Plenty of celebrities call “The Big Apple” home, but with over eight million other residents in the city, spotting one isn’t always easy. If you want to increase your chances of celebrity sightings in New York City, you’ll need to start by heading to some of their most frequented restaurants.
But where do celebrities eat in New York? There are over 17,000 restaurants in the city, so to help you narrow it down, we’ve gathered some of the ones most loved by your favorite movie stars, singers, and artists.
Soho
The Corner Store
Newly opened in 2024, The Corner Store serves up classic American favorites like filet mignon, ribeye, Caesar salad, and chicken parm. While it’s not as pricey as some of the other spots on this list, you’ll need more than just good luck to snag a reservation.
With Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Justin Bieber, Hailey Bieber, and Gigi Hadid all spotted dining here, competition for a table is fierce. But if you manage to score one, you just might find yourself eating alongside a famous face.
Raoul’s
Raoul’s has been a Soho staple for 50 years, and one thing has never changed: it remains one of the neighborhood’s most iconic French bistros. The restaurant is so famous that a documentary about it, “Raoul’s, a New York Story”, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2025.
Jennifer Lawrence, Sarah Jessica Parker, Lorne Michaels, and Robert De Niro are among the many big names said to have dined here, cementing Raoul’s as one of the top spots for celebrity sightings in New York City. Open for both brunch and dinner, Raoul’s delivers whether you’re craving smoked salmon on a Sunday morning or grilled Mediterranean sea bass on a Friday night.
Sadelle’s
Surprisingly affordable, Sadelle’s is one of New York’s top brunch spots—and celebrities know it, too. From Jennifer Lopez to Matt Damon to Kendall Jenner, few can resist their famous French toast or fresh, mouthwatering bagels.
The best part? Scoring a reservation isn’t a battle. So you can enjoy brunch on a budget and maybe even spot a star while you’re at it.
The West Village
Via Carota
James Beard Award–winning chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams have opened five restaurants in New York, but none are as renowned as Via Carota. The Italian favorite is known for straightforward, comforting pasta dishes and an impressive list of wines.
If you’re hoping to snag a table where stars like Taylor Swift, Mark Ruffalo, and Jon Hamm have dined, plan to arrive early (before opening) and get in line.
Morandi
This Italian trattoria is the West Village’s go-to for handmade pasta. Morandi’s has more of a low-key feel, but don’t let the rustic decor fool you. You might just catch a glimpse of Olivia Wilde, Gwyneth Paltrow, George Clooney, or Cameron Diaz eating here. Make a reservation in advance if you want to secure a table at this popular restaurant.
Employees Only
Designed like a 1920s speakeasy, Employees Only is a standout for its retro ambiance. Their cocktail menu has everything from smoky mezcal creations like Ready Fire Aim to timeless staples such as the Manhattan.
But Employees Only is more than just cocktails. The dinner and dessert menus are equally enticing, with the steak tartare standing out as a crowd favorite. As for the scene, you never know who you’ll run into. Stars like Madonna and Leonardo DiCaprio have been spotted here, making it one of those rare spots where the food and the celebrity sightings are equally unforgettable.
Midtown
Restaurant Daniel
If you’re willing to splurge, Restaurant Daniel is the place to do it. Not only is the restaurant world-renowned, but so is its celebrated chef.
Chef Daniel Boulud, regarded as a master of traditional French cooking, has appeared on Late Night with Stephen Colbert, LIVE with Kelly and Mark, the Today Show, and even made an appearance in The Bear. His flagship restaurant has welcomed stars like Timothée Chalamet and was named one of the 100 top restaurants in New York City by The New York Times in 2025.
Monkey Bar
Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez were recently spotted at this swanky American eatery. First opened in 1936, Monkey Bar was later renovated by former Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter and now features dim lighting, wall murals of jazz icons, and stylish red booths.
If you can’t snag a reservation, walk-ins are welcome at the bar, where you can enjoy anything from a cosmopolitan to prime rib.
Upper East Side
Bemelmans Bar
Tucked inside the iconic Carlyle Hotel, this legendary bar sets the scene with live music, whether it’s a solo pianist or a full jazz trio. According to Bemelmans Bar’s own website, it regularly attracts movie stars and socialites, cementing its reputation as one of the best places for a celebrity sighting in New York City.
Sant Ambroeus
This Milanese restaurant chain is celebrated for its refined pastries, fresh pastas, and carefully selected Italian wines. Its coffee bar is just as charming, making it a favorite stop for everything from a morning espresso to an evening plate of spaghetti. Whether you’re at the Upper East Side or Soho location, Sant Ambroeus is a reliable spot for celebrity sightings.
While celebrity sightings in New York City are never guaranteed, these restaurants give you some of the best chances to spot a star. And even if your favorite A-lister doesn’t make an appearance, you’ll still leave with the satisfaction of having enjoyed some of the city’s most memorable dining experiences.
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