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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the UES

Lunch date spots

A lunch date requires a setting that feels intentional.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
L'Osteria image 1
L'Osteria image 2
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Italian restaurant

Small room with intimate seating and large windows creates a cozy vibe. Lunch features delectable dishes perfect for groups or solo diners. Outdoor area offers space and a beautiful setting ideal for dates and celebrations.

Lunch offers delectable dishes that satisfy groups and individuals alike. Outdoor seating adds a nice atmosphere while cappuccinos provide a smooth finish to the meal.

Offers a beautiful setting ideal for intimate lunches and small group celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Caesar salad with extra Parmesan."

"This Lunch Spot's food is mighty tasty and delicious."

"The pasta here is spectacular, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is quite small.

2

Customers have the option to pay the bill via a QR code.

3

The restaurant charges 16 dollars for sparkling water.

02
Masseria East image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant space with white tablecloths and modern decor creates a chic vibe. Lunch features crispy fried zucchini and cacio e pepe with kind service. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, making it a comfortable spot for dates with refined hospitality.

Lunch offers a sophisticated Italian culinary experience with dishes like crispy fried shoe string zucchini and cacio e pepe. Service is kind and welcoming, making the meal enjoyable from start to finish.

Good ambiance sets a relaxed tone. It works well for a date night with its comfortable vibe.

People are saying

"The Italian food service here is outstanding and attentive."

"The pasta dishes at this lunch spot were superb and fantastic."

"The food here is delicious, a perfect spot for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

3

Expect a warm welcome and accommodating service for families with kids.

03
Water & Wheat Upper East image 1
Italian restaurant

Long room with fresh pasta station and open kitchen offers a cozy, quiet vibe perfect for dates and lunch. Quick service highlights vodka sauce pasta and chicken parm sandwich. Intimate space feels like a neighborhood dining room with stained wood and soft lighting.

Offers a reasonable lunch special with quick service. Pasta dishes with vodka sauce and a chicken parm lunch sandwich stand out, along with perfectly cooked octopus.

Small size creates an intimate atmosphere ideal for dates. The setting works well for catching up and spending quality time together.

People are saying

"The Italian food service here is fantastic, they really took care of us."

"This lunch spot has delicious pasta and sandwiches."

"The pasta here is fresh daily and just flat-out delicious for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation before visiting to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The price for two people is about $100 without tip.

04
Mykonian House - Authentic Greek Restaurant image 1

Small and cozy space offers a Greek Island ambience with bright, charming decor. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can be noisy and crowded with tables close together. Food features fresh fish and flavorful dishes alongside well-chosen Greek wines and cocktails.

Lunch offers a prix fixe menu with ample portions at a reasonable price. The spot handles large parties smoothly, making group lunches easy and enjoyable.

The spot offers a cute atmosphere ideal for date night or a spring lunch. It suits casual, relaxed outings with a charming vibe.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the souvlaki and tzatziki, is amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is excellent and fresh."

"The food here is great for date spots, especially the grilled octopus."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The lunch prix fixe costs $35 and includes three courses.

3

The restaurant allows dining past normal lunch hours.

05
ZOI MEDITERRANEAN UES image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with live jazz music and a sexy, classy atmosphere perfect for dates. Lunch features a four-course menu with highlights like avocado and feta spread. Cozy outdoor seating and warm staff make every visit special.

Lunch offers a special four-course menu with dishes like Red Lentil Soup, Zucchini Pancakes, and Grilled Mediterranean Chicken. The avocado and feta spread stands out, and the lunch specials provide great value.

Super romantic atmosphere sets the tone for a date. Live music and amazing lighting create a memorable night out. Staff greet warmly, ensuring guests feel taken care of.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean dinner spots here have fresh, well-balanced flavors."

"The food and atmosphere make these Date Spots amazing."

"Emre took great care of us at the Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals.

3

Brunch is served until 4 PM on weekends.

06
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Automat-style dumpling restaurant with self-checkout lockers and autonomous delivery system creates a high-tech, casual vibe. Games and music requests add to the fun, welcoming atmosphere suitable for all ages. Seating includes stools and the space features cool murals and modern decor.

Lunch offers a great deal with specials that draw regular visits. Service stays consistently good, making it a reliable spot for a midday meal.

Varied dishes create a casual vibe for couples sharing meals. The spot draws interest from social media, making it a known choice for relaxed date spots with a focus on comfort food.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked."

"This is my favorite local spot for lunch."

"The service here makes Date Spots feel so special and attentive."

Good to know

1

Customers must pay by credit card or on their phone; cash is not accepted.

2

Expect a long wait time, especially during peak hours.

3

The kitchen closes 20 minutes before the official closing time.

07
Tang By Mr Sun 唐 image 1
Asian restaurant

Upscale Asian restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with stylish decor and thoughtful lighting. Happy hour features a three-course meal for $30, making it a great lunch spot. Affordable pricing and calm vibe create a perfect date spot for intimate evenings.

