Find yourself north of Columbus Circle and unsure of where to go to shop, eat, or drink? Check out these bar, restaurant, and activity recommendations the next time you’re on the Upper West Side. Whether you choose to dine at a NYC institution like Good Enough to Eat or sunbathe in Central Park, there are plenty of ways to explore all the neighborhood has to offer.
Where to Eat
Playa Betty’s
This beach-inspired restaurant brings a piece of California to one of New York’s most historic neighborhoods. Take a seat inside the playfully decorated restaurant (or outdoors if the weather permits) and chow down on tacos, dharma bowls, and tater tot nachos. Be sure to save room for the restaurant’s signature dessert, churro ice cream sandwiches.
Good Enough to Eat
The lines form early at this Upper West Side destination, and with good reason! This homey restaurant turns out legendary takes on comfort food favorites including Banana Walnut Pancakes, Pumpkin French Toast, and BLT Omelettes. While breakfast reigns supreme, Good Enough to Eat’s dinner options such as Beer Battered Chicken Tenders and Macaroni and Cheese are noteworthy in their own right.
Maison Pickle
The newest offering from the Jacob’s Pickles team, Maison Pickle serves up inventive takes on American classics and comfort foods. Start with the Feta Herb & Olive Pull Aparts before progressing to the restaurant’s heavier, carnivore-centric options such as Chicken and Shrimp Francese and Half Pig Head Confit. Pickle aficionados take note: the restaurant serves eight types of cured vegetables including Big Dill Kosher Pickles and Special Sour Cukes.
Where to Drink
Boat Basin Cafe
Soak up the sun at this outdoor bar and cafe overlooking the Hudson River. Cocktail options consist of mainly fun, fruity drinks such as Strawberry Margaritas and Pina Coladas. There are also a variety of beers and wines as well as an ample dinning menu if you arrive hungry.
E’s Bar
This neighborhood bar and restaurant prides itself on its community atmosphere and comfortable, down-home vibes. There are a variety of cocktail options including the Mezcal Negroni and The Unsung Hero (vodka, watermelon, lemon and rosemary). Swing by E’s on a Wednesday night for deals on the wine menu or on Sunday evenings for the jam sessions the bar hosts.
Vin Sur Vingt
For those looking for a sophisticated spot to sip a glass of Chardonnay on the Upper West Side, look no further. This quaint cafe serves up a regularly rotating selection of primarily French wines from some of the world’s most renowned wine regions. To complement your Pinot Noir, check out the bistro-inspired menu which features a variety of cheese plates, tartines, and other light bites.
What to Do
Shop
The Upper West Side is home to a variety of boutique clothing stores and unique shops. Check out CPW, Darryl’s, and Purdy Girl for trendy women’s wear or Scotch and Soda for some men’s fashion staples. Literary types flock to Book Culture while beauty fiends should check out Malin + Goetz and Savor Spa.
Explore
There are plenty of historic destinations anointing Manhattan’s north west corner, including the New York Historical Society and The American Museum of Natural History. Nature lovers can easily make a day of exploring Central Park, including visiting the Central Park Zoo and sunbathing on Sheep Meadow.
Work Out
Eager to sneak in a workout between restaurant visits and bar stops? The Upper West Side is home to a variety of fitness outposts including Soulcycle, Flywheel, SLT, and Physique 57. Yogis are in for a treat as the neighborhood features the expansive Pure Yoga as well as CorePower Yoga‘s first New York City location.
The next time you find yourself strolling up Amsterdam Avenue, be sure to check out some of these fun spots to make the most of your time on the Upper West Side.