Where To Eat In The Upper East Side

Where To Eat In The Upper East Side

When it comes to dining in New York City, the Upper East Side (UES) is a culinary haven that offers a diverse range of cuisines to suit every taste and budget. From classic New York diners to upscale eateries, the UES is home to some of the city’s most iconic restaurants, making it a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, knowing where to eat in the Upper East Side can make all the difference in having a memorable dining experience.

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Overview of the Upper East Side Dining Scene

The Upper East Side is a sprawling neighborhood that stretches from 59th Street to 96th Street, and from Fifth Avenue to the East River. This affluent neighborhood is known for its upscale boutiques, museums, and of course, its restaurants. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, the UES offers a diverse range of cuisines, including Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, and American comfort food.

Neighborhood Highlights

The Upper East Side is divided into several smaller neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and dining scene. Lenox Hill, for example, is known for its upscale eateries, while Carnegie Hill is home to a mix of casual and fine dining restaurants. The UES is also home to several popular dining destinations, including Madison Avenue, which is lined with upscale restaurants and cafes.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the Upper East Side, highlighting the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the neighborhood. From classic New York institutions to trendy newcomers, we’ll cover it all, so you can plan your next dining adventure in the UES with confidence.

Where to Eat in the Upper East Side: A Culinary Guide

The Upper East Side (UES) is a culinary haven, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From classic New York institutions to trendy newcomers, this neighborhood is a foodie’s paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in the Upper East Side, covering everything from fine dining to casual eats and sweet treats.

Fine Dining

For a special occasion or a night out on the town, the Upper East Side is home to some of the city’s most renowned fine dining establishments. (See Also: Where To Eat In Bowness On Windermere)

  • Café Fiorello: This Upper East Side institution has been serving up classic Italian cuisine for over 30 years. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and exceptional service, Café Fiorello is a must-visit for any special occasion.
  • Le Bilboquet: This French bistro has been a UES staple for over 30 years, offering a menu of classic dishes like escargots, steak tartare, and duck confit.
  • The Mark Restaurant: Located in the luxurious Mark Hotel, this restaurant offers a contemporary American menu with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative presentation.

Casual Eats

For a more laid-back dining experience, the Upper East Side has plenty of casual eateries to choose from.

  • Sant Ambroeus: This popular Italian café has been a UES favorite for over 30 years, serving up delicious pasta dishes, paninis, and salads.
  • J.G. Melon: This classic American bistro has been a neighborhood staple for over 40 years, offering a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
  • Carmine’s: This family-style Italian restaurant is a great option for a casual dinner with friends or family, with dishes like pasta, seafood, and meatballs.

Brunch Spots

Weekend brunch is a popular pastime in the Upper East Side, and there are plenty of great spots to choose from.

  • Sarabeth’s: This popular brunch spot has several locations throughout the city, including one on the Upper East Side. Try their signature dishes like eggs benedict and waffles.
  • Russ & Daughters Cafe: This Jewish deli and appetizing shop has been a UES institution for over 100 years, offering a menu of classic dishes like bagels with lox and knishes.
  • Bistro Les Amis: This cozy French bistro offers a menu of delicious brunch dishes like quiche, crepes, and omelets.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, the Upper East Side has plenty of great bakeries, cafes, and ice cream shops to satisfy your cravings.

  • Ladurée: This French bakery is famous for its macarons and other sweet treats like madeleines and eclairs.
  • Serendipity 3: This iconic ice cream shop has been a UES favorite for over 60 years, offering a menu of creative flavors like frozen hot chocolate and sundaes.
  • Magnolia Bakery: This popular bakery has been featured on TV shows like “Sex and the City” and offers a menu of delicious cupcakes, banana pudding, and other sweet treats.

Food Markets and Specialty Shops

In addition to its many restaurants, the Upper East Side is also home to several food markets and specialty shops that are worth exploring.

