Best Upper West Side Restaurants with Halal Options | Top Rated

12 restaurants in Best Upper West Side Restaurants with Halal Options | Top Rated

• Arte Cafe — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Tucked within a historic brownstone, Arte Cafe envelops guests in a warm, art-filled embrace where sun-dappled tables and rustic brick walls create an inviting backdrop for soulful Italian dining. The kitchen breathes life into the classics, sending out plates of silky, hand-rolled pasta and crisp, wood-fired pizzas that fill the air with the intoxicating aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh basil. It is a neighborhood gem where the vibrant energy of a local gallery meets the timeless comfort of a family kitchen, turning every meal into a leisurely celebration of flavor.
• Murray's Sturgeon Shop — Seafood · rated 4/5: Stepping into this storied landmark, guests are greeted by the nostalgic aroma of slow-simmered soups and the delicate, smoky scent of premium fish cured to perfection. Behind the gleaming glass counters, master slicers artfully prepare silken ribbons of sturgeon and buttery sable, while shelves overflowing with jewel-toned dried fruits and tins of fine caviar evoke a sense of timeless culinary indulgence. It is a sanctuary of old-world tradition where every offering—from the earthy depth of homemade gefilte fish to the rich complexity of specialty coffees—celebrates the enduring artistry of the classic New York appetizing shop.
• Shah's Halal Food — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: The air at Shah’s Halal Food is thick with the savory perfume of cumin-spiced lamb and flame-seared chicken, promising a hearty experience rooted in authentic street-food tradition. Generous mounds of fragrant, saffron-hued rice serve as the canvas for tender meats and crisp salads, all brought to life by the legendary contrast of cooling white sauce and a bold, spicy kick.
• Orwashers Bakery — American · rated 3/5: This legendary New York institution envelops visitors in the warm, yeasty perfume of freshly baked heritage grains and the sight of rustic, flour-dusted loaves stacked high behind the counter. From the crackling crust of a golden baguette to the dense, malty depth of their signature pumpernickel, every bite celebrates a century of artisanal craftsmanship that turns simple sourdough bagels and hearty local levains into a timeless neighborhood ritual.
• Gari Columbus — Japanese: This refined culinary sanctuary invites guests to witness the precision of master chefs as they craft inventive omakase journeys, where each delicate piece of sushi is treated as a singular, vibrant work of art. The air carries the subtle brightness of citrusy yuzu and the savory warmth of seared teriyaki, bridging the gap between traditional sashimi elegance and contemporary Japanese comfort. Within this sleek, minimalist setting, every meal becomes a choreographed exploration of texture and taste, offering a sophisticated escape defined by culinary craftsmanship.
• Eléa — Greek: Sun-drenched flavors and the spirit of the Aegean come alive at Eléa, where the air is filled with the enticing aroma of charred octopus and golden, sesame-crusted feta. Guests gather in a sophisticated, airy space to share vibrant towers of crispy zucchini chips and savory mussels saganaki, enjoying a soulful escape that celebrates the timeless art of Mediterranean hospitality.
• Miriam — Middle Eastern: Sunlight dances across tables laden with the vibrant colors and bold aromas of a Middle Eastern morning, where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and fresh-baked breads. Sizzling pans of shakshuka and golden, flaky burekas invite guests to dip into silken yolks and zesty sauces, creating a communal feast that celebrates the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of a traditional Jerusalem breakfast. From the crisp crunch of latkes to the comforting, buttery layers of malawach, every plate offers a spirited journey through a rich culinary heritage in a space that feels both lively and deeply welcoming.
• Baazi — Indian: Step into a vibrant space where the electric energy of Indian street food meets modern culinary flair, filling the air with the tantalizing scents of toasted spices and sizzling tandoors. The kitchen transforms traditional favorites into edible art, from the towering, crispy layers of kale bhalla to the rich, buttery heat of shrimp tossed in a silken chili sauce. Each plate offers a playful gamble of textures and bold aromatics, inviting diners to linger over inventive small plates and soulful regional classics that celebrate the diverse spirit of the subcontinent.
• Zabar's Cafe — American: This iconic Upper West Side institution hums with a nostalgic energy, drawing guests into a space where the savory scent of slow-braised brisket mingles with the briny, delicate aroma of world-class smoked fish. Platters of silken Nova and hand-picked herring celebrate the artistry of the traditional New York deli, while hearty helpings of meat-stuffed cabbage and rich beef stew provide a soulful, comforting counterpoint. Every bite serves as a flavorful tribute to a culinary legacy, making each visit feel like a timeless invitation into the heart of the city’s vibrant food culture.
• Barney Greengrass — Middle Eastern: Stepping into this legendary Upper West Side institution feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of smoked fish and the bustling energy of a classic New York deli. Silky ribbons of Eastern Nova Scotia salmon and buttery sturgeon are hand-sliced with surgical precision, destined to be piled atop chewy, kettle-boiled bagels or toasted bialys. Golden braided challah and fragrant onion rolls round out a spread that celebrates the soul of Jewish appetizing traditions, offering a timeless taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
• Columbus Cafe — American: Stepping into Columbus Cafe feels like a warm embrace, where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the aroma of smoked bacon signal the start of a perfect morning. Golden yolks break over hearty breakfast platters and toasted sandwiches, while savory folds of pastrami and melted Swiss elevate the humble omelette into a comforting, soul-warming feast.
• Chalait — Japanese: This serene sanctuary celebrates the art of the whisk, where the vibrant, emerald hues of premium ceremonial-grade matcha are transformed into frothy, soul-warming elixirs. Guests are invited into a minimalist space that honors the quiet ritual of tea, from the precise sift of fine powders to the rhythmic motion of bamboo whisks against handcrafted ceramic bowls. Every visit offers a moment of mindful tranquility, whether savoring a rare limited-release blend or selecting the artisanal tools to recreate the timeless tradition at home.