Summer in New York City brings fresh energy to the dining scene with ambitious new restaurants from established chefs and rising talents. As temperatures rise, these new establishments are preparing to welcome diners with innovative menus and distinct atmospheres across Manhattan and Brooklyn.

For visitors planning a summer trip to NYC, these openings represent prime opportunities to experience the city's cutting-edge culinary culture before the crowds arrive. This guide showcases eight notable new restaurants worth adding to your itinerary.

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Marea Verde

Marea Verde opens in June in Chelsea, bringing coastal Mexican cuisine with a sustainable seafood focus. Chef Carmen Rodríguez's menu features fresh ceviches, aguachiles, and wood-fired fish using authentic techniques from Mexico's Pacific coast. The 10-seat ceviche counter offers the best experience, where Rodriguez serves a rotating tasting menu with mezcal and natural wine pairings. Reserve three weeks ahead, as pre-opening buzz has been substantial. Visit the restaurant's herb-surrounded back garden during happy hour (5-7 pm) for reduced prices on select menu items and a more relaxed atmosphere.

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Satori

Satori opens late June in the former Eleven Madison Park space, marking Chef Daniel Humm's return with a concept blending Japanese and Nordic influences. The 16-course tasting menu changes weekly, emphasizing fermentation techniques and rare ingredients from small producers. Reservations open monthly and sell out quickly. Travelers without reservations can try the separate lounge area, which accepts limited walk-ins for a shorter three-course experience with cocktail pairings. Kitchen counter seats offer the best views of the culinary team at work.

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Burnt Maple

Former Blue Hill chef Samantha Wilson opens Burnt Maple in mid-July in Cobble Hill. This intimate 40-seat restaurant features an open hearth where nearly everything on the farm-to-table menu gets exposed to flame or smoke. Reservations are only available two weeks in advance, making this accessible for shorter visits. Solo travelers should request the chef's counter for interaction with the kitchen team. The daily changing tasting menu reflects market availability, with previous day's items available à la carte in the adjoining wine bar, which welcomes walk-ins.

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Nami

Nami, opening in August in the East Village, brings Tokyo-trained Chef Takashi Yamamoto's traditional Edomae sushi with occasional New York influences. The 16-seat omakase counter offers a focused 90-minute experience in a minimalist setting featuring custom woodwork and Japanese ceramics. Reservations open 30 days ahead at noon and fill quickly. For an easier booking, try the condensed lunch omakase offered Wednesday through Sunday. Local tip: the four counter seats nearest the entrance are reserved for walk-ins after 9 pm, creating opportunities for spontaneous late-night dining.

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Ember & Ash

The Greenpoint waterfront welcomes Ember & Ash in late June. This converted warehouse restaurant offers Manhattan skyline views and focuses on live-fire cooking with global influences. Chef James Kent draws inspiration from Middle Eastern, South American, and Southeast Asian traditions. The outdoor deck overlooking the East River is the most desirable seating area during summer and accepts limited reservations. A substantial portion of outdoor tables is held for walk-ins after 8:30 pm, making this a good option for travelers without advance planning.

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Terroir

James Beard-nominated sommelier André Jackson opens Terroir in Crown Heights in August, focusing on natural wines and seasonal small plates. This neighborhood wine bar features over 200 bottles emphasizing small producers and lesser-known regions. The menu of shareable dishes changes frequently based on market availability and wine selections. No reservations are accepted, making this an excellent last-minute option. The casual atmosphere and fair pricing (most glasses $12-18) create an approachable experience even for wine novices. Visit around 5 pm for the best chance at securing a table and catching the staff's detailed wine descriptions during their less busy hours.

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These eight new restaurants showcase the diversity and innovation driving New York City's dining scene this summer. From high-end tasting menus to casual wine bars, each offers a distinct culinary perspective worth experiencing. While advance planning helps secure tables at the most buzzed-about spots, many provide walk-in options for more spontaneous dining adventures. Visit websites or call directly for the most current opening dates, as restaurant launches occasionally face delays.