Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two, there are plenty of great spots to enjoy small plates in Manhattan. So next time you’re in the city and want to find a place with great appetizers, be sure to check out this Best of the City reader favorite.
2024: Manhattan Voted Gramercy Tavern Best Appetizer!
Gramercy Tavern
42 E 20th St
(212) 477-0777 – gramercytavern.com
Located in a historic landmark building, the famous Gramercy Tavern has been serving guests since opening its doors in 1994. Featuring American cuisine, the menu offers evolving seasonal items with ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors. Delivering excellent service and warm hospitality to patrons, Gramercy Tavern has earned nine James Beard Awards, including “Outstanding Restaurant” and “Outstanding Chef in America.” Whether you’re looking to dine in one of the two distinct rooms, perhaps it’s lunch in the Tavern, or you prefer to go a little more upscale in the “Dining Room” you’re guaranteed to enjoy a delicious meal in whichever room you choose.
2023: Manhattan Voted ABC Kitchen Best Appetizer!
ABC Kitchen
35 E 18th St
(212) 475-5829
An array of selections such as uniquely pretzel-dusted calamari with spicy tomato and mustard aioli, and this scrumptious starter of roasted spot prawns with yuzu chili dressing and cilantro are the stars of an appetizer menu at ABC Kitchen. A uniquely poised eatery, food lovers rely here on enjoying an elegantly presented preamble to their meal that is flavorful, fresh, and full of healthy ingredients. The chef in all dishes including the apps incorporates only the most succulent meat, fish, and dairy that is sourced from local sellers that use safe and humane practices and a stunningly varied bounty of seasonal produce free of dangerous pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, insecticides, or GMOs. A rooftop garden punctuates the pre-dining experience here so go in and luxuriate over a cocktail with an app.
2022: Manhattan Voted ABC Kitchen Best Appetizer!
ABC Kitchen
35 E 18th St
(212) 475-5829
Nothing sets the mood for the rest of the meal like the perfect appetizer. The menu at ABC Kitchen aims to bring the freshest and local ingredients to the tables of every customer. The appetizer menu at ABC Kitchen is extensive and includes everything from Butternut Squash Soup to Pretzel Dusted Calamari, truly something for everyone. If you are looking for something a little simpler, its also offers a kale salad that is served with lemon, serrano chilies and mint. The lunch menu’s appetizer menu is even more extensive, presenting cured meats and local cheeses as well as marinated olives—perfect for a lunch out with the ladies!
2021: Manhattan Voted ABC Kitchen Best Appetizer!
ABC Kitchen
35 E 18th St
(212) 475-5829
Nothing sets the mood for the rest of the meal like the perfect appetizer. The menu at ABC Kitchen aims to bring the freshest and local ingredients to the tables of every customer. The appetizer menu at ABC Kitchen is extensive and includes everything from Butternut Squash Soup to Pretzel Dusted Calamari, truly something for everyone. If you are looking for something a little simpler, its also offers a kale salad that is served with lemon, serrano chilies and mint. The lunch menu’s appetizer menu is even more extensive, presenting cured meats and local cheeses as well as marinated olives—perfect for a lunch out with the ladies!
2020: Manhattan Voted The Flying Cock Best Appetizer!
The Flying Cock
497 3rd Ave
(212) 689-6900 – www.theflyingcocknyc.com
The Flying Cock is a fun, lively, yet cozy bar nestled in the heart of New York City’s Murray Hill. The restaurant is best known for its unbeatable bottomless brunch and playfully delicious menu with dishes such as the Crispy Flying Cock sandwich and cocktails like the Cocky Mule. Indulge in appetizers from bar nachos, to Korean-style wings and its BBQ bacon cheeseburger flatbread. They’re also open for lunch and dinner daily, with late night DJ’s playing throughout the weekend and happy hour specials all week. Although they’re all about great cuisine, there are TVs at every angle to watch sports. Next time you want to book a party check out the back bar which is perfect for private events.
