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Upper West Side Experiences: Local Secrets Unveiled

Discover the hidden gems and trending experiences of NYC's Upper West Side with Kikihub, your ultimate guide to local insider secrets and vibrant adventures. Immerse yourself in the eclectic ambiance of this charming neighborhood, known for its historic brownstones, verdant parks, and cultural landmarks. Savor mouth-watering dishes at iconic food spots like Zabar's and Barney Greengrass, or unwind at trendy establishments like The Dead Poet for an unforgettable nightlife experience. Connect with friendly locals over a latte at Cafe Lalo, or take a scenic stroll through Riverside and Central Parks. With Kikihub, uncover the best in food, nightlife, and exploration while socializing with fellow adventurers and gaining invaluable insights into the Upper West Side's unique character.

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Anonym

All New Yorkers will defend the city, and the way of life. However, everyone has their “I hate NY” moment. I hate New York because there’s no space. Can’t breathe without something in your face. What’s yours?

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Anonym

Looking for New friends 25+

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What's Your Halloween Costume Plan? 🎃👻
Avatar Melanie Yu

Melanie Yu

How do you decide your Halloween costume? Honestly, I’m just a monster for food 👹 can’t wait for Halloween this year, catch me haunting the snack table

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Discover the Deliciousness of NiuKee Shumai in SoHo!
Avatar Storytime NYC

Storytime NYC

NiuKee Shumai. Trying this new shumai spot on Broome st! You have to check out NiuKee Shumai, a new shumai spot in SoHo. They serve delicious shumai, fluffy buns and a flavorful bone broth soup! Each shumai dish comes with 6 pieces for $6.95 and you can choose from beef & onion, pork & shrimp, chicken, or vegetarian. The cutest buns are made fresh to order, with red bean & ube, and are so soft and fluffy.

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Discover a New Szechuan Gem in NYC's Lower East Side!
Avatar Cheryl

Cheryl

this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门

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Discovering Delicious BBQ Pork Buns in NYC! 🍜🥡
Avatar megan li

megan li

Get ready for incoming NYC spam… I’m not the biggest fan of BBQ pork buns, but these from Mei Lai Wah changed my mind. I want to take home an entire suitcase full of pineapple BBQ pork buns 🤩 You can get all their signature buns like their baked pork buns and pineapple custard buns - they are seriously so good. Plus new options like popcorn chicken, rice rolls, and skewers after 7pm!

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Discover the Delicious Delights of The Commodore and Commodore II! 🍗🍹
Avatar New York Locals

New York Locals

The Commodore I and Commodore II are iconic spots known for serving up some of the best crispy fried chicken and refreshing piña coladas in Williamsburg. 🍍✨ Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore II’s opening in Manhattan’s East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. 🙌 With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. 🪩 🍽️ Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! 🎉

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See alsoSee alsoDiscover the Best Dining in St. George Near NYC: Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites

Tasting the Delight: Shakshuka Brunch at Tara!
Avatar Foodie_NYC

Foodie_NYC

Shakshuka. The best breakfast in the world! I had brunch this Sunday at Tara and I came for the Shakshuka, a Mediterranean tomato stew with eggs. Yummmmmmmm. Definitely the best breakfast in the world. Rich. Spicy. Yummy. Filling. They definitely do it well at Tara… You know you want it…

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Delicious Memories: A Taste of NYC with Japanese-Peruvian Fusion!
Avatar megan li

megan li

Last of my NYC pics from a while ago! This meal will forever live in my heart… Japanese and Peruvian? What an interesting combo that works so well together. Their ceviches are a must order and the katsu was the most well fried and moist I’ve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!

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Bagel Bliss: Brooklyn's Newest Spot for NYC's Beloved Ess-a-Bagel!
Avatar Time Out New York

Time Out New York

Ess-a-Bagel has been a Manhattan staple since 1976, and local love for the family-owned business radiates throughout all of the five boroughs. Now, its expertly rolled, boiled and baked beauties are available right here in Brooklyn. Choose your own adventure with a doughy, fluffy everything, pumpernickel or cinnamon raisin bagel, and schmear it with all manner of decadent cream cheese options. Or, leave it to the experts and choose a sandwich from their curated menu of NYC faves.

