Queens, the most culturally diverse borough of New York City, is a culinary haven that offers an incredible array of flavors from around the globe.
With its blend of communities, Queens boasts a food scene that reflects the rich cultural heritage of its residents.
Whether you’re in search of bold, spicy dishes from Southeast Asia, authentic Italian fare, or classic American comfort food, Queens has it all.
Let us talk about the best restaurants you can find in Queens.
10. Adda
Adda, located in Long Island City, is a celebration of authentic Indian cuisine presented in a rustic, unpretentious setting.
The restaurant’s ambiance is reminiscent of a traditional Indian roadside eatery, complete with newspapers lining the walls. This cozy, casual atmosphere complements the rich, aromatic flavors that dominate Adda’s menu.
- Cuisine: Indian
- Location: Long Island City
- Work Hours:
- Sunday 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 5–9 PM
- Wednesday 5–9 PM
- Thursday 5–9 PM
- Friday 5–9 PM
- Saturday 12–3 PM, 5–9 PM
Signature dishes like creamy butter chicken, fragrant biryani, and robust saag paneer are prepared using traditional methods and spices, ensuring an authentic taste experience.
Adda prides itself on offering a menu that stays true to Indian culinary roots while incorporating contemporary presentation and service.
What sets Adda apart is its ability to balance bold flavors with a modern dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience true Indian cuisine in Queens.
9. Zaab Zaab
Zaab Zaab, found in the heart of Woodside, offers a culinary journey to Thailand’s Northeastern Isaan region, known for its bold, spicy flavors.
This cozy eatery is a gem for those seeking authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on the distinctive tastes of Isaan, which is often characterized by its use of fresh herbs, chili, and fish sauce.
- Cuisine: Thai (Isaan Region)
- Location: Woodside
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage.
A standout is the larb ped Udon, a spicy minced duck salad that is a quintessential Isaan dish. Each dish is prepared with precision, ensuring that the flavors are as close to the traditional recipes as possible.
The interior of Zaab Zaab is simple yet inviting, with warm tones and wooden accents that create a welcoming atmosphere.
Zaab Zaab’s commitment to authenticity, combined with its friendly service, makes it a top destination for Thai food lovers.
8. Astoria Seafood
Astoria Seafood, located in Long Island City, offers a dining experience that brings the fresh flavors of the sea to your table.
This family-owned restaurant is beloved for its choose-your-own-fish concept, where diners can pick from a wide selection of fresh seafood, which is then cooked to order.
The atmosphere is lively and bustling, reminiscent of a traditional Greek seafood market.
- Cuisine: Greek/Seafood
- Location: Long Island City
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of Greek culinary traditions, with dishes like grilled octopus, fried calamari, and shrimp saganaki, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. The seafood is simply but expertly cooked, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
Astoria Seafood’s unpretentious setting and straightforward approach to cooking have earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Visiting Astoria Seafood is like taking a trip to a seaside town in Greece, where the catch of the day is always the star of the meal. The experience is both interactive and delicious, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in Queens.
7. Sripraphai Thai
Sripraphai Thai in Woodside is a long-standing favorite for those seeking authentic Thai cuisine in Queens.
This restaurant is renowned for its extensive menu, which features over 120 dishes that represent various regions of Thailand.
From the savory Pad Thai to the aromatic Panang tofu, Sripraphai offers a culinary experience that is both diverse and satisfying.
- Cuisine: Thai
- Location: Woodside
- Work Hours:
- Thursday-Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday Closed
The restaurant’s interior is modest, with a focus on functionality rather than flash. However, what it lacks in decor, it more than makes up for in flavor.
Each dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients and traditional Thai techniques, ensuring that the flavors are both authentic and vibrant.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity has made it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
Sripraphai’s popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a genuine taste of Thailand in the heart of Queens.
6. M. Wells
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M. Wells, situated in Long Island City, is not your typical steakhouse. Helmed by Canadian chef Hugue Dufour, this restaurant is known for its unique, ever-changing menu that draws inspiration from Montreal’s culinary traditions.
The restaurant’s industrial-chic decor, with its exposed brick walls and open kitchen, sets the stage for a dining experience that is both hearty and refined.
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Location: Long Island City
- Work Hours:
- Wednesday-Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday-Tuesday Closed
The menu at M. Wells is a blend of comfort food and innovative culinary creations. Signature dishes include rich, meaty steaks and Montreal-style foie gras, all prepared with a creative twist.
The restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and inventive techniques has earned it a reputation as one of Queens’ top dining destinations.
