I’ve officially lived on the Upper East Side for a year and a half now, so I can confidently say…I’ve done my research. Shops, restaurants, bakeries, hidden gems —you name it.
So here’s my personal hit list for anyone visiting, or just wanting to spend a perfect day uptown.
Coffee Shops
To start the day off on the right foot, here’s my current coffee rotation:
La Cassita
just opened after its Brooklyn debut and specializes in the famous Greek Freddo coffee. The lines are insane, but worth it.
Butterfield Market
my personal go-to. When your local grocer makes the best coffee. Try the hazelnut iced latte. It may seem basic, but it always hits.
Sant Ambroeus Bar
a classic that always delivers. It’s such a scene for people watching, I love spotting all the regulars. If you’re from out of town, it’s a must.
Bel Ami Cafe
just took over the old Corrado space on the corner of 70th and Lex and everyone is very happy. Pro tip: order the gluten-free egg sandwich off the menu.
We are lacking in matcha…but rumor has it Matchaful may be opening soon • *
Casual Brunch
If you want something easy, delicious, and always hits:
Ella’s Cafe
your perfect cozy neighborhood spot. Think great shakshuka, simple but really well done salad plates, and a laid-back vibe that feels like your local go-to. It’s one of those places you can pop into without a plan and always leave happy.
Isle of Us
a little more elevated but still super relaxed. Beautiful small space, amazing gluten-free pastries, and really fresh, flavorful bowls. It feels very “downtown energy meets UES,” which I love. Perfect for a slower, bring your computer kind of brunch.
Shoo Shoo
Mediterranean, Tel Aviv-style, and packed with flavor. The menu is full of vibrant, fresh dishes, amazing dips, and great for sharing. It’s a bit more of a scene, but still casual enough fora daytime brunch moment.
Ironically all Israeli, and all so good.
Ladies Who Lunch: For the Visitors
Now this is where we separate first-timers from the NYC natives…
If you’re coming for the weekend, I know you want a Madison Avenue moment and honestly, I don’t blame you. Lean in.
Sant Ambroeus
If you’re coming for the weekend, I know you want a Madison Ave moment and honestly, I don’t blame you. Lean in. Order an iced cappuccino, the artichoke appetizer, and a Rigatoni Straofinati if you’re doing it right. Sit outside if you can and just people watch for hours.
Via Quadronno
Cozy, classic, and feels like you somehow landed in Milan. The chop tuna salad and lentil soup combo is perfection. It’s quick, easy, and one of those spots that just gets it.
The Mark Restaurant
For when you want to indulge a little. It’s chic, it’s buzzy, and the warm shrimp salad is always a yes. Perfect for a longer, more “special occasion” lunch.
Ladies Who Lunch: For the Natives
Okay, now we get into the real rotation…
Mezzaluna
Thrilled to report Mezzaluna is staying open. The pollonca salad, a half sweet half unsweet peach iced tea, and the off-menu penne alla vodka are non-negotiables. If you know, you know.
Ouris Market
Casual, but so good. It’s a Kosher market but you absolutely don’t need to be Kosher to go. The produce is unreal. I usually grab a salmon roll or a salad, and somehow it’s better every time. Best part is going with friends and everyone doing their own thing.
Milano Market
Perfect for a park lunch. Every sandwich you could possibly want, all the Italian spreads and sauces, and just the ultimate grab-and-go moment before heading to Central Park. It’s chaotic in the best way.
Marcel
Opening April 16 in the new Sotheby’s space at the Met Breuer. Very exciting if you love that La Mercerie energy.
Classic UES Dinner Energy
The Upper East Side does old-school dinner so well!
Gracie’s Diner
Beyond kid-friendly and honestly just hits every time. It’s giving classic diner comfort in the best way.
The Greek Kitchen
A little more elevated, but still cozy and unfussy. And the burger ranks right up there with JG Melon.
3 Guys
My go-to when I’m not in the mood for eggs or a grilled cheese moment. The Athenian salad with salmon is elite. Fresh, filling, and always exactly what I want.
Chez Fifi
Townhouse vibes, French, and a sexy upstairs bar that feels like you accidentally found the coolest dinner party in the city.
Cafe Commerce
Elevated American done so well. Everything is good, but the coconut cake is a must.
Antonucci Cafe
My favorite old-school Italian. Yes, over Elios. A hot take I stand by.
Mykonian House
Easy, fun, and always works for a group. One of those places you suggest and everyone’s immediately in.
JG Melon
Iconic for a reason. No frills, cash-only energy, and exactly what you want it to be.
Sushi Rotation
Noz Market
The hidden secret is that Sushi Noz has a standing-only bar that is cheaper than the sit-down omakase, and their happy hour special is one of the best deals in town.
Sushi by M
My go-to when I want something more casual, delicious, and not a full production. Great quality, great price, always reliable.
Drinks
Mama loves a dirty martini… and UES delivers!
Bemelmans Bar
Old-world magic at its finest. The murals, the piano, the martinis… it never gets old.
Melody’s Piano Bar
Flirty, fun, and perfect date night energy. You go for one drink and somehow stay for three.
Bakeries
Birley Bakery
The almond chocolate croissant is insane. Flaky, rich, and worth every single calorie.
Patisserie Vanessa
Croissants, meringues, madeleines… it’s giving full Parisian dream. Everything looks as good as it tastes.
Aux Merveilleux de Fred
So underrated and beyond delicious. The light, airy pastries are dangerously easy to keep ordering.
Stay tuned for Pt. 2 for all my shopping recommendations… because that might be my favorite category.