A Taste of Spain: My Unforgettable Experience at Socarrat Paella Bar!
Avatar Foodie_NYC

Foodie_NYC

I had so much fun at Socarrat Paella Bar! It felt like dining and partying in Barcelona while skipping the airfare. The place is definitely built for a party—narrow, intimate, with great food. Flowing alcohol and impeccable service. I had: ENSALADA DE TOMATE HEIRLOOM Y BURRATA – GF $20 Burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, frisée, cucumber, tapenade, basil sherry vinaigrette PULPO A LA GALLEGA – GF $24 Galician style sliced octopus, potato cubes, paprika oil, sea salt CHULETAS DE CORDERO – GF $26 Marinated grilled lamb chops, olive pisto, olive oil & lemon Greek yogurt SOCARRAT PAELLA – GF $34 Free-range bone-in chicken, chorizo, shrimp, white fish, squid, mussels, cockles, fava beans, peppers, tomato sofrito And finished it all with: TORRIJA CARAMELIZADA – $14 Caramelized milk-infused brioche, lemon curd, strawberries, vanilla ice cream I washed it all down with a great red Spanish wine. A total Spanish celebration. Can’t wait to go back and try the rest of the menu. Highly recommend 💎💎💎

Discover the New Long Island City Gem: Lately Cafe Bar & Bistro!
Avatar New York Locals

New York Locals

Lately Cafe Bar & Bistro has quickly become a Long Island City favorite since opening in April 2023. Founded by Eric Lee, this cozy neighborhood spot is known for its expertly brewed coffee and mouthwatering egg sandwiches. 🍳☕ But Lately is more than just a cafe—it’s a vibrant community hub that celebrates art, culture, and music, hosting events that bring neighbors together. 🎶✨ In May, they expanded with a new dinner menu and downstairs bar, offering a fresh take on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. Join them for a memorable evening of great food, drinks, and local vibes. 🍽️

Discover La Flor: Brooklyn's Newest Pizza Gem! 🍕✨
Avatar New York Locals

New York Locals

La Flor, founded by Giancarlo Villa and Bri Heu, is Brooklyn’s newest pizza hotspot. 🍕 Opened in July 2024, La Flor is the culmination of Giancarlo’s 15+ years of experience at NYC favorites like Roberta’s and Upside. ✨ Known for its thin, crispy crust, La Flor offers creative pies like the Spicy Hawaiian, Pepperoni with housemade ranch, and a vegan Bruschetta slice, alongside the classics. 🌸 The pizzeria’s name, meaning “the flower,” is a nod to its proximity to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Giancarlo personally designed and built the interiors, channeling the charm of classic New York pizzerias and Italian cafes. All pies are baked in a rare vintage Frank Mastro oven, giving each slice a distinct flavor with perfect charring. Come grab a slice and experience the artistry behind La Flor! 🍕

Slicing Up Delicious Memories at Mama's Too! 🍕✨
Avatar Morgan Raum

Morgan Raum

When you are fave college slice makes its way 🥳🍕 Mama’s Too has been a beloved Upper West Side gem for years, and founder Frank Tuttolomondo is nothing short of a pizza maestro. He’s perfected the art of combining unique toppings into flavor experiences you won’t find anywhere else in NYC. Take the Poached Pear slice, for example—aged mozzarella, sweet gorgonzola, and hot honey paired with poached pear for a sweet-savory masterpiece. Or my personal favorite, the Cacio e Pepe, featuring whipped mascarpone, Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, and cracked black pepper. The lines can get long, but trust me, when you finally reach the counter, you’ll want to order 3-4 slices to make it worth the wait. And it absolutely will be!

See alsoSee alsoDiscover the Local Community in St. George Near NYC: Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts

Sweet Nostalgia: Dive into Delicious Desserts from Taiwan!
Avatar Melanie Yu

Melanie Yu

Taiwan #1 with MeetFresh’s nostalgic desserts that bring me back to visiting my grandparents in Taiwan 😌 My go-to is always the Icy Grass Jelly C, a grass jelly based shaved ice with melon jelly, rice balls, and boba - though I always try to sub out the rice balls and boba for lychee jelly and more melon jelly! My family loves the Hot Red Bean Soup A and B, and the Icy Tofu Puddings 😋 And if you’re not feeling so adventurous, try their hot crispy egg waffles! They’re such a staple and go well with their add-on ice creams 🍨 These desserts are HUGE and fill you up, so make sure to leave room after dinner!

