Top 72+ Must-Try Restaurants Staten Island Locals Love in 2025

Staten Island, often dubbed New York City’s “borough of parks,” is also home to a vibrant and ever-evolving food scene that deserves serious recognition. In 2025, the culinary culture across Staten Island is bursting with flavor—from authentic Italian pizzerias to trend-setting fusion eateries, cozy brunch cafés to upscale waterfront dining experiences. Whether you’re a local hunting for hidden gems or a visitor planning your NYC food tour, exploring the top restaurants Staten Island has to offer is a journey worth savoring. 😋

Best Restaurants Staten Island Locals Are Obsessed With in 2025

What makes Staten Island special is its mix of old-world charm and modern innovation. Generations-old family-run delis sit next to sleek sushi spots, and unassuming street-side taco joints compete with polished Mediterranean bistros. From the North Shore’s buzz near the Staten Island Ferry to the charming dining scenes in Tottenville, there’s something to please every taste bud.

So, grab your fork and appetite—we’ve curated 72+ must-visit restaurants Staten Island locals can’t stop recommending in 2025. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic slice, a romantic dinner, or a quick comfort

1. 🍕 Pizza & Italian Heirlooms

1. Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern – Iconic for thin-crust squares and friendly neighborhood vibes.

2. Lee’s Tavern – A no-fuss, classic slice spot loved for late-night pizza runs.

3. Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria – Brick-oven pies, chewy crusts, and killer garlic knots.

