After a morning spent wandering the vast galleries of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, hunger often strikes with an urgency that rivals the inspiration found within its walls. Whether you have just marveled at the Temple of Dendur or studied the brushstrokes of the Impressionists, you will eventually need to refuel. The neighborhood surrounding this iconic institution is a vibrant culinary landscape, offering everything from quick, casual bites to refined, sit-down meals.
Navigating the area known as Museum Mile can be overwhelming, especially with tired feet and a rumbling stomach. You do not want to waste time wandering into a tourist trap with inflated prices and mediocre food. Instead, you need reliable recommendations that match the quality of your cultural experience without requiring a long subway ride or a taxi.
The Upper East Side is home to a diverse array of dining options that cater to every palate and budget. From classic New York diners that have served locals for decades to modern bistros helmed by innovative chefs, the options are as varied as the art across the street. You can find authentic Italian pasta, delicate French pastries, or a hearty American burger all within a short walking distance.
This guide focuses on convenience, quality, and atmosphere to help you make the most of your visit. We have considered the distance from the museum’s main entrance on Fifth Avenue, as well as the speed of service. If you are on a tight schedule or have a leisurely afternoon planned, there is an option here to fit your needs.
Whether you are looking for a quick coffee and a croissant to sustain you for a few more hours of gallery hopping, or a full dinner to discuss the masterpieces you just saw, the right table is waiting for you. The following selections represent the best of the neighborhood, balancing local favorites with essential stops for first-time visitors.
Below, you will find a curated list of the twelve best restaurants near the Metropolitan Museum of Art, ensuring you can spend less time searching for food and more time enjoying the city.
The Reading Room
| Address | 16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 396-2708 |
With the NYC vibe & constant overstimulation of your senses The Reading Room is the absolute perfect restaurant to decompose from a long visit in the city. It is truly gem of a restaurant located in the Gotham Hotel. The moment you walk into the lobby greeted by the front desk to the restaurant it set the tone of relaxation.
The quietly lit, small 15 table & about 15 soft chairs at the well-stocked bar restaurant was also tastefully decorated. The music was pleasing. This offered the guests a calming effect. The servers, Jhosed & Sergio were personable and attentive to every need. Michelle, the manager was very friendly and pleasant as I complimented this delicious meal, the Seared Duck over a sweet potato puree. The vegetables were perfectly done-crisp & colorful. The sauce was nice but was unnecessary as the duck was so delicious so that I did not want to cover its flavor.
Entree & drink prices were reasonable even for NYC, enjoying Aperal Spritzer & Prosecco, after dinner.
Note: Being that duck is cooked similar to beef from rare to well done my only suggestion is to ask the guest how they would like prepared. Myself, like it about 140-45; med-rare. So the few middle pieces were returned without a problem. Again, wonderful service.
Have already recommended The Reading Room to several friends who visit the city solo or with small group.
Definitely make a reservation.
Credit cards & Apple Pay accepted.
Very clean bathroom,1 flight down. Don’t know if there is an elevator of the disabled.
Street level entry, handicap access.
Highly recommend The Reading Room for your dining pleasure.
Overall the food was okay.
The lemon ricotta pancakes were a little dry and we didn’t taste much of the lemon or ricotta flavor.
The brussels sprouts and chickpeas weren’t as crispy as expected, not sure if I had higher hopes based on the pictures.
The burger and fries were standard - we’re glad we ordered them.
The venue is at the back of the hotel and it’s really nice inside, definitely decorated well. Good vibes. We didn’t order drinks but maybe the cocktails here are better.
Not sure if we’d go back for the food, but will probably try again for the drinks.
Service is very attentive, great drinks and food, just a bit expensive for the price. We got drinks and two appetizers to share. The octopus was cooked perfectly, sauce it came with was good. Steak toasts also very good, cooked to your preference. Place is within a hotel on lobby floor. Nice atmosphere just very cramped, I had to climb over my chair to sit
Top tier!!! Service was great, food was greater! Lol! We came for breakfast on a Monday morning and it was quiet, yet had great music. This place is a must try!
Very small restaurant, super cute. Definitely want to get a reservation, I went on a Wednesday night and it was super packed and incredibly loud.
Both my friend and I enjoyed our food, I had the steak frites and she had the duck. My meat wasn't that tender and had too much of a char taste for me but was cooked properly.
Drinks were great. The key lime pie was huge, and just a little too sweet for me. I prefer more of a tart dessert.
