13 Best American Restaurants in Long Island City

“We went for Thanksgiving, not expecting much. Understanding they would be busy at 7pm, we decided to take our chances and walk in. Super friendly service. We got a welcome eggnog, brilliantly cooked 3 course price fix menu, great service. There were some hiccups (soup came out crazy fast, while the drinks took the normal time. A little odd) loved that they had a kobe steak as arn option, very moist turkey too. Pumpkin creme bruleee was tasty-not too "pumpkiny". They even have us a free champagne with dessert. Really worth it“

“🔥 🔥🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥“

“I was first introduced to Carla's two years ago and I have been dreaming of both their Hibiscus Margaritas and Grilled Corn Romaine Salad ever since. YES A SALAD!

Happy to say I finally had the opportunity to return for an intimate birthday celebration and everything was just how I remembered it.

Cute and quaint, with good service and food, a great vibe!

Without a doubt I absolutely ordered the roasted corn salad. It has tomatoes, avocado, roasted corn, Romain lettuce, and an amazing dressing. I added the pan seared chicken. The chicken was super flavorful and juicy, and extremely tender, not overdone. The salad was magical just as I remembered it. In addition the guac was fresh and the Hibiscus Margs was a tasty way to wash it all down.

It's amazing how I dream about this salad. It's a good thing I don't live close because I would have no problem factoring in this salad which is a little pricey into an almost daily budget. Lol.

Needless to say I will not be reminiscing about this salad for two years again. I will be back sooner than you think.

A special thanks to our server, whom was a one man show the whole night.

Just A Note:

Parking can be a bit of a challenge and Carla's is tiny but mighty and absolutely worth it!“

“Guys THIS is the place to experience drinks,every single drink I had its own personality,I have no words to express this experience,also bartenders and owner were very nice and always willing to explain what was I drinking,each ingredient has its own unique characteristics and recipe. For was pretty good too!
second time coming here and definitely NOT the last one“

“We had the best pre cruise visit since we were staying nearby at a hotel. Both bartenders were excellent and the regular customers! Made us “southerners” feel comfy and offered up ideas and suggestions of navigating the concrete jungle! If we ever return to NY, we will definitely be back. Awesome food! Awesome service! Excellent drinks. Made our trip!!“

“Great place. The staff is awesome and are very attentive. Drinks and food were fantastic. Was our first time there and I’ll definitely be back.“

“If You’re in the area, it’s a good hangout place. It’s good to watch games and/or have a good meal. Friendly staff and cozy atmosphere.“

“Great view, and great staff, there were always long lines for the 2 bathrooms though. I also do NOT recommend the margaritas, they are pre-batched with some nasty mixers. Stick to the 1&1 (vodka soda, gin tonic etc), or beer. Our friends did order the burger, and it looked and smelled amazing.“

“Cozy spot! Great service!“

“This unassuming bar has it all.

Food
Perhaps the least expected, but the food here is actually great. The highlight of it all is the grilled chicken caesar salad, we have yet to find a better one in this neighborhood. The tacos and grilled cheese are also not bad, but maybe more your typical bar stock.

Service
The bartenders all have a kind of calm, amicable presence. In the three years I’ve lived nearby, I’ve never seen even a trace of impatience, even on busy nights. They’re always getting into conversations with the locals, and it gives the place a friendly vibe.

Ambiance
I think this place is underrated as a date spot. It’s not fancy, and sometimes some of the tables can be a bit sticky (hey, spills happen it’s fair). But the lighting is nice — a warm amber light fills the place, and I think it makes you look better. I always feel like I have good conversations with people here, and I can’t quite say why, but I think it’s the vibe. If you’re not looking for anything too fancy, and just want a down to earth place to meet up with someone, this is your spot.

Vegetarian options: Grilled cheese, Caesar salad“

“Great takeaway restaurant
Impeccable service, very good food
Copious
We had the fried chicken with fried rice.
We were staying at the hotel next door and it's a great place for dinner.

Vegetarian options: Fried vegetables, rice“

“Definitely a fun bar to hang out in and the staff was very personable. The drinks were decently priced and there were plenty of places to sit and space out between groups. The only drawback is the overly loud music at some points which can make conversation difficult.“

“Always a great place for pre-theatre. Fantastic service and excellent food and cocktails.“