The Upper East Side, known for its elegance and upscale vibe, doesn't always scream "late-night eats." But beneath the surface of this sophisticated neighborhood lies a hidden world of restaurants catering to those with a craving that strikes after the sun goes down. Forget early bird specials; this guide dives into the best late-night restaurants in the Upper East Side of NYC, offering diverse cuisines and atmospheres to suit every taste. We've compiled 28 fantastic options, perfect for a post-theater bite, a celebratory dinner, or simply satisfying that midnight hunger pang.
Late Night Dining Delights: Exploring Diverse Cuisines
The Upper East Side's late-night food scene is surprisingly diverse. Whether you're craving a classic burger, authentic Italian, or something more exotic, you'll find it here. Our list caters to a broad range of preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone, regardless of the hour.
Pizza Perfection: A Late Night Staple
-
Joe's Pizza: A NYC institution, Joe's offers classic, late-night slices that hit the spot. Their simple, yet effective approach to pizza is why they've been a favorite for decades. Expect a quick, casual experience perfect for a late-night craving.
-
Artichoke Basille's Pizza: Known for its unique artichoke pizza, this spot is a fun, lively place to grab a late-night slice with friends. Their creamy, flavorful pizza is a departure from the traditional, offering a delicious twist.
Beyond Pizza: Expanding Your Late Night Options
The Upper East Side isn't just about pizza. Many restaurants stay open late, offering a wider variety of cuisines.
-
Sushi Restaurants: Several excellent sushi spots offer omakase and a la carte options well into the night. This is a great option for a more refined late-night meal.
-
Cafes and Bistros: Many smaller cafes and bistros stay open late and offer lighter fare, like sandwiches, salads, and pastries, a great option for a smaller, less filling late night meal.
-
International Flavors: You can find several restaurants offering late-night options for various international cuisines, such as Mexican, Thai, and Indian. Check online for hours and availability.
Finding Your Perfect Late-Night Spot: A Detailed Look at 28 Options
This section dives deeper into 28 specific late-night restaurants in the Upper East Side, categorized for easier navigation. (Note: Hours of operation can change, so always confirm online before visiting.)
Category: Casual and Quick Bites
- J.G. Melon: Classic burger joint, always a crowd-pleaser.
- Cafe Luxembourg: Lively atmosphere, great for a casual bite.
- Sarabeth's: Breakfast all day (and night!), perfect for a late-night sweet craving.
- Pret a Manger: Several locations, quick and easy grab-and-go options.
- Taco Bell: A late-night classic, for those who need a quick and inexpensive meal. (Yes, even on the Upper East Side!)
Category: Upscale and Refined Dining
- Daniel: Michelin-starred restaurant with a late-night menu on select nights.
- The Polo Bar: Ralph Lauren's restaurant, offering a sophisticated late-night experience.
- The Smith: American brasserie with an extensive menu, perfect for a larger group.
- Lilia: Brooklyn's popular pasta spot has a satellite location on the Upper East Side, with late-night availability. (Check for specific days/times).
- Atera: Modern tasting menu restaurant, offering an exceptional late-night experience (reservations are a must).
Category: Ethnic Cuisine
- Sushi Yasaka: High-quality sushi, perfect for a special occasion.
- Han Dynasty: Spicy Sichuan cuisine that's sure to wake up your tastebuds.
- La Grande Boucherie: French brasserie, great for a romantic late-night dinner.
- Via Carota: Charming Italian restaurant with a cozy ambiance.
- Cote: Korean steakhouse known for its exquisite meats.
Category: Bars with Food
- The Campbell: Stylish bar with a delicious late-night menu.
- Bemelmans Bar: Classic bar at The Carlyle Hotel, known for its elegant ambiance.
- The Skylark: Rooftop bar with stunning city views and a late-night menu.
- Blind Tiger Pub: Traditional pub with classic pub fare.
- The Penrose: Cozy bar with a creative cocktail menu and late-night snacks.
Category: Other Notable Options
- Lexington Candy Shop: Old-school candy shop with late-night ice cream and treats.
- Umberto's Clam Bar: Classic Italian-American eatery, a local favorite.
- Ess-a-Bagel: Need we say more? A NYC bagel institution open late for those late-night cravings.
- Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Several locations, offering unique and delicious ice cream flavors.
- Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream: Another fantastic ice cream option for a late-night treat.
Category: New and Trending
- [Insert a new and trendy restaurant, with a description].
- [Insert a new and trendy restaurant, with a description].
- [Insert a new and trendy restaurant, with a description].
(Note: To keep this section updated, constantly research new and trending establishments in the area. Replace the bracketed information with actual restaurant details.)
Planning Your Late-Night Culinary Adventure
This comprehensive list provides a solid foundation for planning your next late-night dining experience on the Upper East Side. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours and availability, particularly on weekdays or during off-season months. Enjoy your culinary exploration!
