Upper West Side Insider Recommendations
Anonym
Looking for New friends 25+
6
Melanie Yu
How do you decide your Halloween costume? Honestly, Iâm just a monster for food đč canât wait for Halloween this year, catch me haunting the snack table
4Anonym
All New Yorkers will defend the city, and the way of life. However, everyone has their âI hate NYâ moment. I hate New York because thereâs no space. Canât breathe without something in your face. Whatâs yours?
1
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.
megan li
Get ready for incoming NYC spam⊠Iâm 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 đ€© 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!
2
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. âą thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce âą egg custard bun âą tradition stewed pork belly cubes âą superior dry fried crab szechuan style âą stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic âą wagyu beef black truffle fried rice âą handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake đFan Szechuan ć€§ćź éš
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. đâš Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore IIâs opening in Manhattanâs East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. đ With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. đȘ© đœïž Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! đ
See also
Discover the Best Dining in St. George Near NYC: Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites
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 itâŠ
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 Iâve ever had. A very enjoyable meal with Jibae!
Cheryl
This spot has become one of my favorite ramen spots in midtown, NYC. theyâve been opened for a few years and Iâve been missing out đ. I felt so welcomed and warm dining here. every worker was so sweet and kind. everything was delicious. every appetizer was so good. you must get the chicken karaage. it was soo juicy on the inside. their ramen was such a bowl of comfort. the cheesecake is a must. it didnât feel heavy! I canât wait to come back đ«¶đ» âą yuzu fizz $8 âą strawberry matcha $8 âą goku salad $10 âą shrimp lollipops $12 âą octopus takoyaki $10 âą karaage chicken $10 âą tonkotsu ramen $19 âą spicy kimchi ramen $19 + pork cha-shu $6 âą japanese cheesecake $7 đRamen Goku
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.
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 partyânarrow, intimate, with great food. Flowing alcohol and impeccable service. I had: ENSALADA DE TOMATE HEIRLOOM Y BURRATA â GF $20 Burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, frisĂ©e, cucumber, tapenade, basil sherry vinaigrette PULPO A LA GALLEGA â GF $24 Galician style sliced octopus, potato cubes, paprika oil, sea salt CHULETAS DE CORDERO â GF $26 Marinated grilled lamb chops, olive pisto, olive oil & lemon Greek yogurt SOCARRAT PAELLA â 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 â $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. Canât wait to go back and try the rest of the menu. Highly recommend đđđ
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. đłâ But Lately is more than just a cafeâitâs a vibrant community hub that celebrates art, culture, and music, hosting events that bring neighbors together. đ¶âš 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. đœïž
New York Locals
La Flor, founded by Giancarlo Villa and Bri Heu, is Brooklynâs newest pizza hotspot. đ Opened in July 2024, La Flor is the culmination of Giancarloâs 15+ years of experience at NYC favorites like Robertaâs and Upside. âš 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. đž The pizzeriaâs name, meaning âthe flower,â 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! đ
See alsoDiscover the Local Community in St. George Near NYC: Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
Morgan Raum
When you are fave college slice makes its way đ„łđ Mamaâs Too has been a beloved Upper West Side gem for years, and founder Frank Tuttolomondo is nothing short of a pizza maestro. Heâs perfected the art of combining unique toppings into flavor experiences you wonât find anywhere else in NYC. Take the Poached Pear slice, for exampleâaged 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, youâll want to order 3-4 slices to make it worth the wait. And it absolutely will be!
Melanie Yu
Taiwan #1 with MeetFreshâs nostalgic desserts that bring me back to visiting my grandparents in Taiwan đ 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 đ And if youâre not feeling so adventurous, try their hot crispy egg waffles! Theyâre such a staple and go well with their add-on ice creams đš These desserts are HUGE and fill you up, so make sure to leave room after dinner!
Natasha Surti
đ„©The steaks are highđ„© đœWhere I went: Le Relais de Venise - LâEntrecoÌte âïžWhat I got: Salad, Steak & Fries đ°What I paid: $32 â đ€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 entrecoÌte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.
