[2025 Edition] 10 Must-Watch Restaurants in NYC Likely to Earn Michelin Stars

In 2025, New York City’s culinary scene continues to diversify, with fresh talent and bold new concepts emerging across the boroughs. While we’ve already highlighted restaurants that have secured Michelin stars in this article, here we focus on 10 exceptional establishments—mainly Japanese and Asian-inspired—that are strong contenders for future Michelin recognition. Each offers a distinct and elevated dining experience that’s generating plenty of buzz this year.

1. Sushi Sho

Address: 3 E 41st St, New York, NY 10017
Website: sushishonyc
Opened in 2024, Sushi Sho offers an immersive Edomae omakase experience that has captivated serious food lovers. Featuring aged fish and fermentation techniques, the menu has already earned praise from critics and gourmets alike.

2. Restaurant Yuu

Address: 55 Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Website: yuunewyork.com
This innovative spot blends French and Japanese culinary traditions to create elegant, seasonal courses. Each dish is crafted with precision, resulting in a refined dining experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

3. Shota Omakase

Address: South Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Website: shotaomakase.com
Set in a minimalist yet stylish space, Shota Omakase emphasizes local ingredients and traditional techniques with a modern twist. It's quickly becoming a favorite for high-quality omakase in Brooklyn.

4. Yingtao

Address: 805 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10019
Website: yingtaonyc.com
This standout in Hell’s Kitchen offers refined Chinese cuisine with a contemporary approach. Balancing tradition and innovation, Yingtao is redefining Chinese fine dining in NYC.

5. Coqodaq

Address: 12 E 22nd St, New York, NY 10010
Website: coqodaq.com
Coqodaq elevates Korean fried chicken to fine-dining status, pairing top-quality ingredients with champagne for a unique, upscale experience unlike any other in the city.

6. César

Address: SoHo, New York, NY
Website: cesar.restaurant
A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that emphasizes sustainability and seasonal menus. César has built a strong following for its thoughtful, modern approach to coastal cuisine.

7. Bungalow

Address: East Village, New York, NY
Website: bungalowny.com
A modern reimagining of Indian cuisine, Bungalow stands out with bold spices, inventive plating, and a youthful, energetic vibe that resonates with younger diners.

8. Joo Ok

Address: Koreatown, New York, NY
Website: joo-ok.com
Joo Ok blends modern aesthetics with traditional Korean techniques, offering beautifully crafted dishes that are gaining attention as part of the new wave of Korean fine dining.

9. Odre

Address: East Village, New York, NY
Website: odrenyc.com
This innovative Korean restaurant puts fermentation at the heart of its cuisine, delivering a complex, seasonal menu that sets it apart with unique depth and flavor.

10. La Bastide by Andrea Calstier

Address: North Salem, Westchester, NY
Website: labastidebyac.com
Nestled in the suburbs north of NYC, this elegant French restaurant showcases Provençal flavors through carefully curated tasting menus that have won over discerning diners.

All of these establishments are generating excitement as potential new entries in the Michelin Guide. In particular, New York’s Japanese culinary scene continues to push boundaries by blending tradition with innovation, offering fresh takes on omakase and kaiseki that reflect the city’s evolving food culture.

If you're interested in working in NYC’s top restaurants—including some of the ones featured here—KIWAMI is currently listing exclusive job openings across the city.
Check out the latest opportunities here
📩 For inquiries: hello@kiwami.io

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