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The 16 Best Restaurants on New York's Upper East Side

For those looking for a dining experience on the iconic Upper East Side of New York City, the options can seem endless. From charming cafes to upscale fine dining establishments, this neighborhood is a culinary hub for both locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're in the mood for a cozy Italian trattoria or a swanky rooftop bar with skyline views, the Upper East Side has something to offer for every palate and preference. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine, which is why we've compiled a list of the best restaurants in the area to help guide your decision.

Whether you're a local looking to try something new or a tourist seeking an authentic taste of New York City, the Upper East Side dining scene has something for everyone. Explore the list below to discover the top restaurants in this vibrant neighborhood.

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 16 local options

THEP Thai Restaurant#1
What stands out
  • Customers praise the warm and welcoming staff, with servers like Gift going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience.

  • The food is described as flavorful, authentic, and beautifully presented, with dishes like red curry with shrimp and Crab Rangoon standing out as favorites.

  • Guests appreciate the fast service and the great selection of teas available at THEP, making it a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or even solo dining.

THEP Thai Restaurant

4.73,697 reviews
1439 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021, United States

THEP Thai Restaurant is a renowned establishment in New York City known for its delectable Thai cuisine and exceptional service. With a rating of 4.7 and 3697 reviews, it's clear that customers are raving about their experience at THEP.

Whether you're craving a quick bite or looking to enjoy a leisurely meal in a casual and cozy atmosphere, THEP Thai Restaurant delivers on all fronts. With outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, and dine-in options available, THEP ensures that every customer has a memorable experience. Visit their website at www.thepnewyork.com or call +1 212-899-9995 to make a reservation and savor the flavors of Thailand in the heart of New York City.

Boqueria UES#2
What stands out
  • Delicious food with great drinks and service. Highly recommended!

  • Slow service and disappointing food quality. Not the best experience.

  • Terrific experience with excellent happy hour offerings and delicious food. Highly recommend!

  • Good food and service, but the ambiance could be improved. Sangria recommendation: skip the rose option.

Boqueria UES

4.51,354 reviews
1460 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075, United States

Boqueria UES is a renowned Spanish restaurant located in New York. They offer a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and great coffee. Boqueria UES is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The establishment is wheelchair-accessible and provides a range of dining options including brunch, catering, and dessert.

Here are some summarized customer reviews:

Uva#3
What stands out
  • We had my bridal shower in UVA's wine cellar and it was amazing. The food and cozy cellar were a hit!

  • Beautifully dim lit dinner date location, but the food was good, not exceptional.

  • Beautiful spot for a cozy holiday dinner, with okay food, but a great atmosphere.

  • Left very disappointed, food wasn’t good and service was lacking.

Uva

4.41,861 reviews
1486 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075, United States

Uva is an Italian restaurant in New York that offers a range of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its great cocktails and great desserts. It is popular for both lunch and dinner, as well as solo dining.

Flex Mussels#4
What stands out
  • The lively atmosphere and delicious food make it a great spot for brunch.

  • Excellent service and welcoming staff contribute to a memorable dining experience.

  • The menu features unique mussel flavors and delightful donut options.

Flex Mussels

4.5915 reviews
1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Flex Mussels is a renowned seafood restaurant located in New York. It offers a variety of services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its fast service, this restaurant is popular for lunch and dinner, accommodating both solo diners and groups alike.

Customers have left glowing reviews of Flex Mussels, highlighting a few key points:

Whether you're looking for a cozy neighborhood dinner or a trendy evening out, Flex Mussels promises a delightful culinary journey for all seafood enthusiasts.

Masseria East#5
What stands out
  • The food was delicious, the Tuscany wine was really good as well. Fine dining 5/5.

  • The portions are ample, and the well-prepared food is a standout feature.

  • Great Authentic Italian food, fresh homemade pastas and desserts. The ambiance is very relaxing, and the decor is elegant.

  • It was overall amazing. The staff was attentive to all our needs and very friendly.

