Restaurants in West Village (New York City)

Gotham Bar & Grill

This gracious restaurant has been one of Manhattan's most popular upscale dining establishments for well over a decade. The bar is large, the service is friendly and professional, and the exquisite, sculptured food has made Chef Alfred Portale a superstar. Through it all, Gotham has also managed to retain a welcoming and relaxed ambiance. The menu offers spectacular pasta dishes, and fresh game entrées that are culinary delights. If you cannot snag a reservation, dining at the bar is always an option.

White Horse Tavern

This old-fashioned West Village pub dates back to 1880, and it is famous for being the location where the great poet Dylan Thomas drank himself to death. Shy poetry enthusiasts might be disturbed by the rowdy after-office bar scene and the greasy food that only a drunk could love. Nevertheless, the place is oozing with history and character. In good weather, there is additional seating outside in front of the bar.

Art Bar

A bit of East Village style can be found farther west at this modish, often stiflingly crowded bar. Art Bar is a low-lit, bluish hued lounge scene with plenty of attitude, plus a jukebox and fireplace in back. The bar is filled with regulars in black clothing, and they cannot seem to get enough of this place.And while these arty types mix with a professional crowd after work, later at night they have the place all to themselves.

Violet Cafe

Delve into the purple mystique of this café with thick velvety curtains, located smack in the middle of the New York University campus. It caters mainly to college students on a tight budget, and the menu is sensitive to their needs as portions are large and prices reasonable. A jumbo focaccia sandwich with mozzarella and eggplant or zucchini is recommended. The menu is diversified, offering both Chinese and Italian specialties to satisfy the school's eclectic student body.

Chicago B.L.U.E.S.

As the name would suggest, this West Village blues joint draws in some of the best talent from Chicago, as well as performers from other parts of the country. The pleasantly relaxing club is often packed with an eclectic mix of serious blues fans. The stage is in the center of the room rather than at the back, which gives you the illusion that you are part of the performance.

Henrietta Hudson

This relaxed neighborhood bar draws a mixed group of lesbians, most of who seem more interested in making friends than meeting lovers. The jukebox plays Melissa Etheridge, Janis Joplin and the Indigo Girls and there is always a wait for the pool table. Many straight woman stop by, knowing they can enjoy a drink without being bothered by an annoying drunken man (or woman). Henrietta Hudson's hosts live music every Wednesday and Sunday.

Rubyfruit Bar & Grill

You would almost expect famed lesbians and lovers Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas to waltz into this popular lesbian restaurant. In the downstairs dining room, couples make eyes at each other over candlelight. The basic American fare includes Grilled Shrimp, burgers and salads. Upstairs is a smoky and sensual piano bar, where an older set of ladies listens to velvety jazz standards.

Duplex

Part cabaret, game room, bar and performance space, this West Village haunt is considered an institution by many Manhattanites. Boasting the city's oldest cabaret, it features top quality entertainers on a regular basis. After a sultry show, stop by the piano bar downstairs and join the lively singing crowd. Chill in the newly-renovated Upstairs Bar, and enjoy its awesome sound system and 3 flat panel TVs. From May to November, the Duplex opens its outdoor cafe, one of the best places to people-watch in the West Village.

Famous Joe's Pizza

This pizza place features no atmosphere, no service and no seating. But if you are on the run and need a good slice, Joe's is the place to go. The pizza is available plain or with toppings. If you have a little more time, their other location is just down the street, with plenty of seats available. The pizza is just as good, and the atmosphere is definitely better.

Corner Bistro

Nestled in the heart of the West Village, this casual American bar and restaurant open till late (usually until 4a) and serves cheap, casual fare. Greasy but tasty burgers and fries are what makes this place popular. A friendly spot, Corner Bistro caters to a diverse crowd of downtown denizens as well as the college types who party on Bleecker Street. This is a cash only joint, but at these prices you should have no problem paying the bill.

Home Restaurant

THE Home Restaurant is an utterly adorable restaurant in the middle of Greenwich Village resembles a country cottage. Comfort food like steak, burgers and homemade ketchup will really make you feel at “home.” Served on mismatched china, other dishes include pork chops and roasted chicken.do yourself a favor and save room for the chocolate pudding.

Tortilla Flats

Velvet Elvis portraits and quirky Christmas lights add pizzazz to this already upbeat restaurant and bar. Friendly waiters sometimes surprise you with free shots of tequila. This restaurant is known for its campy theme nights. Tuesday brings the game of Bingo back in style, with patrons competing for a T-shirt. Hoola-hoop contests are also part of the fun. Corona, margaritas and of course tequila are the drinks of choice for the evening.