Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Central Park West Historic District

Unique spots

Made for those who find standard options tedious and actively seek out the unconventional at every turn.

Based on 159 Opinions
+156
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Purdy Girl image 1
Purdy Girl image 2
Purdy Girl image 3
View all
Clothing store

Boutique space shines with unique clothing and cool accessories that stand out. Sparkly, fun atmosphere blends SoHo style with Upper West Side charm. Welcoming vibe draws a diverse crowd seeking chic, well-curated finds at great prices.

Everything features unique clothing and cool accessories not found elsewhere. The selection includes many beautiful and chic pieces that stand out.

People are saying

"I found the women's clothing here to be so beautiful and unique."

"I found the most unique and fun styles here."

"The staff here are so helpful and sweet, they really know their stuff."

Good to know

1

The store has a great selection of on-trend clothes and accessories.

2

Purdy Girl offers excellent prices for women of all ages.

3

The boutique has a well-curated assortment of trendy clothing.

02
Rudraks image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space offers intimate elegance with a minimalist atmosphere and warm hospitality. Menu shines with unique dishes like Special Makai Saag Malai. Electronic music adds a rare ambience for a desi restaurant.

Menu features many unique items not commonly found nearby. Appetizers and dishes like the Special Makai Saag Malai combine fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Electronic music adds a rare ambience for a desi restaurant.

People are saying

"I found the Indian food here to be the best I've ever had."

"The lunch special is an insanely good deal for the price."

"The menu is creative and presented with impressive attention to detail."

Good to know

1

You need to bring your own beverage (BYOB) to the venue.

2

The lunch special is a great deal.

3

There is a $20 takeout and delivery meal deal.

03
Astro West Fine Minerals Fossils Meteorites image 1

Store feels like a museum wing with museum-quality minerals and fossils. Offers a geode-breaking activity that is fun and hands-on. Staff are friendly and supportive, making it great for both kids and collectors.

Unique items include museum quality artifacts and investment-worthy pieces. Cracking your own geode adds a hands-on experience with great staff support.

People are saying

"The staff are so warm and welcoming, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

"I had a unique experience with the knowledgeable and kind staff."

"I thought the gems and minerals here were super cool."

Good to know

1

You can crack your own geode for about $15.

2

You can pick your own geode from a barrel and break one open for $25.

3

The parking situation is bad.

04
Sushi Ishikawa UWS image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar with intimate seating offers a cozy, speakeasy vibe. Fresh sushi shines with inventive flavors and creative arrangements. Exceptional sake pairings complete the experience, making it a unique culinary spot.

Fresh sushi features inventive flavor combinations that meld wonderfully. Each dish shows unique arrangements and creative, nontraditional flavors.

People are saying

"This intimate omakase experience felt like a personal, sensory journey."

"The flavor combinations here are truly unique and delicious."

"The fish here is top-notch and worth every penny."

Good to know

1

Be ready to spend at least $225 after tax and tip for dinner.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

3

The restaurant is very accommodating for gluten allergies.

05
More & More Antiques image 1

Small shop bursts with Venetian glass chandeliers and eclectic antiques. Crowds seek unique gifts and holiday decorations, creating a lively, joyful vibe. Fine quality ornaments add to the distinctive charm.

Beautiful antiques and smaller new items fill the space with distinctive charm. Unique finds and fine quality gifts appear regularly, including beautiful ornaments.

People are saying

"I found unique, fine quality gifts for myself and others."

"This vintage shop is packed with so much interesting stuff to see."

Good to know

1

The shop accepts credit cards and cash for purchases.

2

Unique handmade items are available, including local crafts.

3

Special discounts are offered on the first Saturday of each month.

06
KTCollection image 1
Jewelry store

Shop buzzes with owner energy and feels like home. Offers timeless jewelry that blends vintage charm with trendy styles. Prices suit all budgets, making it perfect for unique gifts and personal treasures.

Shop offers a beautiful, unique assortment of jewelry and gifts. Pieces are timeless and not found elsewhere, combining trendy styles with good prices.

People are saying

"I found so many unique jewelry pieces I didn't see anywhere else."

"The Necklace Store staff are so helpful and accommodating with custom designs."

"The Ring Store staff were so helpful and kind."

Good to know

1

KT Collection offers personalized service and stunning jewelry.

2

The store has a broad range of price points, making it easy to find something within any budget.

3

KT Collection has a talented jeweler on site who can assist with custom pieces.

07
Pig and Khao - UWS image 1

Small outdoor terrace offers dog-friendly seating with lively 90s hip hop music. Interior blends contemporary Southeast Asian flavors and a chef's counter for an engaging dining vibe. Brunch shines with unique dishes like Thai Tea Tres Leches, while inventive cocktails match the kitchen's creativity.

