‘Friends’ star Jennifer Aniston looks radiant on the streets of New York after a source revealed she had lunch with a mystery man

Jennifer Aniston is turning heads once again—this time with a radiant street appearance in Manhattan that’s sparked whispers across Hollywood. The beloved Friends star, 56, was spotted strolling through SoHo on Sunday afternoon looking effortlessly chic and glowing with what insiders are calling a “noticeably joyful energy.”

Dressed in a classic white blouse, high-waisted jeans, and oversized sunglasses, Aniston exuded the kind of relaxed sophistication that has become her signature. Paparazzi snapped photos of the actress flashing a smile as she exited a downtown boutique, coffee in hand, her golden hair cascading in loose waves. But it wasn’t just her look that caught attention—it was the buzz behind the smile.

According to an exclusive source, Aniston had just come from a private lunch earlier that day with a mystery man at an upscale, low-key restaurant in Tribeca. The insider revealed the two dined for nearly two hours and were seen laughing warmly and speaking in hushed, familiar tones.

“They seemed completely comfortable with each other,” the source said. “It didn’t feel like a first meeting. There was an ease between them—like they’ve known each other a while.”

The identity of the man remains under wraps, but witnesses described him as “tall, well-dressed, and around Jennifer’s age.” Though no public displays of affection were noted, the pair left the restaurant separately—possibly to avoid drawing attention—but not before sharing what one onlooker described as “a meaningful smile and brief touch on the arm.”

Naturally, speculation is swirling about whether Aniston could be opening her heart again. The Emmy-winning actress has been famously private about her dating life in recent years, focusing instead on her career, philanthropy, and wellness. Still, she has remained open in past interviews about the possibility of finding love again.

“I’m at peace with where I am,” she told Allure last year, “but I never say never. Life always has surprises.”

Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement—and curiosity.

“Jennifer Aniston + NYC + mystery man = my new favorite story arc,” tweeted one fan. Another wrote, “She’s glowing. Whoever he is, he better deserve her!”

Aniston is currently in the Big Apple promoting her upcoming film, The Last Light, a psychological drama set to release this fall. But insiders suggest this trip may not be all business.

“She’s working, yes, but she’s also making time for herself,” a friend close to the actress shared. “She’s been in a really good place lately—focused, grounded, and open to whatever comes next.”

The actress was later seen leaving her hotel later in the evening, this time dressed in an elegant black trench coat and heels, heading to what sources say was a small industry dinner with friends and colleagues.

As for the mystery man? Time will tell. Those close to Aniston say she’s not rushing into anything—but that she’s certainly not closing the door, either.

“Jen’s surrounded by people who love her and want to see her happy,” the friend added. “If someone’s making her smile like that, it’s a good sign.”

Whether it’s a new romance or simply a meaningful connection, one thing is clear: Jennifer Aniston continues to shine—on screen, in life, and now, once again, on the streets of New York.