Best Trendy Restaurants in Long Island City (11101)
8 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Casa Enrique
Michelin-recognized Mexican cooking anchored by mole, braises, and bigger plates.
Notable Picks
#1
Casa Enrique
8.8
A long-running LIC destination for regionally rooted Mexican cooking that leans into big, slow-cooked plates as much as tacos. The room stays energetic, and the kitchen’s best dishes reward ordering beyond the basics—think mole, braises, and seafood with deep chile-driven flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole de Piaxtla, Braised lamb shank, Branzino “al pastor”
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Mexican cooking anchored by mole, braises, and bigger plates.
#2
Tournesol
8.5
A tight, classic French bistro where the food leans traditional and satisfying rather than experimental—exactly what you want when you’re craving steak-frites energy and serious sauces. Order with restraint and balance (one rich entrée, one lighter starter) and it delivers a dependable, date-friendly night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, Duck confit, French onion soup
What makes it special: Old-school French bistro cooking that rewards classic ordering.
8.4
A New American small-plates spot that rewards decisive ordering and a shareable spread rather than solo mains. The best experience is built around contrast—one richer plate, one bright/acid-driven bite, and something crisp to reset the palate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal small plates, Chef’s daily specials, Shareable starters
What makes it special: New American small plates designed for sharing and pacing.
#4
R40
8.3
An Argentinian parilla with smoke-forward grilling and a menu that shines when you order for contrast—one beef cut, one seafood or vegetable plate, and a shareable starter to set the pace. It’s a strong pick for steakhouse-style dining that feels modern and intentional, especially if you lean into the wood-grilled specialties rather than over-ordering sides.
Must-Try Dishes:
Empanadas, Skirt steak from the parilla, Parrillada-style mixed grill
What makes it special: Wood-fired Argentinian grilling with a Michelin Guide-listed profile.
#5
Sweet Chick
8.3
A loud-in-a-good-way comfort-food room that’s reliably busy and built for groups, weekend energy, and camera-ready plates. It’s not subtle—go when you want fried chicken, cocktails, and a crowd that keeps the room moving.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken & waffles, Nashville hot chicken sandwich, Mac & cheese
What makes it special: High-demand fried chicken comfort food with a party-room vibe.
#6
Gulp
8.0
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Tiny Taiwanese counter with attached bar serving soul-warming beef noodle soup and lu rou fan braised pork rice in generous combos. The complimentary chicken broth shooter greeting and free noodle refills create a homey atmosphere despite limited counter seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Noodle Soup, Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice), Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
What makes it special: Authentic Taiwanese comfort food with complimentary chicken broth greeting and free noodle refills
Worthy Picks
#7
DK PubLIC
7.8
A neighborhood pub with a loyal local crowd and a casual menu built for repeat visits more than hype. It’s a practical “meet here” spot—easygoing energy, reliable bar food, and a laid-back room that works for low-stakes nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
DK Breakfast Burger, Salmon Burger, Hand Cut Fries
What makes it special: Dry-aged burger options in a cozy neighborhood pub format.
#8
25 HOURS
7.7
A futuristic, concept-driven cocktail bar that’s trending hard for its experimental drinks and high-style presentation. Come for a mood-first night where the visuals matter, the menu leans playful, and the room is built for people who want something new to talk about.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deconstructed pornstar martini, Gin martini with blue cheese liqueur, Milk tea cocktail with mascarpone foam
What makes it special: Experimental cocktails in a futuristic room designed for buzz.