Although the restaurant industry offers a variety of cuisines from around the world, it has traditionally been male-dominated in terms of chefs and owners.
Nevertheless, there is a growing number of exceptional women-led restaurants in the city that are making a difference.
These women chefs showcase their exceptional culinary abilities and perspectives, delivering dining experiences that one should not miss.
Discover 11 best restaurants in New York that are led by women and showcase unique flavors, styles, and atmospheres.
Let’s explore some of the the most talented women chefs and restaurateurs that New York has to offer.
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11 Best Women-Led Restaurants in New York (NYC):
As a bustling city brimming with culinary diversity, New York is home to some of the most delicious restaurants in the world, including those helmed by women in leadership positions.
Across the city, female chefs are serving up delectable dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
From contemporary farm-to-table cuisine to classic French bistro fare, here are some of the best women-led restaurants in New York that you simply cannot miss.
Vinateria
Owner: Vinateria is owned by Yvette Leeper-Bueno, who has a passion for creating a welcoming and warm dining atmosphere while offering delicious food and drinks.
Cuisine: Vinateria offers Italian and Spanish-inspired cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and memorable dishes.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Grilled Octopus, Paella, and House-made Pasta, showcasing the culinary talent and creativity of the kitchen.
Curated Wine List: Vinateria features a carefully curated wine list, offering diners a selection of unique and complementary wines to pair with their meals.
Craft Cocktails: In addition to the wine list, Vinateria also offers a range of craft cocktails that are both inventive and delicious, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.
Chic, Intimate Setting: The restaurant has a stylish, intimate setting with a neighborhood feel, making it perfect for date nights or special occasions.
Outdoor Seating: Vinateria offers outdoor seating for those who prefer to dine al fresco or enjoy the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.
Attentive Service: The staff at Vinateria provide warm and attentive service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
Reservations Recommended: Due to the popularity of the restaurant and its intimate setting, reservations are recommended to secure your table and avoid disappointment.
Location: 2211 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026
Phone number: (212) 662-8462
Website: https://vinaterianyc.com/
The Butcher’s Daughter
Founder: Owned by Heather Tierney, a former food and beverage journalist who is passionate about creating healthy and delicious plant-based meals.
Plant-Based Cuisine: The restaurant focuses on offering vegetarian and vegan dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing healthy options for diners.
Signature Dishes: Known for mouth-watering dishes like Avocado Toast, Cauliflower Gnocchi, and Kale Caesar Salad, which showcase the creativity and flavors of plant-based cuisine.
Juice and Smoothie Menu: An extensive fresh juice and smoothie menu is available, featuring cold-pressed juices, wellness shots, and made-to-order smoothies that are both nutritious and delicious.
California-Inspired Decor: The bright and airy decor creates a laid-back, California vibe with plenty of plants and natural light, offering a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Outdoor Seating: Some locations offer outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy their meals al fresco and soak up the city’s ambiance.
Ideal for Various Occasions: The Butcher’s Daughter is perfect for a healthy meal, weekend brunch, or a casual get-together with friends and family.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home or on-the-go, takeout and delivery options are available, making it convenient for busy individuals.
Expansion Beyond NYC: In addition to its New York City locations, The Butcher’s Daughter also has a location in Venice, California, showcasing its popularity and success in the plant-based dining scene.
Location: 19 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
Phone number: (212) 219-3434
Website: https://www.thebutchersdaughter.com/
Claudy’s Kitchen
Owner: Claudy’s Kitchen is owned by chef Claudy Pierre, who brings her passion for Haitian and Caribbean cuisine to Brooklyn.
Cuisine: Claudy’s Kitchen serves authentic Haitian and Caribbean cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors and unique dishes from the region.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for traditional dishes like Griot (fried pork), Legume Stew (mixed vegetable stew), and Fried Plantains, providing guests with a true taste of Haitian cuisine.
Locally Sourced Ingredients: Claudy’s Kitchen focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying dishes.
Colorful, Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant features a colorful, welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home as they enjoy their meals.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Claudy’s Kitchen offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that there is something delicious for everyone to enjoy.
Casual Dining Experience: The restaurant provides a casual dining experience, making it perfect for group dining or a relaxed meal with friends and family.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, Claudy’s Kitchen offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the flavors of Haiti and the Caribbean right to your doorstep.
Authentic Caribbean Experience: Claudy’s Kitchen is an ideal destination for those looking to explore and enjoy authentic Caribbean flavors in a warm and inviting setting.
