Travel United States New York Where One of New York City’s Best Pastry Chefs Buys Her Bread 2023 F&W Best New Chef Eunji Lee shares her favorite places to eat, drink, and shop in New York City. By Amelia Schwartz Amelia Schwartz Amelia Schwartz is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor who has been covering food, beverage, and culture for over seven years. She is currently the associate editor at Food & Wine magazine, focusing on trends and innovations in the hospitality industry. Food & Wine's Editorial Guidelines Published on September 12, 2023 Trending Videos Photo: Left to right: Alexander Spatari / Getty Images; Alex Lau; Spencer Joynt Eunji Lee’s favorite thing about New York City is its diversity. “There are so many different cultures from around the world,” she says. “It’s truly a global community, and you can find an amazing array of restaurants, from casual to fine dining to modern.” As the owner and mind behind the pastry boutique Lysée, the 2023 F&W Best New Chef has good taste and knows where to find some of the best bites across the five boroughs. “With every spot, there’s an authentic and unique take that you’d only find in New York City.” Here are some of her favorites. Home field advantage “When my friends and family come to visit, I always bring them to Shake Shack. I think it’s kind of a symbolic must-do, and it is so good.” Breakfast of champions “I love the breakfast sandwiches from Daily Provisions and Pavé. I am known for sweets, but I really do love to start the day with something salty, like a classic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. That’s a New York classic.” Soju and barbecue “After a long shift, I visit New Wonjo or Seoul Salon. They’re Korean-style restaurants where you drink soju and enjoy barbecue or delicious comfort food.” Eunji Lee's Showstopping Pastries Blend Korean Flavors and a Passion for Fine Art Wood-fired “Jua is one of the best restaurants in the city and one of my favorites as well. It’s a wood-fired Korean restaurant with one Michelin star. The food is amazing from start to finish.” A dish from Jua. Courtesy of Jua A worthy splurge “Gramercy Tavern is worth the hype. Their food and beverages are always good. And so is Eleven Madison Park, even after they changed their concept. The food is so great, and it’s impressive how the entire meal is plant-based (as well as their cocktail and wine list).” Loaf love “The baguettes at Breads Bakery are amazing. Mel the Bakery also has great sourdough.” Patio vibes “Roberta’s in Bushwick probably has my favorite outdoor patio, but Oxalis and Olmsted come in a very close second!” Night on the town “For a date night, I love Le Coucou. It’s a very romantic place. For a fancy night out, I go to Cote or Carne Mare.” Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit