Raf's Introduce
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Nolita, Raf's stands out as a true culinary gem in the heart of New York City. This celebrated restaurant, recently recognized by The New York Times on its prestigious "100 Best Restaurants" list, offers a sophisticated yet inviting dining experience that combines the best of Italian and French culinary traditions. With its romantic and upscale atmosphere, Raf's has become a go-to spot for everything from a casual coffee and pastry in the morning to a memorable, special-occasion dinner. Its reputation for culinary excellence is well-deserved, attracting locals and visitors alike who seek high-quality food, a superb ambiance, and impeccable service.
The ethos of Raf's is built on a foundation of quality and craftsmanship. The menu is a testament to this, featuring an array of dishes that are both classic and innovative. From a delicate French Omelette for brunch to a flavorful Spaghetti Bottarga for dinner, each plate is thoughtfully prepared. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients is evident in every bite, ensuring a truly delightful and authentic dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a fantastic meal, Raf's promises an experience that is both delightful and memorable.
Located at 290 Elizabeth Street, New York, NY 10012, Raf's enjoys a prime location in one of Manhattan's most dynamic and stylish neighborhoods. The restaurant is easily accessible via various forms of public transportation, including several subway lines that serve the area. The surrounding streets are well-traversed, and walking or using a ride-sharing service are also convenient options. The Nolita area itself is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and lively atmosphere, making a visit to Raf's an excellent addition to a day spent exploring the neighborhood.
For those with mobility considerations, Raf's is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. The establishment features wheelchair-accessible restrooms and wheelchair-accessible seating, making it a welcoming and inclusive space. The central location and clear accessibility features make it an easy choice for a diverse range of diners, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the exceptional food and inviting atmosphere without any concerns.
Raf's prides itself on offering a wide range of services to cater to various dining needs and preferences. The full-service dining options are comprehensive, covering all meals of the day.
Services offered include:
- Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner with full table service.
- Dine-in service for a complete sit-down dining experience.
- Reservations are accepted and highly recommended, particularly for dinner and weekend brunch, to ensure a table.
- A bar onsite serving a full menu of curated drinks.
- Payment flexibility, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, for a seamless transaction.
The diverse menu is a key part of the services, offering a variety of choices from small plates and full entrees to a selection of breads and pastries. The drink menu is equally robust, featuring a great selection of coffee, a celebrated wine list, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Raf's is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination known for its specific characteristics that enhance the overall dining experience.
Key highlights and features include:
- Fast and Efficient Service: Guests consistently praise the speed and attentiveness of the staff, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable meal.
- Exceptional Beverages: The restaurant is known for its great coffee, with options like Parlor Coffee and Caffe Latte, as well as an impressive list of signature cocktails like the Corsican 75 and Aperitivo Spritz.
- Outstanding Desserts: The dessert menu is a highlight, with options such as Almond Panna Cotta and Jasmine Honeycomb Semifreddo that are "incredible" and a "must-try."
- Superb Wine List: A carefully curated wine selection complements the food perfectly, offering options for both connoisseurs and casual drinkers.
- Versatility: Popular for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, Raf's caters to various dining needs, whether it's a solo meal or a group gathering.
- Atmosphere: The ambiance is a blend of casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it suitable for any occasion, from a first date to a special anniversary celebration.
- Family-Friendly: With high chairs available and a welcoming attitude, Raf's is a great option for families dining with children.
The unique offerings, from the "dry-aged beef burger" that has been called the new favorite burger in the city by a patron to the unique "Prosciutto And Taleggio Croissant," set Raf's apart from other dining spots.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach Raf's at the following contact points:
- Address: 290 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012, USA
- Phone: (917) 639-3837 (based on publicly available information)
Raf's is an ideal choice for anyone in New York looking for an exceptional dining experience. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its ability to deliver on multiple fronts. The food is consistently praised by critics and customers alike, with standout dishes like the Sourdough Tartine and the Dry-Aged Beef Burger. The delicate and light French Omelette and the surprisingly spicy Rigatoni Alla Trapanese showcase the culinary breadth and depth.
Beyond the food, the ambiance creates the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Whether you're seeking a casual, cozy spot for a weekday lunch or a romantic, upscale setting for a special dinner, Raf's fits the bill. The professional yet friendly service ensures that every guest feels welcome and cared for. The extensive menu, from a full selection of pastries and breads to hearty main courses and sophisticated cocktails, means there is something for every palate. The fact that it's popular for solo dining, as well as for groups, speaks to its versatile and accommodating nature.
In a city with countless dining options, Raf's distinguishes itself through its dedication to quality, its unique menu that blends Italian and French influences, and its reputation for being a place where every meal is a memorable event. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to add Raf's to your list of must-visit New York City restaurants.