Bocado
| Address | 1293 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 289-9004 |
Fast service, excellent food, nice atmosphere. What else could you wish for? We had skirt steak, salads and non alcoholic drinks. The portions are big, so the price was justified. Our server was a really nice young lady. We also had complementary bread with oil snack. 10/10
A really great neighborhood restaurant. Stopped in by chance on my way home from a nearby event and it was a pleasant ending to my evening. My server, Katrin, was attentive yet easy-going. Food service was timely, and the quality of the food was delicious. Both my chicken, vegetable soup and steak frites dishes were perfect. I came in about an hour prior to dinner service ending and no one rushed me. It was the perfect dining experience. Highly recommend.
went here during the holiday season it looks unassuming from the outside once we got inside it was very festive. You were seated rather quickly. There’s lots of seating and even a bar area. We went on the weekend so there was a brunch special.
Our server was amazing attentive without being annoying. The burger was great, and the wine was good. Also, lots of good dishes to choose from. Definitely want to go back. I feel like it’s a hidden gem. More people should come here.
Great place!! Great food!! Great friendly staff!!
I had the fried fish sandwich and it was incredible. My husband had the chopped Mediterranean salad and it was beautifully displayed and he absolutely enjoyed it!
Great HH menu! Quiet oasis, well decorated, good bar. Great service. Got the lamb burger sans bun with salad… perfectly cooked medium with a good crust on the patty which was nicely seasoned with good tzatziki on side.
L'Osteria
| Address | 1219 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 524-6294 |
A close walk from the Met. We went on a Friday night and asked for an outdoor table (our reservation did not indicate either inside or out). Service was wonderful. We started with the meatballs which were good, but it was only 4 small meatballs. I enjoyed the Rigatoni with Sausage and Mushrooms. The fettuccine with beef ragu was also good, but missing a little something. The cannolo for dessert was a highlight.
Went here for my bday lunch on the UES. I was first to arrive. Service was amazing. This restaurant only has about 12 tables and is pretty small but their food is mighty tasty. The extra parm fluffy Caesar salad is maybe the best ever. No joke. The simple spaghetti was delicious. A must try.
Wasn't bad the food was good but really small portions for big plates and kind of expensive. I went with my bestfriend and the service was very nice no complaints except for the grilled shrimp it's 22 bucks but you only get 4 pieces of shrimp. 100 bucks is definitely more then good for 1 person but for 2 people if you get drinks, an appetizer, and 1 meal per person it is definitely a tight budget.
Amazing! The food is cooked to perfection. The quality of the actual food, along with the seasoning which is flavorful yet subtle. The flavor is perfectly balanced. Thank you chef Anthony! Alex is also a fantastic server who gave excellent recommendations and happens to make a lovely drink. I will be coming again and again. Absolutely wonderful experience.
Disappointing experience with the host.
My friend and I stopped by for a drink at the bar to celebrate her birthday. When the host asked if we had a reservation, I explained that we didn’t and casually mentioned that it was my friend’s birthday. This wasn’t meant to pressure anyone into finding us a table or making exceptions—we simply wanted to enjoy a drink and make the occasion feel a little special.
The host informed us that even the bar required reservations and that we could only stay for 30 minutes. I completely understand that policies must be followed and that the restaurant was busy. However, the interaction felt cold and dismissive. A little kindness, warmth, or even a simple “Happy Birthday” would have gone a long way.
Hospitality isn’t only about accommodating guests—it’s also about making them feel welcome. Unfortunately, that was missing from our experience.
06/19/2026
Serafina Fabulous Pizza 79th (UES)
| Address | 1022 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10075 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 734-2676 |
I had a good experience at Serafina and would definitely go back to try some different dishes! The ambience is really nice, but one thing to keep in mind is that it’s not very stroller or handicap accessible. The main dining area is on the second floor with additional seating on the third floor, which is where we were seated. The support staff was extremely friendly and helpful, our busser even helped us carry our stroller up and down the stairs, which was so kind and very appreciated!
Our waitress was attentive, although she didn’t seem too thrilled when we asked for bread 😂. There were four of us and we received a basket with three small pieces, which was a little disappointing.
