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NEW YORK CITY - UPPER EASTSIDE

Best Of Sneaky
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Bis Designer Resale
1134 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10028
(212) 396-2760
Bis, is one of those underrated fashion shopping gems that combines prices better than any outlet store with the quality of most of its upper-crust neighbors (read: Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, and the usual Euro-couture suspects). The idea is that nearly every piece of clothing comes from the runways, showrooms, and closets of NYC's models, fashionistas, and ladies-who-lunch. Guys, don't be discouraged there are plenty of mens Armani suits, Hermes ties, and Burberry trench coats for us as well.
Blockhead Burritos
4 World Financial Center New York, NY 10281
212-619-8226
NOTE: Our local Sneaky Sunday representative is working on developing original commentary for Blockhead Burritos in New York City - Upper Eastside. It will be live very soon. If its on our list of best in New York City - Upper Eastside, then trust us, it has the in New York City - Upper Eastside. Thank you for your patience and if you take our advice please enjoy Blockhead Burritos.
Sant Ambroeus
259 W 4th St New York, NY 10014
212-604-9254
NOTE: Our local Sneaky Sunday representative is working on developing original commentary for Sant Ambroeus in New York City - Upper Eastside. It will be live very soon. If its on our list of best in New York City - Upper Eastside, then trust us, it has the in New York City - Upper Eastside. Thank you for your patience and if you take our advice please enjoy Sant Ambroeus.
JG Melon
73rd and 3rd AVenue Upper East Side, NY 10021
(212) 744-0585
The venerable UES staple that has arguably the best fries in the city which also happen to be waffle shaped! If the annoying lines don't kill you with hunger, then the glorious burger aroma which surrounds the area won't let you escape. Definitely recommended for the burger to cure a hangover.
Pascalou
1308 Madison Avenue New York, AL 10128
212-534-7522
This quaint and cozy French restaurant is great for eclectic French fare, with a twist: rack of baby lamb chops with garlic-mashed potatoes in a soy-pepper sauce, fricasse of wild mushrooms with parsley and shaved garlic, and more. But hands down, Pascalou has one of, if not THE BEST CHOCOLATE SOUFFLÉ IN ALL OF NYC. Not to be missed by any chocolate lover! Hours: Lunch: Mon-Sun 11am-3:30pm. , Dinner: Mon-Sun 5pm-10pm. , Brunch: Sat-Sun 11am-3:30pm.
Southern Hospitality
1460 2nd Ave New York, NY 10075
(212) 249-1001
JT!!!! Celebrities always seem to get into the restaurant industry and usually the restaurants don’t last. But then again, everything Justin Timberlake touches turns to gold. This upscale BBQ joint has great pulled pork and a killer bar scene. We think Southern Hospitality is definitely here to stay. Mon 12am-2am, 4pm-2am; Tue-Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 11:30am-2am; Sun 11:30am-12am
Blockhead Burritos
4 Word Financial Center New York, NY 10281
212-619-8226
NOTE: Our local Sneaky Sunday representative is working on developing original commentary for Blockhead Burritos in New York City - Upper Eastside. It will be live very soon. If its on our list of best in New York City - Upper Eastside, then trust us, it has the in New York City - Upper Eastside. Thank you for your patience and if you take our advice please enjoy Blockhead Burritos.
Felice
1166 1st Ave New York, NY 10065
(212) 593-2223
From the owners of Sant Ambroeus, a fabulous new wine bar has hit the area of 65th and 1st Ave - an area lacking in cool, hip wine bars! A very friendly bar staff and host will welcome you - to this cozy place. Great for dates or a glass of wine with girlfriends. There are several long tables if you want to eat communal style. An extensive wine list - my last trip I even got a free taste!
Stir
1363 First Avenue New York, NY 10021
(212) 744-7190
A swanky place on the UES to get a martini? Yes there is actually a place! Great chill place to grab a cocktail on a date or a night out with friends. Good seating and upscale bar food make this a fun night out - especially in the area of 73rd and 1st that doesn't have as many upscale nightlife options!
