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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Central Park West Historic District

American food

Sometimes a familiar, straightforward meal is the only thing that feels right.

Based on 208 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Billy’s Hot Dog Cart image 1
Billy’s Hot Dog Cart image 2
Billy’s Hot Dog Cart image 3
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Small hot dog cart near a large park offers classic New York style dogs with rich flavor. Friendly vendor creates a warm, charismatic energy with lively chats and free treats for kids. Outdoor spot invites quick, casual bites amid urban charm and friendly interaction.

Hot dogs here stand out for their classic New York style and rich flavor. The vendor is known for being exceptionally friendly, even offering free hot dogs to kids when accidents happen.

People are saying

"This American food is the best hot dog I've ever had."

"Billy's hot dogs are a true slice of New York charm."

"The service here is so nice and friendly."

02
The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar image 1

Seafood shines with crab cakes and lobster roll on a menu that also offers a pecan pie and crisp Caesar salad. Spacious outdoor patio and cozy interior create a vibrant ambience. Evenings bring lively energy and crafted cocktails.

Seafood shines with crab cakes and shrimp appetizers. The menu also features a lobster roll and a solid pecan pie alongside a crisp Caesar salad.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The service at these dinner spots was attentive and great."

"The American Food, especially the seafood, was cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM daily with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available from 3 to 6 PM Tuesday to Saturday.

3

The Paella special is available Monday to Wednesday and includes a bottle of wine.

03
Westville Upper West Side image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American spot serves medium rare cheeseburgers and a Westville Cobb salad with feta. Quiet, clean vibe suits families and groups. Menu includes tasty grilled cheese and vegetarian options for casual dining.

Cheeseburgers come cooked medium rare on request. The Westville Cobb salad offers a good portion of protein and includes delicious feta cheese. Grilled cheese sandwiches taste delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and served in generous portions."

"It's a great place for kids and has a kids menu."

"The American Food salads here are delicious, especially the Cobb."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

The restaurant gives customers an hour to sit and eat.

3

The restaurant easily gets crowded, especially during peak hours.

04
Sandwell image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop serves fresh, reasonably priced sandwiches on in-house baked bread. Cozy, well-lit space with classic rock music creates an energetic vibe. Mac and Cheese offers a creamy texture with rich, smooth flavor.

Creamy texture defines the Mac and Cheese here. It delivers a smooth, rich flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be super tasty and delicious."

"I thought the bread was probably the best sandwich bread I have ever had."

"I wished they would keep the Thanksgiving specials year-round."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs for sandwiches.

2

Expect longer wait times due to limited staff preparing food.

3

The price for a gluten-free sandwich is $12, which is reasonable for the area.

05
Hudson & Charles image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop offers rare cuts and fresh, high-grade meats with expert staff. Prime rib delivers rich flavor and tenderness. BBQ beef sandwiches shine with smoked brisket on brioche buns, blending quality butchery and classic American tastes.

Prime rib stands out with its rich flavor and tenderness. BBQ beef sandwiches feature smoked brisket served on a brioche bun.

People are saying

"Their sandwiches are obsession-worthy and made with top-quality meats."

"I thought the prime rib was the best I ever had."

"I had the Ribeye steak two days in a row; it was one of the best."

Good to know

1

Sandwiches start at 11am.

2

All the meats are made in-house.

3

The prices are reasonable given the quality of the food.

06
72ND Eatery image 1
Restaurant

Bright, spacious interior with luxury bistro design creates a welcoming vibe. Mac and cheese delivers creamy, rich flavor while the cheeseburger is a classic favorite. Locals gather here like old friends, enjoying hearty, satisfying meals.

Mac and cheese stands out with a creamy, rich flavor. The cheeseburger tastes like a proper classic, and the Reuben sandwich offers a satisfying, hearty option.

People are saying

"I loved their homemade cream and lentil soups."

"This lunch spot has generous portions and great quality food."

"The American Food here is so hearty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials.

2

Breakfast for two with tip costs $25.

3

The restaurant is very clean.

07
e's BAR image 1

Open space with a retro jukebox and free board games creates a lively vibe. Burgers, including a falafel version, and homemade loaded nachos pair well with buffalo wings and bleu cheese. Happy hour drinks and casual dining make it a solid local hangout.