As far as the food, I had the bow tie pasta with shrimp in a lemon cream sauce and really enjoyed it—I’d give it a 7/10. My sister had the lobster ravioli (Drake’s favorite), which was good but VERY rich, also about a 7/10. My mom felt the rigatoni bolognese could use a little more seasoning, while my daughter absolutely loved her pizza! We also started with the Caesar salad, which was okay, but it could have used more dressing and there were a few brown pieces of lettuce.
Overall, I’d describe our experience as good. There were a few things that could have been better, but the atmosphere was nice, the support staff was wonderful, and I enjoyed my meal enough that I’d definitely come back and explore more of the menu.
One of the best restaurants I’ve visited! The pizza is fresh out of the oven, perfectly baked, and absolutely delicious. The pasta is outstanding, with rich and authentic flavors. Don’t miss the drinks — they are just as impressive as the food. The staff are friendly, attentive, and very professional. Highly recommended! This is the kind of place you’ll keep coming back to after your first visit.
I came in wanting pizza, but took the waiters suggestion and hit the Chicken Milanese… the arugula salad was good, the chicken had a good crusty/ crisp, but was a bit dry. Good Pinot Grigio and Amaro… very good tiramisu. Excellent service.
The food and waiter service were lacking. The meat on my pasta was a little tough. The top portion of the pasta was crispy as if it was reheated and lacked flavor. Underwhelming food and table service felt more like I was at cheap diner. Only plus: The drinks were fantastic and so was the bartender. Sangria was perfect. However good drinks alone are not enough to come back.
This place was fabulous. Its atmosphere is really cozy and relaxing. The only issue is that it’s small so it’s loud so you kinda have to compete with the noise to talk. The food was delicious except for the spaghetti which was tasty but super spicy so I don’t recommend. The desserts they have are stunningly good and I would definitely say to try the focaccia ala Nutella and the affogatos.
Café Sabarsky
| Address | 1048 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 288-0665 |
Stood in line for an hour to visit the café. Did not disappoint. Beautifully appointed. Lovingly restored. Snagged a lovely booth by a large picture window looking out onto 5th Avenue. The menu looked good. Since I had already had lunch, I just had the hot chocolate with rum. Yum! Can’t wait to come back and try the full menu and linger longer. The 15 varieties of dessert looked delectable. Note reservations are available for dinner on Resy, but not for breakfast or lunch. The wait gets very long. Also be sure to check the website if the café will be closing early for a private event on the day that you visit.
A lovely lunch stop on the way to the Met. I got a beet salad and my companion ordered a liverwurst sandwich. Both were fresh and flavor-forward, well presented and served promptly. We also got the Adele dessert, a passion fruit and coconut mousse cake. Oh, it was phenomenal balance of rich and light flavors on the tongue. A delectable sweet to set is up for the rest of our art-laden day. The waitstaff was very attentive and we didn't have a problem getting a seat but I could tell there was a line forming when we left. Best recommend a reservation if booking at the traditional meal hour.
Beautiful dining room and prompt service and gorgeous plating. The waiters can’t really pronounce the names of the menu items either so English or pointing works well. I decided to add rum to the Viennese hot chocolate and it was perfect. The whipped cream was rich but not sweetened which balanced out the sweetness of the hot chocolate. It was also served at the perfect temperature. Hubby got the smoked trout crepe which was delicious. My roasted potatoes with egg, cheese, bacon, and pickles was also tasty although I did add salt and pepper. The bread and butter that came with the entrees was a nice touch. There were two types of bread. My only complain is that the butter could’ve been a bit softer for spreading purposes. We arrived right at 9:00 (opening time) and there were already a few people in line ahead of us.
Note: The Cafe is in a museum. Your bags will be searched upon entry and they also dump out any water bottles you may have. There is a water filling station in the basement near the restrooms that can be visiting after your meal.
Excellent, authentic and well balanced Austrian dishes and drinks. Life piano enables authentic and enlivened atmosphere with swift service and very kind staff. Clean premises, friendly service and quick kitchen to top off. No reservations, slim chances to get in. Do reserve ahead if you're up to experience this must do New York City- Austin import space! Wholeheartedly recommend.💕👌
We made a coffee stop here before strolling through the Central Park. What a beautiful place to visit!
We had to queue up, but I’d say the line moved fairly quickly and staff there managed everything so well (if you’re there only for food or drinks, they’d recommend you to skip the line and go directly downstairs where you can get the same food without a view).