Discover the Perfect Steak at Le Relais de Venise!
Avatar Natasha Surti

Natasha Surti

🥩The steaks are high🥩 🍽Where I went: Le Relais de Venise - L’Entrecôte ✔️What I got: Salad, Steak & Fries 💰What I paid: $32 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This restaurant is arguably one of my favorites in the city. They only serve salad, steak (cooked to your preference), and fries for a fixed price of $32. That being said, this steak is cooked to perfection and what really makes entrecôte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.

Discover The Parkgate: Your New Favorite Gastropub in the West Village!
Avatar New York Locals

New York Locals

The Parkgate is the newest gastropub in the West Village, combining modern design with a cozy, welcoming vibe. 🍻 Located at the corner of West 4th Street and Jones, owners Ciarán Harrison & Chris Buckle have created a stylish yet approachable spot known for great food, wine, cocktails, and, of course, the perfect pint of Guinness. 🍔🍷 With roots in Ciarán’s 100-year Irish hospitality heritage, The Parkgate offers a thoughtfully curated atmosphere, blending music, art, and top-notch service. Whether you’re grabbing a drink or enjoying a meal, The Parkgate makes every visit feel like home. 🏡✨

Discover Delicious Dominican Vegan Delights at Next Stop Vegan!
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Eater

Next Stop Vegan Next Stop Vegan, a Downtown Brooklyn restaurant, specializes in meat and dairy-free Dominican food that has garnered local fanfare (the business was recently the subject of a Righteous Eats video as well). The team recently also added a Greenpoint sibling.

Discover the Vibrant Jazz Scene at Shrine Bar in Harlem!
Avatar Infatuation

Infatuation

Shrine Bar Harlem A few of Harlem’s storied jazz spots are still around, but there are also some exciting spaces in the neighborhood where new artists are keeping the genre interesting. At the Shrine, you can listen to jazz and funk in a vibey purple room almost every night, and most of it is more danceable than the stuff at your dad’s favorite jazz club. This is a low-key spot where you’ll discover stray records in the crevices and mingle with a fun, younger crowd.

Discover the Must-Try Japanese Gem in NYC: Okatte Tanto!
Avatar Melanie Yu

Melanie Yu

NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange! Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day. What I Ordered: - Tuna Bone [must-try] - Mentai Udon [must-try] - Pork Katsu Sando - Fried Oysters - Octopus marinated with wasabi - Shochu Woolong - drink - Summer Orange - drink

Trying Chicha San Chen: A Refreshing Boba Experience!
Avatar Rebecca | NYC

Rebecca | NYC

I've been hearing and seeing Chicha San Chen everywhere and wanted to try it today! It's definitely more expensive than most boba, but the drink was so refreshing. I've never had osmanthus oolong tea before and I love it. After eating so many oily foods in other stores, it was great to cleanse my palette! The tapioca was also very chewy and awesome. What we ordered: 🧋honey osmanthus oolong tea with tapioca pearls

See alsoSee alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Community Gatherings in St. George Near NYC

Discovering Taqueria Ramirez: A Hidden Gem for Taco Lovers!
Avatar Time Out New York

Time Out New York

Taqueria Ramirez What is it? Tania Apolinar and Giovanni Cervantes were on the hunt for a Mexican-styled taqueria in New York. When they didn’t find one to their liking, they opened their own. Even with a few years under its belt, Taqueria Ramirez keeps constant lines out the door, with hungry New Yorkers raving for a taste of all things porky and placed in a taco. Why we love it? We recommend trying the Suadero, a cut of meat found between the lower flank and the sirloin that is popular in Mexico. But if it sells out, which it often does, order the Campechano which comes with a mix of suadero and longaniza.

