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
This cozy, casual atmosphere complements the rich, aromatic flavors that dominate Adda’s menu.
- Cuisine: Indian
- Location: Long Island City
- Authentic Indian dishes with a rustic flair; most items range from $10 to $30
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
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.
- Cuisine: Thai (Isaan Region)
- Location: Woodside
- Work Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Northeastern Thai cuisine with bold flavors, typically $15 to $30 per dish.
A standout dish is the larb ped Udon, a spicy minced duck salad that is a quintessential Isaan dish.
The interior of Zaab Zaab is simple yet inviting, with warm tones and wooden accents that create a welcoming atmosphere.
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.
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
- Fresh, pick-your-own-seafood style dining; pricing varies based on seafood choice, usually around $20 to $40 per plate
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.
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
- Extensive Thai menu with dishes ranging from $10 to $20 for a flavorful, budget-friendly experience.
Work Hours:
- Thursday-Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday Closed
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.
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
- Innovative steakhouse with Montreal influences; dishes range widely, averaging between $30 and $50
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.
M. Wells offers a dining experience that is as unique as it is delicious.
5. Red Sorghum
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
- Hunanese-Sichuan dishes priced around $15 to $25, ideal for spice lovers.
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.
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
- Crab-focused seafood restaurant; dishes like crab dumplings and chili crab range from $15 to $35.
Notable Dishes
- Crab Xiao Long Bao: Soup dumplings filled with crab meat and savory broth.
- Chili Crab: Crab cooked in a rich, spicy sauce.
- Salt and Pepper Crab: Crisp crab pieces seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions: Fresh fish delicately steamed with classic Chinese flavors.
- Garlic Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed with garlic for a bold, aromatic taste.
Visiting Xie Bao is a must for anyone who loves seafood, especially those with a particular fondness for crab.
3. Sanford’s
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
- Modern American comfort food, with entrees priced between $20 and $40, plus an extensive whiskey selection.
Notable Dishes
- BBQ Baby Back Ribs: Tender ribs with a smoky BBQ glaze.
- Prime Steaks: Juicy, perfectly cooked steaks.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese: Classic mac and cheese elevated with truffle.
- Sanford’s Burger: A hearty, flavor-packed burger with gourmet toppings.
- Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Spicy buffalo chicken on a toasted bun.
Sanford’s is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal in a relaxed setting.
2. Jiang Nan
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
- Diverse regional Chinese dishes, with signature items from $15 to $30.
Notable Dishes
- Peking Duck: Crispy-skinned duck served with traditional accompaniments.
- Xiao Long Bao: Soup dumplings filled with savory broth and delicate pork or crab.
- Mapo Tofu: Spicy Sichuan-style tofu with minced pork.
- Sweet and Sour Fish: Lightly fried fish in a sweet and tangy sauce.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Stir-fried chicken with peanuts and a hint of spice.
1. Usha Foods
The interior is bright and colorful, with a lively atmosphere that reflects the vibrant flavors of the food.
- Cuisine: Indian (Vegetarian)
- Location: Floral Park
- Vegetarian Indian fare, known for dosas and chaats, with most dishes under $15.
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.
- Dosas: Crispy South Indian crepes served with chutneys and sambar.
- Chaat: Tangy and spicy street-style snacks with a variety of toppings.
- Pav Bhaji: Mashed vegetables in a spiced sauce, served with buttered bread.
- Idli: Steamed rice cakes paired with sambar and chutney.
- Kachori: Deep-fried pastries filled with spiced lentils.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality has made it a favorite among vegetarians and those seeking a taste of India in Queens.
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.