Happy hour offers a three-course meal for $30 plus tax, which stands out as a solid lunch deal. Food quality impresses, with everything tasting amazing during midday visits.

Affordable pricing makes it easy to enjoy a night out. The spot suits both intimate dates and small gatherings with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the duck."

"The food here is amazing, carefully prepared, and beautifully plated."

"You have to try the lychee shrimp balls at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are currently available but may fill up quickly.

2

The average meal cost is around $30-40 per person.

3

No rice is included with entrees, which is unusual for Asian cuisine.

08
Home Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Cozy spot offers laid-back atmosphere perfect for dates and casual meals. Lunch features Italian dishes and simple sandwiches. Outdoor seating adds charm, making it a kid- and dog-friendly place near cultural spots.

Lunch features a mix of Italian dishes and simple, high-quality sandwiches. The Brunch Platter offers a blend of breakfast favorites for a relaxed meal.

Cozy and charming atmosphere sets a relaxed tone for dates. The spot suits both date nights and casual brunches with a partner.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

"The staff here are so friendly and welcoming for your date spots."

"This is a cozy lunch spot that's very family-friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferable for groups larger than three.

2

Happy hour oysters are $2 each from 12 to 5 pm, Monday to Thursday.

3

The restaurant serves brunch on Saturdays and has an all-day brunch menu on Sundays.

09
Super Taste image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small dining space with bright lighting and a family-run atmosphere creates an inviting, clean environment. The air carries aromas of simmering broth and spices, drawing attention to authentic Chinese flavors. A kiosk speeds up service in this busy, no-frills setting.

Incredible hospitality stands out during lunch here. The menu offers several excellent dishes that make it a solid lunch spot.

Effort goes into accommodating dietary restrictions with clear guidance on what to avoid. Sharing dishes like Mount Qi noodles works well, and soups come with extra broth for a second meal.

People are saying

"The owner and his son made the dumplings a highlight."

"I loved the spicy beef noodle soup and homemade chili oil."

"The owner and his son made the experience so fun and personal."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom for customers.

2

Prices are doubled for this location.

3

One bowl can probably feed 2-3 people.

10
Emmy Squared Pizza: Upper East Side image 1

Urban chic space with an outdoor terrace offers a fresh vibe and artisanal pizza that stands out. Atmosphere tends to be loud, making conversation challenging during busy times. Group dinners fit well with long tables and reservation options.

Casual lunch features pepperoni and olive pizza with attentive outdoor service. It suits a relaxed meal after visiting nearby attractions.

Casual dinners with a good vibe make this spot fit for a chill date or a night out after the Met. The setting works well for relaxed meals with friends or couples.

People are saying

"Our server Cesar was so attentive and asked about allergies."

"The Detroit-style pizza here is amazing, especially the crispy, caramelized cheese edge."

"The Detroit style pizza at this Lunch Spot did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

The pizza place stops taking orders at 8:30 PM.

2

Make a reservation to avoid a wait, especially for parties of 4 or more.

3

You will experience a one-hour wait at this place during peak times.

11
Noz Market image 1
Sushi restaurant

Standing-only sushi bar features minimalist Japanese-inspired design and a modern, intimate atmosphere. The space includes a unique hand roll bar with about 4-5 standing seats and a few tables tucked behind drapes. The vibe is casual yet focused, with a fast pace and authentic Japanese touches.

Lunch features an omakase with about nine courses priced at $85 plus tax and service. The meal offers high-quality dishes with affordable pricing and no compromises.

Special occasions often bring couples here for intimate celebrations. The atmosphere earns strong approval from those familiar with authentic Japanese dining.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is a mesmerizing performance of fresh, well-cut fish."

"The fish here is super fresh and expertly cut."

"The sushi chef's showmanship makes it a great Date Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-5 PM Monday to Friday with $10 hand rolls.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to every bill.

3

The restaurant randomly closes without notice, so check ahead.

12
Café Sabarsky image 1
Austrian restaurant

Wood-paneled dining room with a marble fireplace creates an authentic Austrian atmosphere. Live piano music with jazzy improvisations adds a refined musical ambiance. Small, cozy space fills with guests who appreciate classic Viennese café vibes and elegant design.

Lunch offers a tasty and hassle-free experience with options suitable for a family brunch or a quick meal before museum visits. Expect a long wait sometimes, but the food and vibe make it worth it.

Off the beaten path, this spot suits a fall or winter date with a quiet, intimate vibe. It works well for peaceful solo time or a romantic meal.

People are saying

"The desserts here are a must-try, with substantial menu options."

"This lunch spot's Austrian cuisine and desserts are a must-try."

"We waited 20 minutes past our reservation time for our Date Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on Friday evenings.

2

If you do not make reservations in advance, you will encounter wait time.