Masseria East

4.7265 reviews
1404 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10075, United States

Masseria East is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York. The establishment offers various services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a fantastic ambiance that is both cosy and upmarket while indulging in a menu filled with comfort food, spirits, and an impressive selection of wines. The restaurant is also popular for serving great desserts and catering to solo dining, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.

Chez Nick#6
What stands out
  • Excellent staff, diverse menu, and cozy ambiance.

  • Creative and delicious seasonal dishes that surprise and delight.

  • Great for a relaxed dinner with friends or family, with special cocktail recommendations.

Chez Nick

4.6383 reviews
1737 York Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States

Chez Nick is a charming New American restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of dining options and amenities to cater to its diverse clientele. The business provides Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in services, ensuring that customers can enjoy their meals in any way they prefer.

One of the highlights of Chez Nick is its fast service, guaranteeing that patrons are served promptly without compromising on quality. Popular for both Lunch and Dinner options, this restaurant also caters to Solo dining, making it a suitable choice for a quiet meal alone.

Customers have praised Chez Nick for its exceptional food, cocktails, and service. Reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the diverse menu offerings, and the cozy ambiance that makes visitors feel right at home.

Overall, visitors have enjoyed the ever-changing seasonal menus, the creative and delicious dishes, and the personalized experience that makes dining at Chez Nick a memorable occasion.

Customer Reviews Summary:

Felice 64#7
What stands out
  • The service was excellent, although the outside enclave was a little cold. The hazelnut chocolate mousse was described as amazing.

  • Walked in without a reservation and had a great time with quick service and delicious food. The tuna tartare, lasagna, and fettuccine alla bolognese were highlights.

  • The food was fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, enhancing the overall dining experience.

  • Great selection of appetizers, pastas, and main courses with excellent waitstaff service and surprise desserts that delighted customers.

Felice 64

4.5535 reviews
1166 1st Ave., New York, NY 10065, United States

Felice 64 is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York. The establishment offers a variety of services and features to cater to its customers, including Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Dine-in, and Takeaway. The restaurant is highly regarded by its patrons, earning a commendable rating of 4.5 stars from 535 reviews.

L'Osteria#8
What stands out
  • Absolutely amazing food with exceptional hospitality

  • Best Caesar Salad and outstanding service

  • Delicious pasta, great drinks, and inviting atmosphere

  • Professional staff and delightful Fritto Misto dish

L'Osteria

4.7169 reviews
1219 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

L'Osteria is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy the convenience of Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options, ensuring flexibility in how they enjoy their meals. The restaurant is known for its fast service and delectable desserts, making it a favorite spot for those looking to indulge in a satisfying meal.

Highlighted for being popular among diners for both Lunch and Dinner, as well as for Solo dining, L'Osteria caters to various dining preferences. The cozy and casual atmosphere adds to the charm of the place, attracting visitors seeking a romantic or trendy setting to enjoy their meals.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional food and service at L'Osteria. Some key points from the reviews include:

These reviews capture the essence of what makes L'Osteria a must-visit Italian restaurant in New York. The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere sets it apart as a top dining destination.

Sant Ambroeus Madison#9
What stands out
  • Consistently fresh and exceptional quality food

  • Delightful ambiance with perfect people-watching spots

  • Wide variety of delicious desserts

  • Top-notch quality in both pasta and desserts

Sant Ambroeus Madison

4.4724 reviews
1000 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10075, United States

Sant Ambroeus Madison offers a delightful experience for Italian cuisine enthusiasts in New York City. This Italian restaurant provides a range of service options like outdoor seating, delivery, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy highlights such as fast service, great coffee, and delectable desserts. The restaurant is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it suitable for solo dining as well.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Sant Ambroeus Madison:

Paola's#10
What stands out
  • A real gem with authentic and delicious Italian meals

  • Great food, although slightly on the pricy side

  • Fabulous upscale restaurant with impeccable service and perfectly prepared meals

  • Accommodating and going beyond the printed menu to make the experience stand out

Paola's

4.5382 reviews
1361 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States

Paola's is a charming Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of services to cater to their customers' needs. Whether you prefer dine-in options, delivery, or takeaway, they have got you covered. This cozy establishment is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a great spot for solo dining or group gatherings.

