Stone Street, a hidden gem in the bustling Financial District of New York City, offers a unique and delightful dining experience. This narrow cobblestone pedestrian street is home to a vibrant collection of Stone Street Restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking delicious food and a memorable atmosphere in Downtown Manhattan.
Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, wandering through Wall Street, or paying your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, taking a break at one of the stone street restaurants is the perfect way to refuel and immerse yourself in the historic charm of the area. Many guided tours conclude here, recognizing it as an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
A Stroll Through Time: The History of Stone Street
Close-up view of Stone Street Downtown
Stone Street’s story is as captivating as its ambiance. As the name suggests, it holds the distinction of being the first street in New York City paved with stone. This dates back to 1658, when New York was still the fledgling Dutch colony of New Amsterdam. Imagine, while Wall Street was just a wooden barricade marking the northern edge of the settlement, Stone Street was already being laid with cobblestones.
However, time took its toll. By the mid-20th century, Stone Street had fallen into disrepair, becoming a neglected alleyway. Fortunately, the 1990s marked a turning point. The street underwent a significant restoration, its cobblestones were relaid, and in 1996, it was officially designated a Historic District.
Today, Stone Street has been revitalized into a thriving culinary hub. Restored loft buildings and warehouses from the 1830s line the street, creating a picturesque backdrop for the stone street restaurants that call it home. During the warmer months, the street truly comes alive as restaurants extend their seating onto the cobblestones with long wooden communal tables, creating a lively, European-style al fresco dining scene. Stepping onto Stone Street feels like stepping into a different world, a tranquil escape from the typical Manhattan hustle, with its car horns and towering skyscrapers. It’s an oasis of old-world charm in the heart of the modern city.
Dining and Drinking Destinations on Stone Street
Here’s a guide to the diverse stone street restaurants and bars, listed from west to east, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Most establishments are open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner, with many also offering weekend brunch.
Route 66 Smoke House
For lovers of authentic American barbecue and craft beers, Route 66 Smoke House is a prime destination among stone street restaurants. Whether you choose to cool down inside or enjoy the communal tables outdoors, you’re in for a treat. Their menu focuses on all-American flavors, featuring exclusively American whiskey and craft beer to complement their smoky BBQ dishes.
Beckett’s Bar & Grill
If catching a game while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere is on your agenda, Beckett’s Bar & Grill is an excellent choice. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1603, Beckett’s offers a step back in time alongside its contemporary bar and grill fare. It’s a great spot to enjoy a cold drink, watch sports, and grab a bite in a setting steeped in history.
Stone Street Tavern
Located next to Route 66, Stone Street Tavern continues the casual dining vibe. Expect classic tavern fare like burgers, alongside a selection of beers and wines. The rustic wooden decor and outdoor seating enhance its inviting atmosphere. Multiple TV screens ensure you won’t miss any important sporting events while you dine or drink.
Adrienne’s Pizzabar
Adrienne’s Pizzabar is a standout when it comes to pizza among stone street restaurants. Known for its thin-crust, brick oven pizzas made to order, Adrienne’s offers a more upscale yet welcoming pizzeria experience. Beyond pizza, their menu includes salads and Italian-American baked classics like lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a cold beer and, during warmer months, enjoy the outdoor seating.
Underdog
For a different kind of ambiance, Underdog offers a dimly lit, popular cocktail bar experience. With great music setting the mood, Underdog serves craft beers and creative cocktails, alongside a diverse bar food menu. From salads and sandwiches to burgers and even lo-mein, there’s something for everyone. Choose a seat at the long bar or gather at a table with friends.
Ulysses’ Folk House
Outside Ulysses Pub
Ulysses’ Folk House holds the distinction of being the first pub to open on Stone Street in 2003, and it has since become a Financial District institution. This lively spot attracts a mix of office workers enjoying happy hour and locals seeking a good drink and a bite to eat. Ulysses’ boasts an extensive drink menu, including beers, wines, and cocktails, alongside an impressive food menu featuring a raw bar. From oysters and clams to gyro sandwiches and juicy burgers, Ulysses’ offers a wide range to satisfy any craving. If you can snag a spot at the long communal tables outside, it’s the perfect place to soak in the Stone Street atmosphere.
Beyond Stone Street: Notable Nearby Dining
While Stone Street itself is a culinary haven, several exceptional dining spots are just a short walk away, expanding your options beyond stone street restaurants.
Fraunces Tavern
Located at 54 Pearl Street, on the corner of Broad Street, Fraunces Tavern is a must-visit for those who appreciate history with their meal and drinks. Just a two-minute walk from Stone Street, it’s one of New York City’s oldest and most historically significant pubs, dating back to 1762. Originally Queen’s Head Tavern, it has served everyone from British officers and Revolutionary figures like George Washington to dockworkers and modern office professionals. It was here that George Washington famously bid farewell to his officers after the British evacuation of Manhattan.
Saved from demolition in the early 20th century and restored, Fraunces Tavern today houses a rustic restaurant popular for power lunches, and multiple bar rooms with a wide selection of craft beers and whiskeys, alongside quality bar food. The wooden decor and historical artifacts, like an old musket, enhance the atmosphere. After dining, explore the Fraunces Tavern Museum upstairs, featuring exhibits like the Flag Room and the Long Room, where Washington’s farewell toast took place.
Harry’s
Harry’s, located at 1 Hanover Square, just around the corner from Stone Street, has been a Wall Street dining landmark since 1972. This beautifully renovated, high-end bar and restaurant, situated in the basement of the historic India House, continues to attract the “Power Lunch” and after-work crowds. Known for its impressive steakhouse menu and full bar, Harry’s is ideal for a sophisticated lunch or dinner experience in Downtown NYC. Reservations are highly recommended.
Ruben’s Empanadas
For a more casual and budget-friendly option near Stone Street, Ruben’s Empanadas at 77 Pearl Street is a great choice. This tiny, informal lunch spot offers delicious, hot Argentinian empanadas, perfect for a quick and tasty meal to enjoy outdoors or on the go.
Tacombi
Tacombi, at 74 Broad Street, brings the flavors of Mexico to the Financial District. Originating as a taco stand in Mexico, this popular chain is known for its handmade corn tortillas and authentic taco fillings. Considered one of the best taco spots in the city, Tacombi’s crispy fish, al pastor, and carnitas tacos are highly recommended. Enjoy your tacos in their vibrant setting or take them to go.
Luke’s Lobster FiDi
Craving seafood? Luke’s Lobster FiDi, located at 26 South William Street, is a small seafood gem tucked away near Stone Street. Specializing in Maine-style lobster rolls and clam chowder, Luke’s offers fresh and flavorful seafood sourced sustainably from the USA. It’s a perfect spot for a quick and delicious seafood fix.
Leo’s Bagels
Finally, for an authentic New York City bagel experience, Leo’s Bagels at 3 Hanover Square, just across from India House and Stone Street, is the place to go. This busy bagel shop makes fresh bagels all day long. Whether you want a classic bagel with cream cheese, a loaded bagel with lox, or a custom deli-style creation, Leo’s has you covered. Popular bagel choices include plain, sesame, everything, and whole wheat.
Stone Street and its surrounding area offer a diverse and captivating dining scene. From historic taverns to modern cocktail bars and diverse cuisines, these stone street restaurants and nearby eateries provide a rich culinary experience in the heart of New York City’s Financial District.