We had a slice of chocolate cake and latte. The cake was a little bit too sweet for us, but it went well with coffee. Staff were super friendly and attentive. Overall, we enjoyed our visit. (Pro tip: there is a museum above the cafe. Worth a visit if you like German/Austrian arts)
Sistina
| Address | 24 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 861-7660 |
A Culinary Triumph Destroyed by Abusive Hospitality at Sistina
What should have been a joyful 30th birthday celebration at this Upper East Side establishment was completely ruined by an astonishing display of unprofessionalism from the top down.
The Incident
The breaking point of our evening centered around the Sea Bass special, which arrived severely undercooked. Upon politely sending it back, the older owner—distinguishable by his limp—approached our table, aggressively slammed the plate down, and belligerently declared that the fish was fully cooked. He then had the audacity to accuse us of returning the meal for the "wrong reason." Such an unhinged, disrespectful temper tantrum from ownership is completely inexcusable and instantly soured a milestone evening.
The Kitchen's Wasted Talent
It is a profound shame that the hospitality is so remarkably toxic, because the kitchen staff is exceptionally talented. The Wild Mushroom Ravioli, served with a sweet bell pepper puree and pecorino romano, was exquisitely executed. The Busiate—featuring homemade fusilli, fresh tomatoes, basil, goat cheese, and lemon zest—was fantastic, and the Lamb Ragu was richly flavorful and delicious.
The Verdict
Phenomenal food can never justify hostile and abusive customer service. Ruining a patron's milestone birthday with an aggressive attitude is unforgivable. Until this owner learns basic emotional control and respect for paying guests, I strongly advise taking your business to a restaurant that actually values its clientele.
Old style yet updated fancy Italian restaurant.
The bread basket is award winning.
The oysters were excellent, so was the sea bream entry.
The lemon cake and the apple cake were both sublime.
Excellent wine selection.
Food and drinks was great, I have to remove one star only for desert was not serviced on time with other people at the same table with is unacceptable in this $$$ kind of restaurant, otherwise will be 5 star! Yes I do recommend this restaurant.
I loved all the artwork in this restaurant! It’s very beautiful but also quirky. The waiters are so sweet and they really want to make sure you are having a good time, they are really fun and attentive. The food is so good too, I had the fettuccine and asparagus soup. The truffle butter is amazing. And the shouffle is wonderful. The only reason I gave it one less star is because I think it’s way too expensive for the meal but still it was a wonderful experience
This is a bit of a discovery. An excellent lunch place. Not far from The Frick and the Met and the Neue Gallery. The food is really top class but you will be paying top dollar. A glass of wine is $25-$30. The main courses at lunch will set you back $30-$50. Appreciate it is expensive but above spot in Manhattan.
The Smith
| Address | 1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 496-5700 |
My mom and I pre-celebrated Mother’s Day at The Smith and had an amazing experience from start to finish! The food was absolutely delicious — we ordered everything from appetizers to dessert and espressos, and every single item was flavorful and well prepared.
We stayed for over 3 hours enjoying the atmosphere, food, and conversation, and never once felt rushed. Our server was incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, which made the experience even better.
Such a great spot for celebrations, brunch, or a long dinner with family and friends. We’ll definitely be back!
Came here because my husband raved! Nikolai F is a ray of sunshine! He was my server and went ABOVE AND BEYOND. His kindness made my day. His “happiness” checks made me smile! After my meal was finished he offered to fill my water with fresh cold water since it was hot out. The small acts of kindness truly was wonderful. Now the food! Oh my! The burrata was AMAZING super creamy, fresh, full of flavor. The tomatoes just burst perfectly! The garlic bread was very light but great! The bacon was AMAZING. I liked that they asked how you liked it cooked. It was crispy and delicious! The mushrooms were my favorite part of the meal! Not overcooked and gently seasoned but so flavorful! The raspberry sorbet was so refreshing because of the heat. Super fresh and strong flavor but amazing! The best part! SO AFFORDABLE! Highly recommend and will def come back. Would love to try the steak and soup next!
Charming, dimly lit… fun gathering place. Menu is well curated: highly recommend the Citrus + Fennel 🥗 Salad (add some grilled shrimp 🍤). The Penne Vodka: YUM (has an unexpected ‘kick’ to it. Great🍔. French Dip: delish… Lots to choose from, & they’re famous for their fries (served Parisian style).
Francis served us: thank you Francis for taking such awesome care of us 🙌 We loved your service 🙏
…And, for third night in a row: citrus salad called us back & another amaretto sour! David P, you’re the BEST. ❤️ Thanks so much —love the cookies...!!!
