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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Sandwiches and salads in the UES

A salad or sandwich that feels like a real meal rather than a rushed desk lunch.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Water & Wheat Upper East image 1
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Italian restaurant

Long rectangular room centers on fresh pasta making station with an open kitchen nearby. Cozy, quiet atmosphere feels like a neighborhood dining room with stained wood and cozy lighting. Small space hosts families and individuals enjoying an authentic Italian American vibe.

Salads feature fresh artisanal greens and include options like the Mista salad and panzanella salad, which offers a refreshing taste.

Crunchy bread supports chicken parm and eggplant Parmesan sandwiches filled with tasty ingredients. The meatball sandwich stands out for its flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

"The salads here are super fresh and flavorful."

"I found the sandwiches here generous and very tasty."

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.

02
Tamam by Soom Soom image 1
Falafel restaurant

Small indoor space with limited seating and a cozy outdoor area featuring bar stools and heat lamps. Atmosphere mixes lively Latino music with attempts at a Middle Eastern vibe, creating a unique but sometimes conflicting energy. Outdoor seating invites people-watching and casual dining.

Salads feature fresh, organic ingredients like Israeli salad, pickles, and tahini. Bowls combine colorful, fresh toppings such as cauliflower, hummus, quinoa, and pickled veggies, often served with pita for a healthy meal.

Falafel sandwiches stand out with perfect seasoning and fresh pita. Shawarma and eggplant sandwiches also show great care in preparation, offering vegan options that pair well with hummus.

People are saying

"I found the falafel pita to be excellent and perfectly crisp."

"The falafel sandwich here is fresh and perfectly crisp."

"The falafel salad is delicious and perfectly crisp."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 8 PM.

2

The prices are high, with a simple bowl of hummus and falafel costing $20.

3

Everything on the menu is vegan.

03
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.

Salads feature artichoke in multiple versions, including a standout arugula mix. Options range from savory potato to light, refreshing choices like the garden and roast beet goat cheese salads.

Simple, high-quality sandwiches make lunch reliable here. The portobello sandwich stands out as particularly satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

"I found the restaurant to be very cozy and warm."

"I found their sandwiches to be simple and high-quality."

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.

04
Xi'an Famous Foods 西安名吃 | Upper East Side 78th&2nd image 1

Chinese noodle restaurant offers fast casual dining with tight communal seating and a no-frills atmosphere. The space feels authentic and clean, focusing on regional dishes served in a small, cozy setting. Loud, casual energy fills the room, with seating arranged side-by-side rather than across.

Spicy cucumber salad stands out with its balanced flavors and works well as an appetizer. It pairs often with the cumin lamb sandwich and complements dishes like hand-pulled noodles and silky tofu.

The cumin lamb sandwich stands out with a solid serving size and bold flavor. The shredded pork option resembles a crispy outside with a soft inside, like a mix between a hot pocket and pita.

People are saying

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

"The spicy cucumber salad here is divine."

"The cumin lamb sandwich is divine."

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.

05
Hoexter's image 1
New American restaurant

Warm, cozy rooms with unique decor and wildlife murals create a Hollywood glam vibe. The space feels narrow and intimate, with a lively atmosphere that can get loud near the bar and hostess stand. It attracts a neighborhood crowd looking for a special occasion spot with standout cocktails and rich, flavorful dishes.

Salads here include a chopped salad, Caesar salad, and a special burrata salad. The Little Gem Salad and Brussels salad also stand out for their freshness and flavor.

The sandwich menu features a chicken parm special and a steak sandwich rated 8 out of 10. The mortadella egg sandwich stands out but could use more crispiness and less jam for better balance.

People are saying

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

"The chopped salad was delicious and the burrata salad was amazing."

"The steak sandwich here is a must-try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

2

There is a $3.00 extra charge for olives in the Martini.

3

You need to order a full dinner to have drinks at a seated table in the bar area.

06
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.

Salads here stand out with fresh ingredients and unique touches. The Caesar salad offers a crunchy texture and a just-sweet-enough dressing that elevates the classic.

The spicy chicken sandwich stands out for its large size and heavy sauce coverage. The hot sauce leans sweet, which changes the flavor of the well-cooked chicken.

People are saying

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

"I thought the burger here was one of the best I ever had."

"I loved their spicy chicken sandwich; it was out of this world."

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.

07
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.

Freshness stands out with the crab salad and shaved fennel offering a crisp, slightly sweet bite. The artichoke salad and Caprese salad serve as popular starters, showcasing simple, clean flavors.

Prosciutto crudo sandwiches rival those in Italy with San Daniele, tuna, and artichoke combinations. Tons of healthy options and a good selection of small sandwiches and pastries make it easy to grab something quick.

People are saying

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

"The salads here are large and perfectly dressed."

"I loved the San Daniele, tuna, and artichoke sandwich."

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.

08
Butterfield Market - Lexington image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with upscale ambiance and cozy, stylish interior. Offers unique frozen yogurt to-go window and high-quality prepared foods. Space feels compact with tight aisles, attracting busy locals seeking premium items.

Salads come in big, hearty portions with fresh ingredients. Options include tarragon chicken salad and several dressings, all priced just under 13 dollars.

