The Uptown, NYC Travel Guide
November 30, 2023
Whether you’re visiting during the magical holiday season or going for a long weekend, there is no bad time to visit the city that never sleeps. We’ve zeroed in on one of its most classic neighborhoods, perhaps less scene-y but just as (if not more, arguably) special. With iconic sites like Central Park and The Met, plus a quieter, family-friendly feel, a trip Uptown is sure to be full of old-world charm, fairytale fashion, and memorable moments.
The Uptown, NYC Look
Classic but current, always luxe, and effortlessly refined.
Where to Stay: Hotels
The Mark
Here, you’ll get access to gorgeous rooms, a delicious Jean Georges restaurant (get the shrimp salad), and walking distance to Museum Mile and Central Park. Plus, you’re just steps from amazing stores (think La Ligne and Carolina Herrera) and the delicious Sant Ambroeus.
The Lowell
This luxurious Upper East Side hotel has rooms so plush and inviting that you’ll never want to leave. If you don’t stay here, their restaurant and bar, Majorelle and Jacques, are equally as spectacular.
The Carlyle
Since 1930, The Carlyle has opened its door and welcomed guests (including Princess Diana and JFK and Jackie Kennedy!) to a world of high-end service, decor and amenities. Besides being a destination for out-of-towners, the hotel’s bar, Bemelmans, is a favorite of locals as well (do not skip it!).
The Surrey
Homey meets elegant at the newly reopened Surrey, offering views of 5th Ave, a spa, and a walking distance to local spots and Central Park. Be sure to get a reservation at Casa Tua, the iconic Italian Miami restaurant, now in NYC!
Where to Eat: Coffee/Grab & Go
Bel Ami
Tucked on Lexington Ave, this French-inspired cafe is 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 you go for lunch!
Butterfield Market
An Upper East Side staple, Butterfield has everything. Hazelnut iced coffee, delicious salads, sandwiches, and addiction-worthy frozen yogurt…the list goes on and on.
Sant Ambroeus
While the iced lattes, mini sandwiches, and gelato are on the pricier side, they’re all worth it. Bonus: they also serve the best cup of hot chocolate.
Where to Eat: Lunch
Via Quadronno
Our top recs: the vegetable soup, a panini, and the tiramisu.
JG Melon's
An Upper East Side institution, this cash-only dive offers a nostalgic and cozy pub setting, signature checkered tablecloths, and most importantly, burgers and cottage fries that always hit the spot.
EJ's Luncheonette
A classic diner full of a menu you’d expect, come here for a classic comfort meal. Plus, they always give you extra when you order a milkshake!
Mezzaluna
Go-to order: the Pollanca salad and an iced tea!
Cafe Sabarsky
Located in The Neue Galerie museum, Cafe Sabarksy is inspired by the cafes found in Vienna, Austria. With its chic and homey feel, this spot offers authentic German and Austrian cuisine, coffee, and pastries from morning till night.
La Goulue
This traditional, cozy, and classic brasserie serves French fare in a dark-wood setting. Get the tuna tartare!
Where to Eat: Dinner
Caravaggio
An elegant setting and an always delicious menu, Carravaggio is the perfect special occasion dinner. We equally love Sistina, its sister restaurant!
Bar Italia
This mod-feeling Italian restaurant is full of cool black-and-white decor and a friendly vibe. Get any pasta, the salmon, or the gluten-free chicken milanese!!
Island
A nautical-feeling neighborhood spot in Carnegie Hill, this casual restaurant has a friendly vibe and countless menu options.
Antonucci Cafe
A cozy and colorful, art-heavy, old-school, this friendly neighborhood spot has delicious yet comforting Italian food and great service. The only downside? It’s not always easy to get in!
Le Veau d’Or
Nestled in a building that’s been standing for over a century, this recently renovated French bistro brings classic flavors to life. From stiff meringue whips and magret de canard to Parisian decor and old-school charm, this restaurant is a must-try.
Avra
This bustling Mediterranean restaurant brings a gorgeous setting and delicious food. Definitely order the Avra chips to start!
Elio's
A bit of a scene, but it’s a local’s go-to for old school Italian and a cozy vibe. It’s always full of regulars and spaghetti & meatball Wednesdays is a favorite.
Le Charlot
This easy and cozy (yet delicious!) neighborhood French spot is not one to miss.
Majorelle
Located in The Lowell, Majorelle is such a treat. Be sure to go early so you can get a drink! The bartender has been there forever. He came from NYC’s classic La Grenouille, and makes the best drinks.
Jojo
Jojo serves a seasonal French-inspired menu that’s always delicious and healthy. Plus it’s set in the coolest, clean and modern townhouse setting.
Hoexter's
Whether you’re sitting for a dinner reservation or popping in for a quick drink at the bar, this neighborhood favorite features Americana classics, from burgers to French Onion soup.
Where to Shop
The Corner Bookstore
The most charming bookstore on a cornerstone of Carnegie Hill, here you’ll find your next best read.
Bonne Nuit
Brimming with baby and children’s clothing, bedding, books, accessories, and female sleepwear, this is the sweetest place to shop for expecting mothers and their little ones!
Zitomer
Think of this chic pharmacy as your one-stop shop for…everything! From iconic beauty finds to chic hair accessories and gifts, let this be your go-to shop for the toiletries you forgot (and the luxury pieces you want).
KRB
Curated by Kate Rhenstein Brodsky, KRB offers both vintage and modern home decor, and unique gifts!
Where to Sip: Bars
Bemelmans
A legendary New York bar, this old-school space is covered in Madeline author Ludwig Bemelmans's whimsical illustrations. Along with your delicious martinis and bar snacks you’ll be surrounded by a lively crowd and a skilled pianist.
The Monkey Bar
In the heartbeat of midtown, this timeless and iconic spot is full of retro and swanky (yes, monkey) murals. The bar itself is fairly tight quarters, so if you can get a table for dinner, definitely linger!
Melody's Piano Bar
Stop at this tucked-away spot pre or post-dinner for a jazzy and buzzy feel, tropical wallpaper, and great drinks.
Dorrian’s
This classic dive bar is a local favorite and the perfect afternoon, late-night (or really anytime) spot. Take a seat at the red-checkered-tablecloth tables for music, watching games, and enjoying classic tavern food and drinks.
What to Do: Holiday Activities
Have Afternoon Tea
We love Alice’s Tea Cup, The Carlyle, The Plaza, Bergdorf Goodman, The American Girl Store if you have young daughters.
Window Shopping & Central Park Wandering
Go window shopping on Madison and 5th Avenue (and step inside!) at Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue. See the iconic Christmas tree and skating rink at Rockefeller Center, then stroll through Central Park for everything from horse and carriage rides to drinks at Tavern on the Green.
See a Holiday Show
The New York City Ballet puts on a beautiful production of The Nutcracker every year, plus Lincoln Center and the Upper West Side are gorgeous! The Radio City Rockettes are always a treat so see, and possibly the only time you’ll see real camels on stage in NYC!
Museum Mile
At any time of year, you can’t go wrong with any of the museums uptown, from The Met and Cooper Hewitt to The Frick Collection and The Guggenheim.