Discover the Delightful Flavors at Cositas Ricas!
Avatar Infatuation

Infatuation

Cositas Ricas If you’re standing under a large, multicolored cow suspended over Roosevelt Avenue, you’ve come to the right place. It’s hard not to be in a good mood at this neon-lit, 24-hour Colombian diner in Jackson Heights, open since 2000. The hand-painted cartoon characters, peace signs, and Postobon bottle caps make an immediately warm impression. So does the service. The staff are eager to offer recommendations, which is highly appreciated, given that the extensive, photo-filled menu ranges from trout, to chicken fingers, to ham-and-cheese sandwiches.

Discover Tabú: A Hidden Gem in Williamsburg for Great Food and Vibrant Vibes!
Avatar Infatuation

Infatuation

Tabú didn’t have to make their food delicious. The Tulum-themed Williamsburg spot could have just relied on their huge outdoor area covered with parasols, a DJ stand with its own water-feature as a backdrop, and their excellent cocktails to bring people in the door. But the food is good, bordering on great—making this a clubstaurant that’s as exciting on a Wednesday as it is on Saturday. On any of those evenings, you’ll find dancers in flowy costumes flitting between the fronded plants and two stone bars. And while we wouldn’t be surprised if the owners seriously considered filling the courtyard in with white sand at some point, there’s plenty of attention to detail in the seafood-oriented kitchen too. Tabú serves mostly smaller portioned food, so order a bunch of things, including a couple of tacos, a raw fish dish or two, and some stellar chips and guacamole.

Discover Son Del North: A Delicious New Addition to NYC's Burrito Scene!
Avatar Eater

Eater

Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.

Discovering Son Del North: A New Gem in NYC's Burrito World!
Avatar Eater

Eater

Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, it’s much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter that’s already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New York’s burrito scene, thanks in part to its homemade Sonora-style flour tortillas. The kitchen is under the direction of Annisha Garcia, from Tijuana, Mexico, who was the 2021 Chopped Grand Champion.

Join Us for Open House New York: A Free Weekend of Exploration!
Avatar Secret NYC

Secret NYC

Open House New York Experience the unique opportunity to explore over 200 of New York City’s iconic buildings and landmarks during the Open House New York (OHNY) weekend from October 18th to 2oth. This event, celebrating its 22nd year, offers a mix of in-person tours, self-guided explorations, and digital content of skyscrapers, power plants, artist studios, and everything in between. The festival is 100% free to the public, making it accessible for everyone. Discover more about the event and plan your visit on the Open House New York website.

Discover the Best Brunch Spot in the City: Bubby's!
Avatar Infatuation

Infatuation

Bubby's Starting with the food, it’s my favorite brunch spot in the city. Whenever I have people visiting I always take them there. They have the best gluten-free pancakes in the world—my friends always say they’re just as good as the regular ones, they’re so sweet and fluffy and yummy. But I really like that their bathroom is gender neutral with floor to ceiling doors, and they also have a photo booth. It’s so fun when you’re out with friends and you want to take photos.

See alsoSee alsoDiscover Top Cocktails in St. George: Local Bars & Nightlife Near NYC

Join the Fun at the San Gennaro Festival in Little Italy!
Avatar Little Kid Big City NEW YORK

Little Kid Big City NEW YORK

Feast of Fun 🇮🇹 The feast is back! The San Gennaro festival returns again on the 12th of September to the streets of Little Italy. This marks its 98th year. Come hungry! This 10-day celebration is NYC’s most popular and longest running street fairs, and is well known for its delicious food and party atmosphere. The celebration includes parades and processions, live musical entertainment, carnival games, rides, and amusements, food delicacies, and most importantly, dining at Little Italy’s famous restaurants and cafes. WHEN: ⏰Thursday September 12 through Sunday September 22. FREE to walk the festival. Food and carnival rides have a fee. (Bring cash!) DONT MISS: 📕The Grand Procession parade featuring marching bands, floats, revelers and the statue of San Gennaro. The parade happens on Sept 14th at 2pm. FOR KIDS: 🎈After you fill those bellies, head over to the carnival rides and games that are set up specifically for the event. There are typically 4-5 rides offered. Rides change slightly each year, but there is always a Ferris wheel! Visit at night to see the Ferris wheel glow in rainbow hues.

