Last updated on July 4th, 2024 at 07:04 am

In the bustling metropolis of New York, where innovation meets tradition, finding the right architect to bring your restaurant vision to life is crucial in the journey to culinary success. Known as the city that never sleeps, New York, New York, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and flavors, making it a prime location for exceptional dining experiences.

If you envision a restaurant that stands out in the vibrant New York culinary scene, our curated list below showcases the best restaurant architects in the city. Our team has meticulously chosen each architect, considering factors such as their portfolio, expertise, client reviews, and industry accolades. These architects are renowned for their ability to blend functionality with visual appeal, creating spaces that meet the demands of a dynamic restaurant environment and elevate the dining experience to new heights.


Stonehill & Taylor Architects

31 West 27th St, Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10001

Stonehill & Taylor Architects, established in New York City in 1986, is a hospitality-focused architecture and interior design firm with a contextual approach to crafting destinations. Specializing in hospitality, health/sciences, and academia, it has become a significant player in the industry.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects and the US Green Building Council, Stonehill & Taylor Architects is committed to high standards and sustainable practices. Recognized in Interior Design Magazine’s Top 100 Design Giants (#85 in 2021), the firm’s work has garnered attention in Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

Led by Founding Partner Paul D. Taylor, the firm benefits from his extensive architecture, interiors, and management experience in the hospitality sector. Taylor’s knowledge, acquired through involvement in luxury, high-end boutique, and convention hotels, enriches each project. His passion for creative design solutions, evolving technologies, and construction techniques is well-regarded within the industry.


bonetti/kozerski architecture

46 Bowery, 2nd Flr, New York, NY 10013

Founded in New York City in 2000, bonetti/kozerski architecture approaches every project as a collaborative venture with clients. It navigates the design process by working together to achieve client goals while injecting unexpected elements. The firm’s holistic perspective spans from the minutiae of furniture and art to the grandeur of spaces, volumes, and materials.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, bonetti/kozerski architecture, although not having specific awards, stands out through its commitment to thoughtful design. As featured in Metro Manhattan, the firm is recognized for its nuanced approach.

Bar Blondeau. Photo: Liz Clayman

Key principals include Enrico Bonetti, AIA, whose architectural journey began in Venice under the guidance of Aldo Rossi, and Dominic Kozerski, RIBA, who studied at the Bartlett School of Architecture in London and the Cooper Union in New York. With 25 years of experience each, they contribute rich expertise to the firm’s creative endeavors.


METHOD Architects

102 W 38th St, 8th Fl, New York, NY 10018

METHOD Architects, established in 2009, is a versatile design studio specializing in commercial, retail, residential, and interior architecture. Founded by licensed, LEED-accredited architects Johan Reyes and Carlos Macias, it has 35 years of combined experience in architecture, interiors, and project management.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, METHOD Architects stands at the intersection of originality and expertise. While accolades, such as awards, are notable, the studio’s work has gained recognition through features in Green Market Report and Bloomberg.

Johan Reyes, AIA, LEED AP, with a Bachelor of Architecture from The City College of New York, leads as managing principal, contributing 17 years of experience. Equally adept, Carlos Macias, AIA, LEED AP, a graduate of the University at Buffalo, serves as managing principal with 13 years of valuable experience. What sets METHOD Architects apart is its past achievements and its ongoing commitment to delivering thoughtful and sustainable design solutions.


Laurence G. Jones Architects

545 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018

Founded in 1994 and officially incorporated in 1999, Laurence G. Jones Architects has 25 years of professional experience. Led by the firm’s founder, Laurence G. Jones, the team brings expertise to every project. Specializing in the design of corporate interiors, restaurants, retail spaces, and educational facilities, the firm has also successfully constructed new commercial buildings and additions and alterations.

Affiliated with LEED Certified staff, the firm is committed to sustainable practices in its architectural endeavors. Despite the absence of specific awards, the firm’s commitment to excellence is evident in its noteworthy projects.

Featured in WSJ Magazine, Laurence G. Jones Architects focuses on quality design and innovation. The principal, Laurence G. Jones, a Pratt School of Architecture graduate, has a career spanning 25 years. Having commenced his professional journey with James Wines and Site Projects in 1979, his expertise and leadership contribute to the firm’s ability to navigate the intricate needs of a diverse client base.