Brunch offers unique dishes with deep flavors and a fun ambience featuring pig and defaced wall engraved art. The Thai Tea Tres Leches adds a distinctive twist to a classic dessert.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"You have to try the papaya salad with crispy taro and peanuts."

"The food here is unique with lots of great flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during weekend evenings, especially after 7 PM.

3

Happy hour specials are available from 5-7 PM on weekdays.

08
Lucciola image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with 5,000 wine bottles offers a warm Italian vibe and classic dishes. Unique small plates fill you up, while personal service tailors the experience. Dim lighting and white tablecloths create a cozy, elegant atmosphere.

Small plates feature very unique dishes that fill you up. Anelle provides a personal and professional touch, making the experience feel tailored to your palate.

People are saying

"The tasting menu was perfectly balanced and absolutely delicious."

"The dinner spots here are amazing thanks to the attentive and knowledgeable servers."

"Every dish was unique, thoughtful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 'no menu' tasting menu that is the chef's choice.

2

The tasting menu includes wine pairings selected by the server Eliot.

3

The nine course meal is estimated to be a 3 to 3.5 hour experience.

09
Theater 86 (Formerly Russian Arts Theater) image 1

Small venue with intimate atmosphere offers every seat a great view. Warm, cozy space hosts a talented ensemble cast delivering classic and diverse works. Performances bring a unique directorial vision that creates an engulfing experience for a fun night out.

Authentic and genuine theater fills the space with a unique vision from the director. Performances create an engulfing experience that makes for a fun night out.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue felt really cozy and well decorated."

"The original and interesting work here is truly unimaginable."

"I found the theater to be a unique and genuine experience."

Good to know

1

The venue allows early arrivals to choose any seat except the first row, which is reserved for VIPs.

2

It is advisable to dress casually and bring a sweater due to the temperature.

3

A staff member with a list checks off audience members' names as they enter.

10
Essential by Christophe image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant blends intimate lounge with effortless chic and lively noise. Unique dishes like langoustine sauce and scallops with zucchini blossom offer a distinctive taste and visual appeal. Dining room shows New York style with artwork and leather textures.

Dishes feature unique flavors like rich langoustine sauce and scallops with zucchini blossom. Every plate offers a visually appealing and distinctive taste experience.

People are saying

"The Desserts were focused, restrained, and flavor-forward."

"It's a classy place, calm, refined, and quietly confident."

"The food here is unique, with thoughtful flavors and beautiful execution."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like New Year’s Eve dinner.

2

The restaurant offers a birthday dinner menu called un, deux, trois, plus dessert.

3

Gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.

11
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery offers a Parisian atmosphere with cozy seating and natural light. Unique treats like the Shallot Pastry Cup and Blood Orange Croissant stand out. Try the rose macaron latte for a flavorful coffee twist.

Unique items include the Shallot Pastry Cup with melty, golden shallots and the Blood Orange Croissant featuring a sweet filling. The rose macaron latte offers a different, flavorful coffee experience.

People are saying

"The pastries here are phenomenal and taste so balanced."

"It's a cute, cozy spot perfect for a quiet coffee break."

"The pastries here are unique, with amazing croissants and tarts."

Good to know

1

Gloves should be worn when touching food and removed before returning to the register.

2

Expect 8-10 minutes to get your order taken if there's one person ahead.

3

Prices are higher than at Starbucks and other local cafes.

12
Noi Due Gelato image 1
Ice cream shop

Small shop with cozy atmosphere offers vegan gelato and unique flavors like Halva Nagila. Enjoy kosher options and a chocolate fountain cone in a welcoming space with indoor and outdoor seating.

Gelato features 8 vegan flavors and unique options like Halva Nagila. A chocolate fountain cone stands out in the kosher scene.

People are saying

"The gelato here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the dairy-free gelato options to be amazing and delicious."

"The unique gelato flavors like halva were so delicious."

Good to know

1

Noi Due Gelato has kosher certification, ensuring everyone can enjoy their gelato.

2

The gelato shop offers dairy Cholov Yisroel, pareve, and special holiday flavors.

3

Good non-dairy and vegan options are available.

13
Harlem Creative Collective image 1
Vintage clothing store

Boutique blends cozy atmosphere with unique designer clothing for a special shopping trip. Friendly staff offer personal styling that makes luxury and vintage finds feel accessible. Clean, well-kept space invites browsing through one-of-a-kind pieces at fair prices.

Offers a unique shopping experience with a lovely atmosphere. Features an incredible selection of elegant, unique designer clothing that is new or like new.

People are saying

"I found one-of-a-kind, fashionable women's clothing here."

"I found their collection of vintage and modern pieces exceptional."

"I found one-of-a-kind pieces I would never find again."

Good to know

1

Grab items quickly; they often sell out fast due to their uniqueness.

