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8 Great Restaurants Near One World Observatory

Picture this: you’ve just seen the most magical view of New York at One World Observatory. You were moved; you were dazzled; you might even have cried. You and your party exit the skyscraper, search for a restaurant, and your phone directs you to... Chipotle. With the area around One World Trade Center still under development, the dining options are also slim. But there are certainly diamonds in the rough, and we’ve rounded up eight of them for you to try. Move towards the water, or walk north to a stellar French wine bar, and you’ll find unique, tasty food you actually want to eat. (Or maybe stay right where you are: there's some pretty amazing eats at OWO itself.)

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: ONE Dine

salmon one world observatory

Despite the competition with the views, the food at ONE Dine at One World Observatory does not feel like an afterthought. Three courses, smart pairings, and a warm atmosphere make for a meal that invites you to sit, relax, and enjoy.The philosophy here is driven by the local and the artisanal, for an experience that tells a uniquely New York story. Meals are complemented by local beer, handcrafted cocktails, and small-production wines—the house vintages are sourced from Long Island. 285 Fulton St., 844-696-1776, oneworldobservatory.com/restaurant

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: Racine’s

Take a scenic walk up Broadway past City Hall to Racine’s, a French bistro with simple interiors and exquisite plates. Manned by Chef Frederic Duca, Racine’s kitchen serves perfect Sauteed Squid and Veal Tartare with smoked ricotta as appetizers. For dinner, go bold with the Sweetbreads and morels with apple cider vinegar jus. And we almost forgot—the wine list is to-die-for. Plan to order one glass per course. 94 Chambers St., 212-227-3400, racinesny.com

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: Morton's The Steakhouse World Trade Center

Famous for USDA prime-aged beef, fresh seafood, fine wine and elegant desserts, New York City's Morton’s is a great place for a memorable dinner. Menu staples include center-cut filet mignon, Porterhouse steak, honey-chili glazed salmon filet, and shrimp scampi capellini. Steamed jumbo asparagus, creamed spinach, and bacon and onion macaroni and cheese top the list of sides, with the ahi tuna tower and broiled sea scallops standing out among the appetizers. 136 Washington St., 212-608-0171, mortons.com

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: El Vez Burrito

Next door to its more refined cousin El Vez, this high-quality burrito shop will fill you up quickly and put you in good spirits for the rest of your day. Its tacos, burritos, and burrito bowls are made in front of you on an assembly line (you know the drill). In addition to classic Mexican ingredients, you’ll find quinoa and grilled pineapple salsa behind the glass, and we suggest you go for both. El Vez also sells soft-serve ice cream topped with churro stars. Get your food to-go so you can eat by the Hudson! 259 Vesey St., 212-233-2500, elveznyc.com

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: Augustine 

Augustine is a no-brainer if you’re in the area. At any meal, you’ll be treated to elegant dining and perfectly delicious French food. In the morning, they have a wide selection of egg dishes, baked goods from Balthazar, and a whole roasted apple with granola and honey (that’s it, we’re going tomorrow). For dinner, start with Cru à la ni Çoise—tuna, anchovies, Meyer lemon, olives, and cherry tomatoes. As an entree, the Grilled Salmon and the Whisky Burger are winners. With delicious craft cocktails, excellent service, and a cream-colored dining room straight out of heaven, book it now and thank us later. 5 Beekman St., 212-375-0010, augustineny.com

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque

Mighty Quinn's

After your skytop view of the city, check out Brookfield Place, a new mall just a block away from the World Trade Center. Inside the busy food court is Mighty Quinn’s, a barbeque outpost with serious credibility and 6 locations city-wide. Go for the brisket or pulled pork (don’t forget the sauce!). Grab a booth by the wide windows and enjoy some Southern comfort while you watch the waterfront. 225 Liberty St., mightyquinnsbbq.com/brookfield

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: Amada

Amada serves Spanish food, specializing in tapas, or small plates. The Ensalada de Jamón is salad wrapped in prosciutto (!) and a must-try. Other popular plates for sharing are the Patatas Bravas, Piquillos Rellenos (peppers stuffed with crab—yum!), and Wagyu Brochettes. As far as entree portions, go for the Pernil Asado: pork with white beans and garnished with arugula and orange. 250 Vesey St., 212-542-8947, newyork.amadarestaurant.com

Where to Eat After One World Observatory: The Malt House

The Malt House

If you’re looking for a brunch before your elevator to the sky, head to the Malt House. First off, bottomless brunch cocktails for $15 (need we say more?). Second, their Croque Madame is a solid take on the classic open-faced sandwich. Expect decent food and sleek-yet-rugged interiors. They have a typical gastropub menu—burgers, steak, truffle fries—and a wide variety of malt beers during the day. 9 Maiden Ln., 646-682-7577, themalthousefidi.com

About the Author

Merrill Lee Girardeau lives and writes in Brooklyn.

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