We ordered take out today. I got a miso salmon and sea salt fries. The salmon was cook very nicely. It came with soba noodles, shredded vegetables and some mushrooms. The dressing was quite flavorful. I tasted miso and slinger. It was slightly sweet and refreshing.
The fries were quite good as well. Portion was great!
Overall, it was a nice and filling meal.
Always one of my favorite spots
They serve one of the best mussel pots, and the half chicken is absolutely delicious
It’s a great spot to stop by before a show at Lincoln Center. The atmosphere is lively, and you might even spot famous movie stars or people from the film and music industry here 😊( I saw them twice)
P.S. love the free sparkling water
**The servers are always busy here, so if you need something, it’s best to ask them all at once
Take Care
| Address | 303 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 349-0990 |
Comfortable seating inside with booths and a ton of seating.
Good breakfast choices. Tried the French toast and sausage. Packed with sugar and taste.
There’s outdoor seating in the summer which is amazing with an iced coffee.
Had a fantastic dinner with my family at Take Care and our server Peter made the night even better. He was attentive without hovering, knew the menu inside and out, and gave genuinely helpful recommendations when we couldn’t decide. The food itself was excellent, but Peter’s service really elevated the whole experience. Will definitely be back and would love to be seated in his section again.
We had a delicious breakfast with great service. Really nice atmosphere with some great tunes. My wife is a vegan and really enjoyed the avocado toast.
I had an exceptional dining experience! What truly stood out was the outstanding level of customer service from the moment I arrived.
I observed the manager, Tiffany Kennedy, personally assisting guests with genuine care and professionalism. She was attentive, approachable, and clearly dedicated to making sure everyone had a great experience. It's refreshing to see a manager so actively engaged with customers and leading by example.
Our server, Lixandra Araujo, was equally impressive. She was friendly, attentive, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect throughout our meal. Her positive attitude and outstanding customer service made the experience even more enjoyable.
It's clear that this restaurant takes pride in providing excellent hospitality. The combination of Tiffany's leadership and Michelle's exceptional service made this a five-star experience. I highly recommend this restaurant and will definitely be returning!
Small but packs a punch! The food service here is next level and staff is beyond attentive. I had lunch service here yesterday and I was blown away by the mixologist!
Balcony Lounge
| Address | 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 650-2910 |
Great cafe with friendly staff to gather my thoughts on an exhibit.
Curiously, the Met’s Costume Art exhibit left me in love with the classics: satin white Greek dresses and gowns; diaphanous, translucent dresses in light pink that begin the runway through which I glided exclusively with women. Men were busy watching the World Cup between, I think, Spain and the Yankees.
Special mention to Gaultier’s black dress, strapped at the shoulders—perfect for when you lose at the Oscars and arrive instead at a funeral, but dressed with the right armour. Loved the Asian designer Issey Miyake’s dress that seem to fold like an airplane and ready for a flight home with me .
My substack link in profile.
Such a lovely lunch after the Raphael viewing. Very relaxing, calm atmosphere. Incredibly helpful maître d’ and thoughtful knowledgeable waitstaff. My seafood salad was exquisite and the espresso was perfection. I so enjoyed this time and I’ve planned to return with a friend after the new Costume previews. This is the perfect oasis for a delicious meal alone or with friends. Thanks to all.
I was disappointed with my recent visit to the Balcony Lounge at the Met.
The wine I was initially served tasted strongly of vinegar. I alerted the waiter, who promptly brought a replacement, but unfortunately the second glass was just as bad.
The food itself was only okay, acceptable, but far from memorable.
This was particularly disappointing because the lounge used to be consistently great. Given that they’ve just completed a renovation, I was hoping for a refreshed experience to match the updated space.
I truly hope they take this as an opportunity to revamp not just the look, but also the quality of the food and beverage program, because the potential is certainly there…
Lovely lunch at the Balcony Lounge inside of the Metropolitan Museum. I had no idea this was here and it was a nice place to have a quiet solo lunch. Loved the spicy cocktail and would return just for that. I would like to come back with a few friends and sit in the lounge area, feels like a living room, and just face drinks and appetizers. Many art books to take in and it just had a nice vibe. My salmon salad was good and I will definitely try again during my next day at the Met.
A great place where you can take a break between long-term exploration! Disadvantage: Pretty expensive 🙂 Friday and Saturday nights include life music!
