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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the UES

Lunch and dinner spots

A place that serves both lunch and dinner with the same level of attention instead of treating the midday shift as a lesser version of the night.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated April 2026
01
L'Osteria image 1
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Italian restaurant

Small room with intimate seating and large windows creates a cozy vibe for lunch and dinner. Outdoor area offers space and a nice atmosphere for groups. Quiet, relaxed setting fits well for calm evenings and smooth cappuccinos.

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.

Dinner offers wonderful dishes in an intimate and quiet atmosphere. It suits gatherings with friends and family well.

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 service at these dinner spots is fantastic and accommodating."

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 offers a chic vibe. Lunch shines with crispy fried zucchini and warm, kind service. Dinner suits birthdays and family meals with attentive, friendly hospitality and a great wine list.

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.

Dinner features attentive service and a friendly atmosphere. It suits occasions like birthdays and casual meals with family.

People are saying

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

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

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the pasta dishes."

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
Tang By Mr Sun 唐 image 1
Asian restaurant

Upscale Asian restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with stylish decor and thoughtful details like well-spaced tables and flattering lighting. The space feels calm and refined, supporting quiet conversation despite occasional loud moments. Creative food presentation and stunning cocktails add to the sophisticated vibe.

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.

Dinner here offers an excellent meal with a consistently incredible experience. The timing around 7 pm suits a relaxed evening.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are visually impressive and flavorful."

"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.

04
ZOI MEDITERRANEAN UES image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine in a four-course lunch menu featuring Red Lentil Soup and Zucchini Pancakes. Dinner offers personalized service and cozy outdoor seating perfect for special occasions. Live jazz and signature cocktails create a classy atmosphere throughout.

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.

Dinner features outdoor seating and personalized service with staff making efforts to enhance special occasions. The menu offers great suggestions and pairs well with evening entertainment.

People are saying

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

"The live music here is amazing and creates a lively atmosphere."

"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.

05
Antonucci Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy spot with eclectic artwork offers a refined Italian dining experience. Lunch features a prix fixe menu with great value. Dinner serves sage tortelli and saffron rice cake in generous portions for an early meal.

Offers a prix fixe lunch menu with three courses for $29. Provides an outstanding value and a good deal for lunch.

Dinner here features dinner-sized portions with dishes like sage tortelli and saffron rice cake with mushrooms that suit an early meal.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is perfectly executed and gluten-free friendly."

"It's a cozy place with a warm, intimate atmosphere."

"I had a wonderful dinner, the food was delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are by phone only and recommended due to high demand.

2

The kitchen closes at 10:20 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

The lunch prix fixe menu is $29 for three courses, offering great value.

06
Water & Wheat Upper East image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy room with fresh pasta shines for both lunch and dinner. Lunch offers quick, tasty specials like vodka sauce pasta and chicken parm sandwich. Dinner suits intimate meals or family celebrations with reasonable prices and a quiet, authentic vibe.

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.

Fresh pasta stands out as a dinner highlight with reasonable prices around $100 for two including drinks and dessert. The spot suits intimate dinners or takeout and works well for family celebrations after a day out.

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."

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.

07
Amarena image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a beautiful interior with classic yet trendy decor and a marble bar that creates a romantic, classy atmosphere. The space feels lively and noisy, fostering a communal vibe where people often talk to neighbors, especially at the bar. Outdoor seating provides a quieter, pleasant alternative with nice music and decor.

Small restaurant offers lunch and dinner options. Outdoor seating fills up quickly on weekends.

Dinner here draws a crowd for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Sitting at the bar feels like joining a community magnet with a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The service for dinner spots here is amazing and makes the night feel special."

"Miguel is the soul of the place, a true hospitality magician."

"I found the pasta at this Lunch Spot to be the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy after 9pm.

2

There is no dress code at the restaurant.

3

Serving sizes are small, so consider ordering sides.

08
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.

Portions come ginormous and often leave leftovers. The spot suits casual dinners with friends, family, or colleagues, including groups with kids. It works well for weekday dinners or after a museum visit.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here have such attentive and welcoming service."

"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.

09
Home Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small American restaurant offers cozy, laid-back atmosphere with casual, relaxing decor and outside seating. The vibe is kid- and dog-friendly, creating an inviting space near cultural spots. Tables on the street add some noise, but overall energy stays pleasant and welcoming.

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.

Dinners feature great portions like lamb shank and chicken with delicious flavors. The atmosphere stays lively and suits both lunch and dinner times.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

"The staff here are so friendly and attentive at dinner 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.

10
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.

Sophisticated dinner offers a leisurely pace with high prices that match the value. Staff like Kevin and Marco create a special atmosphere for occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

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

"The coffee service here is fantastic and truly stood out."

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

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.

11
Mighty Quinn's Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious setting with modern decor and plenty of seating creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed atmosphere. The team brings fun energy and the place maintains cleanliness throughout.

Lunch bowls come with rice, two sides, and a meat. The pulled pork and Brussels sprouts stand out as highlights. Lunch specials offer a lot of food for around $13, making it a solid deal.

Filling portions make dinner satisfying here. Service is smooth and efficient, with staff like Marie helping keep things easy.

People are saying

"The brisket and pulled pork here are amazing American Food."

"The lunch special is a great deal for $13."

"The manager Richard is polite and efficient with dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $13 and includes a pulled pork sandwich or brisket rice bowl.

2

Expect a $2 upcharge for the lunch rice bowl from the posted price.

