NoHo, short for “North of Houston Street,” is a charming and compact Manhattan neighborhood that punches well above its weight when it comes to food. Nestled between Greenwich Village and the East Village, NoHo’s cobblestone streets and cast-iron façades hide a deliciously eclectic dining scene—blending trendy newcomers, beloved institutions, and irresistible hidden gems. Whether you’re craving a quick artisanal coffee, a leisurely tasting menu, or inventive street eats, NoHo serves it all with flair.
Broadway and Lafayette: NoHo’s Culinary Artery
The intersection of Broadway and Lafayette is where NoHo’s dining energy radiates. Here, you’ll find eateries that have perfected both casual drop-ins and reservation-worthy sittings.
- Il Buco (47 Bond St.): For over two decades, Il Buco has been a favorite amongst in-the-know Manhattanites and visiting celebs. This rustic, intimate Italian restaurant is renowned for its ingredient-driven Mediterranean menu—think house-cured charcuterie, slow-roasted meats, or the heavenly olive oil cake. Expect a meal to be $40–$70 per person.
- Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery (380 Lafayette St.): A perennial brunch hot spot, Lafayette blends Parisian bistro vibes with New York sophistication. Their pastry counter draws regulars for croissants and tarts—arguably the best pain au chocolat downtown—while the dining menu features French-inspired classics like steak frites and moules marinière at $20–$40 a plate.
Hidden Breakfast and Coffee Stops
NoHo mornings have a culinary character of their own, thanks to a collection of standout coffee shops and bakeries.
- La Colombe (400 Lafayette St.): This sleek, industrial café is beloved by caffeine aficionados for its creamy draft lattes and single-origin drip. It’s an ideal pre-work stop or afternoon recharge, with pastries to pair.
- The Smile (26 Bond St.): Hidden within a 1800s townhouse, The Smile is a rustic-chic café popular with locals (including lots of NYU students). Their Mediterranean-leaning breakfast and lunch menu offers delights like shakshuka, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh salads ($10–$18).
Contemporary Eateries: Trendy and Inventive
NoHo’s dining scene truly shines in the innovative corners of its contemporary restaurants, where chefs make bold choices and New York’s diverse palate is celebrated.
- ATLA (372 Lafayette St.): Helmed by noted Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, ATLA is bright, buzzy, and casual, serving next-level Mexican fare in a lively setting. The chia oat horchata and creatively topped tacos are crowd favorites, and the menu is perfect for sharing. Expect $20–$40 per person for lunch or dinner.
- Fish Cheeks (55 Bond St.): This wildly popular (and affordable) Thai restaurant specializes in seafood with punchy, fresh flavors—like coconut crab curry and zesty grilled prawns. It’s great for groups, with main dishes around $18–$28, and is always bustling at dinnertime.
Local Food Traditions and Classics
Amid the trendsetters, NoHo also pays homage to classic New York food traditions with timeless spots:
- Bleecker Street Pizza (corner of Bleecker & Lafayette): No trip to NoHo is complete without grabbing a classic New York slice, and Bleecker Street Pizza delivers the goods—especially their “Nonna Maria” pie, famous citywide for its tangy sauce and perfectly crisp crust. Slices are just a few dollars each.
- Vic’s (31 Great Jones St.): A relaxed Italian-American spot with a committed local following, Vic’s does everything from housemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas and farmers’ market-driven mains. It’s a warm, bustling eatery with mains averaging $18–$30.
Sweet Treats and Bakeries
Dessert is serious business in NoHo, where bakeries and sweet shops offer both classic and creative options.
- Levain Bakery (340 Lafayette St.): Famed across NYC for their massive, gooey cookies (chocolate chip walnut is a must-try), Levain’s NoHo storefront sees regular lines out the door. At $5 per cookie, it’s well worth the indulgence.
- Angelina Paris (1050 Sixth Ave., just north of Houston): For a sophisticated treat, try the legendary hot chocolate (“L’Africain”) and delicate pâtisseries from this Parisian import. Their mille-feuille and éclairs are exceptional imbued with classic French technique.
Food Trucks and Quick Bites
NoHo’s creative spirit extends to the street, where food trucks and hole-in-the-wall vendors serve everything from healthful bowls to decadent sandwiches.
- King David Tacos (Lafayette & Astor Place): A cult favorite with morning commuters, this colorful food truck serves authentic Austin, TX-inspired breakfast tacos—loaded with eggs, chorizo, and homemade salsas. At around $5 per taco, it’s a killer value.
- NoHo Juice Bar (on Broadway, north of Bleecker): A neighborhood staple for healthy grab-and-go juices, smoothies, and açai bowls. It’s the perfect recharge amidst a busy day of city wandering.
Under-the-Radar Gems
Some of NoHo’s finest food moments are found just off the main boulevards, if you know where to look:
- Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ (34 Cooper Sq.): BBQ lovers shouldn’t miss this lively spot where you grill your own marinated meats and veggies right at the table. Go for happy hour ($6–$8 small plates) or splurge on a tasting set.
- Barn Joo (35 Union Sq. W., just outside the NoHo border): This Korean gastropub lures in-the-know diners with its creative small plates, crispy Korean fried chicken, and soju cocktails.
An Open Invitation
NoHo’s food scene is an ever-evolving tapestry of old-school charm and cutting-edge creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, a meal (or three) here promises flavors as eclectic as the neighborhood itself. So bring your appetite, wander Bond Street or Lafayette, and taste why NoHo continues to be one of Manhattan’s tastiest secrets.