4. Enoteca Maria – “Grandmas’ restaurant” featuring rotating nonnas cooking authentic regional dishes.

5. Mama Maria’s Restaurant – Cozy, home-style Italian cooking reminiscent of Nonna’s kitchen.

6. Panini’s – Generous portions, hearty dishes like stuffed shells and eggplant parm.

7. Mario’s Restaurant – Elegant setting, seafood pasta, and excellent white-clam sauce.

8. Café Portofino – Upscale, romantic, with a refined menu and wine bar.

9. Da Noi – Rustic Italian fare with a modern twist and cozy, intimate atmosphere.

10. Alfie’s Ristorante Italiano – Classic red-sauce joint beloved for consistency and charm.

2. 🥩 Steakhouses & Fine Dining Restaurants

11. Michael’s on the Waterfront – Chic, waterfront setting with surf-and-turf and craft cocktails.

12. La Cucina di Carlotta – Italian fusion plates in a softly lit historic home.

13. Char Steak & Lounge – High-end cuts, prime rib nights, and upscale ambiance.

14. Blue Bistro – Seafood-leaning menu with salads, fresh oysters, and grilled meats.

15. Buttermilk Kitchen & Bar – Southern-inspired fried chicken and locally sourced fare.

3. 🍣 Sushi & Asian Flavors Restaurants in Staten Island

16. Shiki Japanese Cuisine – Elegant, fresh sushi and omakase in a refined dining space.

17. Alright Sushi – Affordable high-quality sushi rolls; ideal midweek spot.

18. Hama Sushi – Clean designs, sashimi platters, and fresh ocean flavors.

19. Ngoc’s Kitchen – Vietnamese pho, fresh spring rolls, and cozy café feel.

20. Wok N Roll – Fast, flavorful Chinese-American takeout with generous portions.

4. 🍔 Casual Eateries & American Fare Restaurants

21. Friendly’s Ice Cream – Classic burgers, grill items, and nostalgic sundaes.

22. Dellavalle’s Tropical Café – Latin fusion plates and vibrant décor.

23. Bobby’s Solutions Deli – Hearty sandwiches and comfort-food breakfast.

24. Car’s Café & Organic Market – Breakfast-lunch-hybrid with organic smoothies.

25. Goody Goody Burgers – Retro diner with burgers, shakes, and milkshake floats.

26. Richmond Crab House – Seafood boils, jumbo shrimp, and steamed crabs.

27. Tiny’s Place – Farm-to-table breakfast and brunch with rotating specials.

5. 🌮 Latin & Hispanic Favorites Restaurants in Staten Island

28. La Casa del Mofongo – Traditional Puerto Rican dishes featuring plantains and savory stews.

29. Café Maribo – Dominican-style, including sancocho and mofongo bowls.

30. El Dorado Latin Flavors – Venezuelan arepas, empanadas, and colorful street-food flair.

31. Dos Hermanos – Homestyle Mexican cooking with tacos and tamales to die for.

32. Lolo’s Colombian Restaurant – Affordable bandeja paisa and fresh arepas.

6. 🥘 Mediterranean & Middle Eastern Eats

33. Nourish Creperie & Espresso Bar – Savory and sweet crêpes with vegan/vegetarian options.

34. Fornaro’s Mediterranean Grill – Gyros, falafel, and gourmet hummus plates.

35. Byblos Grill – Lebanese spreads, kebabs, and tabbouleh in a friendly setting.

36. Nazareth Restaurant – Classic Middle Eastern cuisine, mezze platters & baklava sweets.

37. Greek Gardens – Hearty gyros, spanakopita, and authentic Greek salads.

7. 🥗 Health & Vegan Spots

38. Fresh Thyme Juice Bar – Vibrant juices, smoothie bowls, and healthy snacks.

39. Just Salad – Customizable bowls and wraps with seasonal ingredients.

40. South Shore BeWell Café – Vegan tonkatsu, plant-powered grain bowls, and smoothies.

8. 🧁 Bakeries, Dessert & Coffee Lofts Restaurants in Staten Island

41. Kava Café – Cozy coffee, pastries, and open mic nights.

42. Cakeaholics Bakery – Instagram-ready cakes and cupcakes in bold flavors.

43. The Staten Island Strotter – Artisanal donuts and toasted bagels.

44. Chocopotamus – European-style chocolates, crepes & macaron picking.

45. Ferraro’s Bake Shop – Old-school Italian pastries, cannoli & sfogliatelle.

9. 🍻 Breweries, Wine & Taprooms Restaurants in Staten Island

46. Flagship Brewing Company – IPAs, pilsners, and seasonal taps brewed onsite.

47. Staten Island Brewery – Cold-brews, house lagers, and hearty pub menu.

48. Lord Stanley’s Taproom – Wine, ciders & craft beer with shared plates.

49. Old Bermuda Inn – Irish pub vibes with beer, whiskeys, and live music.

50. Richmond Ale House – Beer flights, gastropub bites, and cozy bar feel.

10. 🕰️ Historic & Waterfront Dining

51. The Giglio – Italian-American elegance on the Richmond waterfront.

52. The Wharf – Seafood-focused with marina seating and sunset views.

53. Trattoria Romana – Neighborhood red-sauce spot with waterfront sunsets.

54. Black Whale Bar & Grill – Upscale waterfront dining featuring fresh-caught fish.

11. 🌆 Neighborhood Gems & Standouts Restaurants

55. Granillo’s Pizzeria – Classic thin-crust and friendly, local pizzeria culture.

56. Tommy’s Place for Ribs – Tender smoked ribs and laid-back setup.

57. Donovan’s Pub – Cozy Irish pub, don’t miss the fish & chips and Guinness.

58. Applebee’s (Stapleton) – Reliable American chain with local roots.

59. Classic Café – Daily specials, hearty breakfasts, and diner comfort.

60. G&G Deli – Italian focaccia sandwiches, cold cuts & daily lunch rush.

12. 🥂 Romantic & Date-Night Destinations

61. Café Luna – Charming waterfront eats and cozy vibes under fairy lights.

62. Gingezel’s Bistro – Intimate, candlelit dining with seasonal menus.

63. Oceana Mediterranean Restaurant – Elegant plates with ocean views.

64. Salt + Vine – Small-plate wine-pairing experiences in a sophisticated setting.

65. Staten Island Cheese & Wine – Curated charcuterie boards and plush atmosphere.

13. 🌯 Late-Night & Quick-Bite Options

66. Tony’s Pizza & Diner – 24-hour slice stop with fries and milkshakes.

67. PJS Creole Kitchen – Spice-filled bites till late.

68. Richmond Sub Shop – Hefty subs, shakes, and friendly 24/7 counter service.

69. Truly Mexican Restaurant – Tacos and quesadillas into the early hours.

70. Empanada Mama – Empanadas and smoothies to satisfy cravings any time.

71. Elia’s Restaurant – Cozy, old-school, Greek-American gem in Tottenville.

72. LuLu’s Vietnamese Kitchen – Pho, banh mi, and warm pho bowls with a side of soft café comfort.

 Tips for Dining Out on Staten Island

• Reserve ahead at Enoteca Maria, Café Luna, or Red-rooftop spots on weekends.

• Check for shuttle at waterfront restaurants for ferry dining convenience.

• Happy Hours – Visit breweries and taverns midweek for deals.

• Seasonal menus – Insiders: seafood spots rotate daily catches—ask first!

• Diet preferences? Several wineries and cafés offer vegan/vegetarian options.

For 2025, Staten Island’s restaurant scene isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. With 72+ must-try spots that celebrate flavor, tradition, and innovation, you’ll find everything from comforting Italian classics and fiery Latin dishes to modern sushi bars and cozy café corners. Taste your way through SI’s finest, and bring back stories—and leftovers—that linger long after the last bite. Bon appétit! 🍷