Soho: Restaurants that don't require reservations

This is hands down my favorite restaurant in NYC!! They have three locations and this is their inaugral one. They've recently expanded so it is much easier to get in and they are (in my opinion) the best of the best all day eateries. The menu is israeli/mediterranean and I still dream about eating their food. My favorites on the menu include: fried zucchini chips, chicken prego (add avo/cheese), greek salad, grilled haloumi, chicken kebab or peri-peri chicken. They have a spicy jalepano aioli that will force you to buy their cookbook to figure out how to make it. Also, their watermelon margs (when offered in season) are delicious.

Originally only having locations uptown, it was very exciting when La Pecora Bianaca opened a few locations downtown. This is the place where you want to drink wine with your friends post-work, enjoy a meal with your sweetie, or maybe even a date with someone new. The food here is remarkably fantastic, but I like to come here specifically for the pasta.

This place is an absolute vibe. Yet another one of NYC's amazing Mediterranean spots - Shuka is hip, fun, and has really great food. It is perfect to catch up with a friend or come with a huge group. The vibes are all time in here and it gets pretty lively on the weekends. While the restaurant is large - they do take reservations, but also strongly encourage walk-ins. My favorite things to order are: any and all of the dips, the fattoush salad w/halloumi is mind blowing, and the shuka feast is ideal if you can convince everyone to participate!

Whenever you move away from somewhere there are always specific places + meals that you miss. 12 Chairs is one of those places for me. There is a reason why its always packed - this place is simple and the food is really good. I will note, that it is always quite packed and very loud so don't plan on coming here for a quiet dinner. You will sometimes find yourself shouting at your dinner companions and misunderstanding every third word they say. My favorite things to order here are: the dips and the schnitzel salad (it is so incredibly amazing).

I strongly believe that this is the best bagel in NYC. Many will disagree with me and that is ok. The perfection of its crispy outside to doughy inside and the consistent covering of toppings makes this my ideal bagel. In addition, the lox tower that accompanies said bagels is unparalleled in quality - you will not find another place that cuts the fish as thin as this! But Sadelles is not simply made by the bagels. Everything here is so good. From the french toast that quite literally melts in your mouth, to the scrambled eggs, and even the salads. This place is top notch. It may be main stream and a bit sceney, but there is a reason why. It is an amazing experience with fantastic food. Highly recommend this is on the list for a trip to NYC!

This place is funky, hip, and a great vibe. It is the perfect sanctuary after a long day in NYC. Grab a drink or a bite, or both and enjoy this Soho gem. To note, they often have live music (jazz), which is awesome.

Pinch is great Chinese food in a restaurant that is nice, but not fussy. I've always been able to walk right in and the dumplings and cocktails are both worth writing home about!