2

The boutique offers a mix of formalwear, high-end clothing, and casual gear.

3

Prices are reasonable, catering to both affordable and splurge options.

14
Sandwell image 1
Sandwich shop

Small shop serves fresh sandwiches on in-house baked bread with a cozy, well-lit space. Breakfast options feature unique combinations with bold flavors. Energetic vibe with classic rock music keeps the mood lively.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out with unique combinations and bold flavors. Every sandwich offers a distinctive twist that sets it apart.

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 loved the unique and flavorful sandwiches here."

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.

15
Osteria Accademia image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot with library bookcases offers a cozy, intimate vibe. Elegant decor adds romance. Outdoor seating shines on nice days. Enjoy excellent wine paired with delicious food.

A small room filled with library books creates a unique, romantic vibe. The elegant, intimate decor adds a special touch to the ambience.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pastas, is handmade fresh and delicious."

"It's a super cozy, welcoming neighborhood spot."

"The ambience here is so unique, with a beautiful space and great lighting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4:30-6pm with $9 glasses of Prosecco.

2

The restaurant offers several antipasti specials during happy hour.

3

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

16
Sempre Oggi image 1
Restaurant

Sleek interiors with porcelain-tiled ceiling set an upscale, inviting tone. Unique dishes like Almond Crusted Halibut and a tomato-and-basil cocktail offer fresh, memorable flavors. Intimate rooms keep conversations quiet amid a lively, diverse crowd.

Every dish offers a unique blend of flavors that stands out. Drinks like the tomato-and-basil cocktail and dishes such as the Almond Crusted Halibut and vegan Strozzapreti bring fresh, memorable tastes to the table.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian with fresh ingredients."

"The dinner spots here have such attentive and kind staff."

"The food here is unique, flavorful, and full of attention to detail."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially for special occasions.

2

The restaurant offers a special menu for birthday celebrations with personalized touches.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere, making it harder to get in without a reservation.

17
Chip City image 1
Dessert shop

Strong aroma of fresh baked cookies fills a cozy, lively space. Unique monthly specials and creative flavors keep the menu exciting. Limited room adds to the bustling, dynamic vibe.

Offers a diverse range of flavors with unique monthly specials. Many choices stand out for their distinctiveness.

People are saying

"These cookies are amazing and super yummy."

"These cookies have unique, decadent flavors and gooey centers."

"The staff is super sweet and really great with kids."

Good to know

1

Chip City has weekly drops of cookies.

2

They only make the Lucky Charms cookie on St Patty's.

3

The earlier you go, the better chance you have at getting limited edition cookies.

18
Chama Mama image 1
Georgian restaurant

Spacious dining blends indoor and outdoor seating with a modern, cozy interior. Unique dishes mix European, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors, highlighted by cheesy khachapuri and Georgian wine flights. Fun, playful vibe contrasts with poor acoustics that challenge conversations.

Dishes showcase a unique blend of European, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors with perfectly prepared, lightly seasoned vegetables. Authentic Georgian wines complement the distinctive flavors of the cuisine.

People are saying

"The food here is hearty, delicious, and absolutely fantastic."

"The hospitality at these dinner spots is so warm and attentive."

"The food here is unique, with flavors blending European, Mediterranean, and Asian influences."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must as this place is busy all the time.

2

The kitchen closes around 9:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Make sure to book a table in advance to avoid long wait times.

19
SAPERAVI UWS image 1
Georgian restaurant

Cozy setting with attentive service makes dining relaxed. Unique dishes like Gebzhalia shaped like khinkali offer unexpected flavors. Large selection of Georgian wines pairs well with pork ribs and walnut salad for a distinctive meal.

Dishes arrive with unique and unexpected flavors and thoughtful presentation. Gebzhalia shaped like a khinkali stands out as a distinctive and delicious example of the cuisine's special character.

People are saying

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

"Vano recommended excellent wine pairings for each dish."

"The food here has unique, unexpected flavors and special experiences."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

2

Saperavi UWS is vegetarian-friendly, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

3

Menu suggestions are available for those unfamiliar with Georgian cuisine.

20
Frame Coffee image 1

Small cafe offers unique flavors in food and drinks, perfect for those seeking something different. Cozy space with frame-themed decor and old cameras creates a warm vibe. Free Wi-Fi and quiet weekends make it ideal for work, while photo booths add fun and creativity.

Food options stand out with unique and tasty flavors. Drinks include lots of cool, unique choices.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and delicious."

"It's a work-friendly spot with plenty of outlets and fast Wi-Fi."

"I loved their unique drink options; they were so fun."

Good to know

1

The back section closes at 1 PM on Saturdays.

2

Large groups may not fit in this spot.

3

The seating is limited and the place gets crowded on weekends.