Candle Cafe
1307 3rd Ave New York, NY 10021
: (212) 472-0970
The place to go on the UES for health food - great service, and granola/cool atmosphere. A nice bar where you can eat solo and grab some juice and vegan bites. Full selection of dinner and interesting parings, make this a must hit place in the neighborhood. Warning-it can get crowded!!
Gobo
1426 Third Avenue New York, NY 10028
The UES could have definitely used another one of these kinda restaurants and Gobo is probably the nicest addition to the list. The organic juice bar and organic wines are the perfect complements to the delicious and well-prepared fare.
Land
1564 Second Avenue New York, NY 10028
A follow up Land to the original on Amersterdam Avenue on the UWS - a great place, and solid location on the strip of Second Avenue. A BYOB is hard to find also- modern/hip interior, though can get crowded now that the word is out. No outdoor seating, but they can open the front windows......
Ryan's Daughter
350 East 85th Street New York, NY 10028
Nope, the owner’s name is not Ryan. Nah, the joint is named after some sappy film in which an Irish woman falls for a British soldier. What does that mean to you? How ‘bout great beer, reasonable prices, free eats and good-looking scenery? Might wanna look up the address, though, since there aren’t exactly neon lights pointing out this gem. Roll here on Monday evening or Friday night and you’ll still get the neighborhood feel. The bartender might even know you by drink.
BarVespa
1609 Second Avenue New York, NY 10028
DJ's spinning on Friday and Saturday nights give a nice vibe. A good overall wine bar- and excellent cheese service. The spin off of the popular Italian restaurant Vespa up the street!
The Carlyle
35 E 76th Stat Madison Ave New York, NY 10021
(212) 744-1600
NOTE: Our local Sneaky Sunday representative is working on developing original commentary for The Carlyle in New York City - Upper Eastside. It will be live very soon. If its on our list of best in New York City - Upper Eastside, then trust us, it has the in New York City - Upper Eastside. Thank you for your patience and if you take our advice please enjoy The Carlyle.
Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel
35 East 76th Street at Madison Avenue New York, NY 10021
(212) 744-1600
An "old-school bar" with a lot of class at the Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side. There's live music (with cover after 9:30) and the murals on the wall are done by Ludwig Bemelmans (the author of the Madeline book series). They do various cocktails, with chatty barstaff - and a great "dark" location makes it a good date place too!
Bounce
1403 2nd Ave New York, NY 10021
212-535-2183
Like 42-inch flat-screens? How ‘bout 12 of ‘em? Not sure where else in Manhattan you can dine on salmon, root on your favorite team and drink beer while wearing a jersey. If that sounds a bit contradictory, no worries – just order a basket of wings or a Philly cheese steak and start hollering at the TVs. Cold ones might be a bit pricey but the eye candy (patrons and staff) and DJ make up for it. Not your average sports bar…
Kinsale Tavern
1672 3rd Ave # 93 New York, NY 10128
212-348-4370
Irish bartenders? Check. Scrumptious shepherd’s pie? Check. About what you’d expect from a bar named Kinsale, right? Well, that’s where the clichés end. This joint offers 100+ types of whiskey, cheap draught beer in bicep-building 20 oz. pints and all the local or international sports your glossy eyes can handle. Come here late for drinks and app’s and come back early the next morning to take a few swings back at your hangover.
Brother Jimmy's BBQ
1485 2nd Avenue New York, NY 10075
212-288-0999
If it weren’t in the concrete jungle, you’d swear you were in SEC land. Depending on who you ask, either the ribs (smoked in-house) or the waitresses (think Hooters) are the main attraction. The nightly specials at this landmark are as constant as the pitchers and football games. Come “put some South in your mouth” – just be careful with the ‘trash can punch’ and the ‘swamp water’.
Roof Deck at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Ave New York, NY 10028
(212) 879-5500
Grab a ‘tini and a seat and enjoy possibly the best bar-top view in the city. The bar atop one of Manhattan’s most famous landmarks comes with sculptures and still-lifes as the regulars. So don’t be offended when the food rolls by in the form of a sandwich cart. Like we said, you come here for the skyline, not the grub. So relax, sip on a “Baloon Dog” (check your art history) and bring along your digital camera.
