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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Midtown East

Upscale casual spots

Made for those who want the ease of a relaxed environment without sacrificing a polished, high-end standard.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
Benny John's Bar and Grill image 1
Benny John's Bar and Grill image 2
Benny John's Bar and Grill image 3
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Live guitar and jazz music create a relaxed, European cafe vibe with comfortable seating both indoors and on a pleasant outdoor patio. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and groups, offering an upscale yet cozy setting with excellent energy throughout.

Atmosphere blends casual and elegant vibes with quaint fine dining style. Dress code stays reasonably casual, fitting both everyday meals and special occasions.

Elegant and glamorous atmosphere sets the tone with top notch service in a peaceful environment. Dishes come in well-prepared portions that match the upscale vibe.

People are saying

"I've never had a steak cooked so perfectly to my preference."

"It's an elegant and relaxed dining experience."

"The seafood here is excellent, truly some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has an all-day happy hour with a variety of appetizers.

2

Happy hour drink specials are available all night at the bar.

3

Reservations are recommended due to high demand during peak times.

02
Copinette image 1
American restaurant

Space combines cozy modern decor with heated outdoor seating offering people watching and a Parisian flair. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing brunch to lively with live jazz and Bossa Nova music. Crowd includes intimate family gatherings and groups enjoying cocktails and private events.

Atmosphere feels casual and cozy with a nice balance between casual and fine dining. Space suits casual meals or brunch gatherings with friends and dates.

Elegant atmosphere blends with a cozy vibe and beautiful decor. Dishes are flavorful and well-crafted, matching the elegant ambiance throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly delicious and crafted with love."

"The food and service here are great for a casual meal."

"The Upscale service was warm, kind, and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made online the same day.

2

The restaurant offers a 3-course lunch for $30 during restaurant week.

3

Happy hour offers good wine by the glass.

03
Charoen Krung Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant decor and cozy ambiance create a warm, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Upstairs party space adds a lively dimension on weekends, while a well-stocked bar offers unique cocktails like lychee martinis and refreshing soju blends. The place balances authentic Thai flavors with a comfortable, airy setting.

Cozy and inviting atmosphere suits casual meals and nights out with friends or family. It works well for a slightly more than casual dinner or lunch with visitors.

Elegant and opulent decor sets a sophisticated ambiance. Drinks come with elegant presentation that matches the warm, refined space.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Upscale short ribs were melt-in-your-mouth tender and rich."

"The food here is bursting with authentic Thai flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-7 PM with specials under $10.

2

Lunch specials include a meal for low $20s with salad and dumplings.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.

04
Santi image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines modern design with warm lighting and plush furniture, creating an intimate and elegant atmosphere. A lively cocktail bar with large windows anchors the entrance, while artful decor adds personality throughout. The vibe suits both upscale dining and comfortable gatherings, making it ideal for date nights or celebrations.

Friendly and casual yet elegant ambiance with comfortable booths. Strict dress code enforces no-hoodie policy, making truly casual attire unwelcome.

A large chandelier made of brass bubbles creates an elegant centerpiece. The atmosphere feels warm and elegant without being stuffy, complemented by a thoughtful wine list with unique selections.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly executed."

"The upscale pasta dishes were outstanding and perfectly executed."

"It's a friendly, casual vibe with an elegant touch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table at peak times.

2

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

Thereโ€™s a $15 per person cake fee for bringing your own dessert.

05
Le Pavillon image 1
French restaurant

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer soaring views of iconic city landmarks, creating a romantic and comfortable atmosphere with high-class NYC energy. The space feels intimate yet spacious, blending lush plants with elegant decor. A well-curated bar complements the refined dining experience.

Offers a casual but delicious meal experience without pretension. Known as a reliable spot for a relaxed dining option after traveling.

Very sophisticated setting with lush gardens and views of Grand Central and the Chrysler Building. Meals use the freshest, highest quality ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The wine list here is excellent, with creative and wonderfully prepared pairings."

"It's an elegant, beautiful space with a calm, sophisticated atmosphere."

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the dining room.

2

The restaurant offers a pre-set menu for Valentine's Day lunch.

3

The Annual Black & White Truffle Dinner is on December 9th.

06
Centurion New York image 1

Bar offers unparalleled city views with a live jazz band enhancing the atmosphere. Energy feels exclusive and classy without being stuffy, attracting a clientele with specific membership requirements. Attention to detail shows in customized napkins and a sophisticated cocktail selection.

The Studio offers a more casual dining space with a beautiful, thoughtfully designed atmosphere. The menu includes items like hamburger and King Salmon, though some dishes may not meet expectations.

Elegant decor sets a sophisticated ambiance that feels upscale without pretension. Food matches the vibe with elegant dishes like the scallops, reflecting impeccable standards.

People are saying

"The views here are spectacular and stunning."

"The upscale views of the NYC skyline were unreal."

"The views of the Manhattan skyline are stunning."

Good to know

1

Reservations are mandatory for dining; walk-ins are not allowed.

2

Only American Express and cash are accepted for payment.

3

The restaurant offers a three-course prix-fixe dinner for $175.

07
Monkey Bar image 1
American restaurant

Bar area features Jazz Age murals and dim, intimate lighting that create an elegant, old-school Manhattan vibe. The space combines classic New York decor with lively jazz music and a bustling bar scene. Patrons enjoy carefully crafted cocktails and a setting that feels like stepping into another era.

Combines elegance with a casual atmosphere. Works well for group dinners ranging from business meetings to family gatherings.

Elegant decor and intimate lighting create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. The vibe blends classic New York charm with a lively, vibrant energy suited for upscale drinks and dining.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the cheeseburger, is outstanding."

"The upscale food, like the truffle fries and vodka pasta, was outstanding."

"The staff's warm welcome made our casual afternoon feel special."

Good to know

1

A reservation is effectively REQUIRED to be seated for dinner service.

2

They take reservations 14 days in advance at 9am.

3

Without wine, expect to spend at least $100-150 for a meal.

08
Smith & Wollensky image 1

Quintessential high-end steakhouse with a loud, boisterous atmosphere and an exclusive club vibe. Spacious layout contrasts with some cramped booths and high air conditioning. An adjoining room offers an intimate bar with skilled mixologists.

The vibe stays pretty casual with lots of half zips and jeans. It suits lunch, dinner, or late-night meals well.

Elegant and cozy atmosphere creates a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. Service is impeccable and fast, with polite and elegant waiters enhancing the American steakhouse ambiance that carries a touch of European style.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the excellent steaks here."

"The upscale steaks here are cooked to perfection, juicy and full of flavor."

"It's a casual place, great for lunch or dinner."

Good to know

1

The "Weekend Wine Dinner" is offered Thursday through Saturday after 8:00 PM for $95 per person.

2

The weekend wine dinner includes 3 courses and unlimited wine for $95.

3

The Prix Fixe promotion is only available on Fridays and Saturdays after 8:30 PM.

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Midtown East, New York

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