Our Local's Guide: Best Eats & Drinks on the Upper West Side

It’s easy to see why New Yorkers love the Upper West Side. The uptown neighborhood boasts close proximity to Central Park, historic buildings, museums, and an inviting spirit. Although not particularly known for its food, the UWS doesn’t disappoint when it comes to eats and drinks. We asked a couple of Miradorians who work and live in the UWS for their expert opinion on where to go the next time you are in the neighborhood.

BEST ROOFTOP: The Empire Hotel Rooftop/Ed’s Chowder House $$$

The Empire Hotel rooftop is one of the more “hip” places on the UWS, says Michael Minarik, licensed real estate salesperson based out of our Upper West Side office. “It’s a fun atmosphere with plenty of room and a good crowd,” he says. Ed’s Chowder House is also located within the Empire Hotel. “[It has] great seafood and a well-stocked bar,” says Revin Kittles, associate broker and UWS resident.

BEST ICE CREAM: Emack & Bolio's Ice Cream $

When you’re in need of a sweet treat, check out Emack & Bolio’s. The famous flavored cones with the eclectic and unique flavors make for the perfect New York ice cream spot. Mirador’s office manager and UWS resident Jamie Kearns suggests this spot for its yummy flavors.

BEST BURGER: P.J. Clarke’s $$

In business for over 130 years, P.J. Clarke’s is a favorite UWS restaurant for agent Christine McAndrews, real estate salesperson based out of our Tower 67/UWS office . "I like going to P.J. Clarke’s for a burger, it's a New York institution,” she says.

BEST SUSHI: Tenzan Sushi $$

With so many sushi places in the city, sometimes it’s hard to find the best of the best. For Revin Kittles, Mirador associate broker, Tenzen has some of the “best sushi around!” Tenzen restaurant features outdoor seating as well as generous portion sizes.

BEST VEGETARIAN: Candle Cafe West $$

If you’re looking for something on the healthier side, look no further than Candle Cafe West. “It has great vegan food and a nice atmosphere,” Mirador’s UWS resident Jamie Lee Kearns says.

BEST CHINESE: Xi’an Famous Foods $

This local Chinese chain started in Queens and has made it’s way to Manhattan featuring food from the central Xi’an province in China. “It has amazing dishes made with these extra-long hand-pulled noodles that have a great blend of flavors from traditional Chinese food and seasonings that are almost Middle Eastern in style. My go-to dish is the spicy lamb noodles...I order them way too often,” says marketing lead Kirsten Stone.

BEST DATE SPOT: The Dakota Bar $$

The Dakota Bar is both a great date destination and singles bar. “It’s good for a pricey drink,” says Revin Kittles, associate broker for Mirador. The bar includes an expansive wine list and great Italian bar bites.

BEST WINE: Vanguard Wine Bar $$

This trendy wine bar offers a wide variety of reasonably priced reds and whites as well as generously portioned snacks and small plates. Our director of operations Leslie Zemnick recommends Vanguard for its great atmosphere and service.

BEST HAPPY HOUR: The Ribbon $$$

The ribbon is a true diamond in the rough, according to Revin Kittles, associate broker. “[They have a] great happy hour and very unique menu,” he says. Revin recommends the cauliflower wings!

BEST AMERICAN: Good Enough to Eat $$

Specializing in homestyle American cooking, Good Enough to Eat’s name says it all. According to Jamie Lee Kearns, the food is “delicious,” and decor is reminiscent of a classic farmhouse, complete with white picket fence out front.

BEST MEXICAN: Rosa Mexicano $$$

In the mood for Mexican food? “Rosa Mexicano is a great spot for some quality margaritas and great guac!” says Revin Kittles, associate broker. The brightly colored interior makes for a great atmosphere while enjoying authentic Mexican food.

BEST CHOCOLATE: Voila Chocolat $$

At Voila Chocolat, you not only get to eat chocolate, but you also get to make it yourself! “I went there for my birthday, and it was super cute. There’s a wall of sprinkles you can choose from. They opened bottles of champagne for us and it was really fun,” Leslie Zemnick, Mirador director of operations says.