M. Wells offers a dining experience that is as unique as it is delicious.
5. Red Sorghum
Red Sorghum specializes in Hunanese-Sichuan cuisine, known for its use of high temperatures, chile peppers, and traditional pickling techniques. The restaurant’s interior is modern and sleek, with minimalist decor that lets the food take center stage.
Red Sorghum is a haven for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors that pack a punch.
- Cuisine: Hunanese-Sichuan
- Location: Long Island City
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
The menu at Red Sorghum features a variety of dishes that showcase the bold flavors of Hunan and Sichuan cuisine. Signature dishes include Szechuan Noodles with spicy beef sauce, which is a perfect example of the restaurant’s ability to balance heat with flavor.
The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is bursting with authentic flavors that transport you to the heart of China.
Red Sorghum is a must-visit for those who appreciate the complex, fiery flavors of Hunanese-Sichuan cuisine. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and quality makes it a standout spot in Queens’ diverse food scene.
4. Xie Bao
Xie Bao in Flushing is a seafood lover’s paradise, with a special focus on crab dishes. The restaurant’s interior is simple, allowing the food to take center stage. Known for its rich, crab-based dishes, Xie Bao has become a go-to spot for those who crave seafood, particularly crab.
- Cuisine: Chinese/Seafood
- Location: Flushing
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 09:00 AM – 9:00 PM
One of the standout dishes at Xie Bao is the crab xiao long bao, a delicate soup dumpling filled with crab meat and broth. The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, all prepared with a focus on freshness and flavor.
Xie Bao’s dedication to quality and authenticity has earned it a loyal following among seafood enthusiasts.
Visiting Xie Bao is a must for anyone who loves seafood, especially those with a particular fondness for crab. The restaurant’s straightforward approach to cooking, combined with its focus on fresh ingredients, makes it a top choice for seafood in Queens.
3. Sanford’s
Sanford’s, located in Astoria, is a trendy spot that combines a casual atmosphere with well-prepared American dishes. The restaurant is known for its extensive whiskey selection and its menu, which features classic American comfort food with a modern twist.
The interior is warm and inviting, with a mix of rustic and contemporary elements that create a relaxed dining environment.
- Cuisine: American
- Location: Astoria
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
The menu at Sanford’s includes a variety of dishes that are perfect for comfort food lovers. Signature dishes like the BBQ baby back ribs and prime steaks are prepared with care, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to its drink menu, which includes an impressive selection of whiskeys and craft cocktails.
Sanford’s is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak or a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, Sanford’s has something to satisfy your cravings.
2. Jiang Nan
Jiang Nan offers a comprehensive exploration of China’s diverse culinary regions. The restaurant’s menu includes a wide variety of regional Chinese dishes, from the rich, savory Peking Duck to the delicate Xiao Long Bao.
The interior is elegant, with traditional Chinese decor elements that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Location: Flushing
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11 AM–10:30 PM
The menu at Jiang Nan is a celebration of China’s culinary diversity, with dishes that highlight the unique flavors and techniques of different regions.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality makes it a standout spot in Flushing’s vibrant food scene.
Jiang Nan is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. The restaurant’s dedication to showcasing the diversity of China’s culinary traditions makes it a top choice for food lovers in Queens.
1. Usha Foods
Usha Foods is a staple of vegetarian Indian food in Queens. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes, including dosas, chaats, and other gluten-free and vegetarian delights.
The interior is bright and colorful, with a lively atmosphere that reflects the vibrant flavors of the food.
- Cuisine: Indian (Vegetarian)
- Location: Floral Park
- Work Hours:
- Sunday 9:30 AM–2 AM
- Monday 11 AM–1 AM
- Tuesday 11 AM–1 AM
- Wednesday 11 AM–1 AM
- Thursday 11 AM–1 AM
- Friday 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday 9:30 AM–2 AM
Usha Foods is a vegetarian’s dream, with a wide range of dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. From the crispy, savory dosas to the tangy, spicy chaats, each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality has made it a favorite among vegetarians and those seeking a taste of India in Queens.
Usha Foods is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant’s dedication to providing high-quality, flavorful dishes makes it a top choice for vegetarians and food lovers alike.
The Bottom Line
The top 10 restaurants we’ve featured not only offer a wide range of culinary experiences but also showcase the borough’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich heritage through food.
You’ll discover that this borough is much more than just another part of New York City—it’s a culinary destination in its own right.
So go ahead, treat yourself to the diverse flavors that Queens has to offer, and experience the borough’s food scene in all its delicious glory.