My taste (and means) is not as high as other folks on this thread, though I would like to go to many of the places mentioned. We just got back from a 3 night stay. For some low key non-tasting-menu kind of places. These aren’t hidden gems or anything but they are great at what they do:
I am a big fan of Sadelle’s for bagels and lox or other brunch fare. Make your reservation now. Laid back place, might catch a celeb keeping it casual.
My favorite neighborhood just to walk around in, is Greenwich/West Village. I recommend Mary’s Fish Camp for the lobster roll (but other seafood is good too) for lunch. No reservations required, nice and laid back but not a dive at all. Hit it on your way back from seeing the Statue of Liberty.
Several folks have mentioned Los Tacos No. 1, and it lives up to the hype. Specifically the pastor taco…it is a game changer. Best taco I’ve ever had. There’s a location in Midtown and in Chelsea Market, and a few others I believe.
I liked Mimi Chengs for dumplings—you can hit the UWS location before walking in Central Park or the LES location if you’re in the neighborhood.
The best cookies in the world are at Levain bakery, several locations. (But there other stuff has been only okay for me.)
Oh yeah, I think it was spanky who recommended Beauty & Essex. Cool atmosphere, good food with playful menu. You’ll need reservations but it is NOT stuffy. Actually have to walk through a pawn shop storefront to enter.
I also would recommend Top of the Rock I’m assuming it will be freezing cold but the views are great and it’s totally a “first time in NYC” thing.
And if you want out of the cold, MoMA and The Met are beloved museums for a reason. Worth a couple hours for sure.
Anyway, those places might be called “basic” or whatever but I’ve enjoyed them on my few trips.
Have a great time, man. You’ll love it, I’m betting.