Store-made sandwiches feature tarragon chicken salad and steak quesadillas. Pastries and chips accompany the very good sandwiches and salads.

People are saying

"The grocery store cashier, Anika, was always smiling and gentle."

"I found the sandwiches and pastries to be very excellent."

"The salads here are big, hearty, and fresh."

Good to know

1

The prices for produce and prepared food are the highest you have ever seen.

2

Be careful when eating food here due to potential health risks.

3

Customers should get their credit card ready for high-priced items.

09
Don Filippo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy, quaint dining space with classic Italian decor and a small outdoor seating area featuring a gazebo and plants. Atmosphere is lively and inviting, enhanced by Italian music and well-stocked tables with traditional seasonings. The vibe remains consistent, offering a comfortable and peaceful setting.

Phil salad stands out as a special with strong flavors. Other salads like the chicken Caesar come simple, mostly just lettuce, chicken, and dressing, and can be bland.

Meatball Parm and Eggplant Parm sandwiches come in generous sizes. Mini sandwiches roll in garlic knots and sandwich bites offer flavorful, compact options.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"I usually ordered the house salad with grilled chicken; it was always fresh."

"You have to try the Chicken Parmesan mini sandwiches rolled in garlic knots."

Good to know

1

Basic pizzas are $3.5 a slice and elaborate ones are $5.5.

2

The deal for 2 plain pizzas and 1 drink is $6.5.

3

Portions are decent; one menu item is enough for lunch.

10
fresh&co image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant resembles a subway with a fancy style and offers a clean, relaxed vibe ideal for quick, healthy meals. Atmosphere feels friendly and family-oriented with positive energy and quiet seating. Food focuses heavily on kale and healthy options, with sandwiches and bowls standing out.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like organic quinoa, avocado, and blackened chicken with a light balsamic vinaigrette. Tuna salads stand out with well-cooked, seasoned fish that adds satisfying flavor.

Super sandwiches use top ingredients and amazing bread. Options like the chicken fresco and salmon on pumpernickel stand out for freshness and flavor.

People are saying

"The healthy food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I enjoyed the best salads with fresh ingredients."

"Their sandwiches are super with top ingredients and amazing bread."

Good to know

1

The store has a happy hour with discounted drinks.

2

Expect minimal wait times during lunch hours.

3

You can order food for takeout or dine in.

11
maman image 1
Coffee shop

Cafe blends 19th century decor with a green garden patio feel, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Laptop-free policy encourages relaxation and conversation. Outdoor seating and a full espresso bar complement the cozy, quality vibe.

Salads feature smoked salmon and fresh ingredients. The combination offers a delicious and phenomenal taste.

Steak and breakfast sandwiches stand out with rich flavors and satisfying bites. The Katie Chicken and Maman breakfast sandwiches offer delicious, well-crafted options in a cozy setting.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be great, especially the almond croissant."

"I loved the salmon croissant sandwich; it was unreal."

"The smoked salmon salad here is delicious."

Good to know

1

On weekends, you need to order a full breakfast to get a seat.

2

The café has a strict no laptop policy.

3

They do not accept 50 and 100 bills to pay.

12
Grill Point image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small kosher restaurant offers an authentic Israeli atmosphere with a clean, aesthetic interior and well-heated outdoor dining. The space feels inviting and homey despite being crowded at lunch. Presence of native speakers adds to the NYC vibe.

Freshness stands out with every salad served. Options include varied vegetarian choices alongside shawarma and grilled chicken, often paired with pita or laffa bread.

Sandwiches come in pita and laffa varieties with fillings like sabich eggplant. Prices reach about $60 for two sandwiches, but expect cold sandwiches and soggy fries. Staff insists salads stay inside sandwiches and can be unhelpful when asked for extras.

People are saying

"I thought the shawarma here was the best I've ever had."

"The salads here are so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the shawarma sandwich because the veggies tasted fresh."

Good to know

1

Laffa is made on-site in a special oven.

2

Everything is made fresh and in house.

3

Expect a lot of food at catered events.

13
Nightly's image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant combines downtown chic decor with a 60's cocktail lounge vibe and sexy dim lighting. Atmosphere is loud and lively, perfect for dates or gatherings with friends. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option to the energetic indoor space.

Chargrilled Caesar salad stands out with its smoky flavor. Dill-centered salad offers a fresh, herbaceous twist. Both salads pair well with other dishes like short rib and prawns.

Croissant sandwiches come out fluffy and well cooked. Club sandwiches sometimes use the wrong bread and lack bacon, with sauce making the bread soggy and falling apart.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and memorable."

"You have to try the grilled Caesar salad."

"The brunch sandwiches here tasted amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because it gets packed.

2

The bar operates on a first come, first serve basis.

3

The restaurant charges $11 for mashed potatoes.

14
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.

Beet salad stands out with its fresh, flavor-forward taste. Crab meat salad and potato cucumber salad with dill offer solid, classic staples that pair well with other dishes.

Egg sandwiches stand out with spicy egg salad and fresh flavors. Liverwurst and pickled herring sandwiches offer bold, sharp tastes with thin herring slices and plenty of red onions.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the spicy egg salad sandwich."

"I could have eaten two of the crab meat salads; they were fantastic."

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.

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Upper East Side, New York

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