The Upper East Side,
NYC Travel Guide
September 10, 2025
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop in NYC’s iconic Upper East Side, according to Tuckernuck.
The Upper East Side Look
Classic, curated, and collected. Fashion is a way of life in Manhattan, and Upper East Siders know how to look polished without trying too hard. Think low-key and luxe, tailored and minimalist, but not afraid to mix in pops of color or unexpected accessories.
Getting There
Fly from any major airport into LGA or JFK, and you’ll be uptown within an hour. Alternatively, take the Amtrak train into Penn Station and grab a quick subway or cab ride uptown. Driving is also an option, but street parking is limited and garages are pricey.
Stroll Central Park
Run the Reservoir or bike around the park. Grab an authentic hot pretzel along the way!
Explore Museum Mile
No matter when you go, The Guggenheim, The Met, and The Frick Collection will have must-see exhibits.
Shop Madison Avenue
Stroll down the city’s best shopping street and for all the fashion inspiration (and a few new finds) you need.
Go to a Classic Diner
Because a trip to NYC isn’t complete without a classic diner meal and milkshake. 3 guys is a favorite
Sip a Cocktail at an Iconic Hotel
Our top choice: A cozy drink at The Lowell’s Jacques.
Upscale and elegant with a homey vibe, uptown hotels offer the best of both worlds: five-star luxury with a more remote feel than the typical hustle and bustle.
The Mark
Gorgeous rooms, a delicious Jean-Georges restaurant (get the shrimp salad!), and steps from Madison Ave shopping.
The Lowell
A stay so inviting you’ll never want to leave. Stop by the lobby bar, Jacques, for a delicious cocktail and a setting that feels like your chic friend’s apartment.
The Carlyle
Having welcomed guests since 1930 (including Princess Diana, JFK, and Jackie O), The Carlyle is a destination for out-of-towners and locals alike. Don’t skip a martini at Bemelmans and dinner at Dowling’s.
The Surrey
Homey meets elegant, with 5th Ave viewsm a spa, and walking distance to Central Park. Be sure to get drinks or dinner at Casa Tua, the iconic Italian Miami restaurant, now in NYC!
From old-school diners to can’t-miss Italian, the Upper East Side has some of the city’s best gems.
Breakfast and Coffee
Bel Ami
A French-inspired cafe that’s a neighborhood mainstay. From classic croissants to shots of espresso, add this inviting spot to your list of UES musts.
Yura on Madison
Don’t sleep on the chocolate chip scones, cinnamon puffs, or pinwheel sandwiches if it’s lunch time.
Picky Barista
Our favorite latte in the city. The vibe is super laid-back and welcoming, too, with bookshelves to browse and cozy wooden tables.
Birch
Small but mighty. There are a few locations, and their lattes with their homemade flavors are the best.
Grab & Go
Butterfield Market
A local staple that’s easy to come back to again and again. Try the hazelnut iced coffee, salads, sushi, frozen yogurt—the list goes on.
Ouri’s Market
A kosher market with delicious (and strong!) cold brew, bagels, homemade smoothies, and prepared foods. Get the hummus tahini wrap if available!
Citarella
More of a grocery store, but if you’re on the go and looking to grab a bite, we recommend their pinwheel sandwiches and freshly squeezed juices.
E.A.T.
From chicken salad to coffee and sandwiches, you can pretty much get anything at Eli Zabar’s original store. There is also a casual restaurant and a gift shop next door not to miss!
Lunch
Via Quadronno
A low-key Italian spot with must-order vegetable soup, paninis, and tiramisu.
J.G. Melon
A cash-only dive with a nostalgic vibe and the city’s best burgers.
EJ’s Luncheonette
A classic diner you’ll frequent for your favorite comfort meal. Plus, they always give you extra when you order a milkshake!
Cafe Sabarsky
Located in The Neue Galerie, Cafe Sabarksy is inspired by cafes in Vienna. With its chic and homey feel, this spot offers authentic German and Austrian cuisine, coffee, and pastries.
Dinner
Caravaggio
An elegant setting and an always delicious Italian menu, Carravaggio is a go-to spot for a special occasion dinner. We equally love Sistina, its sister restaurant!
Bar Italia
A mod Italian restaurant full of cool black-and-white photography and an always friendly vibe. Our favorite dishes: any pasta, the salmon, or the gluten-free chicken milanese (it’s crispier, trust us).
Island
Think nautical yacht club, transported to the heart of Carnegie Hill. The interiors feel like you’re on the coast of Bermuda or New England, and the food is just as good at this casual and welcoming neighborhood spot.
