Manhattan BBQ & Friends

4.8 (445)

Mon – Thu, 11:00 – 22:00; Fri – Sun, 11:00 – 23:00

81 Chrystie St Unit 1, New York, NY 10002, USA

Make this the barbecue anchor: Japanese BBQ and beef yakitori sit alongside sushi, including an eel-cheese roll. Private tatami dining adds an intimate option for catching up with friends, while an in-house matcha stall gives the table another drink choice. This is the grill-and-sushi pick in the shortlist.

4.5 (253)

Mon – Fri, 11:00 – 21:00; Sat – Sun, 10:30 – 21:30

87 Chrystie Street

For friends who would rather gather over soup than barbecue, this modern noodle spot offers piping-hot rice noodle soups and generous portions. The collagen soup and flexible combos are standouts, and dumplings arrive with chili oil and peanuts. Fast, attentive service keeps the room moving.

4.3 (462)

Wed – Thu, 17:00 – 00:00 (+1); Fri – Sat, 17:00 – 01:00 (+1); Sun, 17:00 – 23:00

93 Bowery

Choose this for the drinks part of the catch-up, not for barbecue. The 18th-floor indoor lounge runs year-round, with a seasonal outdoor roof and views across lower and midtown Manhattan. The Lychee Martini is a highlight, with 2000s hip-hop and R&B playing. Guests must be 21 or older.

4.5 (82)

Mon – Sun, 10:00 – 18:30

103A Eldridge Street

Keep this cash-only counter in mind for a daytime takeaway rather than a sit-down barbecue dinner. Freshly baked baguettes hold generous fillings, with five-spice banh mi, pork sausage and fried tofu among the options, and Vietnamese coffee is another choice. Bring cash and plan a quick stop.