21
CASASALVO™ Café image 1

Outdoor seating with two tiers and umbrellas offers a lively, authentic Italian vibe. Cozy space blends a coffee shop with a modest Italian grocery, creating a unique mix. One size one price approach adds charm and simplicity to the experience.

Combines a coffee shop with outdoor seating and an Italian grocery store. Uses a one size one price approach reflecting the owner's style.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best in the neighborhood."

"I thought the pastries were sweet delights and totally to die for."

"It's uniquely Italian, transporting you with authentic flavors and music."

Good to know

1

Seating outside is limited, so it's advisable to come early.

2

You can get a cappuccino and a pastry for less than $7.

3

The pistachio croissant costs $3.

22
Ample Hills Creamery image 1
Ice cream shop

Large space offers indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy vibe. Unique flavors like Captain Crunch ice cream make it stand out. Families enjoy interactive features such as a churn bicycle and craft treasure chest.

Flavors and concoctions stand out as unique and interesting. Captain Crunch ice cream offers a fun twist on classic tastes.

People are saying

"Their Death by Chocolate hot chocolate is a must-try."

"The ice cream flavors here are so unique and interesting."

"The pistachio flavor here is heavenly."

Good to know

1

They accept cash as a form of payment.

2

Two small scoops of ice cream cost EIGHTEEN DOLLARS.

3

Customers can sample the ice cream before committing to a flavor.

23
Salt & Straw image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop serves in-house waffle cones with unique bold flavors like Pastrami on Rye. Space feels cozy yet chaotic, filled with fresh cone aroma. Sampling is encouraged and dogs get special pup cups, making it welcoming for all.

Flavors stand out for being unique and bold, with options like Pastrami on Rye and Olive Oil. The ice cream is rich and creamy, offering a creative and dynamic taste experience.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was the best I ever tasted."

"I loved the variety of tasty vegan flavors."

"I found the ice cream shop offered a unique selection of flavors."

Good to know

1

You can try an unlimited amount of samples.

2

Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

3

Expect to eat your scoop on the go.

24
Omakase Shihou - Upper West Side (Lunch Available) image 1

Omakase counter upstairs offers a cozy atmosphere with light wood decor. Chef Robert serves unique grilled salmon and artful sushi blends. Guests enjoy carefully paired sake while watching chefs craft each dish.

Omakase lunch features fresh, fragrant salmon with a unique grilled flavor. Chef Robert crafts artful, efficient pieces that blend classic and interesting combinations, all with a simple yet unique sushi style.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's omakase is fresh, inventive, and a great value."

"The fresh, inventive fish at these Date Spots is amazing."

"Each piece of sushi was a unique adventure, with distinct flavors."

Good to know

1

The meal costs $155 per person.

2

The restaurant offers a $55 lunch omakase that is a great value.

3

There is a $95 menu and a $115 premium menu.

25
PlantShed image 1
Florist

Space blends floral arrangements with a cozy coffee shop vibe. Spacious seating indoors and out invites relaxation. Dogs roam freely, adding to the calm atmosphere. Unique plants catch the eye, making it a standout spot in the neighborhood.

Unique floral arrangements stand out here, offering a different experience from typical plant shops. The selection includes some distinctive plants that catch the eye in this neighborhood.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the fresh, tasty coffee here."

"The tea here is served in a beautiful, calm, and green space."

"I found the floral arrangements here to be so unique."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed inside Plantshed.

2

The kitchen at the coffee shop closes a bit early.

3

There aren't many outlets available in the coffee shop.

26
Tiki Chick image 1
Tiki bar

Lively tiki bar shines with Art Deco Tiki style and inventive cocktails like the pickle painkiller. Outdoor metal rocking chairs and couches offer a relaxed vibe despite loud music. Unique food such as spam, egg, and cheese on a doughnut sandwich adds to the distinct menu.

Unique drinks include a pickle painkiller and a pickle frozen drink that stand out for their refreshing taste. Food options like the spam, egg, and cheese on a doughnut sandwich add to the distinct menu offerings.

People are saying

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

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

"The drinks here are so fun and creative."

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.

27
Parla image 1
Restaurant

Modern space blends airy design with intimate seating, creating a cozy yet vibrant vibe. Signature pepperoni meatballs and pizzas with a spicy honey twist offer unique flavors. Well-crafted cocktails add to the fun, lively atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Pepperoni meatballs stand out with their unique flavor. Pizzas come with a spicy honey twist, and sauces served on the side offer a fresh take on classic tastes.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so flavorful and spicy."

"The hot hunny pizza is insane, a perfect combo of savory, sweet, and heat."

"The food here is simple and classic, with a unique and fresh take."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch to avoid long wait times.

2

The wait time to be seated can be around 35 minutes during busy hours.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, featuring a lift and spacious seating.

Discover more

Central Park West Historic District, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...