The restaurant is known for its delicious Italian cuisine and has received rave reviews from customers. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Paola's also offers outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, and great coffee and dessert options. The warm and cosy atmosphere creates a perfect setting for a romantic evening or a casual meal. With such high praise from satisfied customers, Paola's is a must-visit for those looking to indulge in authentic Italian flavors.

Pascalou#11
What stands out
  • The food is delicious and well-priced, perfect for a meal on Madison Avenue.

  • The atmosphere is romantic, homely, and perfect for a lovely dining experience.

  • The staff is incredibly kind and provides outstanding service.

  • Customer favorites include the beef tips, scallops, lamb curry, French onion soup, and duck confit.

Pascalou

4.4398 reviews
1308 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States

Pascalou is a charming French restaurant located in New York, offering a cozy and romantic atmosphere for diners. The restaurant provides a variety of service options including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, and takeaway, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their delicious meals.

With a rating of 4.4 based on 398 reviews, Pascalou has received high praise from satisfied customers. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Whether you're looking for a spot to enjoy lunch or a romantic dinner, Pascalou offers a delightful dining experience with a fusion of French and Indian flavors. Don't miss out on their signature dishes and exceptional service when you're in the neighborhood!

Felice 83#12
What stands out
  • GREAT place with amazing appetizers and entrees.

  • Delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and excellent wine selection.

  • Good for special occasions or date nights.

  • Outstanding service and diverse menu options.

Felice 83

4.3552 reviews
1593 1st Ave., New York, NY 10028, United States

Felice 83 is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful dining experience for its customers. Some of the highlighted services include outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is popular for its great coffee and dessert selections, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or solo dining.

Customers have left positive reviews for Felice 83, praising the exceptional quality of food and service. Here are some key points summarizing the reviews:

With a rating of 4.3 stars and a total of 552 reviews, Felice 83 continues to be a top choice for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of New York City. Whether you are looking for a casual meal or a romantic dinner, this restaurant promises a memorable dining experience for all.

Sfoglia#13
What stands out
  • The food at Sfoglia is described as divine, with standout dishes like flatbread appetizers and pappardelle bolognese.

  • Customers praise the accommodating and friendly waitstaff, as well as the overall romantic atmosphere of the restaurant.

  • One customer mentioned that the wheelchair accessibility was a highlight, making their dining experience a beautiful evening out.

  • While some customers enjoyed the flavors and service, others found the food to be decent but overpriced compared to their expectations.

Sfoglia

4.4293 reviews
1402 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States

Sfoglia is an Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of services and highlights to its customers. Some of the Service options available include Takeaway and Dine-in. The restaurant is popular for both Lunch and Dinner, making it a great spot for any meal. Customers can enjoy a cozy and romantic atmosphere while indulging in great coffee and desserts.

Sistina#14
What stands out
  • Dined at Sistina for a special occasion and every dish was fantastic, service outstanding, and beautifully decorated restaurant.

  • Absolutely fantastic culinary experience with exquisitely prepared dishes and impeccable service.

  • Delicious and fresh food with highlights including baby lamb, oxtail ragu, and mushroom soup.

  • Top-notch service, decorations, food, drinks, and dessert in the charming Garden room setting.

Sistina

4.3478 reviews
24 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028, United States

Sistina is an exquisite Italian restaurant located in New York, offering a range of delightful services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delicious delivery and takeaway options, or opt for a cozy dine-in experience. The restaurant is known for its great coffee and great dessert, making it a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

With a solid rating of 4.3, based on 478 reviews, Sistina has garnered positive feedback from its patrons. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Sistina provides a sophisticated and memorable dining experience, earning acclaim for its delicious cuisine and top-notch service.

