To almost quote the Billy Joel song, I’m an uptown girl, living in an uptown world. On a side note, I’ve always wanted to live downtown but who knows…maybe when I grow up…
Unless we have dinner plans with friends who make the reservations downtown, we tend to dine in our neck of the woods. Over the years, I have created a preferred list of my top restaurants on the Upper East Side so I thought I’d share them with you.
In an effort to simplify this list, I divided them into categories. I would have added Nobu 57 to this list but as I researched what was considered the upper east side, this restaurant fell short by two blocks. F.Y.I., the upper east side spans from 59th Street to 96th Street.
Breakfast:
San Ambroeus – This is by far my favorite place for breakfast. I’m obsessed with their avocado toast and eggs (minus the toast). They make a killer cappuccino and iced matcha latte.
Le Pain Quotidien – They have several locations but I frequent the one on Madison and 84th street.
Café Bouloud – This is our birthday breakfast spot. I love their omelettes and always feel like a tourist at this hotel restaurant.
Bluestone Lane This Aussie inspired café is located in a pretty space on 5th Avenue. Their avocado toast is also smashing and they make a darned good cup of Chai. I’m also pretty sure that all the staff have an Aussie accent. I could be dreaming that, but let’s just go with it.
Lunch:
Sant Ambroeus – Also one of my favorite lunch spots. You must try their Insalata di Carciofi and their Insalata Centocolori.
Bilboquet – A Francophile’s dream…I’m a sucker for their crispy Brussel sprouts and their tuna tartare. If you haven’t tried this, shame on you.
Amaranth – This Italian joint is definitely my home away from home. I have so many favorites here. They make the best roasted salmon, artichoke salad and tuna nicoise.
Le Charlot – Another Francophile’s dream located in a small cozy space. Have a taste of their hearts of palm and avocado salad. They also make a mean cajun fish.
Via Quadronno – Viva Italia! This is as close as you’ll get to authentic Milanese cuisine. They’re known for their coffees and pastries. I knew them for their panini and opened faced sandwiches (once upon a time). Now I know them for their artichoke and parmesan salad.
Dinner:
Elio’s – An old time Italian favorite that never disappoints. I am obsessed with their sautéed artichokes and mushrooms. We also love sitting by the bar, Cheers style (I hope I’m not dating myself with this reference).
Cipriani’s – Another Italian classic. A place to see and be seen.
Fleming – Where do I begin with this new addition on UES? Let me count the ways…My new favorite restaurant. You must check it out and you’ll see why.
Sfoglia – Another Italian cozy hot spot. Casual and rustic and belissimo!
Jojo – This newly renovated Jean – George restaurant is another must, which we also reserve for birthday celebrations. Love the decor!
Tevere – This cozy rustic Italian restaurant is my favorite kosher spot in Manhattan. Their fried artichokes and grilled chicken salad are must-haves.
Ethnic Dining:
Toloache – A real Mexican dive, but oh so picante. I held one of my husband’s birthday dinner here – good vibes, good drinks, good food.
Sushi of Gari – My go to for sushi on a Sunday night. I reserve this spot for mother/daughter date night with Vivian.
Kapa Masso – Fancy shmancy Japanese cuisine located on Madison Ave. Need I say more?
Avra – Greek and chic. Bright and airy space with a beautiful bar scene.
Hotel Bar Cocktails:
Jacques Bar at The Lowell Hotel
Specialty Takeout:
Sables – My favorite spot for smoked salmon, pastrami salmon etc…
Pastrami Queen – Kosher Deli
La Esquina Taqueria – I’ve only been to their downtown location but must check out this local spot on 2nd Avenue.
Shop the look here:
What are your top restaurants on the Upper East Side? Pleeeeeaaaasssseeee share below!
Best list ever !!! Brilliant darling ❤️
Thank you! Hope it’s helpful!
“Ethnic Dining”
Is Obama an Ethnic President?
Is K-Pop ethnic music?
Is Taco Bell ethnic food?
Why are restaurants that do not fit into your “standard” downgraded into the “ethnic” label?
Sushi and tacos in 2020 are not ethnic. Chances are you put soy sauce on your sushi; that is not “ethnic,” that is against the correct way of enjoying Japanese food.
Calling other cultures “ethnic” is offensive because it comes across as not quite good enough to be “normal”.
Chefs, artists, musicians, writers, poets, and millions of other faces struggle with being lumped into “of color” or “ethnic” and it leaves a sting.