Best American Restaurants in Washington Heights (North)
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Burger Heights
High-volume neighborhood burger shop pairing Pat LaFrieda meat with serious veggie options and plant-based dogs.
Notable Picks
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Burger Heights is a fast-casual burger counter in Washington Heights serving Pat LaFrieda beef, turkey, and lamb patties alongside a deep lineup of veggie and plant-based burgers. Locals use it for customizable burgers, hot dogs, and gelato-based shakes that feel closer to chef-driven fast food than a typical chain.
Must-Try Dishes:
Truffle Burger, Broadway Double Burger, Truffle Fries
What Makes it Special: High-volume neighborhood burger shop pairing Pat LaFrieda meat with serious veggie options and plant-based dogs.
8.1
The Uptown Garrison is an all-day New American spot and bar where coffee and laptops in the morning give way to brick-oven pizzas, chicken and waffles, and cocktails at night. It’s one of Hudson Heights’ most flexible rooms, used equally for brunch, casual dates, and late-evening drinks a block from the A train.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken and Belgian Waffle, Brick Oven Margherita Pizza, Meatball Melt Sandwich
What Makes it Special: An all-day neighborhood anchor that handles everything from espresso to cocktails in a single, design-forward space.
Worthy Picks
#3
181 Cabrini
7.9
181 Cabrini is a relaxed corner bistro in Hudson Heights serving a New American menu that leans on soups, salads, tacos, burgers, and brunch plates with Latin accents. Regulars treat it as a neighborhood living room for lingering over coffee, wine, and shareable plates on a quiet stretch of 181st Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
181 Cuban Sandwich, Oven Baked French Toast, Turkey Burger
What Makes it Special: Corner-bistro energy with a broad American menu, from brunch classics to burgers and tacos, plus a full espresso and wine setup.
#4
Bar 180
7.7
Bar 180 is a New American bar and kitchen in Washington Heights known for its rotating craft beer taps, burgers, and shareable bar bites. Its menu leans into crowd-pleasers like loaded nachos, rib tips, and burgers that pair well with the game on TV or a casual night out with friends.
Must-Try Dishes:
Washington Heights Burger, Bar 180 Nachos, Guava BBQ Glazed Rib Tips
What Makes it Special: Craft-beer-focused bar with a full New American menu built for sharing and watching the game.
#5
The Hudson
7.5
The Hudson is a waterfront American restaurant and events space at Dyckman Marina where river views, indoor-outdoor seating, and drinks lead the experience. Guests use it for brunch, date nights, and big celebrations, knowing the scenery and energy often outshine the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Burgers, Cajun Fried Shrimp, Pork Belly or BBQ Platters
What Makes it Special: Waterfront American restaurant pairing river views with shareable plates and drinks.