212
212 E 52nd St New York, NY 10022
(212) 754-4840
If you think Absolut vodka is top-shelf, this ain’t the place for you. 125 vodka options litter the menu – more than twice the dinner options. But don’t think the dinner options take back seat. Popular Chef Vincent Chirico keeps the bistro bouncing back’n’forth between Euro and Asian flavor. Want to throw a few back without dropping a C note? Belly up like a Russian, swill some vodka and skip dinner.
Blonde, Brunette and a Redhead
1720 2nd Ave New York, NY 10128
212-987-5555
What sounds like the prelude to a “…walk into a bar” joke is home to the Upper East Side’s best happy hour. This upscale watering hole has flat screens everywhere, colorful cocktails and even an old-fashioned photo booth. If that doesn’t tickle your liver, how do you like 80’s video games? BB&R has Ms. Pacman, Galaga, Battleship and even Madden to keep you busy while you ponder your top-shelf, open bar options (three hours all-you-can-drink for $45). Keep it old-school and keep it classy at BB&R.
Doc Watsons
1490 2nd Avenue New York, NY 10075
212-988-5300
Longtime member of the 2nd Avenue strip, DW’s is a super place for post-work cocktails or pre-game pops. Secluded garden area and café in the front keeps it laid-back until prime time. Crowds grow and space disappears around 10pm, though. The downstairs level is dedicated to pool and music but don’t mistake it for casual bar games. Some cats here bring their own sticks. And they all bring their wallets.
Mad River Bar & Grill
1442 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10028
212-988-1832
It might be a good idea to show up in comfortable shoes. Why? Because this versatile watering hole goes off when the games end. Sometimes it’s dancing; sometimes it’s a ‘funny bathing suit' contest. But nothing beats $10 all-you-can-drink Wednesdays. Like Wiscy? Plenty of UW supporters keep it red on Saturdays in the Fall. Deals every day & night. Games every day & night. ‘Nuff said?
Back Page
1472 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10028
212-570-5800
Huge bar. One of the biggest in the area. Great wings. Different degrees of spice (go ‘hot’), texture (go ‘crispy’) and quantity (go ‘stadium’ for 300!) available. Full menu OK for take out as well. Oh, and the two-story bar is covered in sports memorabilia and TVs. Fellas, leave your man-purses at home. This is also the official Sports Bar for University of Kansas Jayhawks.
Session 73
1359 1st Avenue New York, NY 10021
212-517-4445
Elegance runs deep at Session 73. Mood lighting keeps the vibe loungy but the dark wood bar, world-class tapas and award-winning salsa make this club a great place for one-stop shopping. Aside from the funky mix of food & mood, the live music is as solid as it is versatile. From jazz to blues to techno to pop, grab some pops and find your groove here.
The Roof Garden at The Met
1000 5th Avenue New York, NY 10028
212-535-7710
Grab a ‘tini and a seat and enjoy possibly the best bar-top view in the city. The bar atop one of Manhattan’s most famous landmarks comes with sculptures and still-lifes as the regulars. So don’t be offended when the food rolls by in the form of a sandwich cart. Like we said, you come here for the skyline, not the grub. So relax, sip on a “Baloon Dog” (check your art history) and bring along your digital camera.
Ship of Fools
1590 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
212-570-2651
Only fools buy into this tavern’s transparent nautical décor. Instead, patrons from all over NYC descend on the 2nd Ave staple for cheap pints ($2 during happy hour) and all the football their livers can handle. Forty-two satellite TVs and five different “sound zones” keep it rockin’ to the various talking heads in the world of (insert sport here). And if a crowd of guys and beer-bottle lights are your thing, well then, this is Eden.
Vudu
1487 1st Ave New York, NY 10075
212-249-9540
– The best thing about this ex-Soho club? How ‘bout a reasonable cover, for starters? That, and it won’t pummel you with pretension like the downtown clubs. Nope. This underground lounge-slash-club is refreshingly diverse, it rolls without a dress code and the bouncers won’t heckle or squeeze you. Cost of cocktails will hit your money clip just as hard as any other club. You'll just enjoy more bang for your greenback here.
