Whether it’s fine dining or a casual meal with friends, the Upper East Side has a fabulous array of culinary delights everyone would enjoy. Some of the best restaurants in the neighborhood radiate out from Park Avenue, ideally located for long-time locals, recent residents and those in search of exploring the neighborhood and all that it has to offer.
If you're hunting for a memorable meal, there is no shortage of fantastic choices off of Park Avenue, NYC. Whether it's the rustic appeal of a decades-old eatery or the sleek interiors of a modern bistro, there's a setting to match every mood. These establishments have not just been places to eat; they've transformed into community hubs where stories are exchanged, laughter is shared, and memories are made.
Monkey Bar
A longtime neighborhood go-to, Monkey Bar was born in 1936, and offers timeless fare and iconic New York vibes in a beautiful and cozy setting. A fancy favorite for workday lunches or drinks, Monkey Bar gets busy so be sure to arrive early if you want a seat at the bar! Otherwise, table service is available, and there is a fabulous brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:45AM to 2:30PM as well as a decadent weekday “afternoon snacks” menu from 2:30PM to 5PM that includes everything from King Crab Rangoon, Wagyu Cheeseburgers and Fish & Chips.
La Goulue
Reopened in 2018, La Goulue’s Paris-born chef Antoine Camin earned a Michelin star at this restaurant’s previous incarnation. If you’re a lover of French cuisine, then here you’ll find everything from perennial favorites to smart contemporary riffs on the classics. We like it for lunch.
Polo Bar
If you know, you know! This low-key, high-notoriety restaurant is a coveted favorite with some of the best classic American eats in New York City, including pigs in a blanket! You may need to work a little bit to book this one – they open their phones for reservations at 10AM daily for the next month, though you may get lucky and snag something sooner. If you do, you can expect to see society people and maybe even a celebrity or two.
Sette Mezzo
Italian fine dining, Sette Mezzo is an Upper East Side mainstay and decades-long favorite for locals where some people have their own go-to tables! Their pastas are a feast both for the mouth and the eyes.
The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges
The Mark is pure uptown vibes and the best for dinner. Jean-Georges Vongerichten brings his passion for fresh-from-the-market, simple cooking to your table for a world-class menu of innovative European classics as well as his own signature dishes. You’ll definitely want reservations.
T BAR
A New American dining experience across three levels, T BAR offers a sensually luxurious atmosphere and a lavish menu. Great for lunch or dinner, this is where people go to see and be seen while enjoying an eclectic menu with flavors from all over the world.
Avra Estiatorio
When it comes to Mediterranean, Avra is a big neighborhood favorite. There is a fabulous prix fixe menu at lunch, and you won’t leave dinner disappointed. The restaurant's emphasis on fresh seafood and authentic Greek recipes makes it a haven for food lovers. The zucchini chips are not to be missed, and for real seafood lovers they have a fabulous grilled octopus that makes an excellent companion to something from the expansive wine selection.
Casa Lever
Located in the iconic Lever House building, Casa Lever is an Italian restaurant that specializes in Milanese cuisine. With a vast collection of modern art adorning the walls and a menu that includes classics like Osso Buco and risotto, this place is a fusion of contemporary style and traditional tastes. If you’re meeting a client or celebrating a special occasion, Casa Lever is a stylish and satisfying choice. They also happen to have a wonderful breakfast menu!
The Regency Bar & Grill
Situated within the Loews Regency Hotel on Park Avenue, this restaurant is known for its power breakfasts but also offers delicious lunch and dinner menus. The emphasis is classic American dishes but with a modern twist! Service is impeccable.
Le Bilboquet
A French-inspired, global bistro serving more than delectable food and charming cocktails. The vibes are timeless and glamorous, and the energy is exhilarating. Here you’ll hear a range of European languages as people come from all over the world to share meals and memories, surrounded by art and perfectly crisp linens. The salmon nicoise at lunch is a must.
Sfoglia
A beloved neighborhood favorite for Italian food in Carnegie Hill, Sofglia is super charming and perfect for dinners before an evening talk at the 92nd Street Y. True to the name, “sfoglia” means “to thumb through” in Italian and refers to the restaurant’s variety of handmade fresh egg pasta dough.
The Upper East Side is a blend of history, luxury real estate, and an array of culinary delights that cater to every palate and preference. Restaurants off of Park Avenue offer an array of gastronomic experiences, from Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy brunch spots. Each restaurant reflects the greater neighborhood’s diverse culture and rich history as well as contemporary sensibilities.
If you're captivated by what life on the Upper East Side has to offer, then consider a home on Park Avenue where the property is grand, the buildings are elegant and the neighborhood is calm and surrounded by some of the best culinary experiences in the world. If Park Avenue isn't necessarily your thing, then know that of all places in the world, New York City has something for everyone. It would be my pleasure to assist you in guiding you toward a neighborhood or building that will best match what you’re looking for. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me at any time!
About Daniella Schlisser
Daniella Schlisser, esteemed in NYC luxury real estate since 2001, has garnered significant awards and media attention, possesses a diverse professional background spanning multiple countries, is multilingual, and is deeply committed to her work, community, and personal passions. If you want to buy or sell a home or have questions about Park Avenue, NYC, real estate market, contact Daniella Schlisser today.