The Upper East Side boasts a surprising array of fast food options beyond the usual suspects. From classic New York slices to international flavors, there's a quick and satisfying bite for everyone. This guide dives deep into 18 of the best fast food spots, ensuring your next UES meal is both delicious and convenient. We'll explore different cuisines, price points, and highlight what makes each location special.
Quick Bites & Casual Classics:
1. Joe's Shanghai: Soup Dumplings Done Right
Joe's Shanghai is a must-try for soup dumpling enthusiasts. Their signature soup dumplings, xiaolongbao, are expertly crafted with a delicate, thin wrapper filled with savory broth and flavorful pork. The juicy explosion in your mouth is worth the slight mess. Beyond dumplings, they offer other Shanghai specialties, making it a great option for a quick, authentic, and delicious meal. Don't forget to order some potstickers!
2. Halal Guys: A NYC Icon
No discussion of New York City fast food is complete without mentioning the Halal Guys. Their famous chicken and gyro platters, piled high with rice, meat, and their signature white sauce, are a legendary street food experience. The Upper East Side location maintains the quality and generous portions that have made this a beloved institution. Be prepared to queue, especially during peak hours!
3. Artichoke Basille's Pizza: Extra Cheesy Goodness
Artichoke Basille's Pizza needs no introduction. Their signature artichoke pizza is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. The rich artichoke hearts, combined with mozzarella and a touch of garlic, make this a truly unforgettable pizza experience. Perfect for a late-night craving or a casual lunch, this is a UES pizza experience not to be missed.
4. Shake Shack: Gourmet Burgers and More
Shake Shack, while a chain, consistently delivers high-quality burgers, fries, and shakes. The Upper East Side location offers a convenient spot to grab a classic American burger done well. Their ShackBurger, with its juicy patty and creamy cheese, is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with their crispy crinkle-cut fries and a creamy milkshake for the ultimate fast-food experience.
International Flavors:
5. Los Tacos No. 1: Authentic Mexican Tacos
Los Tacos No. 1 brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to the Upper East Side. Their tacos are made with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, offering a delicious escape from typical fast-food fare. The al pastor is a popular choice, but be sure to try their other options as well! Their salsas add a fiery kick that perfectly complements the grilled meats and tortillas.
6. Xi'an Famous Foods: Hand-Ripped Noodles
Xi'an Famous Foods serves up authentic Xi'an cuisine, a regional style from China. Their hand-ripped noodles are the star of the show, tossed in flavorful sauces and often served with various meats or vegetables. The spicy cumin lamb is a popular pick, but their vegetarian options are also a delicious and satisfying choice. The bold flavors and hearty portions are perfect for a fast and flavorful lunch.
7. Pommes Frites: Belgian Fries Perfection
If you're craving Belgian fries, Pommes Frites is the place to go. These aren't your average fast-food fries; they are crispy, golden-brown, and perfectly seasoned. The vast selection of sauces adds another dimension, ranging from the classic mayonnaise to more adventurous options. It's a delightful treat that caters to a more sophisticated palate.
Sweet Treats & Coffee:
8. Levain Bakery: World-Famous Cookies
Levain Bakery's massive, gooey cookies are legendary. These aren't your average cookies; they're oversized, melt-in-your-mouth delights that are perfect for sharing (or not!). Their chocolate chip walnut is a classic, but their other flavors are equally tempting. Be prepared for a potential line, but it's worth the wait.
9. Bluestone Lane: Australian Coffee
Bluestone Lane offers a taste of Australia, with its high-quality coffee, and trendy atmosphere. Their flat whites and lattes are expertly crafted, providing a sophisticated coffee experience. Beyond coffee, they offer various breakfast and brunch options, making it a convenient spot for a quick and tasty morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Pizza Perfection:
10. Pizza East: Hipster Pizza Haven
Pizza East offers a more upscale fast-casual pizza experience. Their pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients, and the crust has a great texture. It is a slightly more refined and expensive pizza joint than the others on the list.
11. Paulie Gee's: Creative Pizza Toppings
Paulie Gee's is known for its creative and unique pizza toppings. If you're looking for something beyond the ordinary, this is the place to go. Their pizzas are delicious and innovative.
Diverse Delights:
12. Mighty Quinn's Barbecue: Texas-Style BBQ
Mighty Quinn's brings the smoky flavors of Texas barbecue to the Upper East Side. Their brisket, ribs, and pulled pork are slow-cooked to perfection, and the sides are equally delicious. It’s a great option for a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
13. The Smith: Upscale Casual Dining (with fast options)
While not strictly fast food, The Smith offers a range of quick and satisfying options, such as burgers and sandwiches, that are perfect for a fast casual meal. The ambiance is upscale, but the service is still relatively quick.
14. J.G. Melon: Classic American Diner (with a twist)
J.G. Melon is a legendary Upper East Side institution. While it leans towards the "diner" side of fast-casual, its burgers and milkshakes are a classic NYC experience. The atmosphere is a large part of the draw here.
Ethnic Eateries:
15. Sushi Yasaka: Fast & Fresh Sushi
Sushi Yasaka provides a quick and affordable sushi option. Their rolls are fresh, well-made, and the service is efficient, even at peak hours.
16. Taverna Kyclades: Greek Gyros & Souvlaki
Taverna Kyclades is a smaller spot offering tasty Greek gyros and souvlaki. It's a solid choice if you’re craving Mediterranean flavors.
Cafes & Delis:
17. Ess-a-Bagel: Iconic New York Bagels
No trip to New York is complete without trying a bagel from Ess-a-Bagel. These bagels are legendary, and their location on the Upper East Side makes them a convenient option for a quick and delicious breakfast or lunch.
18. Zabar's: A Gourmet Deli Experience (with fast options)
Zabar's is a legendary Upper East Side institution. While primarily a gourmet food store, they offer a selection of prepared foods and sandwiches that are perfect for a quick and delicious bite.
This list provides a comprehensive overview of the best fast food options on the Upper East Side. Remember to check opening hours and consider making reservations where applicable, especially during peak times. Enjoy exploring the diverse culinary offerings!
