How to Spend a Day on the Upper West Side
Discover the hidden gems of the Upper West Side with our curated list of non-touristy things to do in NYC. Explore a diverse array of museums, restaurants, storefronts, and landmarks that offer a unique and authentic New York experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, these off-the-beaten-path locations recommended by curators on Seek will help you create the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in the city.
400 Amsterdam Ave, NY, 10024
Orwashers may be the ideal location to start your day off when it comes to the Upper West Side. This is one of New York City’s most classic and revered bakeries, for good reason. The pastries and bread are baked fresh every day, and their variety is off the charts. Croissants, cookies, roll cakes, and anything else you can imagine are complimented by their assortment of coffees and lemonades. They also have sandwiches and other more traditional breakfast items like bagels, sporting all sorts of varieties and toppings. You can also take entire loaves of bread home, whether it’s challah or focaccia.
249 Columbus Avenue, NY, 10023
Latin + Mediterranean flavors and cuisines make for an unforgettable dining experience at Ella Social. Serving meals at all times of day, there’s practically no bad time to go. Brunch through dinner all have all sorts of Mediterranean and Latin fare whether it be paellas, avocado tartines, or empanadas. Take all of those dishes and pair them with a cocktail or wine and you have a totally incredible dining experience! The decor is chic and modern, with dim lights and simple yet elegant decor. Ella Social is a must-go - the only thing for you is to decide what time of day!
2020 Broadway, NY, 10023
Shakespeare & Co. is a book lover’s paradise. You can find books about any and all topics in a spacious setting that sits right in the heart of the Upper West Side. There is even a cafe and seating area for those who want to read or work. They have staff favorites, merchandise, and lots of other amenities that turn a regular bookstore into an entire NYC experience. Check out their awesome split-level storefront and grab something to read! Whether you’re into fiction, history, or anything in between, you’re covered here.
148 W 67th St, NY 10023
Old John’s Luncheonette is a diner-style restaurant that brings American classic dishes right to your table. Enjoy the traditional booths and massive menus with a ginormous selection of dishes and items to try out. Like Ella Social, you can come here for breakfast, lunch or dinner with many different options to choose from depending on which meal you’re having. Brunch mimosas or bellinis are only $10 each, so you can have an affordable boozy brunch. They serve dinner until 10:00 PM, which gives you essentially all day to try out Old John’s whenever you want! Grab steak frites in the morning, or perhaps some grilled salmon for dinner. Regardless, the friendly atmosphere and American diner fare make for an elegant, yet classic dining experience.
519 Columbus Ave, NY 10024
The Consulate serves food from 10 AM to 11 PM practically every day of the week, but their brunch selection on weekends is particularly special, featuring dishes that are extremely hard, if not impossible, to find anywhere else. Order a burrata and prosciutto or salmon waffle if you’re feeling experimental, or go for their more traditional dishes like their consulate breakfast or eggs benedict. Their desserts also taste phenomenal, with creme brulee, tiramisu, or a shared chocolate lava cake as the options. One reason why the menu is so special is that it rotates monthly, thanks to their executive chef Alan Vargas who focuses on a specific region’s cuisine depending on the month. The interior features plants and light-colored booths for a comfortable and chic dining experience.
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