New York Locals
The Parkgate is the newest gastropub in the West Village, combining modern design with a cozy, welcoming vibe. đ» Located at the corner of West 4th Street and Jones, owners CiarĂĄn Harrison & Chris Buckle have created a stylish yet approachable spot known for great food, wine, cocktails, and, of course, the perfect pint of Guinness. đđ· With roots in CiarĂĄnâs 100-year Irish hospitality heritage, The Parkgate offers a thoughtfully curated atmosphere, blending music, art, and top-notch service. Whether youâre grabbing a drink or enjoying a meal, The Parkgate makes every visit feel like home. đĄâš
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.
Infatuation
Shrine Bar Harlem A few of Harlemâs 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 dadâs favorite jazz club. This is a low-key spot where youâll discover stray records in the crevices and mingle with a fun, younger crowd.
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 - Iâd 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 itâs 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
See alsoLocal Networking Events & Trending Community Gatherings in St. George Near 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: đ§honey osmanthus oolong tea with tapioca pearls
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 didnât 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.
Infatuation
Cositas Ricas If youâre standing under a large, multicolored cow suspended over Roosevelt Avenue, youâve come to the right place. Itâs 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.
Infatuation
TabĂș didnât 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 greatâmaking this a clubstaurant thatâs as exciting on a Wednesday as it is on Saturday. On any of those evenings, youâll find dancers in flowy costumes flitting between the fronded plants and two stone bars. And while we wouldnât be surprised if the owners seriously considered filling the courtyard in with white sand at some point, thereâs plenty of attention to detail in the seafood-oriented kitchen too. TabĂș 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.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, itâs much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter thatâs already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New Yorkâs 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.
Eater
Son Del North In places like Los Angeles, itâs much easier to find burritos without rice: Not so much in New York. Son del North opened last month, a tiny takeout counter thatâs already cementing itself as a welcomed addition to New Yorkâs 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.
Infatuation
Bubby's Starting with the food, itâs 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 worldâmy friends always say theyâre just as good as the regular ones, theyâre 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. Itâs so fun when youâre out with friends and you want to take photos.
See alsoDiscover Top Cocktails in St. George: Local Bars & Nightlife Near NYC
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Feast of Fun đźđč 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 NYCâs 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 Italyâs famous restaurants and cafes. WHEN: â°Thursday September 12 through Sunday September 22. FREE to walk the festival. Food and carnival rides have a fee. (Bring cash!) DONT MISS: đThe Grand Procession parade featuring marching bands, floats, revelers and the statue of San Gennaro. The parade happens on Sept 14th at 2pm. FOR KIDS: đAfter 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.
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, theyâre 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 Hidden Gems with Kikihub's Anonymous Recommendations
Food & Culinary Delights
The Upper West Side near NYC teems with culinary treasures, and thanks to Kikihubâs anonymous recommendations, you can uncover the best-kept secrets from local food enthusiasts. Start your day with a visit to Barney Greengrass, the legendary smoked fish shop. A favorite local spot for over a century, the delicious bagels and lox are sure to start your morning right. For a more eclectic brunch, Jacob's Pickles offers Southern-inspired cuisine with an extensive selection of pickles that locals rave about in their reviews.
Skip the typical tourist traps and indulge in authentic Asian cuisine at Xiâan Famous Foods. The spicy cumin lamb noodles come highly recommended in anonymous reviews for their rich, bold flavors. If youâre in the mood for Italian, Celeste, a cozy spot on Amsterdam Avenue, regularly receives local praise for its impeccably fresh pasta dishes and delightful tiramisu. Kikihub also features trending suggestions for lesser-known vegan spots, such as Peacefood CafĂ©, ideal for diners seeking plant-based nourishment in a serene setting.
Entertainment & Cultural Hotspots
For those interested in blending entertainment with culture, the Upper West Side offers a treasure trove of experiences. The American Museum of Natural History regularly appears in local insights as a must-visit, with extensive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Right across the street, the elegant New-York Historical Society hosts intriguing exhibitions detailing the cityâs rich past.
