This neighborhood guide is curated by one of our New York City–based editors who calls it home.
Upper East Side, a classic. The Upper East Side has always been cool because it never followed the latest trends. There is a timeless familiarity in a city that is constantly changing. You can still find quintessential. New York City Inscriptions immortalized Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Sex and the City and, yes, Gossip girl
I will now move on to the second point that I want to make. The Upper East Side, which is so well-known by out-of towners, is just a slice of a neighborhood that is deceptively huge. It starts at 59th Street (and ends, according to most sources, at 96th Street). Within these borders are three micro-neighborhoods—Lenox Hill, Yorkville, and Carnegie Hill—each with their own distinct vibe. I recommend that all visitors walk past the blocks. Gilded Age townhomes You can window shop along Madison Avenue, but you should also venture past Park Avenue to visit the mom-and-pop shops and local favorites. You’ll find here such gems like Anthony Bourdain’s favorite pastrami, a South African Wine Bar with an amazing happy hour, old Italian bastions frequented by Joan Didion, Paul McCartney and quiet park benches looking out over the East River.
While I’m not going to go as far as to say that the Upper East Side underwent a radical change, I do think it is experiencing a golden age. Rents in the east end are relatively low, which has attracted a new generation of young professionals and creatives to move uptown. (This writer, who was a downtown girl before recently, is part of this group). Then came the openings of Chez Fifi, Hoexter’s and other hot spots that brought some much-needed energy to what was at times a stiff dining and nightlife environment. In order to capture the perfect balance between UES classic and modern, new and old, I have also drawn on my own experience. Emily Adler, TravelerThe social media editor of, a native Upper East Sider and lifelong Upper East Sider as well Taylor EisenhauerWe asked our editorial operations manager, and an UES native who has lived in the neighborhood for more than five year, about their favorite local joints. We’ve put together a guide to the Upper East Side.
Central Park Coffee Walk at 9am
Central Park has a magic that is hard to describe. If you have the time, you could spend a whole day in Central Park walking, biking and picnicking. This itinerary suggests an early morning stroll to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft morning light. (The park’s off leash hours are from 6am-9am, so don’t get caught up in a game or fetch). Before setting off, find a bench on which to nibble a pastry or bagel and sip a coffee of your choice—solid options including Orwashers (for pastries), Breads Bakery The word “for” is used to indicate that the famous babka), Butterfield Market Take-out coffee, smoothies and wraps are available. Sable’s (for fresh lox, bagels and other smoked salmon).
The 77th street entrance is where I start my Central Park walk. From there, it’s just a short jaunt up to the Kerbs Boathouse If you are traveling with children, it is important to take into consideration the following: remote-controlled model sailboat races Here are some of my favorite things to do and see, and also the life-size Central Park Boathouse. (Rowboat rentals start at 10am, but they’re best viewed from afar.) Follow the path to Bethesda Fountain where snake charmers and musicians entertain, then up the steps to walk “the Mall” a promenade surrounded by gorgeous American elms before returning to your starting point. Sheep Meadow is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic, Frisbee throw, or people-watching. The Reservoir Running Track between 86th Streets and 96th Streets offers a 1.5 mile loop that provides panoramic views of city and water. No strollers or dogs allowed—an UES rarity. It’s worth the trip to East Harlem to see the Conservatory Garden, with its six acres of beautifully manicured lawns.