Location: 8309 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Phone number: (718) 333-0675
Website: https://www.claudyskitchen.com/
Lakruwana
Owner: Lakruwana is owned by Lakruwana Wijesinghe, a native of Sri Lanka, who brings her passion for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine to Staten Island, New York.
Cuisine: Lakruwana serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors, spices, and traditional dishes of the island nation.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Lamprais (rice and curry wrapped in a banana leaf), Hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk), and Kottu Roti (a stir-fried dish made with roti, vegetables, and optional meat or egg).
Weekend Buffet: Lakruwana offers a Sri Lankan buffet on weekends, providing guests the opportunity to taste a variety of dishes and flavors.
Cooking Classes: For those interested in learning about Sri Lankan cuisine, the restaurant offers cooking classes, allowing guests to explore and recreate these unique flavors at home.
Sri Lankan Artifacts: Lakruwana features a small museum showcasing Sri Lankan artifacts, offering guests an insight into the island’s culture and history.
Vibrant, Colorful Decor: The restaurant’s decor is vibrant and colorful, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that transports guests to the tropical island of Sri Lanka.
Authentic Experience: Lakruwana provides an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience, making it a must-visit for fans of South Asian cuisine or those looking to explore new flavors.
Friendly Service: The staff at Lakruwana are friendly and attentive, ensuring that each guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 668 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10304
Phone number: (718) 554-3953
Website: https://www.lakruwanarestaurant.com/
Nneji
Owner: Nneji is owned by Beatrice Ajaero, who brings her passion for authentic Nigerian and West African cuisine to Astoria, Queens.
Cuisine: Nneji serves traditional Nigerian and West African dishes, highlighting the rich, bold flavors and ingredients of the region.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Jollof Rice, Egusi Soup (made with ground melon seeds, vegetables, and meat), and Suya (spicy grilled skewers of meat).
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Nneji offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring there are delicious choices for everyone.
Focus on Health: The restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and health-conscious cooking methods to create flavorful and nourishing dishes.
Casual Dining Atmosphere: Nneji provides a casual dining experience, making it perfect for a relaxed meal with friends and family or a quick bite on-the-go.
Cultural Experience: The restaurant offers an authentic West African dining experience, allowing guests to explore and enjoy the diverse flavors of Nigeria and its neighboring countries.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, Nneji offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the authentic taste of West Africa right to your doorstep.
Friendly Service: The staff at Nneji are warm and attentive, ensuring that each guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 2274 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10027
Phone number: (646) 649-3356
Website: https://nnejinyc.com/
Otway
Owner: Otway is owned by chef Claire Welle, who brings her passion for seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.
Cuisine: Otway serves modern American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes that showcase the creativity and talent of the kitchen.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Chicken Liver Mousse, Dry-Aged Duck Breast, and Whole Roasted Cauliflower, demonstrating the diverse and flavorful menu offerings.
Curated Wine List: Otway features a carefully curated wine list, offering guests a selection of unique and complementary wines to pair with their meals.
Craft Cocktails: In addition to the wine list, the restaurant also offers a range of craft cocktails that are both inventive and delicious, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.
Stylish, Intimate Setting: Otway has a stylish, intimate setting with an open kitchen, allowing guests to watch the culinary magic unfold as they enjoy their meals.
Seasonal Menu Changes: The restaurant regularly updates its menu to reflect the best seasonal ingredients, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting to try.
Reservations Recommended: Due to the popularity of the restaurant and its intimate setting, reservations are recommended to secure your table and avoid disappointment.
Attentive Service: The staff at Otway provide warm and attentive service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
Location: 930 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Phone number: (917) 909-1889
Website: https://www.otwaynyc.com/
Khiladi
Owner: Khiladi is owned by Shiva Natarajan, who brings his passion for authentic Indian street food to New York City.
Cuisine: Khiladi serves Indian street food with a focus on regional specialties from across India, showcasing the diverse flavors and dishes of the country.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Kati Rolls, Pani Puri, and Pav Bhaji, providing guests with a true taste of Indian street food culture.
Thali Meals: Khiladi offers thali meals, which are traditional Indian platters featuring a variety of small dishes, allowing diners to sample an array of flavors in one meal.
