When it comes to dining out in New York City, there’s no where better to eat and drink than the East Village. The neighborhood has a bewildering number of cuisines available — from stalwarts serving Ukrainian pierogis or Japanese bar snacks to stylish newcomers dishing out regional Chinese cuisine that previously could only be found in Flushing. It’s got petite storefronts where independent restaurateurs can experiment with boundary-pushing yet affordable food, as well as cozy spots for a spendy date night. Many craft cocktail pioneers started here — PDT, Angel’s Share — and the still-thriving cocktail culture means the standard for beverages are high at most newer places that open. And yet, the East Village also remains one of the best neighborhoods for a perfect NYC dive bar.

Deciding on just one list to encompass everything that the East Village has to offer was impossible. It has a restaurant and bar for nearly every craving and occasion: for a lively party, for a sultry date night, for a taste of old New York, for a quiet and stately meal with the parents.

As Eater’s history of dining in the East Village shows, the neighborhood has changed a lot over the years. And though locals have (understandably and rightfully) cried foul over a growing number of corporate newcomers like Starbucks, it’s still one of the most dynamic and enviable places to eat and drink in the world.

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