The East Pole#15
What stands out
  • Simple yet well-rounded menu with quality and detailed food options

  • Excellent wine list

  • Cozy and welcoming atmosphere with kind and friendly staff

The East Pole

4.3438 reviews
133 E 65th St, New York, NY 10065, United States

The East Pole offers a delightful dining experience at their New American restaurant located in New York. Customers rave about the quality of food, charming atmosphere, and attentive service.

Whether you're looking for a solo dining experience, a casual meal with friends, or a romantic date night, The East Pole is the perfect choice. Guests enjoy the cozy ambiance, delicious dishes like eggs benedict, french toast, and home fries, and outstanding service. If you're in the area, make sure to stop by and experience the charm of The East Pole for yourself.

Eli's Table#16
What stands out
  • Great tasting food, excellent service, and warm ambiance.

  • Exceptional dishes with perfect wine pairings.

  • High-quality ingredients and an extensive wine selection.

  • Perfect for a neighborhood dining experience.

Eli's Table

4.482 reviews
1411 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Eli's Table is a renowned New American restaurant located at 1411 3rd Ave, New York, NY. With a rating of 4.4 stars, this restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delectable dishes.

Customers have raved about their experience at Eli's Table. Some key points from their reviews include:

This restaurant offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in facilities. It is also known for its great coffee and desserts. The atmosphere at Eli's Table is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a popular choice for groups and solo diners alike.

Make a reservation today and indulge in a memorable dining experience at Eli's Table!

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1THEP Thai Restaurant 4.73,697
#2Boqueria UES 4.51,354
#3Uva 4.41,861
#4Flex Mussels 4.5915
#5Masseria East 4.7265
#6Chez Nick 4.6383
#7Felice 64 4.5535
#8L'Osteria 4.7169
#9Sant Ambroeus Madison 4.4724
#10Paola's 4.5382
#11Pascalou 4.4398
#12Felice 83 4.3552
#13Sfoglia 4.4293
#14Sistina 4.3478
#15The East Pole 4.3438
#16Eli's Table 4.482

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Map of Restaurants on New York's Upper East Side

Discover the amazing culinary scene of the Upper East Side in New York City with our comprehensive map of all the top restaurants in the area. From trendy cafes to upscale dining establishments, this neighborhood has something for every palate. Use our map to plan your next foodie adventure and explore all the delicious options this vibrant area has to offer.

How to choose restaurants upper east side in New York City

  1. Varied cuisine options including Italian, French, Japanese, and American.
  2. Outdoor seating for al fresco dining.
  3. Happy hour specials and craft cocktails.
  4. Exceptional service and ambiance.
  5. Reservations recommended for popular spots.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular restaurants on the Upper East Side?

One popular restaurant on the Upper East Side is Daniel, known for its exquisite French cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Another favorite is The Penrose, a cozy gastropub serving up delicious comfort food and craft cocktails. Paola's Restaurant is a long-standing Italian eatery with a loyal following, and Jean-Georges offers upscale dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors.

Are there any affordable dining options on the Upper East Side?

While the Upper East Side is known for its upscale dining scene, there are also plenty of affordable options to choose from. Beyoglu is a popular Turkish restaurant that offers generous portions at reasonable prices. Flex Mussels is a casual spot known for its delicious seafood dishes, and Bareburger is a great choice for organic burgers and shakes that won't break the bank.

What type of cuisine can I find on the Upper East Side?

You can find a wide variety of cuisines on the Upper East Side, ranging from Italian and French to Asian and American. East End Kitchen offers a farm-to-table menu with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients, while Sushi of Gari is known for its inventive sushi creations. The Writing Room serves up classic American fare in a stylish setting, and L'Artusi offers modern Italian dishes with a unique twist.

Can I find any vegetarian or vegan options on the Upper East Side?

Yes, there are several restaurants on the Upper East Side that cater to vegetarian and vegan diners. Candle 79 is a popular upscale vegan restaurant with a diverse menu of plant-based dishes. Heidi's House By The Side Of The Road offers vegetarian comfort food in a cozy setting, and Blossom is a vegan eatery known for its creative and flavorful dishes.

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