Colorful, Playful Atmosphere: The restaurant features a colorful, playful atmosphere inspired by Indian street food markets, making guests feel immersed in the vibrant culture of India.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Khiladi offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that there is something delicious for everyone to enjoy.
Casual Dining Experience: The restaurant provides a casual dining experience, making it perfect for group dining or a relaxed meal with friends and family.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, Khiladi offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the flavors of India right to your doorstep.
Friendly Service: The staff at Khiladi are friendly and attentive, ensuring that each guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 156 First Ave, New York, NY 10009
Phone number: (646) 678-5769
Website: https://www.khiladinyc.com/
La Palapa
Owners: La Palapa is owned by Barbara Sibley and Margaritte Malfy, who bring their passion for authentic Mexican cuisine to New York City.
Cuisine: La Palapa serves traditional Mexican cuisine, focusing on dishes from the Puebla and Oaxaca regions, and showcasing the rich flavors of Mexico.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Tacos al Pastor, Mole Poblano, and Chile Relleno, providing guests with a true taste of Mexican culinary traditions.
Fresh Ingredients: La Palapa uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying dishes that highlight the best of Mexican cuisine.
Colorful, Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant features a colorful, welcoming atmosphere with traditional Mexican decor, making guests feel right at home as they enjoy their meals.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: La Palapa offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that there is something delicious for everyone to enjoy.
Weekend Brunch: The restaurant serves a popular weekend brunch, featuring Mexican-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely weekend meal.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, La Palapa offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the flavors of Mexico right to your doorstep.
Friendly Service: The staff at La Palapa are warm and attentive, ensuring that each guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 77 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003
Phone number: (212) 777-2537
Website: https://www.lapalapa.com/
Sylvia’s
Founder: Sylvia’s was founded by Sylvia Woods, the “Queen of Soul Food,” in 1962. Today, the restaurant is run by her family, who continue to honor her legacy.
Cuisine: Sylvia’s serves traditional Southern and soul food, showcasing the rich flavors, comfort dishes, and culinary heritage of African American cuisine.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, Cornbread, and Chicken & Waffles, providing guests with a true taste of soul food.
Homestyle Cooking: Sylvia’s emphasizes homestyle cooking, using family recipes and techniques passed down through generations to create authentic and delicious dishes.
Historic Landmark: Sylvia’s is a historic landmark in Harlem, attracting locals, tourists, and celebrities alike for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.
Sunday Gospel Brunch: The restaurant offers a Sunday Gospel Brunch, featuring live gospel music and a soul food buffet, making it a unique and uplifting dining experience.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, Sylvia’s offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the flavors of soul food right to your doorstep.
Catering Services: Sylvia’s also provides catering services for special events, allowing you to share the delicious taste of soul food with your guests.
Friendly Service: The staff at Sylvia’s are warm and attentive, ensuring that each guest feels like part of the family and has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10027
Phone number: (212) 996-0660
Website: https://sylviasrestaurant.com/
Baoburg
Owner: Baoburg is owned by Chef Suchanan Aksornnan, also known as “Chef Bao Bao,” who brings her passion for Asian fusion cuisine to Brooklyn, New York.
Cuisine: Baoburg serves Asian fusion cuisine with a focus on Thai, Japanese, and Spanish influences, showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients of these culinary traditions.
Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for dishes like Massaman Curry, Duck Ramen, and Steamed Buns, providing guests with a delicious and innovative taste of Asian fusion cuisine.
Inventive Menu: Baoburg’s menu features inventive dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that there is something delicious for everyone to enjoy.
Cozy Atmosphere: Baoburg has a cozy, intimate atmosphere with stylish decor, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or a romantic date night.
Takeout and Delivery Options: For those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, Baoburg offers takeout and delivery options, bringing the flavors of Asian fusion right to your doorstep.
Seasonal Menu Changes: The restaurant regularly updates its menu to reflect seasonal ingredients and Chef Bao Bao’s latest culinary inspirations, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting to try.
Friendly Service: The staff at Baoburg are warm and attentive, ensuring that each guest has an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.
Location: 614 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Phone number: (718) 349-0011
Website: https://baoburg.com/
Final Verdict
From classic French fare to contemporary farm-to-table cuisine, New York’s female chefs are putting their own stamp on the culinary world.
Be sure to check out these 11 best women-led restaurants in New York for some of the most delicious meals you can find.
The city offers a diverse range of cuisines and flavors, so make sure to explore each one and discover the unique perspectives they offer.
Bon appétit!
