The Upper West Side boasts a diverse and delicious culinary scene, catering to every taste and budget. From classic New York diners to upscale international cuisine, this neighborhood is a foodie's paradise. This list highlights 25 of the most beloved restaurants, categorized for easier navigation. Finding your next favorite Upper West Side restaurant is just a click away!
Upscale Dining Experiences
These restaurants offer refined menus, impeccable service, and a memorable dining experience.
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Jean-Georges: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative, modern French cuisine with stunning city views. Expect to pay a premium, but the quality of food and service is undeniable.
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The Smith: Known for its stylish ambiance and consistently delicious American fare, The Smith is a popular spot for special occasions or a celebratory dinner. Their extensive wine list is a major draw.
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Cafe Luxembourg: This charming French bistro offers a classic, romantic atmosphere and a menu filled with French staples, like steak frites and onion soup.
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Balthazar: Keith McNally's iconic brasserie evokes the grandeur of a Parisian café. Expect bustling energy, delicious food, and a truly unforgettable experience. Reservations are highly recommended.
Casual Dining & Everyday Eats
These spots offer relaxed settings and delicious food perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
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Zabar's: While technically a grocery store, Zabar's legendary appetizing counter and casual café offer a quintessential Upper West Side experience.
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Jacob's Pickles: This popular Southern comfort food restaurant serves up fried chicken, biscuits, and other Southern delicacies in a lively atmosphere.
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Sarabeth's: A classic brunch spot, Sarabeth's offers a menu of delicious pancakes, eggs Benedict, and other breakfast favorites. It's consistently busy, but worth the wait.
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Westside Market: A local favorite known for its fresh ingredients and delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups. It’s a great option for a quick and tasty lunch.
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Joe's Shanghai: Craving soup dumplings? This is your spot. Their juicy and flavorful soup dumplings are a must-try.
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Fine & Rare: This steakhouse is a Upper West Side institution, famed for its high-quality cuts of meat and classic sides.
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La Parisienne: This charming French bistro offers a cozy atmosphere and classic French dishes at reasonable prices.
Pizza & Italian Cuisine
The Upper West Side has a fantastic selection of pizzerias and Italian restaurants.
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PizzArte: This Neapolitan-style pizzeria uses high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to create delicious pizzas.
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Emilia: This popular spot serves up delicious pasta dishes and other Italian classics in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
International Flavors
Explore the world without leaving the Upper West Side.
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Sushi Yasaka: This upscale sushi restaurant offers a creative and high-quality omakase experience.
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Los Tacos No. 1: This casual taqueria serves authentic Mexican tacos, burritos, and other dishes. Expect lines, but it's worth it.
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Atera: While expensive, Atera offers an innovative, tasting-menu driven experience showcasing seasonal ingredients. This is a truly unique dining experience.
Sweet Treats & Cafes
End your culinary journey on a sweet note.
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Magnolia Bakery: Famous for its cupcakes, Magnolia Bakery is a must-visit for any sweet tooth.
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Levain Bakery: Known for its enormous, gooey cookies, Levain Bakery is another popular spot for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Quick Bites & Takeout
Grab a quick and easy meal on the go.
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Halal Guys: A New York City institution, the Halal Guys offer delicious chicken and gyro platters.
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Pommes Frites: This tiny spot offers a wide variety of delicious Belgian fries with various dipping sauces.
Hidden Gems
These restaurants might be less known, but they offer exceptional food and a unique dining experience.
- Miao's Kitchen: This small, unassuming restaurant serves authentic and delicious Sichuan cuisine.
Brunch Spots
Start your day off right with a delicious brunch.
- Jack's Wife Freda: This Mediterranean-inspired spot offers delicious brunch dishes in a vibrant setting.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
These restaurants are perfect for dining with children.
- The Smith (again): The Smith's versatile menu and kid-friendly atmosphere make it a great option for families.
Late-Night Eats
Satisfy those late-night cravings.
- Max Soha: This long-standing restaurant offers a wide variety of late-night options including sandwiches, burgers, and pizza.
Unique Dining Experiences
Looking for something different?
- The Odeon: This classic restaurant offers a sophisticated yet casual setting and an interesting menu.
This list is just a starting point; the Upper West Side offers an endless array of culinary delights. Explore, discover, and enjoy! Remember to check restaurant websites for hours of operation, menus, and reservation policies. Bon appétit!