Burgers come in classic and falafel versions, both solid choices. Loaded nachos taste homemade and pair well with buffalo wings served with bleu cheese.

People are saying

"The Bar staff here are so attentive and friendly."

"I found the burgers here to be delicious and excellent."

"The American Food, especially the nachos, is surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day until 7 pm with great drink specials.

2

Wine Wednesday offers full pours of wine for only $7.50.

3

The kitchen closes early and serves only bar foods after a certain hour.

08
7th Street Burger Upper West Side image 1

Small spot offers premium cheeseburgers with a well-balanced bun and loaded fries. Walls covered in bills and photos create a casual vibe. Soft music adds to the chill atmosphere perfect for quick, tasty American eats.

Cheeseburgers come with premium ingredients and a well-balanced bun and sauce. Loaded fries stand out as a top side option alongside a simple menu focused on cheeseburgers and fries.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the burgers and loaded fries, is spectacular."

"I found the regular cheeseburger spectacular; it's one of my favorites."

"I thought the Impossible Burger here was the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of almost 30 minutes for ordering in person.

2

Payment by card was not operational when we visited.

3

There are only 2-3 tables outside for dining.

09
Bodega 88 image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar shines with multiple TVs and Latin beats creating a lively vibe. Nachos and shrimp tacos offer bold flavors that pair well with wings. Outdoor seating adds to the energetic scene perfect for game watching and cocktails.

Nachos stand out with strong flavors, often paired with shrimp tacos and wings. Fries and churros also appear regularly alongside these dishes.

People are saying

"The bar's wings were crispy, sauced to perfection, and totally unforgettable."

"The cocktails here are vibrant and transport you to the tropics."

"The American Food here is great for watching sports on the many TVs."

Good to know

1

The lunch menu is only available Monday to Friday.

2

Expect longer wait times on Fridays after 6pm.

3

Happy hour offers cheap beer, Sangria, and Margaritas on weeknights.

10
Chick Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Neo diner style with neon lighting and chicken decor sets a lively vibe. Fried chicken shines with Nashville hot and Korean styles, plus a Thai fried chicken sandwich adds variety. Open kitchen and K-pop music create a unique atmosphere that fills quickly on weekends.

Fried chicken stands out with Nashville hot and Korean fried chicken varieties. Sandwiches include a Thai fried chicken option and a colossal burger tower called the Hen House Challenge.

People are saying

"The Nashville hot chicken sandwich is crispy, juicy, and perfectly spiced."

"The cheesy biscuits here are perfectly balanced with savory cheese and spicy-or spicy-spicy-sweet honey."

"The Nashville hot chicken sandwich is juicy and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation in advance if you're planning to visit with a group of 3 or more.

2

Chick Chick has a "Hen House Challenge" where customers can attempt to eat a colossal chicken burger tower.

3

Fries are not included with the Gochujang chicken sandwich for the price.

11
Tiki Chick image 1
Tiki bar

Lively tiki bar shines with Art Deco Tiki style and inventive cocktails in fun mugs. Outdoor metal rocking chairs and couches offer a relaxed vibe despite loud music. Affordable $5 sandwiches include a standout hot honey chicken sandwich with crispy, juicy fried chicken.

$5 sandwiches and hot dogs stand out for their affordable price and great taste. The hot honey chicken sandwich features crispy buttermilk fried chicken that is tender and juicy, making it a notable fried chicken option.

People are saying

"You won't believe how cheap these $5 chicken sandwiches are!"

"The cocktails here are creative and taste very good."

"You have to try the $5 fried chicken sandwiches; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a happy hour on drinks until 7 PM.

2

The sandwiches are only $5 each.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early.

12
Prohibition image 1
New American restaurant

Speakeasy-style venue shines with Jazz Age decor and a lively crowd that dances to live music. Juicy cheeseburgers and lobster truffle risotto offer rich American flavors. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed vibe away from the energetic front bar.

Juicy cheeseburgers come large and well prepared, paired with generous Parmesan fries. Dishes like lobster truffle risotto, bacon steak, and skewers of burrata with cherry tomatoes add variety alongside crispy bites and seasoned guacamole with chips.

People are saying

"The live music here is great and kept us all entertained."

"The private service here is attentive and warm, making you feel so welcomed."