Marlow East
| Address | 1022 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (646) 767-0123 |
This restaurant is a gem . Great staff ( ask for Dennis ... he's top notch ) , the food is delicious and memorable ( save room for dessert ... the Pavlova is incredible) . The decor is beautiful, great flower arrangements from the host/hostess podium, bar arrangements to the single flower at each table ... all high end . This restaurant hits all the senses in the best way possible. Looking forward to going back . You won't be disappointed.
Good food, and fancy Upper East Side vibes. A bit too expensive but that’s the expectation with a place in this area. Servers are nice too! Got their croquettes and they were very good. Burger was also good with very good cheese. Potato wedges were a bit heavy. Their apres fashioned drink was 👌
I will go back but occasionally due to price$$$
5 out of 5 experience: beautiful ambiance, pleasant vibe, great service and delicious food. I had a sea bass in a special sauce and it was really good.
I looked up what the name “Marlow” means and one of the meanings is “land by the lake”, I believe because of the proximity to the Central Park. Really cool restaurant, every time I walk by, it’s busy and there is a nice happy crowd inside.
Marlow East is a true standout on the Upper East Side. From the moment you walk in, you’re met with warmth, attentiveness, and a level of hospitality that feels rare in the city. The space is beautifully designed, striking the perfect balance between modern elegance and neighborhood charm.
The food? Thoughtful, refined, and full of heart. Every dish is crafted with care and creativity, offering bold flavors without ever feeling overdone. It’s clear the team here knows exactly what they’re doing—both in the kitchen and in creating a memorable dining experience.
It’s officially one of my go-to spots—not just for incredible food, but for the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel genuinely welcome every time.
We had a fantastic lunch, largely thanks to our server George, who was absolutely outstanding from start to finish!
Must order shrimp grits, pavlova and espresso martini, it was my fav.
It is beautiful restaurant, will go back for brunch and dinner!
The Smith
| Address | 1150 Broadway, New York, NY 10010 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 685-4500 |
I have mixed feelings about The Smith, but three stars feels fair — maybe even a touch generous. We booked a table for eight for a family brunch to celebrate my wife’s 40th, so expectations were (understandably) high.
Let’s start with what they absolutely get right. The ambiance is fantastic — very 1920s, F. Scott Fitzgerald energy — and it works. The interior design team clearly put serious thought into creating something transportive and polished. It feels intentional, not accidental.
The cocktails? Genuinely phenomenal. The Oaxacan Sunshine was a standout — bright, balanced, and memorable. My wife’s Frozen Pool Party tasted like something straight out of a Death & Co. mixology finals round. Creative, refined, and just plain fun.
The food was also impressive. The menu strikes a nice balance between healthier options and indulgent brunch staples, and everything we ordered delivered both in flavor and presentation.
Which is why it’s frustrating to say the service didn’t live up to the rest of the experience.
We were seated at a table set with visibly dirty dishes — traces of butter still on the plates. I quietly mentioned it to the server. He inspected them, said nothing, removed them… and never brought replacements or acknowledged the miss. No quick apology, no “we’ll fix that right away,” nothing.
It made me wonder how dishes leave the kitchen that way, washed by one person, set by another, without anyone noticing. It felt either like a simple mistake or a breakdown in attention to detail. And on a milestone birthday brunch, that lack of care stands out.
The Smith has the atmosphere, the drinks, and the food to be exceptional. I just wish the service matched the level of everything else.
Stopped here for lunch last weekend and it was busy, but the service was top-notch thanks to Yesenia. She took great care of us. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal—especially the Miso salmon, the generously portioned 'little' gem caesar salad, and the ranchero scramble with bacon and chicken sausage. Everything was delicious and served perfectly. Highly recommended for a casual, high-quality lunch in NYC
great variety of food! service was great and pretty quick. i will say some of the dishes were realllly good and some other lacked a little bit. but overall would go back. i enjoyed spending time in the restaurant. its really big and has great amount of seating for any size group
We had a fabulous time at The Smith on the 7th May 2026, it was our first tim visiting NYC from Manchester, England. Wow it did not disappoint, the staff were absolutely amazing, and the good was delicious, and yes we had to go back for a second night as it was that good.
We even had breakfast which was delicious and again served by lovely, friendly staff.
Stopped in here for a few appetizers and drinks after a travel day. Seated quickly -- waitress was kind and attentive. Food and drinks came out quickly and everything was great. We had the mussels and fries and they were great! Would definitely come back. Good sized wine menu too!
