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Each year, Tripadvisor, the world’s most popular travel site, unveils its Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, spotlighting travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, and restaurants across the globe—and the 2025 restaurant winners are finally here.
Chosen from over 8 million listings, these spots represent the top 1% worldwide, praised by diners for their exceptional experiences and rave reviews.
And this year, New York City has reason to celebrate: one of its most legendary restaurants has just been named among Tripadvisor’s most “One of a Kind” dining destinations in the world. Hidden beneath one of NYC’s most iconic National Historic Landmarks, this restaurant proves why it remains one of the most magical places to eat in the city.
🏙️ A Grand New York Story That Began in 1913
When Grand Central Terminal opened on February 2, 1913, it was the largest train station in the world. Just three weeks later, the Oyster Bar opened its doors below ground—serving commuters, travelers, and locals oysters and pan roasts under its now-famous Guastavino-tiled vaulted ceilings.
Designed by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino, the space was immediately hailed as one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the city. With 440 seats, the restaurant supplied meals to trains departing the station and quickly became a Midtown institution.
By the 1960s, as long-haul train travel declined, the restaurant faded with it—until restaurateur Jerome Brody stepped in. Brody, known for The Rainbow Room and La Fonda del Sol, revived the space in 1974, transforming it into a full-scale seafood restaurant worthy of its legendary location.
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Tripadvisor praises its unmatched charm, ranking it No. 23 on its 2025 list of the world’s most One of a Kind restaurants and writing:
There’s no restaurant in NYC—or on Earth—quite like Grand Central Oyster Bar. The stunning spot has been going strong for more than a century in one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions.
🐟 Freshly Caught Seafood Under Vaulted Guastavino Ceilings
Inside, the restaurant’s famous Guastavino-tiled vaulted ceilings create a breathtaking setting for what’s long been considered the best seafood in NYC.
The menu features up to 30 types of oysters, 25 varieties of shellfish and fish, and world-famous stews and pan roasts made to order. Pair it with one of 30+ wines by the glass or a perfectly chilled martini—it’s a timeless New York ritual.
Every morning, at 3 am, chef and buyer Juan Lopez hand-picks the day’s catch at the Fulton Fish Market, ensuring the freshest seafood in the city and a menu that changes daily.
🦪 Grand Central Oyster Bar
- 📍 Location: Grand Central Terminal (lower level) – 89 E. 42nd Street
- ❓ Learn more: Online
While you’re there be sure to also check out NYC’s legendary commuter bar Tracks Raw Bar & Grill, now open inside Grand Central Madison, and Grand Central’s hidden makeout room–yes, it’s a dedicated room specifically constructed for smooching!