"The American food here is delicious, with great live music."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed for live music and cocktail events.

2

Expect difficult parking on the Upper West Side.

3

Arrive early to secure a good spot for live music.

13
Fred's image 1
Restaurant

Walls covered with dog photos set a warm, lively tone. Outdoor dining welcomes dogs, adding to the friendly atmosphere. Comfort food shines with mac and cheese and a standout cheeseburger, paired well with great cocktails.

Mac and cheese stands out as a large, delicious dish here. The cheeseburger is very good and often mentioned. Other notable items include crispy brussels sprouts, 8oz burger, buttermilk fried chicken, and molten lava cake for dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the mac and cheese."

"The atmosphere and servers make for a great brunch."

"You've got to try the American Food mac and cheese."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because the brunch place is very popular.

2

Trivia is on Tuesday at Fred's.

3

The restaurant gets very busy for brunch.

14
Andy's Deli image 1

Narrow space and dim lighting create a classic NYC deli vibe. Friendly crowd enjoys Philly cheesesteak and BLTs among many American favorites. Huge menu offers quick, fair-priced meals in a neighborhood setting.

Philly cheesesteak and BLTs stand out among the American food options. The menu also features bacon cheeseburger deluxe, chicken noodle soup, and various cold sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"I had the best sandwich I ever had here."

"You've got to try the Philly cheesesteak and BLTs; they're outstanding American food."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a huge menu selection with various options.

2

Expect the spot to get crowded, especially during lunch hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for a wait.

15
Holy Schnitzel image 1
Kosher restaurant

Spacious kosher spot shines with Southern Fried Chicken and Loaded Brisket Fries. Exposed brick and an art deco ceiling set a unique vibe. Loud music and a cool chandelier keep energy high while chargers add convenience.

Thick and crispy Southern Fried Chicken sandwich stands out along with Loaded Brisket Fries and amazing brisket. Hot dogs have a solid flavor, but chicken wings tend to be overcooked and dry.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The Kosher food here is served with amazing, friendly care."

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is amazing and super tasty."

Good to know

1

Holy Schnitzel provides a Kosher option on the Upper West Side and Harlem.

2

The ordering is efficient by touch screen.

3

You can call ahead to order for pick up.

16
Poulet Sans Tete image 1
Chicken restaurant

Rotisserie chicken cooks behind the counter in a cozy space with French bistro vibes. Fried chicken sandwiches offer a simple, solid taste alongside sides like Mac and cheese and healthy salads. Outdoor dining and a welcoming atmosphere make it a great neighborhood spot.

Fried chicken sandwiches stand out with a simple, solid approach. Sides range from Mac and cheese to healthy salads, with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce available for classic meals.

People are saying

"I loved the rotisserie chicken and the corn/zucchini salad."

"This lunch spot's chicken is juicy and flavorful."

"This American food sandwich is the best I found in NYC."

Good to know

1

A whole chicken and 2 sides for 2 people costs around $60 with tip.

2

The lunch special was very reasonably priced.

3

The restaurant offers a unique take on a French dip sandwich, but with chicken.

17
Made In New York Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Enjoy authentic New York style pizza with buffalo chicken wings and vodka in a warm atmosphere. Indoor seating feels spacious and clean, while outdoor spots are tight but pleasant. Expect a lively crowd, especially late at night.

Authentic New York style pizza stands out here, offering a classic taste to-go. The menu also includes buffalo chicken wings and vodka, which pair with the pizza.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the authentic New York–style pizza here."

"I thought the Margherita pizza was one of the best I'd ever tasted."

"You've got to try the authentic New York style pizza."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a forced gratuity policy.

2

You get a bit of a discount if you pay cash.

3

Show up at 11:45am for freshly baked cheese pizza.

18
Osteria Cotta image 1
Italian restaurant

Vintage decor and a cozy, rustic vibe create a romantic setting. Large terrace and heated outdoor seating enhance the experience. Bar serves limoncello spritz and sangria. Rosemary chicken wings offer a wood-fired flavor with strong seasoning, alongside dishes like lasagna and gnocchi.

Rosemary chicken wings stand out with a wood-fired flavor and strong seasoning. Other notable dishes include lasagna, orecchiette, and gnocchi.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and authentic Italian."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and pizza, is fantastic."