Hoexter's
| Address | 174 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 288-1777 |
Happy we finally got to try it out, but not dying to come back anytime soon. The Gorgonzola bread is def worth the hype; the burger was good but definitely have had better. Actually really enjoyed the cauliflower app. If you’re looking for a downtime vibe but uptown, this is a great spot for that. Definitely loud so don’t come to catch up with people 😝.
The pork ribs and cheeseburger are the best! Great for brunch, lunch or dinner. A neighborhood gem with great cocktails and wines.
We enjoyed our evening at Hoexters. The restaurant is dark and intimate (on the smaller side) and very busy, with a lively, trendy vibe. Even though we had a reservation, we still waited about 25–30 minutes for our table, so we grabbed drinks at the bar—worth it, because the dirty martinis were delicious.
Food-wise, we had salads, steak, fries, and burgers. I have to say, I wasn’t expecting the smashburger to be as good as it was—it really surprised me in the best way. Fries did come out super salty, but they did remake them for us. Service was generally pretty good, but we were disappointed that one person in our group had to wait an extra 15–20 minutes for her burger while everyone else’s food came out, and no one from the staff really acknowledged the delay.
Prices were on the higher side. But to be expected for any big city.
Overall, it’s a fun, trendy spot that’s great for a date or a group night out. Despite a few hiccups, we’d definitely check it out again if we’re in the area.
Tip: A reservation is a must!
Great vibe at this upper east side spot. Very friendly and professional staff. They have a standing “off-menu” steak sandwich, which is kind of a must. Miso cod was tasty and the ice cream and out-of-the-oven chocolate chip cookies did not disappoint.
We LOVE Hoexters. We come once every few weeks, and never get sick of it. It’s just one of those easy neighborhood places where the food is consistent and good and the service is always friendly. I love their French onion soup and think it’s one of the best in the city. Also their shrimp cocktail and artichoke are always perfect. Entrees I like to switch it up, but I am always happy. I love their cheesesteak and their pot pie. Also get their pork Milanese often and its really good
Tips for Dining Near the Met
Dining near a major tourist attraction requires a bit of strategy to avoid the common pitfalls of long waits and overpriced menus. The Upper East Side is a residential neighborhood, which means the best restaurants cater to locals who demand consistency and value. By following a few simple guidelines, you can eat like a regular and avoid the stress that often comes with finding a meal in a busy area.
Consider walking a few blocks east or north. The restaurants directly adjacent to the museum steps, while convenient, are often the most crowded and can be geared toward high-volume tourism. If you walk ten minutes toward Lexington or Third Avenue, or up toward 86th Street, you will find a higher concentration of authentic neighborhood gems where the pace is calmer and the service is more personalized.
Make a reservation for dinner, but rely on walk-ins for lunch. The lunch crowd near the Met is fluid; people are often coming and going between museum exhibits. However, by dinner time, the local residents come out, and tables at the best spots fill up quickly. If you plan to have a sit-down dinner after the museum closes, booking a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid a long wait.
Embrace the "quick bite" culture. New York City is famous for its grab-and-go options, and the Upper East Side is no exception. If you want to maximize your time inside the museum, look for high-end delis or bakeries where you can purchase a sandwich or salad to enjoy in Central Park. This is often the most efficient and scenic way to eat lunch on a nice day.
Check the museum’s hours against the restaurant’s "pre-theater" or "happy hour" menus. Many upscale restaurants in the area offer discounted appetizers and drinks during the late afternoon hours, typically between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. If you are leaving the museum before closing, you can take advantage of these excellent deals at high-end establishments for a fraction of the dinner price.
Do not underestimate the coffee and pastry shops. If you are hitting a mid-day slump, a quick stop at a French patisserie or a specialty coffee shop can provide the necessary energy boost without requiring a long, heavy meal. These spots are perfect for a short rest before heading back to explore the American Wing or the Roof Garden.
The area surrounding the Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a dining experience as rich and varied as the collection housed within its walls. Whether you opt for a historic institution or a modern culinary hotspot, taking the time to enjoy a good meal will undoubtedly enhance your overall visit to the city.
By choosing a spot that prioritizes quality ingredients and attentive service, you ensure that your day on Museum Mile is memorable for all the right reasons. Enjoy your meal, and perhaps you will find that the food is just as inspiring as the art.