Antonucci Cafe
A cozy and artful Italian spot with a neighborhood feel, bustling vibe, and delicious food. Book in advance!
Chez Fifi
A Parisian-inspired spot nestled in an UES townhouse, with a menu of French classics. Don’t skip the lounge for drinks, the steak with pommes Fifi, and chocolate mousse for dessert.
Kappo Masa
Chef “Masa” and longtime friend and art dealer collaborate to bring you high-end sushi, a setting full of modern art, and beautifully plated dishes. If you’re an omakase lover, look no further.
Marlow East
With interiors reminiscent of a classic townhouse, this new hotspot is a destination for its classic American menu and artful cocktails. We’re ordering the eastsider spritz and the pimiento martini.
Avra
A bit of a scene, but a go-to for old school Italian and a lively vibe. It’s always full of regulars, especially on spaghetti and meatball Wednesdays.
Le Charlot
The Upper East Side's version of a corner in Paris. Come for the steak frites, stay for the people watching.
Jojo
A Jean-Georges gem tucked inside a dreamy townhouse, Jojo is where health-forward French fare meets Upper East Side polish, aka the kind of place that makes a weeknight dinner feel like an occasion.
Hoexter’s
A rare neighborhood spot that feels like it’s been around forever. Reimagined from the ‘80s, it's unpretentious but upscale with comforting Americana classics. Whether you're grabbing a burger for dinner or a cocktail at the bar, you'll feel like a local.
Le Veau d’Or
Recently reopened, but still feels like Paris in the ‘60. Every meal here is a little slice of culinary history, best enjoyed with a chilled glass of Sancerre.
Cafe Commerce
A rebirth of a West Village favorite, this nostalgic spot feels old-school in the best way possible: unassuming from the outside, ‘80s hits playing inside, and dishes to write home about (like the carbonara and chocolate sprinkle cake).
La Goulue
A traditional and timeless brasserie with can't-miss tuna tartare and the salad de homard (aka the best lobster cobb).
From pre-dinner drinks to nightcaps, cocktails are superb in the city that never sleeps.
Bemelmans
An old-school icon wallpapered in Madeline author Ludwig Bemelmans's whimsical illustrations. Besides a delicious cosmopolitan, you’ll find a lively crowd and skilled pianist.
Melody’s Piano Bar
This tucked-away spot is a go-to for pre or post-dinner. Take in the jazzy, moody feel, tropical wallpaper, and strong drinks.
Dorrian’s
If you know the UES, you know Dorrian’s—a classic dive that’s the perfect afternoon, late-night, or really anytime spot.
The Penrose
Coining itself as the “upper east local,” this dimly-lit, classic bar is one that always delivers, whether you are going for late-night fun or casual post-work drinks.
Because it’s no secret that Manhattan is a shopper’s dream, with some of its best boutiques nestled uptown.
Tuckernuck
Your favorite fashion and lifestyle destination, now in the heart of the Upper East Side. Trust us, it’s the place to shop on Madison Avenue.
The Corner Bookstore
Find your next read at the most charming bookstore in Carnegie Hill. It’s been a local favorite since 1978.
Zitomer
Think of this as your one-stop shop for everything from toiletries you forgot to must-have beauty buys and gifts for friends back home.
Blue Tree
Jewelry, toys, and designer clothing finds, this boutique brings a sense of discovery to your shopping experience. A great place for gifts!
Bonne Nuit
The sweetest place to shop for expecting mothers and their little ones, full of clothing, bedding, books, and women’s sleepwear.
KRB
Curated by Kate Rhenstein Brodsky, KRB offers both vintage and modern home decor, and unique gifts.
Ralph Lauren
Needs no explanation, but the stunning Madison Avenue store is second to none. Don’t skip Ralph’s Coffee!
N. Peal
Originated in London in 1936, here you’ll find luxurious cashmere, furs, and accessories. Fun fact: Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor were among their extensive list of famous customers.
Alison Lou
Described as “jewelry that’ll make you smile,” we love everything from Alison Lou’s signature zodiac pendants to colorful cocktail rings.
La Ligne
Calling all stripe lovers, La Ligne will be your new favorite. Pick up anything from their signature knits, sailor tees, matching sets, or cocktail dresses.
Il Gufo
Elegant Italian design meets childhood fun. From whimsy rompers to tailored coats, Il Gufo has timeless, high-quality pieces for your little ones.
Spring Flowers
A Palm Beach gem that brings a little sunshine and sweetness to the UES, packed with rompers, dresses, and sets that feel as special as they look.
We hope this inspires you to book a trip, pack your bags, and plan your itinerary!