3

Dining at Café Sabarsky after 5pm allows for no wait and similar costs compared to breakfast.

13
Sant Ambroeus Madison image 1
Italian restaurant

Medium-sized Italian restaurant with timeless, effortlessly chic interior and impeccable decor. Atmosphere feels cozy yet cramped, blending traditional elegance with a ritualistic Milanese vibe. Features include a walk-up coffee bar and a dessert and pastry counter, enhancing the authentic experience.

Lunch features artichoke salad, Bolognese, and tenderloin tartar appetizer served with beautiful presentation. Food suits a leisurely and sophisticated midday meal.

Weekend brunch and quick breakfasts offer a lovely experience with amazing pastas like Tagliatelle Bolognese. Dessert options are not available here.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is excellent, especially the pasta."

"The coffee and pastries at this Lunch Spot are a delight."

"The service at these date spots is so kind and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Sant Ambroeus Madison.

2

A $4 surcharge applies for sharing a salad as an appetizer.

3

The burger costs $40, making it one of the pricier menu items.

14
Sistina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an elegant interior with artistic decor evoking Italy and old New York. Atmosphere varies from quiet and reserved to loud and crowded, often filled with older diners. Wine selections stand out as exquisite and well-curated.

Lunch features delicious wines paired with meals. Meals suit family gatherings and special occasions like anniversaries.

Excellent ambience creates a great setting for date nights. The spot also works well for lunch dates with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The Italian food's pastas were absolutely delicious, perfectly cooked with rich flavors."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the artichokes."

"The food here is like a dream straight out of Italy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are difficult to secure on weekends; book well in advance.

2

Expect high prices, with some specials exceeding $120 per plate.

3

The restaurant has a strict 'no children' policy.

15
Serafina Fabulous Pizza 79th (UES) image 1

Italian restaurant offers lively atmosphere with close table seating and attractive space that feels like the Mediterranean. Outdoor and rooftop seating provide heated, cozy spots with views of bustling street life. Energy stays bright and buoyant, especially in warmer months when rooftop opens.

Bright and airy setting suits a casual lunch or a lunch date. Tables are available without reservation, and the spot welcomes families for lunch or dinner.

Bright and airy setting suits lunch dates well. The spot works for casual or dinner dates with a consistently good vibe and wine options like Syrah and a notably sweet Pinot Noir.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and divine."

"The pizzas here are crave-worthy, perfect for date spots."

"The pizza here is so satisfying and crave-worthy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as there is no waiting area.

2

The restaurant is not accessible for those with mobility issues due to stairs.

3

Expect high prices that may not justify the dining experience.

16
Toloache image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy, romantic atmosphere and a quiet, private outdoor patio. Space feels tight but extends deep, featuring tasteful decor and lively Latin music that energizes the room. Known for house-made margaritas and authentic tacos with unique fillings.

Casual lunches happen here often with a friendly server joining midway. The spot suits a relaxed afternoon meal after nearby activities.

Shadowy, cozy vibe creates a relaxed setting for a casual date night. Atmosphere suits a special meal or intimate evening perfectly.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is fantastic, especially the tacos."

"The Date Spots here have amazing, authentic Mexican food and drinks."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is really tasty with rich flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to avoid being turned away.

2

The kitchen closes early at 8pm if there are no reservations.

3

Expect to spend $30-50 per person for a family-style meal.

17
Tokugawa Sushi Restaurant image 1

Intimate sushi restaurant with a small, elegant setting and cozy corner space. Atmosphere feels tight but pleasant, with fresh, premium sushi prepared by multiple chefs behind the counter. Outdoor seating offers views of the city and adds to the experience.

Lunch fills up fast here with no lunch special bento box available. It suits a quick lunch but expect a busy spot during midday.

Intimate setting suits date night well. Staff interaction can be intense, as servers may follow up closely on tipping.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be delicious and super fresh."

"The fish at this Lunch Spot is super fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is outstandingly fresh for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

They charge $8 USD for 1 can of pop.

2

This establishment does NOT serve cooked entrees.

3

The menu is limited.

18
Wonder Upper East Side image 1

Space offers plenty of seating with clean, eco-friendly design and real-time order displays. Atmosphere feels cozy and fresh with nice background music and a seamless ordering process. Crowd includes groups of teenagers who can be loud, but overall vibe remains positive.

Offers both grab-and-go and sit-down options for lunch. Salad choices are available, and payment can include promos. Refunds may take an extra 5-7 minutes to process during busy times.

Brisket stands out as a shared favorite that brightens the mood. Couples enjoy the flavorful meat together, making it a solid choice for a date.

People are saying

"I was happily surprised by the quality of the food from delivery."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"I loved the delicious food at these Date Spots."

Good to know

1

You can order from multiple restaurants at Wonder in one transaction.

2

The app is user-friendly for ordering from different places.

3

Delivery is consistently on time for all orders.

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Upper East Side, New York

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