Sure, you’ve circled the neighborhood a dozen times looking for that perfect spot—but at least now you can skip the guesswork. We’ve scoured Forest Hills’ vibrant streets, from Austin to Metropolitan, to bring you the definitive 2026 lineup. Whether you’re craving cozy trattorias, sizzling Sichuan, or that elusive date-night gem, these eleven restaurants prove Queens’ culinary crown shines brightest right here.
da Adriano
$$ | (646) 371-9412 | WEBSITE
Da Adriano’s lasagna is one of the Upper East Side’s most iconic dishes. Layers of fresh pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel come baked to perfection—and you have the option of adding a side of their famous cacio pepe. Always get that pasta. The dish easily satisfies one hearty appetite (this is not a light lunch, after all), and it costs roughly $24.
Notably, this place offers free coffee refills—so stop by with a colleague for a cozy, delicious meal that probably won’t run you more than $30 per person.
Chip City
$ | (718) 487-3166 | WEBSITE
Chip City works for all sorts of different cravings, and it’s not impossible to get your hands on—so we find ourselves recommending it to people all the time. The very good cookies, which you eat in a clean, welcoming space full of the smell of freshly baked treats, range from butter cookie with biscoff filling to smores. And if you need another reason to plan your next solo indulgence or group outing here, know that there are excellent gluten-free and non-dairy options as well.
Nick’s Bistro
$$ | (718) 544-6425 | WEBSITE
Nick’s Bistro is a delightful Forest Hills spot where you can enjoy a casual meal on the patio during the day or visit in the evening when it becomes a hub for families celebrating special occasions. The menu features authentic favorites like Colorado lamb chops, saganaki, and tzatziki with pita bread—but make sure to ask about their allergy-friendly accommodations. Past visits have revealed consistently impressive dishes and a warm, attentive staff that makes everyone feel welcome.
Duomo51
$$$ | (646) 398-8098 | WEBSITE
There’s a lot of good Italian food in Midtown, but the first place we send anyone who regularly utters the words ‘prix fix menu, please’ is Duomo51. This Rockefeller Center restaurant opened on the 7th floor of the Doubletree Hotel, and it’s now gifted Midtown with one of the best dining experiences in Manhattan. If you’re the sort of person who sees a spectacular view as an essential ingredient, go for the lobster ravioli and burrata in the beautiful enclosed outdoor area overlooking St.
Patrick’s Cathedral.
Rove
$$ | (347) 233-3183 | WEBSITE
Rove is the kind of bar and kitchen you want to have in your neighborhood. There’s lots of comfortable seating on both sides of the bar, their space has a perfect blend of modern charm and cozy warmth, and they’re open with fun activities like Thursday Trivia. Helmed by a kitchen praised for its quality, this place also serves some of the more delicious food in Forest Hills. The signature cheeseburger with jalapeno peppers and mushrooms is perfectly seasoned in the best way.
Other options like the steak sandwich and shepherd’s pot pie are consistently great, but the specials during the week change often. The amazing happy hour with multiple TVs for watching games makes it a wild ride.
Homemade Taqueria Forest Hills
$ | (718) 544-0016 | WEBSITE
If you can’t find authentic tacos elsewhere (you won’t), this spot delivers vibrant Mexican flavors right in Forest Hills. This colorful taqueria serves up incredible versions of classic dishes like birria tacos, steak nachos, and a rotating selection of tortas. The space feels like a cross between a lively mercado stall and a cozy neighborhood joint, making it the perfect choice for casual weeknight dinners.
Their portions are generous, their horchata is refreshing, and everything from the elote to the recently added wings hits just right.
Kung Fu Tea
$ | (718) 263-3631 | WEBSITE
Thanks to Kung Fu Tea, Forest Hills can claim some of NYC’s best bubble tea. Their classic milk tea with boba is worth traveling for, the taro smoothie comes topped with perfectly cooked pearls that melt into a creamy blend, and the refreshing mango green tea is a must-order. On most afternoons here, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a neighborhood secret, with groups of friends grabbing drinks to-go while the friendly staff navigates the small space to serve customers quickly.
They also have locations throughout the city.
Anjappar Indian Cuisine
$$ | (917) 540-5287 | WEBSITE
Anjappar Indian Cuisine is another Indian spot that warrants a priority visit—especially if you love authentic South Indian flavors. Start with the samosas and pakoda followed by the Chettinad chicken that’s perfectly spiced and rich from traditional masalas. You’ll see groups around you sharing big banana leaf meals, as well as families out for a warm, inviting dinner.
The butter chicken masala was absolutely creamy, paired beautifully with a side of garlic naan, while the samba mutton biryani delivered hearty, satisfying notes. Complete your meal with a refreshing mango lassi for a truly spot-on experience.
Oba Grill
$$ | (718) 339-0013 | WEBSITE
Oba Grill has locations on both Metropolitan and Austin Street, and it’s well-known for its relatively affordable Mediterranean options. For $55, you get a generous mixed grill with incredibly good lamb chops and appetizers. In terms of quality, service, and atmosphere, this is some of the best Mediterranean food you’ll find in Forest Hills—so come here the next time you want to feel pleasantly satisfied on a Tuesday.
Wagamama
$$ | (646) 813-3396 | WEBSITE
This place in Forest Hills is part Japanese fusion spot and part social hub. You can drop in for lunch and grab some pork baos and a fresh juice—but, in the evening, Wagamama feels like a scene out of a trendy foodie fantasy. It’s a welcoming, relaxed spot where you’ll mingle with local regulars, like those pals you met at the park last weekend. Expect to share a bunch of flavorful ramen, baos, and bulgogi as you soak up the vibe.
Continental Lunchonette & Deli
$ | (718) 520-8336 | WEBSITE
Continental Lunchonette & Deli is a family-owned neighborhood deli known for its high-quality food and friendly service. Like the best neighborhood spots, Continental is a Queens classic that lives on a local street corner, and it’s our new favorite spot for quick bites. In the mornings, grab an eggs on roll sandwich, a creamy egg wrap, or a chewy bagel with lox at the counter, where you’ll see regulars reading newspapers.
Throughout the day, slide into a simple booth or grab a seat at the counter. Fuel up with a Cuban sandwich, a chicken over rice platter, or a pastrami with provolone, lettuce, onions, sauerkraut, mayo, and mustard.