Raf's Menu
Sides
- Toast $6.00
- Pork Sausage $9.00
- Green Salad $12.00
- Seasonal Fruit $14.00
- Pommes Frites $12.00
Dessert
- Almond Panna Cotta With Elderflower Granita
- Jasmine Honeycomb Semifreddo
Beverages
- Parlor Coffee $5.00
- Espresso $5.00
- Caffe Latte $6.00
- Cappuccino $6.00
- Bellocq Tea $6.00
- Iced Tea $6.00
- Fresh Orange Juice $6.00
- Acqua Panna
- San Pellegrino $10.00
Cocktails
- Giardinera Fresca
- Corsican 75
- Aperitivo Spritz
- Together Forever
- La Rosa Spritz
Bread
- Focaccia
- Batard
- Baguette
- Pan Au Lait
- Pan Du Jour
Pastries
- Croissant
- Chocolate Croissant
- Candied Orange Almond Croissant
- Ricotta And Strawberry Croissant
- Prosciutto And Taleggio Croissant
- Ramp And Funghi Danish
- Canele
Cookies
- Baci Di Dama
- Amaretti
- Biscotti
Petite Gateaux
- Opera
- Lemon Tonka Crostata
- Hazelnut Piazza
Coffee & Tea
- Parlor Coffee $5.00
- Espresso $5.00
- Macchiato $5.00
- Cortado $5.00
- Caffe Latte $6.00
- Cappuccino $6.00
- Tea $5.00
Others
- Selection Of Daily Breads $14.00
- Local Yogurt $16.00
- Fennel Salad $26.00
- Tuna Tartare $26.00
- Oysters On The Half Shell $26.00
- Salad Niçoise $28.00
- Sourdough Tartine $18.00
- Breakfast Sandwich $19.00
- French Omelette $26.00
- Soft Scrambled Eggs $20.00
- Uovo In Purgatorio Amatriciana $25.00
- Spaghetti Bottarga $28.00
- Iberico Pork Milanese $32.00
- Dry-Aged Beef Burger $32.00
- Grilled Chicken Panzanella $28.00
- Yogurt Panna Cotta With Rhubarb Granita
- Blood Orange Cassata With Marsala Zabaione
- Pastry Basket $20.00
- Green Market Crudite $18.00
- Seafood Platter $50.00
- Steak Tartare $24.00
- Tardivo
- Leeks Vinaigrette $19.00
- Sfincione $3.00
- Rigatoni Alla Trapanese $20.00
- Iberico Collar Milanese $28.00
- Half Chicken $28.00
- Roasted Tilefish $45.00
- Soft Boiled Eggs $14.00
- Seasonal Fruit Salad $12.00
- Pain Au Chocolat $6.00
- Candied Orange Marcona Almond Criossant $6.50
- Prosciutto & Taleggio Croissant $13.00
- Eggplant Caponata Danish $8.00
- Blueberry Agrodolce Sticky Bun $9.00
- Pistachio Olive Oil Cake $9.00
- Spring Onion And Gruyère Scone $6.00
- Harissa Chocolate Cake
- Mole Negro Croissant $15.00
- Pignoli $5.00
- Rosemary Chocolate Chip $7.00
Raf's Details
Service options
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Raf's Photos










Raf's Location
Raf's Reviews
pastriesricottabrunchleekscocktailsbudinobeef tartarebread basketmartinisolive oil
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1One of my best brunch experiences in NYC. On NY times best 100 list, and the food was great. The dry-aged burger was delicious, super cheese with loads of sesame in the bun and fresh tarragon. It was my new favorite burger in the city, just edging out Lord’s and Au Cheval. The specialty croissant was unique, and delicious - definitely something I’d get again! The eggs in purgatory was good, but probably we would spice things differently. The dessert was incredible - I strongly suggest you leave room for dessert or just make it happen if you have to. A delightful and memorable meal, we will be back for a special occasion again soon.
June 16 · Blake RasmussenEnjoyed my Easter brunch at @rafsnewyork ! Their pastries are on the sweeter and heavier side for me, but I did enjoy both the pasta and the omelette. The omelette was light and delicate, while the pasta was surprisingly spicy 🌶️
April 23 · VickiRafs delivered a great dining experience from start to finish. The standout dish was the salsa verde half chicken—flavorful, juicy, and perfectly balanced. The leeks, tender and topped with creamy ricotta and crunchy nuts, were another highlight. We also enjoyed the creamy arancini and the spaghetti, which was my personal favorite—simple yet deeply satisfying. The space itself is beautifully decorated, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests truly felt like they were having a good time. The food is on the pricier side, but hey—it’s 2025. Worth it for a special night out.
May 11 · Juan BHad a really great meal just now for dinner. Service was impeccable and the food was really wonderful and comforting. The escargot were bright and deliciously herby - the bread coarse is not to be missed. Pasta was fresh and the roast chicken was so flavorful - giving Alison Roman vibes.Can’t say enough good things about the service though. Absolutely everyone was on point and so friendly. Will definitely come back.
August 24 · Jordan HaskinsWent here for a Saturday Brunch, even the early morning the restaurant was packed. The pasta and omelette both tasted amazing, especially the omelette, highly recommend.However, it took more than 20 mins to get our coffee, and the latte art was completely a disaster, not sure if they under staff that day or what. The staff all nice, but the wait was way too long.
March 29 · J.Y
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