Usually when people think of restaurants in New York City they imagine them as stylish, but expensive. However, there are plenty of restaurants in New York that don't fall into this stereotype and offer some of the finest food for lower prices. Here's a small sample of the best restaurants in NYC that you should eat at on your next visit.

Peasant restaurant is a must if you are in the mood for Italian food. It has some of the best Italian food I've ever had in New York City. It almost feels like you are entering a bomb shelter when walking into Peasant restaurant, but the atmosphere is much different inside the dining room. The restaurant gives off a nice sense of home with its brick and wood interior. Bulky curtains line the walls and candles adorn the tables with their flames. Peasant is a perfect date restaurant because of its warm, romantic setting. Not to mention, the food is to die for and you'll leave wanting to come back for more.

In the mood for Japanese food? Then consider dining at Ippudo restaurant. Ippudo is a little restaurant located in the wonderful East Village. However this is a pretty popular dining spot so you want to be sure that you get a reservation otherwise you will have up to a hour wait or longer but it will definitely be worth it. The food is delicious and worth every bite.

Another great Japanese restaurant you should really consider trying would be Morimotos. Yes, I am talking about Morimoto from Iron Chef America. You really feel as if you are being teleported back in time upon entering this restaurant. The extremely professional staff sets the tone for a wonderful evening and the food is mouthwatering. You won't find many cheap options at this restaurant, but it's so good it is hard not to recommend.

Considering pizza? Then consider picking up a slice at Fornino. Located in Brooklyn it is well worth your trek through the busy New York streets. They offer a great friendly atmosphere with some of the best pizza New York has to offer. Fornino is a great restaurant to take the family to enjoy a nice night out.

I could have wrote a whole book on this, but I decided to just give you a fraction of the best restaurants in NYC. Now you have incentive to explore more restaurants on your own. No matter what your mouth is in the mood for you can rest assured that New York will have it for you. I strongly suggest that you check out the New York cuisines for yourself and you will quickly see what all the hype is about.

For more info please see our best restaurants in soho guide.