Mustang
1633 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
212-744-9194
Te gusta tequila? If so, Mustang’s your huckleberry. Be careful of the “Mustang margarita”, though. That is, unless you wanna forget the whole night. One of the top premium tequila bars in the country is right here on the UES. Yeah, that’s right – you can swill the clear stuff and the bronze stuff (or both) here, all the while puffing on your favorite stogie. Non-smokers relax: there’s a filter system that’ll keep you cancer-free – and you won’t even pay a cover for it. By the way, you can get your fiesta on inside or outside, too. Mustang is a must-see for Cinco De Mayo, no doubt. Or any other day of the week.
ZaZa
1207 1st Ave New York, NY 10065
212-772-9997
If you could somehow confuse the subway with the Euro Rail, you might think you jumped off in Florence. Nowhere else on the UES can you find homemade ravioli and risotto-of-the-day. Sangria seems to be the drink of choice in the garden but if you’re on the wagon, try the famous fruity iced tea while taking in the New York air. Fantastico!
Vespa
1625 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
212-472-2050
Trying to impress that special guy or gal in your life? Take ‘em here & tell ‘em the chef was recognized by BravoTV.com. OK, that probably won’t hold any weight with the men but the garden seating and wine list both hold their own on the UES. The tasting menu ($20) will light up your taste buds while the shiraz unbuttons your collar. Sit in the garden for views of the stars and guzzle down some ambience.
Panorama Cafe
1640 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
212-249-0986
The huge Italian menu and full wine bar can be a little overwhelming. So grab some sangria, order a couple seafood app’s and take your time. The newly-renovated interior is solid but it’s trumped by the ridiculous view from the 2nd story deck. Doesn’t matter if romance is your thing or getting loose on Chianti is the only priority – Panorama Café is versatile, reasonable - and like many of the clientele - easy on the eyes.
Aces & Eights Saloon
1683 1st Ave New York, NY 10128
Phone: (212) 860-4020
If you remember college, you’ll like this saloon. Pretty sure it’s the only bar on the UES that offers Beirut Madness, Shut-up and Drink and $2.50 beers. But don’t sweat the sophomoric sounds to Aces & Eights, it’s not all frat boy - all the time. Come in on weekends for your favorite games or come in with your date (if he/she likes to drink) – your indulgence might even raise a few bucks for charity.
Iggy's
1452 2nd Ave New York, NY 10021
2121-327-3043
This UES staple is known best for its rock and roll and it karaoke. But the newly remodeled hot-spot also offers solid grub and has a DJ from Queens to boot. Our favorite? The “fixed-price” open bar – where you can drink all you want for three hours and $35. And if you wanna give a little back while you tip a few back, take pride in knowing that all the karaoke songsters donate a buck to charity each time they grab the mike.
Dorian's Red Hand
1616 2nd Ave83rd & 84th New York, NY 10028
212-772-6660
Opened in 1960 by “Red Dog” Dorian, this landmark is still keeping New Yorkers buzzed and happy three generations later. Come for the Irish Pub feel, come for the sports or come for the late-night debauchery. Just make sure you get here early – cuz when the karaoke jukebox starts pumping out 80’s hits and rock-n-roll classics, the preppies start rolling in. Come back for seconds and you might even find out why it’s called the “Red Hand”.
Doc Watson's
1490 2nd ave new York, NY 10075
212-988-5300
Longtime member of the 2nd Avenue strip, DW’s is a super place for post-work cocktails or pre-game pops. Secluded garden area and café in the front keeps it laid-back until prime time. Crowds grow and space disappears around 10pm, though. The downstairs level is dedicated to pool and music but don’t mistake it for casual bar games. Some cats here bring their own sticks. And they all bring their wallets...
The Big Easy
1768 2nd Ave New York, NY 10128
(212) 348-0879
The Big Easy seems like it’d be more appropriately situated on a college campus than on the Upper East Side. Maybe because it has five beer pong tables. Or maybe because there’s a chance you could do a shot off the bartender. But it’s not all low-brow here. Power hour replaces happy hour, there’s a monthly zodiac party and you’ll even hear some good music. Check the website, though, before deciding whether or not to bring your Mom.
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