"These rosemary chicken wings are the best American food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly suggested for weekends as the restaurant fills up.

2

The restaurant requires that everyone at the table participates in the bottomless brunch.

3

The brunch deal is $32 for bottomless mimosas and an entree.

19
Jacob's Pickles image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant buzzes with an energetic vibe and packed seating ideal for groups. Fried chicken and pickles offer a unique flavor that stands out. Outdoor seating near a basketball court adds a pleasant alternative to the lively indoor bar area.

Fried chicken and pickles stand out with a unique flavor. The grits offer a distinct taste unlike others. The meatloaf plate delivers a satisfying mix of flavors.

People are saying

"The biscuits here are huge and delicious."

"The American Food here is served by friendly and attentive staff."

"The deviled eggs here are creamy with a slight kick."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must for weekend brunch to avoid long wait times.

2

The brunch has a long wait for a table but no wait for seating at the bar.

3

On Saturdays, a pulled pork special is available until it runs out.

20
Daily Provisions - Upper West Side image 1

Small cafe buzzes with a cozy atmosphere and free Wi-Fi for laptop users. Patty melt delivers an explosion of flavor paired perfectly with a 16oz beer. Outdoor seating offers a peaceful alternative to the busy indoor space.

Patty melt stands out with an explosion of flavor and pairs well with a 16oz beer. Grilled cheese and tuna melt also offer solid, comforting options often enjoyed with tomato soup.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and well-balanced."

"I loved the chicken Milanese sandwich dipped in tomato soup."

"The American food here, especially the patty melt, was an explosion of flavor."

Good to know

1

Come early to get the crullers before they sell out.

2

Arrive early to get the everything croissant.

3

Expect to wait in order to sit.

21
French Roast image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant blends authentic decor with lively outdoor seating and live guitar music. Brunch shines with Eggs Benedict and juicy hamburgers. Specialty cocktails and coffee add charm to a relaxed yet sometimes noisy atmosphere.

Eggs Benedict stands out with rich flavors and perfect preparation. The hamburgers are also notable for their juicy, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The food here is great, and the service is awesome."

"I found the French onion soup to be amazing."

"The American Food here is great, and the service is excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy brunch hours.

2

Expect a full house during weekend brunch; arrive early.

3

Happy hour specials are available from 4-7pm on weekdays.

22
Crave Fishbar Upper West Side | Raw Bar & Seafood restaurant image 1

Seafood shines with a lobster roll and fresh fish dishes in a lively, ship-themed setting. Cocktails add to the upscale casual vibe. Outdoor seating suits groups seeking a relaxed yet vibrant spot for American food.

Fresh seafood stands out with the lobster roll as a highlight. Other notable dishes include crab, fried fish sandwich, and squid ink pasta.

People are saying

"I loved the great selection of fresh oysters."

"The staff made me feel like a superstar during Happy Hour."

"The American Food here, especially the lobster roll, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted cocktails, wine, beer, and food.

2

The restaurant offers an oyster happy hour with oysters priced at $1.50 each on Saturdays.

3

Brunch includes a 'Drink like a fish' option for 90 minutes of unlimited drinks.

23
Blondies Sports image 1
Sports bar

Countless TV screens create a lively spot for sports fans. Enjoy buffalo wings with bold, spicy flavors and a crispy texture. Casual seating at bars and tables fits the unpretentious vibe perfectly.

Buffalo wings stand out with their crispy texture, generous sauce, and great flavor. The menu also features a pulled pork sandwich alongside plenty of fried food options.

People are saying

"They never let my beer go empty here."

"I had never experienced buffalo wings like this before."

"I still think about these buffalo wings; they're the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

On Sundays during football season, expect large crowds and long wait times.

2

Mondays feature a special of 20 wings for $20.

3

Trivia night happens every Friday at 8pm with a lively atmosphere.

24
La Dinastia image 1
Chinese restaurant

Traditional decor creates a cozy, family-friendly vibe with old school charm. Fried chicken shines with crackling skin and hearty sides like black beans and tostones. Large plates of Chinese Puerto Rican fusion offer a unique, lively dining experience.

Fried chicken stands out with both bone-in and boneless options featuring crackling skin. Sides like black beans, maduros, and tostones complement the dishes well.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken crackling was moist and crunchy."