  • Zabar’s: This iconic Jewish deli and appetizing shop has been a UES institution for over 80 years, offering a wide range of specialty foods like smoked fish, bagels, and knishes.
  • Agata & Valentina: This Italian market offers a wide range of specialty foods like pasta, olive oil, and prosciutto, as well as a deli counter and prepared foods.
  • Kalustyan’s: This Indian and Middle Eastern market offers a wide range of specialty spices, grains, and prepared foods like curries and falafel.

Neighborhood Gems

In addition to its many well-known restaurants and eateries, the Upper East Side is also home to several hidden gems that are worth exploring. (See Also: Where To Eat In Chiang Rai)

  • Heidelberg Restaurant: This German restaurant has been a UES staple for over 30 years, offering a menu of traditional dishes like schnitzel and sauerbraten.
  • K Rico: This small, family-owned Mexican restaurant offers a menu of delicious dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
  • Totto Ramen: This small, no-frills ramen shop offers a menu of delicious and affordable bowls of ramen.

Recap and Summary

In conclusion, the Upper East Side is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fine dining institutions to casual eateries, brunch spots, and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in this neighborhood. Whether you’re a foodie, a local, or just visiting, the Upper East Side is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves food.

Category Restaurant/Shop Description
Fine Dining Café Fiorello Classic Italian cuisine
Fine Dining Le Bilboquet French bistro
Fine Dining The Mark Restaurant Contemporary American cuisine
Casual Eats Sant Ambroeus Italian café
Casual Eats J.G. Melon Classic American bistro
Casual Eats Carmine’s Family-style Italian restaurant
Brunch Spots Sarabeth’s Popular brunch spot
Brunch Spots Russ & Daughters Cafe Jewish deli and appetizing shop
Brunch Spots Bistro Les Amis Cozy French bistro
Sweet Treats Ladurée French bakery
Sweet Treats Serendipity 3 Iconic ice cream shop
Sweet Treats Magnolia Bakery Popular bakery
Food Markets and Specialty Shops Zabar’s Jewish deli and appetizing shop
Food Markets and Specialty Shops Agata & Valentina Italian market
Food Markets and Specialty Shops Kalustyan’s Indian and Middle Eastern market

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your next dining adventure in the Upper East Side. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone in this culinary paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in the Upper East Side

What are some popular restaurants for brunch in the Upper East Side?

The Upper East Side has plenty of amazing brunch spots. Some popular options include Sarabeth’s, which offers delicious farm-to-table cuisine, and The Smith, a trendy spot with a vast menu. You can also try Alice’s Tea Cup, a whimsical spot with a vast selection of teas and sweet treats.

Are there any good Italian restaurants in the Upper East Side?

Absolutely! The Upper East Side has a rich Italian-American heritage, and you’ll find plenty of excellent Italian restaurants. Caravaggio is a local favorite, serving up classic dishes with a modern twist. You can also try Bella Vita, a cozy spot with homemade pasta and a warm atmosphere.

Where can I find a good burger in the Upper East Side?

If you’re craving a juicy burger, the Upper East Side has got you covered. J.G. Melon is a classic spot that’s been serving up top-notch burgers since 1972. You can also try The Burger Joint, a casual spot with creative toppings and sides. (See Also: Where To Eat In Stoke Newington)

Are there any good vegetarian or vegan options in the Upper East Side?

Yes, the Upper East Side has plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. By the Way Bakery is a popular spot with delicious vegan and gluten-free treats. You can also try The Butcher’s Daughter, a trendy cafe with a separate vegan menu. For a more substantial meal, try Hangry Garden, a fully vegan restaurant with a variety of international dishes.

What are some good restaurants for a romantic dinner in the Upper East Side?

The Upper East Side has plenty of romantic spots for a special night out. Try Café Boulud, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and exquisite French cuisine. You can also try The Mark Restaurant, a stylish spot with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a extensive wine list. For a more intimate setting, try Per Se, a luxurious restaurant with stunning views of Central Park.

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