In search of family-friendly entertainment? Local reviews often mention the Children's Museum of Manhattan, with interactive exhibits perfect for young minds. Meanwhile, Upper West Side Film buffs can check out the Lincoln Center for David Geffen Hall performances, where you can catch everything from symphony orchestras to top-notch Broadway shows. Utilize Kikihub to find out which shows are currently trending and enjoy a sophisticated night out.
Nightlife & After-Dark Fun
When the sun sets, the Upper West Side transforms into a playground for nightlife enthusiasts. Start your evening at Prohibition, a lively bar with talented live music performances, often highlighted in anonymous recommendations as a go-to spot for a fun, energetic start to the night. Seeking a more refined experience? A visit to The Dead Poet, a literary-themed bar, is a favorite among locals who appreciate clever cocktails inspired by famous authors.
If craft cocktails and a speakeasy vibe are more your style, nobody should miss out on the speakeasy destination, Nobody Told Me. Relatively under the radar, this cozy bar's creative concoctions frequently surprise even seasoned Upper West Side night owls. Head over to Dive 75 for a laid-back atmosphere and engaging board games, a perfect spot to wind down or kick-off your nighttime adventure. Kikihub's trending suggestions can guide you to the hottest late-night spots that locals prefer, ensuring your nighttime explorations are always fresh and exciting.
Shopping & Unique Finds
Upper West Side offers shopping experiences that blend charming boutiques with unique finds, setting it apart from the hustle of Times Square. Stop by Shakespeare & Co. Bookstore for a slice of literary heaven, stocked with unique selections that only insiders know to recommend. For vintage and consignment lovers, Beaconâs Closet offers an eclectic mix of clothing and accessories that rotate daily, creating a treasure hunt feeling you canât get at chain stores.
Kikihub's local insights also reveal standout artisanal stores such as Zabarâs, a foodieâs paradise known for its vast selection of gourmet provisions, cheeses, and cured meats. Donât miss Big Nickâs Burger & Pizza Joint, where the eclectic mix of food and quirky atmosphere is frequently praised in user reviews. For those in search of unique gifts or personal items, local enthusiasts suggest popping by the Blue Tree, known for its glamorous yet quirky mix of fashion, accessories, and home dĂ©cor. Each shop brings its own distinctive flair, creating an irresistible shopping landscape.
Parks & Scenic Cues
The Upper West Side isnât just about food and entertainment; it hosts some of the most idyllic parks perfect for a peaceful retreat amid urban delights. Central Park, the neighborhoodâs green gem, often appears in Kikihub's local reviews as both a serene oasis and activity hub. Whether youâre in search of a quiet spot to read or energetic paths for jogging and biking, Central Park never disappoints. Donât miss Strawberry Fields, a poignant memorial to John Lennon that remains a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Further uptown, Riverside Park offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, making it a perfect locale for picnics, casual strolls, and evening sunsets. Locals often recommend the hidden garden paths and pristine picnic spots in their anonymous reviews on Kikihub. Be sure to check out the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument for a dash of historical appreciation along with your outdoor adventure. Both parks encapsulate the tranquility and community spirit that define the Upper West Side experience.
In-depth Local Insights
Navigating the Upper West Sideâs plethora of options can be daunting, but Kikihubâs platform ensures you access real opinions and precise tips from those who know the neighborhood best. From unexpected art galleries hidden in plain sight to intriguing local events that donât make it to mainstream listings, Kikihub helps you find it all. Anonymous recommendations signal where trending suggestions are making waves, allowing you an authentic, insider experience every time you explore the Upper West Side.
Thanks to the genuine shared wisdom on Kikihub, you can discover lesser-known treasures that make your visits uniquely memorable. Dive into local reviews to uncover the whimsical and cultural fabric weaving the neighborhood. Whether itâs a secret rooftop with remarkable cityscape views or clandestine jazz performances held in unassuming venues, every piece of advice imbues your journey with the charm and splendor of local authenticity.
