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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Union Square

Upscale spots

A desire for a refined experience calls for a space that feels elevated. It is about finding a place that prioritizes a polished atmosphere.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 1
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 2
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 3
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Elegant dining space with an open glass ceiling sets a calm, romantic mood. Cocktails offer unique flavors that pair well with a fully vegan menu. Dim lighting and classic silverware add an upscale touch, perfect for intimate, special occasions.

Elegant ambience features dim lighting, classic silverware, and fine-dining table settings that create an elevated evening. Flavors come rich with presentation matching the sophisticated vibe.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is outstanding and incredibly flavorful."

"The desserts here are rich, citrusy, and a perfect sweet finish."

"The atmosphere here is elegant with warm lighting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested for the upper level to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The restaurant offers a unique vegan menu inspired by the Basque region.

3

Casual wear is acceptable, making it a relaxed dining option.

02
Narkara image 1
Thai restaurant

Stylish, modern design meets authentic Thai art for an elegant atmosphere. Unique Northern and Isaan flavors create a vibrant vibe perfect for any occasion. Ideal for upscale dining with a warm, cozy charm.

Stunning interior blends modern fine dining with authentic Thai charm. Atmosphere feels elegant yet warm, fitting for both date nights and dinners with friends.

People are saying

"The food, especially the Roasted Seabass in Banana Leaf, is amazing."

"The elegant vibe here is perfect for a date night."

"It's an elegant spot, perfect for a romantic date night."

Good to know

1

The menu features unique Northern and Northeastern Thai dishes not commonly found in NYC.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

3

Prices are higher than average for Thai cuisine, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

03
Sushi Aozora image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalistic space with dark wood and stone details creates a warm, serene atmosphere around an intimate sushi counter. Elegant bar offers a refined spot to gather before seating. Calm and upscale vibe attracts those seeking precise technique and fresh ingredients.

An elegant bar offers a refined spot to gather before seating, with thoughtful separation between tables. The setting stays quiet and serene, creating a calm and upscale atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Omakase is fresh, beautifully presented, and melts in your mouth."

"The atmosphere here is so calm and peaceful."

"The omakase here is an exceptional, meticulously crafted experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The omakase tasting menu changes seasonally, offering a unique experience each visit.

3

Street parking is available after 6pm near the restaurant.

04
La Tazza D'Oro NYC image 1

Spacious cafe boasts an elegant atmosphere with authentic Italian design. Bright, relaxed vibe invites guests to enjoy fresh pastries and rich coffee aromas. Seating is ample and well spaced, blending casual dining with upscale touches.

Elegant atmosphere defines the space with a thoughtfully designed interior featuring an authentic Italian touch. The overall vibe feels upscale and refined.

People are saying

"The pastries here are flaky, flavorful, and feel like Italy."

"This lunch spot's lasagna is the best I've ever had."

"It's an elegant and beautiful place, truly like Italy."

Good to know

1

The cafe serves lunch from 12โ€“3 pm and offers fresh salads all day.

2

Expect the cafe to be busy, especially around lunchtime.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
La Dong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot offers charming contemporary design with rattan lotus lights and a friendly vibe. Service is elegant and efficient, perfect for casual or special nights. Enjoy exceptional pho and grilled turmeric branzino with unique Vietnamese gin cocktails.

Service feels elegant and efficient. Atmosphere blends cozy with elegant, fitting both casual and special occasions.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The Wagyu Pho here has an excellent, flavorful broth."

"The banh xeo's crispy edges and fragrant filling are amazing."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make a reservation before visiting.

2

La Dong charges almost $30 for its bรบn bรฒ Huแบฟ.

3

The restaurant could accommodate a big party of 20 people.

06
Mission Ceviche Union Square image 1

Peruvian spot blends chic minimalist decor with a laidback yet sophisticated vibe. Live DJ spins, boosting the lively and refined atmosphere. Authentic ceviche pairs perfectly with expertly crafted cocktails for a top dining experience.

Laidback yet sophisticated vibe sets the tone. Music adds a lively and refined touch to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is outstanding and tastes so fresh."

"The cocktails here are creative and amazing."

"The upscale ceviche is so fresh and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations may be canceled without notice, so confirm before visiting.

2

Expect high prices for dishes, reflecting elevated Peruvian cuisine.

3

Mocktails advertised may not be available, so check beforehand.

07
15 EAST @ Tocqueville image 1
French restaurant

Dining room offers an intimate ambiance with profound silence that sharpens every sound. Decor blends refined elegance and dramatic beauty, creating a romantic and glamorous setting. Wine pairings stand out for their smoothness and flavor, enhancing the overall experience with refined decor and smooth wine pairings.

Atmosphere feels elegant and romantic with a refined decor blending cultural influences.

People are saying

"The food here is extraordinary, especially the pasta with uni."

"It's perfect for a romantic date night with candles and flowers."

"The atmosphere here is beautiful and elegant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure availability.

2

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% tip on all bills.

3

Vegan options can be prepared on short notice if requested.

08
Cafe Zaffri image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Elegant dining shines under a peaked glass ceiling that floods the space with light. Cozy yet chic, the room blends modern booths with a stylish lounge and cocktail area. Perfect for groups or pairs seeking a balanced mix of dining and drinks in an upscale vibe.

An elegant dining room sits beyond a cafe and cocktail area under a peaked glass ceiling that creates a dramatic, photo-worthy space. Booths in the main dining room combine modern and elegant design with a great ambiance.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing and unique."

"The cafe's vibe and decor are immaculate and gorgeous."

"It's an elegant establishment with stunning ambiance."

Good to know

1

The food and drink menus are extensive without being overwhelming.

2

There are gluten-friendly options and substitutions available.

3

The menu is perfect for sharing, making it great for larger groups.

09
Martinyโ€™s image 1
Cocktail bar

Two-story bar blends exposed brick charm with elegant cocktails crafted with precision. Upstairs lounge offers a cigar-bar vibe and cozy seating, while downstairs buzzes with lively bartender chats. Intimate space invites long, sophisticated stays.

Elegant cocktails showcase precision and creative flavors with a fresh twist. The atmosphere feels cozy and warm, inviting long stays in a sophisticated setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails are inventive, stunning, and delicious."

"The upstairs seating area is so cozy and intimate."

"The upscale cocktails here are elegant, inventive, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 2-3 weeks in advance as the bar is often booked.

2

Expect cocktails to cost between $20 and $30 each.

3

You must be seated to order a drink.

10
Dear Irving Gramercy image 1

Speakeasy-style bar offers dim lighting and plush seating for an intimate, upscale experience. Buzzers for service and a rooftop with city skyline views add charm. Live music and themed rooms create a romantic, classy vibe.

An elegant and intimate bar with a sophisticated, moody ambiance creates a cozy, romantic vibe. Beautifully themed rooms and well-put decor add to the upscale feel.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were amazing."

"This cocktail bar has a timeless, speakeasy charm with dim lights."

"It's an intimate, elegant space perfect for a romantic evening."

Good to know

1

It is strongly recommended to have advanced reservations.

2

If you have more than 2-3 people in your group, you need a reservation.

3

DI gets crowded, so make a reservation.

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