Yonkers has quietly turned into one of the Hudson River’s most interesting places to eat, with a revitalized waterfront, new developments, and a wave of independent restaurants joining longtime neighborhood favorites.
These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy spots show how much the city’s dining scene has leveled up.
1. X2O Xaviars on the Hudson
Perched right over the Hudson River on the Yonkers Pier, X2O feels like a destination restaurant in every way: floor‑to‑ceiling windows, sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, and polished, white‑tablecloth service that still manages to feel warm rather than stuffy.
The menu blends New American, French, and Asian influences with a focus on refined, beautifully plated dishes.
You might find seared scallops with seasonal vegetables, rich short ribs, inventive seafood preparations, and carefully composed appetizers that are as pretty as they are flavorful.
The wine list is deep, the cocktail program thoughtful, and the setting alone makes it worth a special night out.
2. Zuppa Restaurant & Lounge
Housed in a renovated 100‑year‑old industrial building downtown, Zuppa mixes old‑world charm with a modern, loft‑style interior—brick walls, high ceilings, and candlelit tables.
It strikes that sweet spot between date‑night nice and comfortable neighborhood favorite.
The kitchen leans Italian with a contemporary twist: house‑made pastas, wood‑grilled meats, seasonal antipasti, and seafood dishes that highlight simple, high‑quality ingredients.
Expect things like burrata with seasonal accompaniments, braised short rib pappardelle, and perfectly charred octopus. A strong wine list and classic‑leaning cocktails round things out.
3. Nawab Pakistani‑Indian Cuisine
Nawab brings bold, aromatic South Asian flavors to Yonkers in a setting that works equally well for casual dinners, takeout, or a relaxed night out with friends.
The dining room is simple but comfortable, with the focus firmly on the food.
The menu covers both North Indian and Pakistani favorites: rich curries, biryanis, grilled kebabs, tandoori specialties, and plenty of vegetarian options.
Butter chicken, lamb korma, saag paneer, and smoky seekh kebabs are standouts, and fresh naan and paratha are essential for scooping up sauces. Spice levels can usually be adjusted, making it approachable whether you like mild or fiery.
4. Francey Brady’s
Francey Brady’s is a modern Irish‑influenced gastropub that feels like a neighborhood living room—warm wood, a friendly bar, soccer on TV, and a crowd that ranges from families early in the evening to groups of friends lingering over pints later at night.
The menu combines pub comfort with a few chef‑driven touches. Expect burgers, fish and chips, bangers and mash, hearty sandwiches, and bar bites like wings and loaded fries, alongside occasional daily specials that lean seasonal or slightly more upscale.
The beer list features a mix of Irish staples and craft options, and the atmosphere alone makes it an easy go‑to.
5. La Bella Havana
La Bella Havana brings a taste of Cuba to downtown Yonkers with vibrant colors, lively music, and a festive, welcoming vibe.
It’s the kind of place where you might come for dinner and end up staying for another round of mojitos just to keep the night going.
The menu focuses on classic Cuban and Latin comfort dishes: ropa vieja, lechón asado, chuletas, Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and generous plates of rice, beans, and plantains. Cocktails lean tropical—think mojitos, daiquiris, and rum‑forward creations—and there’s often a buzz in the room that makes it feel like a mini getaway right in the city.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