LTL Architects

11 Bdwy, Suite 1530, New York, NY 10004

LTL Architects (Lewis.Tsurumaki.Lewis) is a New York City-based architecture firm founded in 1997 by Paul Lewis, Marc Tsurumaki, and David J. Lewis. Engaging in diverse projects, from large-scale academic and cultural buildings to interiors and speculative research endeavors, it thrives on inventive solutions that transform project constraints into design trajectories. Exploring overlaps between space, program, form, budget, and materials, it consistently delivers original designs.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, LTL Architects has garnered recognition, including the 2021 Excellence in Design award from The Public Design Commission of New York City. Featured in publications such as The Architect’s Newspaper and Architectural Record, the firm continues to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Led by principals Paul Lewis, Marc Tsurumaki, and David J. Lewis, the team has diverse educational backgrounds and affiliations, contributing to the firm’s rich and multidimensional approach to architecture. From its inception in 1997 to its recent induction into the Interior Design Hall of Fame in 2019, LTL Architects remains at the forefront of creative architectural practice, shaping spaces that transcend conventional boundaries.


SRA Architecture & Engineering

511 Canal St, 300, New York, NY 10013

SRA Architecture & Engineering (SRAA+E), a burgeoning architecture firm in SoHo, seamlessly blends architecture, engineering, expediting, and code consulting services. This close-knit, multidisciplinary collective adopts an integrated design approach, efficiently realizing the unique visions of its diverse clientele. With a notable portfolio encompassing iconic hospitality projects like Bagatelle, Soho House, Tao, Lavo, and Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, it has left an indelible mark on New York City and beyond.

What sets SRAA+E apart is its commitment to a holistic design process, where diverse expertise converges under one roof. The firm’s collaborative ethos ensures a streamlined and effective journey from concept to completion. 

Notably affiliated with the Pratt Institute, SRAA+E is led by Founding Principal Adrian R. Figueroa, who steers the firm towards original and sustainable architectural solutions. Forbes recognizes the firm’s achievements, spotlighting its unique position in the architectural landscape. As SRAA+E continues to evolve, its integrated approach and commitment to excellence remain at the forefront of its design philosophy.


YT Resolution Services

19 West 44th St, Suite# 710, New York, NY 10036

Founded in 2002 in Manhattan, New York, YT Resolution Services is a consulting partner for Japanese companies venturing from Japan to the United States. Specializing in advising on expansions, office relocations, and restaurant or store openings, it offers comprehensive solutions. The establishment of “YT design” as its design and construction management division further solidifies its commitment to providing an all-encompassing approach to the construction process.

YT Resolution Services runs under the leadership of CEO and President Yasuhiro Takasaki, who has 20 years of experience in the field. Although not affiliated with specific chambers or honored with awards, it focuses on delivering tailored consulting services. Operating quietly behind the scenes, YT Resolution Services is crucial in facilitating seamless transitions for businesses navigating the complex landscape of international expansion and construction projects.


Kleinmann Architects

261 West 35th St, Suite 1402, New York, NY, 10001

Kleinmann Architects, a distinguished design firm in the heart of New York City, specializes in diverse projects spanning residential and commercial domains. Its extensive portfolio has extensive experience crafting publicly oriented spaces, including restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment facilities. The firm, known for its commitment to excellence, provides a comprehensive suite of architectural services. This encompasses everything from feasibility studies and project conceptualization to design, planning, construction documents, and meticulous contract administration.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, Kleinmann Architects is deeply rooted in the architectural community, embodying a commitment to professional standards and collaborative endeavors.

Under the guidance of Principal Joseph Kleinmann AIA, a licensed architect in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida, the firm thrives on a foundation of expertise. Mr. Kleinmann’s involvement as a member of the AIA and former director of the New York Society of Architects reflects a dedication to advancing the field and contributing to the architectural landscape.

Author

  • Alex Mericle

    Alex Mericle is the Chief Editor at General Contractors Magazine with five years of experience in the construction space. Alex has always had a strong interest in residential and commercial construction and architecture, and he has built up technical experience with building permit data, subcontractor operations, and materials procurement over the years. On top of his experience at General Contractors Magazine, he has prior experience at BuildZoom. His analytical skillset, honed through a degree in Business Analytics from Creighton University and from his work experience, allows him to transform complex construction data into actionable insights and useful, captivating content. Expertise: Residential and Commercial Construction, Building Permit Data, Home Design and Build, Architecture, Subcontractor Operations, Material Procurement Key Highlights: Over 5 years of experience writing and editing in the construction space, Chief Editor at General Contractors Magazine, Previous experience at BuildZoom Education: Creighton University, Degree in Business Analytics