Curator’s statement
The Upper West Side is a very special neighborhood on the island of Manhattan in New York City. It is flanked by two magnificent parks, filled with tree lined streets and is the home of famous old-time dining and shopping establishments. The UWS also contains a plethora of museums and cultural venues and even has a fabulous theatre attracting major artists. Dig in a little deeper and you will find so much more of what makes this such a unique and wonderful part of NYC.
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Where to stay in Upper West Side, Manhattan
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Things to do in Upper West Side, Manhattan
Gourmet Food Markets - Citarella for amazing seafood and prepared dishes; Zabars for world famous smoked salmon and other Jewish delicacies; H Mart for a world of Asian specialties and Westside Market & Fairway for a taste of local NYC food shopping.
Grand Bazaar Flea Market - Sundays are for scoping out treasures and special finds at this wonderful school playground turned flea market. You will find artisan crafts, antique wares and clothing, vintage finds and even pickles from the barrel.
Central Park - Spanning from 59th Street up to 110th Street, the West Side of Central Park is one of the most majestic places on earth. Some of my most favorite spots are (1) Strawberry Fields, an ode to John Lennon, (2) The Ramble, with it’s tree covered winding paths, stone benches and secret little nooks and (3) The Great Hill, with it’s steep and rocky terrain perfect for hiking and the most magnificent waterfalls and streams that you will not believe you’re in the middle of a huge city.
Riverside Park - A linear park running alongside The Hudson River and The Westside Highway. Amazing for a bike ride, a dog walk or just sitting on one of the many benches with a bottle of rosé to watch the sunset over the river.
Places to eat & drink in Upper West Side, Manhattan
Barney Greengrass and Murray’s Sturgeon - Classic go-to’s for bagels, smoked fish, knishes, matzoh ball soup and endless of Jewish delicacies. And the lox, eggs and onions are a don’t miss if you’re at Barney Greengrass.
Absolute Bagels - Closer to Columbia University, will blow your mind away with the best bagels in the world. Cash is king here - no credit cards accepted.
Mama’s Too - Pizza just down the street and has some of the best pizza you will ever try. There is something special in their pepperoni!
Cafe Fiorello - Across from Lincoln Center, a bustling spot with a fabulous menu and is great for sidewalk dining and people watching. Oh, and start with a flatbread pizza as an app … yum!
Cafe Luxembourg - With it’s classic French bistro vibe, will take you away to Paris for an hour or two. Try a bloody mary at the bar for brunch and don’t miss the French onion soup.
Shun Lee and Han Dynasty - Both excellent choices for classic Chinese food, New York style, of course.
Jacob’s Pickle - Lively and fun spot for over the top calories and portions…the fried chicken caesar is outrageous.
Orwasher’s - Bakery and breadmaker. A special little corner of fresh baked goodies. Danish, croissant, donuts and incredible out of the oven loaves of bread.
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Helene Schoenfeld
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Looking for more NYC travel inspo? Check out Fora Advisor's guide, Fall in Love with New York City: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New York City.