How to pick a restaurant in New York City? - Start with the Internet. Depending on what kind of cuisine you like and how much you want spend plus how far you are willing to go to eat, you can narrow down your research.
- Once you narrow down the list of restaurants, then put their names in a search engine and see if you can find a review.
- When you check into your hotel, talk to your concierge to confirm before making a reservation. If you are not staying in a fancy hotel with a concierge, walk into a fancy hotel and pretend as if you are staying there. Most concierges in New York City are excellent and will be glad to help you.
Topaz Thai Restaurant So when my wife and I were just hanging out in New York City but wanted something hot and spicy to eat we walked into the lobby of Hilton Hotel. Since we had already spent about $18 on drinks in the hotel bar we did not want to spend a lot of money on dinner. The concierge recommended Topaz (127 West 56th Street). We were seated immediately. The restaurant does not boast of an elegant ambiance but looks reasonable if you want good food at affordable prices. The service is good but nothing formal. The waiting staff (looked like recent immigrants from Thailand) is attentive and polite but lacks the finesse one would expect in a New York City. What really pleased us was the food. Since I am a big fan of Tofu and coconuts, I ordered a curry that had both plus other vegetables and herbs. My wife ordered a chicken and coconut curry. The flavors are rich and the sauce is unbelievably delicious. Since I eat very often at Thai restaurants, this is one of the best Thai restaurants that I have been to if I look only at the food. How much did we pay for the meal? Only $22 (without the drinks!). Strongly recommended. Recommended link: More tips on healthy cooking and dining Red Garlic Thai Restaurant, New York Kiku Japanese restaurant New York | 
