prix-fixe menu or a six-course tasting menu, both featuring beautifully crafted dishes that highlight the season’s best produce. The tavern area offers an à la carte menu with options ranging from light bites to hearty entrees, including the standout tavern burger and seasonal vegetable dishes.
• Impeccable service, an extensive wine list, and a consistently warm, inviting atmosphere have made Gramercy Tavern a beloved institution for nearly three decades.

Union Square Cafe

Another Danny Meyer classic, Union Square Cafe, has been a beloved institution since its opening in 1985. In 2016, the restaurant moved to a new location just northeast of Union Square, offering a bigger space with the same charm and delicious food that made it famous.

• The menu focuses on simple, yet expertly prepared dishes that showcase the best seasonal ingredients. The pasta game is particularly strong, with options like ricotta gnocchi with lamb bolognese and spaghetti cacio e pepe.
• They have a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a lively dinner with friends or a romantic date night.

Iconic Food Spots

Shake Shack

No visit to the Flatiron District is complete without a stop at Shake Shack. This beloved burger chain got its start as a humble hot dog cart in Madison Square Park back in 2001, and today, the original location remains a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

• The beauty of Shake Shack lies in its simplicity. The classic ShackBurger, made with high-quality beef, lettuce, tomato, and ShackSauce, is a testament to the power of a well-made burger.
• Don’t forget about the frozen custard, a rich and creamy treat perfect for a hot summer day, with rotating seasonal flavors.
• Be prepared for lines, especially on nice days, but trust us, the wait is worth it. Grab a spot on a bench, enjoy your burger, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Madison Square Park.

Joe Jr.

Stepping into Joe Jr. feels like taking a trip back in time. This classic diner and coffee shop has been serving up no-frills fare since the 1970s, and its vintage charm remains intact. But it’s not just the nostalgic atmosphere that keeps people coming back – Joe Jr. is home to one of the best burgers in the city.

• The cheeseburger at Joe Jr. is a thing of beauty – a juicy, seven-ounce patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions, all nestled between a soft sesame seed bun. It’s a classic burger done right and the perfect meal after a long day of exploring the city.
• With its commitment to quality, fresh ingredients, and made-to-order dishes, Joe Jr. is the perfect spot to refuel after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

Hidden Gems and Unique Finds

If you’re looking to branch out and try something new, the Flatiron District and its surrounding areas offer some hidden gems and unique finds that are sure to satisfy your culinary curiosity.

Chito Gvrito

Chito Gvrito is a cozy restaurant that specializes in traditional Georgian dishes, with a particular focus on khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread that has taken NYC by storm. At Chito Gvrito, you’ll find:

• Several variations of khachapuri, each more decadent than the last. The classic adjaruli version features a boat-shaped bread filled with melted cheese, topped with a raw egg yolk and a pat of butter.
• A range of other traditional Georgian dishes, like khinkali (dumplings filled with meat or cheese), pkhali (vegetable spreads made with walnuts and herbs), and mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers).
• A warm and inviting atmosphere, with rustic decor and friendly staff. The restaurant is small and cozy, perfect for an intimate dinner or a casual lunch.
• Affordable prices and generous portions, making Chito Gvrito a great value for the quality of the food.

If you’re looking to discover the delicious world of Georgian cuisine, head to this hidden gem.

So Do Fun

So Do Fun is a Chinese chain that recently opened its first U.S. location just north of the Flatiron District, offering Sichuanese cuisine with a twist. At So Do Fun, you’ll find:

• A mix of traditional Sichuanese dishes and more inventive creations that incorporate Cantonese flavors. The maoxue wang, a spicy broth filled with pork liver, tripe, and spam, is a standout dish that showcases the restaurant’s bold flavors and creative approach.
• Other options for those who don’t prefer offal, like the double-cooked pork belly (a classic Sichuanese dish) and the kung pao chicken, both tender, flavorful, and well-balanced.
• A commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients, with crisp and vibrant vegetables and tender, flavorful meats. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian options, like the mapo tofu and the stir-fried eggplant.
• A sleek and modern atmosphere, with industrial-chic decor and an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs at work. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and provides efficient and attentive service.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Flatiron District and its surrounding neighborhoods offer an incredible array of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. From classic steakhouses to innovative fusion spots, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant part of the city.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, you’ll find plenty of options within walking distance of the iconic Flatiron Building. And with so many great restaurants to choose from, you’ll never run out of new places to try.