I cant believe I havent tried Pastis yet. I have heard nothing but good things about it as well. I guess Im usually around more downtown. In any case, Im sure either would provide a great late dinner in New York on a Friday night. Actually, 9:30 isnt that late for a Friday dinner, lots of places are open that time, even fairly high end places like, say Picholine. Im not sure about Pastis but I think Balthazar serves its full menu until 11 or 12, then a somewhat reduced menu after that. Even the late menu has plenty of choices though. There is also a bar there, integrated with the dining room which will be packed on a Friday night.

Another one I would recommend for late dinner, although maybe not for a first time visitor (its a little tougher to get to) is Schillers Liqour Bar which is a restaurant as well.


The ultimate late dinner in NY is possibly Fanellis. Best burger in town until 4 AM when the bar closes.