Discover the Legendary BBQ at Royal Rib House in Bed-Stuy!
Avatar Infatuation

Infatuation

Royal Rib House Royal Rib House has been serving legendary BBQ in Bed-Stuy for over 30 years, and the consistently long lines will attest to that. After closing in 2019 and reopening in 2022, they’re more popular than ever, and the food is still good enough to induce amnesia about the wait time. If you put ribs in the name of your restaurant, they better be impressive. These ones are slathered with a hot sauce-based BBQ sauce and fall off the bone. Your next priorities should be the smoky chopped BBQ, moist rotisserie chicken painted with a tangy sauce, and peach cobbler that everyone in line will recommend to you.

Discover Unique Local Experiences in the Upper West Side

Immerse yourself in one of NYC's most charming and vibrant neighborhoods, the Upper West Side. This area is brimming with hidden gems and local experiences that will transform your visit into an unforgettable adventure. From mouthwatering food spots to trending nightlife scenes, the Upper West Side offers a unique taste of the city's culture and energy. Here are some insider secrets to help you explore this fascinating district to the fullest.

Culinary Adventures: Foodie Secrets on the UWS

For those with a passion for food, the Upper West Side is a veritable paradise. Beyond the well-known restaurants, there are several hidden gems where you can indulge in culinary delights known only to locals. Kickstart your journey at 'Jacob's Pickles,' a beloved spot famed for its Southern comfort food like fried chicken and biscuits. Locals rave about their house-made pickles, making it a must-visit.

Next, venture to 'Levain Bakery' for the most decadent cookies you will ever taste. Known for their gooey, oversized chocolate chip cookies, this bakery is a favorite among the Upper West Side residents. Don't miss out on the chance to chat with locals who can share more about this iconic spot and its neighborhood lore.

When evening falls, make your way to 'The Mermaid Inn,' a seafood restaurant that offers a mindful balance of affordability and quality. Known for its Happy Hour oysters, this trendy spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy a social setting with incredible seafood.

Explore Hidden Historical Sights

The Upper West Side is steeped in history, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration. Begin at the 'American Museum of Natural History,' but take the time to explore its lesser-known exhibits. Locals often recommend the Hall of North American Mammals and the Butterfly Conservatory as spots less crowded but equally intriguing.

For a more tranquil experience, visit the 'Riverside Park,' an underrated gem that stretches along the Hudson River. This park offers picturesque views and is rich in history, featuring statues and monuments that often go unnoticed. Spend time on the benches by the water, where you might strike up conversations with locals who can offer more insights into the park's history and the neighborhood.

Trending Nightlife: Where Local Insiders Go

When it comes to nightlife, the Upper West Side boasts several hidden spots that offer a lively yet intimate experience. 'E's Bar' is one such place where you can enjoy craft beers, good music, and a relaxed atmosphere. Frequented by locals, it's an ideal spot to make new friends or gather insider tips for more exciting experiences in the area.

If you're looking for a live performance, try catching a show at the 'West End Lounge'. Known for its comedy nights and cabaret performances, this venue offers a taste of local talent and culture. Engaging with the performers and the audience can offer a deeper connection to the neighborhood's vibrant nightlife.

Socializing and Community Spots

One of the Upper West Side's most charming features is its sense of community, which is evident in several neighborhood spots. Visit 'The Hungarian Pastry Shop,' a cozy café near Columbia University, where students and locals come together over coffee and pastries. This spot is perfect for engaging in intellectual conversations or simply relaxing with a good book.

For those interested in deeper social experiences, join a local club or group at the 'Upper West Side YMCA'. Whether it's a fitness class or a community event, this center is a hub for socializing and offers a plethora of opportunities to integrate into local life. Meeting longtime residents can yield fascinating stories and recommendations you won't find in any guidebook.

Shopping and Local Markets

Shopping in the Upper West Side provides more than just retail therapy; it offers a chance to understand the local culture and lifestyle. Don't miss the 'GreenFlea Market,' an iconic market where local vendors offer everything from antiques to fresh produce. Engage with the sellers to learn about their crafts and the history of their goods – a true local experience.

Another must-visit spot is 'Book Culture,' an independent bookstore that has become a community staple. Known for its friendly staff and unique selection of books, this shop offers readers a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city. Attend one of their book readings or events to meet locals who share your literary tastes and gain more insights about the Upper West Side.

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