"The house special fried rice here is one of the best I've tasted."

"You have to try the fried chicken; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

On a Friday or weekend night, be ready to wait about 20 minutes for a table.

2

The meal for four costs 120 dollars.

3

There are no reservations; you need to give your name inside and wait.

25
Good Enough To Eat image 1
American restaurant

Cozy indoor seating and a nice outdoor terrace create a pleasant vibe. Biscuits and gravy offer spectacular flavor, while Eggs Benedict and hamburgers provide great taste and solid quality. Creative cocktails add a fun touch to the experience.

Biscuits and gravy stand out with a spectacular flavor. Eggs Benedict comes in smaller portions but offers a great taste. Hamburgers also deliver solid quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I enjoyed the delicious pancakes with strawberry cream."

"The American Food here, especially the eggs Benedict, is really tasty."

Good to know

1

Brunches can be busy and may involve a wait.

2

The restaurant opens at 8 am sharp for breakfast.

3

Be prepared to queue at weekends.

26
Nice Matin image 1
French restaurant

Bright cafe offers perfect Eggs Benedict and a New York strip steak with béarnaise sauce. Elegant decor and breathtaking chandeliers create a warm vibe. Spacious heated terrace welcomes groups and pets, paired with a top-notch bourbon and fine French wines.

Eggs Benedict stands out with a perfect poached egg and consistent delicious flavor. Steak frites features a New York strip served with béarnaise sauce on the side.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and delicious."

"The brunch here is incredible, especially the omelettes and pastries."

"I recommend the American Food, especially the eggs Benedict."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as this is a popular place.

2

The restaurant has a Bloody Mary bar on weekends.

3

Expect a wait during peak brunch hours on weekends.

27
Chirping Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, cramped seating and many TV screens create a casual, chaotic vibe. Chicken wings and baby back ribs offer strong flavors and generous portions. Large coleslaw servings add a fresh touch to the American food experience.

Chicken wings and baby back ribs stand out with strong flavors and generous portions. Coleslaw comes in a large serving and complements the meat dishes well.

People are saying

"Their salads are unbelievably fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the grilled chicken here was the best I ever had."

"The American food, especially the ribs and chicken wings, is really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait for sandwiches during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a 3.75% credit card surcharge not disclosed upfront.

3

Prices on the menu may differ from what you actually pay.

28
The Gin Mill image 1
Sports bar

Wall-to-wall TVs create a sports-focused vibe with loud energy. Classic American dishes like cheeseburgers and chicken wings pair well with affordable drinks. A hidden speakeasy downstairs offers live jazz for a unique twist.

Cheeseburgers and chicken wings stand out on the menu. Deals like $3 Bud Light cans and a $5.99 hot dog with fries offer value alongside classic American fare.

People are saying

"It's a lively spot for watching live sports."

"I found the food here to be really good."

"I love watching sports here with all the TVs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11:30am to 7pm every day, excluding cocktails.

2

The private event space in the basement is great for informal gatherings.

3

Live music happens downstairs on Monday nights.

29
Playa Betty’s image 1
Mexican restaurant

West coast beach vibes create a colorful, casual space with a lively, bustling atmosphere. Crunchy tater tots shine in burritos, while fried chicken tacos offer strong Southern flavors with a twist. Heated outdoor seating and 80's new wave music add to the festive feel.

Crunchy tater tots shine in burritos and stand out even for those who usually avoid them. Fried chicken tacos and inventive takes on chicken and waffles bring strong Southern flavors with a twist.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially with attentive service."

"I thought the tacos were delicious, especially the Baja fish."

"This American Food's French toast was a sinful indulgence worth every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, making it a popular choice.

30
Noi Due Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with vintage decor and lively outdoor seating hosts mini dance parties. Cozy, noisy space with dim lighting adds charm. Must-try mac and cheese balls and rich chocolate pecan pie highlight the American food menu.

Mac and cheese balls stand out as a popular choice. The pecan pie is consistently noted for its rich flavor, especially the chocolate pecan pie dessert.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be quite good."

"The Kosher food, especially the pizza, was amazing."

"The fish in the American food fish and chips was fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant has a maximum capacity limit of 8 per seating.

3

The dining policy allows for a maximum of one hour and fifteen minutes per visit.

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Central Park West Historic District, New York

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