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.

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.

The Uptown NYC look: classic but current, always luxe, and effortlessly refined.

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