SAMANTHA MORAY

"Ellsworth is a cerebral bistro specializing in modern Anglo-Saxon cuisines. It's located a short distance from the Palais Royal Gardens and the Louvre. Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a narrow room with country-chic wooden accents and marble tables. My favorite dish: the fried chicken!"

"Inspired by Southern Italy, Leuca is the latest restaurant from Chef Andrew Carmellini's NoHo Hospitality Group. The pasta and pizzas are a personal favorite. And, for those of you hesitant to travel to Brooklyn, this is a good excuse."

"Since moving to New York in 2007 (can't believe it's almost been 10 years!) Locanda Verde has been my Tribeca go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is the perfect soulful Italian feast thanks to Andrew Carmellini. And, their extensive drink menu is a treat for any wine and spirit connoisseur."

"The line is worth it, I promise! Morgenstern's offers a wild and wonderful mix of flavors with a bit of an old time vibe."

"Nickel & Diner opened in New York in November inside a nearly century-old pagoda-style building that used to house a $5 Chinese buffet. So, it's not wonder I love it there! Just kidding. The finished product is polished and modern, taking inspiration from a 1950s-era diner. I love the Art Deco accents. The food is delicious. And, highly instagrammable."