We are convinced that those who live in the West Village have figured out life. First, they call one of the most quaint, character-filled neighborhoods in New York City home. Second, how do so many of them have time for leisurely lunches during the week? The weekdays are actually where the neighborhood shines in its most authentic form. These are the top restaurants for where to have lunch in the West Village.

In Memory of Two Favorite Places in the West Village

Before we go into where to have lunch in the West Village, we’d like to recognize two restaurants that were our favorites. Mary’s Fish Camp and Extra Virgin, two staples of the West Village, have recently closed their doors. Both of these restaurants were a reason to come to the West Village. We’ll miss the leisurely brunches at Extra Virgin, and the people watching over the past two decades. As for Mary’s, they are the OG of lobster rolls, and still no one has come close. I have twenty pounds I put on when I first moved to NYC to thank them for, but it was worth it.

Sant Ambroeus

Sant Ambroeus is the perennial favorite for lunch in the West in the West Village. It’s where celebrities, billionaires like Jeff Bezos and the impossibly beautiful gather for effortless lunches. With its corner spot, it’s one of the places where every table is a good one for taking in the West Village vibes. And of course solid plates of pasta and the best affogato in the city.

Buvette Gastrothèque

This cozy boîte of a spot is the epitome of the West Village charm. Even after all these years, Buvette in all its simplicity continues to pack the house from morning to midnight, literally. With a focus on the most simple classic French bistro fare, Buvette adds that element of elevation to the cuisine. It’s that French Je ne sais quo that you know the moment you dig into the steamed eggs and soft bread.

Dante West

As far as places for lunch in the West Village go, Dante West is one of the prettiest spots. It’s also the only spot on our list for lunch in the area that serves caviar, on its otherwise simple menu. The corner spot is where to feel like you’re one of the beautiful people who seem to have all day to lunch and walk around the Village.

Via Carota

It’s a Chef Jody Williams world in the West Village, and we’re all just living in it. With some of the best restaurants for lunch in the West Village, or pretty much anytime of the day, Via Carota is also on the list. Via Carota pretty much doesn’t take reservations from the masses, unless you’re Taylor Swift. However you put your name in at opening and give them the preference of your reservation time. They do somehow get you in near your request, and there are plenty of places to grab a coffee beforehand. That cacio e pepe and lemon risotto are worth the wait.

Little Owl

The Little Owl is one of those places that was revolutionary in the farm to table movement when it opened over two decades ago. It immediately became a classic restaurant and one of the most sought-after reservations in the city for years. Today it’s settled into a staple for dinner and lunch in the West Village for simple yet elevated American fare with a French refinement. The flounder and current seasonal lobster and corn chowder always hit the spot.

Other Articles You’ll Like

Perle Wine & Raw Bar 
Alice Lobster Dinner 
Dame Restaurant in NYC 

FAQs

Q:  What are the hours of operation of Little Owl?

A: The hours of operation of Little Owl are below. They are open during lunch which is a quieter time but a prime people watching scene. This makes it one of the best places for where to have lunch in the West Village.

Q: Does Buvette serve lunch in the West Village and what are its hours of operation?

A: Buvette serves food from 8am to midnight, including lunch in the West Village. Its hours of operation are as follows:

Q: Does Via Carota take reservations for lunch in the West Village?

A: In general, Via Carota does not take reservations for lunch in the West Village. Arrive early to snag a table without a wait, or put your name on the list.