A Celeb Chef's Guide to New York City Wine & Food Festival

Chef Maneet Chauhan on where to eat, stay and play in New York City.

Editors of Late Checkout

October 15, 2024

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An award-winning chef, author and television personality, Maneet Chauhan is widely considered one of the most entertaining and popular chefs on television today.

In addition to her role as a permanent judge on Food Network’s Emmy-nominated show Chopped, she also competes (and wins!) regularly on Food Network shows such as Iron Chef, Outchef'd, Chopped Legends and won Guy Fieri's Tournament of Champions twice, with over 15.6 million viewers tuning in to see her become the first-ever, two-time champion.

Born in Punjab, India, Chauhan worked in some of the country’s finest hotels before moving to the U.S. to study at the Culinary Institute of America. She worked as executive chef in some of New York City and Chicago’s top restaurants before relocating to Nashville, Tennessee, where she and her husband, Vivek Deora, co-founded Morph Hospitality Group. Opening their first restaurant, Chauhan Ale & Masala House in 2014, Chauhan has gone on to open numerous successful restaurants in Music City and most recently eet in Disney Springs, as well as authoring two award-winning cookbooks, Flavors of My World and Chaat: The Best Recipes from the Kitchens, Markets, and Railways of India.

Chauhan regularly returns to New York City to film and, as one of the main Food Network talents appearing at this year’s Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival, who better to share her recs for eating, staying and playing in The Big Apple.

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Where To Stay

The Conrad

I usually stay here for NYCWFF. They always take amazing care of us, and it is hospitality at its finest.

Rooms start at $480, book now.

Tempo by Hilton Times Square

This is a new favorite of mine. I love the outdoor cocktail lounge they have - that's a Times Square rarity!

Rooms start at $223, book now.

The Plaza Hotel ‍‍

Of course this one has to be mentioned – it's a New York icon for a reason. I love the history of the building and how the hotel always makes guests feel so welcome. And as someone who loves bubbles, the Champagne Bar is a must.

Rooms start at $915, book now.

The Standard, High Line

Stunning views, great vibe and close to Food Network Studios.

Rooms start at $305, book now.

Wythe Hotel

For the first time in 17 years, the festival is moving to Brooklyn! The Wythe is beautiful and a great option if you want to stay closer to the main event.

Rooms start at $250, book now.

Where To Eat & Drink

Red Rooster Harlem

I love Red Rooster! Marcus is a friend I deeply admire and respect. The flavors and culture he brings to the community always warm my heart.

Sigiri Restaruant

Sigiri is on the Lower East Side. It's a small unassuming space, but my husband and I can't get enough of the food. It is honest, good, home-cooked Sri Lankan food.

Butter ‍‍

This is one of my favorite spots from fellow Chopped judge and friend Alex Guarnaschelli - I'm actually hosting one of my NYCWFF dinners there!

Pig and Khao

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I love all of Leah Cohen's restaurants, but Pig and Khao might be my favorite.

Chelsea Market

This is where I go whenever I have a quick break in filming. Food Network studios are right above the Market and there are always so many delicious options!