From French to Italian, Mediterranean to Japanese, the Upper West Side contains a rich array of restaurants that complements its equally diverse neighborhood. Pair this with reasonable prices and large menus, and the sky is the limit in terms of dinner options. Here’s our guide to the top 10 restaurants on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
An iconic landmark restaurant located in Central Park, Tavern on the Green has been an established dining venue in the neighborhood and throughout the city since 1934. Offering an exquisite menu that reflects the rural nature of its Central Park surroundings, there is something for everybody to enjoy. While this restaurant has come a long way from its origins as a housing area for sheep, Tavern on the Green has maintained its early roots and continues to serve the community and its loyal customers.
Cafe Luxembourg serves only the finest of French cuisine to its patrons, with a menu that features everything from lobster rolls to pan roasted lamb chops. The expansive menu is reasonably priced and the authentic French interior design and helpful and accommodating staff add to the pleasant dining experience. Cafe Luxembourg is sure to satisfy everyone as it continues to keep the French tradition alive in the heart of bustling New York City.
As a classic Italian restaurant, ‘Cesca goes above and beyond its competition in terms of food, decor, and overall ambiance. With a rustic-infused menu that puts a spin on every dish, ‘Cesca is a popular venue. There are two dining rooms, a cozy bar area, and a prime spot adjacent to the popular Beacon Theater.
Serving the Upper West Side for years as a Modern American bistro, Henry’s is the classic New York City restaurant. Boasting the largest sidewalk cafe on Broadway, but with ample indoor seating for those who want reprieve from the busy street, in addition to a well-priced and varied menu, Henry’s knows how to draw customers in and keep them coming. Be sure to check out the bar, which features handmade cocktails and an extensive wine selection.
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Since 1988, Ozu Restaurant has been serving its customers Japanese food with a healthy spin. Known as Kosher Japanese, Ozu strives to use only natural, organic ingredients in an effort to maintain a mostly vegan menu. Definitely an eatery for those who want a healthy yet tasty meal, Ozu Restaurant doesn’t disappoint.
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Isabella’s serves the neighborhood of the Upper West Side with a Mediterranean-American infused menu. Featuring signature dishes such as Warm Summer Rigatoni and Faroe Island Salmon, there is a meal to suit every customer. Located in an excellent location, right across the street from the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park, Isabella’s also provides the option of serving as a reception hall for weddings, parties, business meetings and other special occasions.
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A Cafe New York has an exquisite and highly unique French-Caribbean style menu. With a comfortable yet stylish interior design, the atmosphere is warm and inviting for a small dinner with family to a large, special occasion. The B.Y.O.B. policy is also very popular at A Cafe, as there is no corkage fee applied.
Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, The Smith prides itself on its great-tasting and reasonably priced dishes that satisfy every customer. Sourcing food from reliable sources, such as Long Island and Massachusetts oyster farms and family-run farms in Upstate New York, is a main staple in The Smith’s general philosophy.
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this fine Italian restaurant consistently stands out from the rest. Situated on the ground floor of the NYLO Hotel, Serafina has a family-friendly atmosphere and is open to those who want a sit-down meal or a slice of freshly made pizza. With locations scattered around New York City, the country, and internationally in places such as Brazil, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, Serafina has grown and expanded upon due to popular demand.
For those who desire some good old American burgers with a classy spin, then 5 Napkin Burger is the place to go. Featuring specialty burgers, veggie sliders and sushi platters, there’s an amazing amount of options on the menu. Other highly recommended options include teriyaki salmon or the chicken churrasco. Currently open in five separate locations throughout the city, Boston, and Florida, 5 Napkin Burger has reinvented the burger business!