3

Delivery is fast, but ensure to check for included napkins and utensils.

12
Thai At Lex image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space holds about 16 people with intimate seating and cozy atmosphere. Outdoor area offers well-decorated, aesthetic dining with a Southeast Asian vibe from fruit and vegetable decor. Noise levels vary, sometimes becoming loud depending on crowd.

Affordable lunch options include starters, salads, noodles, fried rice, and curry priced around 15 USD. Service stays quick and friendly even during busy lunch hours, making it a solid choice for a quick bite.

Small spot offers quick lunch or dinner options. Good choice when in a pinch for a fast meal.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be excellent and super tasty."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious, especially the basil chicken."

"The drunken noodles at this Lunch Spot were amazing."

Good to know

1

Limited seating is available, so call ahead or order take out.

2

The lunch special is $14 and includes soup, appetizer, and any entree dish.

3

Prices are very reasonable for Manhattan and the Upper East Side.

13
Butterfield Market image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Bright, clean space with beautifully arranged displays and a cozy, elegant atmosphere creates a neighborhood feel. Outdoor seating with benches invites relaxation while enjoying the lively surroundings. Classical music adds a refined touch to the shopping experience.

Bright, clean space offers fresh produce, yummy desserts, and a variety of lunch and dinner options. Quick bites and coffee make it a solid choice for lunch.

Bright, clean space offers fresh produce and a variety of lunch and dinner options. Thanksgiving dinner items like turkey, stuffing, and gravy are available for order.

People are saying

"This market has a spectacular selection of fresh, delicious prepared foods."

"This lunch spot has a fantastic selection of fresh, gourmet foods."

"I considered their frozen yogurt the best on the Upper East Side."

Good to know

1

Be prepared for a premium price tag that may not match the perceived value.

2

Most items are not marked with prices, so ask for details.

3

Butterfield Market offers a unique experience with high-quality food.

14
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.

Arriving early helps secure a table for two without a reservation. Food and service stay consistently good during dinner.

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 at these dinner spots is fresh and delicious."

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.

15
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Automat-style dumpling spot shines with self-checkout lockers and autonomous delivery for a high-tech feel. Lunch specials offer great deals and steady service, while dinner takeout remains reliable. Fun vibe with games and music suits all ages.

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

Offers reliable options for dinner takeout when not cooking. Welcomes guests for both lunch and dinner with consistent service.

People are saying

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

"This is my favorite local spot for lunch."

"You've got to try the dumplings at these dinner spots."

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.

16
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.

Dinner features a 17-course omakase priced at $155. The sushi counter offers a fine dining experience within about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

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 fresh fish at these dinner spots is amazing."

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.

17
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.

Dinner here suits special celebrations with thoughtful touches like roses for anniversaries. Booking on a Monday evening is easy, and the spot works well for family-friendly dinners or casual nights out.

People are saying

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

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and friendly."

"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.

18
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.

Dinner features amazing tacos and delicious dishes. The spot offers a bar area for drinks during dinner.

People are saying

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

"The dinner here is delicious, especially the amazing tacos."

"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.

19
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.

Dinner features exceptional food and great service from start to finish. The setting includes dark-stained wood seating and live piano music, creating a Vienna-like atmosphere.

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."

"The dinner spots here feel like old Vienna with classic Austro-Hungarian dishes."

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.

20
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.

Dinner here features excellent food and attentive service that lets conversations flow without interruption. It suits both intimate meals and group celebrations.

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 dinner portions here are large and delicious."

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.

21
Xi'an Famous Foods 西安名吃 | Upper East Side 78th&2nd image 1

Fast casual dining offers spicy dishes perfect for lunch with quick service. Dinner brings long queues and a lively crowd, while authentic flavors keep portions satisfying. Tight communal seating adds to the cozy atmosphere throughout the day.

Spicy, casual Chinese dishes make it a solid lunch spot. Quick service suits a busy midday meal, with consistent satisfaction whether for lunch or dinner.

Dinner draws a crowded atmosphere with long queues forming early. Portions stay decently sized, and some dishes like liangpi sell out quickly by dinner time.

People are saying

"I found the noodles to be authentic, chewy, and perfectly spicy."

"This lunch spot's hand-pulled noodles with chili oil are delicious."

"The noodles here are packed with flavor and have a great chewy texture."

Good to know

1

The liangpi sells out by dinner time, so get it early.

2

Be prepared to wait during peak times.

3

The price you see listed is what they charge, no tax or tip.

22
Ollie’s To Go: Upper East Side image 1

Chinese takeout spot offers a clean, cozy atmosphere with self-serve hot tea and water. Menu features large, flavorful dim sum and affordable lunch specials. The vibe stays calm and welcoming, making it a straightforward choice for quick meals.

Lunch specials include meat, vegetables, and a side for about 12 USD. The spot serves solid Chinese American dishes and offers consistent value during lunch hours.

Dinner portions match lunch sizes but keep the same price. Quick dinners work well here with straightforward service.

People are saying

"I found the pork dumplings juicy and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food that isn't greasy."

"The dinner portions here are like lunch portions, but you still pay dinner prices."

Good to know

1

There is a 4% surcharge called 'processing fee' if you pay by credit card.

2

Paying cash at Ollie's provides a better price.

3

The delivery took an hour and a half from 12 blocks away.

23
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.

Offers both grab-and-go and sit-down options for dinner. Lobster dishes come from frozen TV dinners.

People are saying

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

"It's a lifesaver for dinner spots when everyone wants something different."

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

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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