Manhattan’s Upper West Side offers a relaxed, family-friendly dining scene, but it’s not without its gems. Having moved here recently, I’ve been exploring the neighborhood’s go-to spots for coffee, shopping, casual meals, takeout, and dinner. This is a living list, updated as I discover more—so feel free to add your own recommendations.
Destination Dining: Longtime Favorites
The Upper West Side boasts a few places that stand out for their unique appeal. Barney Greengrass, a legendary Jewish deli, is a must-visit for its smoked fish, bagels, and classic New York atmosphere. Be prepared for cash-only transactions and potentially grumpy waiters—it’s part of the experience.
Cafe Luxembourg is an institution: a quintessential Upper West Side restaurant with an idyllic ambiance and a crowd-pleasing menu. Shrimp cocktails, burgers, and sticky toffee pudding are just a few reasons to visit. It’s also perfectly situated for a pre-show meal at Lincoln Center or the Beacon Theater.
Specialty Shopping & Quick Bites
For Japanese essentials, Shinbashi is the place to go. This tiny market offers katsu, ramen, onigiri, and a curated selection of Japanese snacks and staples. There’s no seating, so it’s strictly takeout.
Kossar’s, a Lower East Side bagel institution, has opened an Upper West Side branch and is already a local favorite. Their bagels are crispy, compact, and often warm, making them perfect for breakfast or lunch. Don’t forget to grab a chocolate babka—it’s a neighborhood staple.
Casual Dining & Takeout
Sal & Carmine serves classic New York-style pizza with a sturdy crust, melty cheese, and slightly sweet sauce. It’s a no-frills spot perfect for takeout or a casual meal.
Tarallucci e Vino offers a charming Italian experience with a pressed-tin ceiling, marble espresso bar, and classic pasta dishes. It’s ideal for a latte on Sunday morning or Cacio e Pepe with a glass of Gavi on a Friday night.
Pappardella serves hearty Italian-American comfort food in a cozy setting. The Eggplant Parm and Chicken Milanese are local favorites. It’s a solid choice for a casual dinner, especially with kids.
Neighborhood Gems & Hidden Finds
Daily Provisions offers solid sandwiches, soups, and salads in a casual setting. The egg-and-cheese sandwich, custardy crullers, and caramel chocolate chunk cookie are standouts.
Covacha, a Michelin-starred Mexican spot, specializes in Jalisco/western Mexican cuisine. The bright fish tacos, chicken quesabirrias, and refried beans with cotija are must-tries.
Miriam is a cozy Mediterranean spot with a well-designed dining room and golden lighting. The chicken shawarma and dipping plates are worth the price of admission.
Mast Market is a calming, white-oak aesthetic space with farm-market meat and produce. It’s a perfect place to grab Yellow Bell Farm eggs, artisanal pantry items, and destination snacks like White Moustache yogurt and Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches.
Rosetta offers excellent (though overpriced) Italian sandwiches and pastries in a loud, high-ceilinged space. It’s a good spot for a quick bite before Lincoln Center or a picnic in Central Park.
Local Favorites & Late-Night Options
Bar Boulud serves first-rate French bistro fare in a slightly dated interior. It’s a reliable option for dinner or drinks before a concert at Lincoln Center. Note: Daniel Boulud is closing this location in June 2025 to open a larger brasserie.
Sushi Yasaka is a beloved local spot for high-quality, reasonably priced sushi. The agedashi tofu and spinach goma-ae are also worth trying.
The Hoptimist is a brewery devoted to New York State beers and ciders. It’s dog-friendly, with a wall of polaroids featuring its canine customers.
Two Wheels serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including pho, bánh mì, and coconut rice flour crepes.
New Cottage Chinese offers addictive dumplings, moo shu chicken, and sesame noodles in a hilariously no-frills setting.
Dagon is a ginormous Middle Eastern spot with exceptional fare. The mezze sampler with chicken liver mousse is a standout.
Lilly’s is a cozy, string-lighted spot ideal for drinks or cocktails with friends. The food is mediocre, but the atmosphere makes it worthwhile.
Zabar’s is a legendary gourmet market with bagels, babka, smoked fish, and a bounty of cheese and pantry items. It’s the place to go for New York food souvenirs.
Hudson & Charles Meats offers high-quality pork chops, sausages, and steak. The roast beef sandwich with warm au jus is a must-try.
Orwashers is a cozy bakery known for its fresh breads, pastries, and jelly-stuffed donuts.
Old John’s Diner serves no-frills diner food in a cozy retro setting. It’s a reliable spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Thai Market is a bustling authentic spot popular with Columbia students and locals alike. Reservations are recommended.
The Upper West Side’s dining scene is diverse and reliable, blending classic New York institutions with hidden neighborhood gems. Whether you’re looking for a destination meal or a quick bite, this area has something to offer every palate.
