LeVar Thomas
NYC Restaurant Week returns for Winter 2026 with three weeks of prix fixe menus at hundreds of spots around New York City. Running from January 20 through February 12, the event makes it easier to try neighborhood favorites, celebrated chef restaurants, and international cuisine without spending a fortune.
This winter edition highlights the city’s culinary diversity by offering two-course lunches and three-course dinners at set prices ranging from $30 to $60, and reservations opened early in January and tend to fill up fast. Restaurant Week brings energy to the city with affordable prix fixe options for visitors and locals alike.
How the Prix Fixe Works
One of the best parts of NYC Restaurant Week is the fixed price point. Participating restaurants choose which price tier they want to offer. Most menus fall into around three categories including a $30 two-course lunch, a $45 three-course lunch or dinner, and a $60 three-course dinner, though some places may offer variations.
The fixed pricing includes courses only; beverages, tax, and tip are separate, and Saturdays are excluded from the program while Sunday participation varies by restaurant.
Why It Matters to Travelers
For food lovers visiting New York in winter, NYC Restaurant Week is a major opportunity to explore different cuisines without stretching the budget. With nearly 600 restaurants participating from Manhattan to Staten Island, you can sample signature dishes at iconic venues or find hidden gems in the outer boroughs.
NYC Restaurant Week makes it perfect for date nights, family meals, or solo culinary adventures, and it ties into NYC’s broader winter season energy including Broadway Week and other cultural highlights.
Best Neighborhoods to Eat During Restaurant Week
The beauty of NYC Restaurant Week is that it’s not limited to one area. You can dine in Manhattan districts like Midtown, Chelsea, and the West Village, explore Brooklyn neighborhoods from Williamsburg to Bushwick, check out Queens favorites with international flavors, find local Latin and Italian spots in the Bronx, and enjoy diverse local eats in Staten Island. Each borough brings its own vibe and specialties, so plan your dining itinerary based on what excites you most.
How to Book and When to Go
Because NYC Restaurant Week draws both tourists and locals, reservations are key. You can book through the official NYC Tourism website or directly with restaurants once menus go live. Popular spots often fill up early in the week, especially for dinner on weekdays and Sunday brunch, so early planning helps. Weekday lunches are sometimes easier to reserve and offer excellent value.
Cuisines You Can Try
One of the most exciting aspects of NYC Restaurant Week is the range of cuisines on offer. You can find classic American menus alongside Italian favorites and pasta specials, Asian inspired dishes, Latin American and Caribbean flavors, and French bistro style offerings. Restaurants across the city tailor their prix fixe menus to show off signature styles, giving you the chance to try something new or revisit a beloved cuisine.
Tips for Getting the Most Value
Plan ahead by checking menus once they are posted online, and make reservations early to secure top dining times. Going for lunch deals often delivers a great price versus dinner, and always confirm whether drinks and gratuity are included so you know the true cost of your meal. Winter months can be cold, so a warm meal and great ambiance are even more rewarding at this time of year.
Hidden Gems and Trendy Picks
Beyond the big names, Restaurant Week is a chance to explore up-and-coming restaurants and local favorites. Some neighborhoods offer lesser known but well-loved spots that may not normally appear on tourist itineraries, and using filters by cuisine, location, or vibe can help you create a personalized dining adventure worth remembering.
Make It Part of Your NYC Winter Trip
If you are planning a winter visit to New York City, include NYC Restaurant Week in your itinerary. The experience pairs well with Broadway shows, museum visits, and winter markets, and dining experiences become highlights of your trip adding flavor to cold days while offering a window into NYC’s global food culture.
