Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale & Carnivore

• Poulet Sans Tête — French · rated 4.8/5: The air hums with the savory perfume of slow-turning rotisserie and melted butter, drawing guests into a space that captures the effortless warmth of a neighborhood Parisian bistro. Golden-brown chickens glisten under the heat, their crackling skins hiding tender, herb-infused meat that pairs perfectly with crisp, salt-dusted frites and a glass of chilled rosé.
• French Roast — French · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into French Roast feels like being whisked away to a bustling Parisian corner, where the warm glow of vintage lighting illuminates marble tabletops and the intoxicating aroma of buttery pastries fills the air. Here, the timeless charm of a classic brasserie comes alive as guests savor velvety wine-braised meats and crisp frites, all while the rhythmic clink of espresso cups provides a soulful soundtrack to a leisurely afternoon.
• Sala Thai — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Step into a sanctuary of vibrant flavors where the aromatic perfume of fresh galangal and kaffir lime leaves drifts from a bustling open kitchen. The dining room glows with golden accents and intricate wood carvings, setting the stage for a culinary journey that balances the fiery heat of bird's eye chilies with the soothing creaminess of hand-pressed coconut milk. Every dish brings together time-honored techniques and garden-fresh herbs, creating an immersive experience that transports guests to the heart of a lively Bangkok night market.
• Sempre Oggi — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Sempre Oggi captures the fleeting beauty of the seasons within a luminous, modern space that pulses with the warmth of spirited Italian hospitality. Here, the kitchen transforms peak-harvest ingredients into vibrant, hand-crafted pastas and coastal-inspired plates that celebrate the simple joy of the present moment. It is a soulful retreat where timeless Old World traditions are reimagined with a fresh, contemporary energy, inviting guests to linger over every sun-kissed bite.
• Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar — American · rated 4.5/5: Steeped in musical legacy, this intimate Upper West Side sanctuary wraps guests in a soulful embrace of exposed brick, warm candlelight, and the rhythmic pulse of live R&B. The kitchen serves up elevated American comfort food that resonates with heart and flavor, creating a vibrant sensory experience where every savory bite is harmonized by the smooth melodies drifting from the stage.
• Crave Fishbar — Seafood · rated 4.5/5: This eco-conscious sanctuary pulses with a vibrant, nautical energy, where the rhythmic shucking of oysters at the marble bar sets the tempo for a lively, sophisticated evening. The air carries the briny scent of the Atlantic as plates of glistening crudo and perfectly seared sustainable catches arrive, each bite a masterclass in coastal freshness and bold, inventive seasoning. It is a space where the ocean’s bounty is celebrated with both artistry and integrity, offering a spirited escape that feels as refreshing as a sea breeze.
• Bellini — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in a warm, golden glow, Bellini captures the effortless glamour of a Venetian palazzo where the air is thick with the aroma of toasted garlic and simmering ragu. Silken ribbons of handmade pasta and vibrant, seasonal antipasti celebrate the soul of Italian tradition, inviting guests to linger over sparkling cocktails in a space that feels both intimately romantic and grandly celebratory.
• La Sirène — French · rated 4.5/5: La Sirène transports diners to a sun-drenched corner of the South of France, where the intimate, candlelit dining room hums with the convivial energy of a classic Parisian bistro. The air is thick with the intoxicating scent of garlic-infused butter and slow-simmered sauces, setting the stage for a meal where rustic soulfulness meets culinary elegance in every decadent bite.
• Gari Columbus — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: A sophisticated Upper West Side sanctuary where minimalist elegance meets the vibrant energy of a masterfully orchestrated sushi bar. Each piece of signature nigiri arrives as a miniature masterpiece, adorned with inventive sauces and delicate garnishes that transform pristine seafood into a symphony of unexpected textures and bold, umami-rich flavors. This is a space of quiet discovery, where the boundaries of Japanese tradition are pushed through artistic innovation to create a truly transcendent dining experience.
• Barney Greengrass — American · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into this storied Upper West Side landmark feels like a journey through time, where the nostalgic hum of a bustling dining room meets the irresistible scent of freshly toasted bagels and premium smoked fish. The experience centers on masterfully sliced sturgeon and buttery lox served alongside rich schmears of cream cheese, offering a masterclass in the soulful, salt-kissed flavors that have defined the New York appetizing tradition for generations.
• Gennaro — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Gennaro captures the soul of a rustic Italian kitchen, where the soft glow of candlelight illuminates tables laden with silken, hand-cut pastas and the intoxicating aroma of garlic and basil fills the air. Each plate brings together time-honored traditions and sun-ripened flavors, served in an atmosphere that hums with the warmth of a lively family gathering. It is an inviting escape where the
• Bondi Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Bondi Sushi captures the breezy, sun-drenched spirit of the Australian coast, blending minimalist light-wood aesthetics with the meticulous artistry of traditional Japanese craft. The air hums with a vibrant energy as chefs assemble jewel-toned cuts of fish and crisp, made-to-order hand rolls, offering a refreshing escape where every bite feels like a bright celebration of the sea.
• Jacob's Pickles — American · rated 4.3/5: This rustic, high-energy sanctuary celebrates the art of Southern comfort, where the sharp tang of house-brined pickles perfectly offsets the decadence of honey-drizzled fried chicken and towering, flaky buttermilk biscuits. Amidst a backdrop of reclaimed wood and glowing Edison bulbs, the air hums with the conviviality of communal dining and the steady pour of craft ales. It is a soulful neighborhood retreat that transforms simple, honest ingredients into a sprawling, salt-of-the-earth feast designed for lingering over good company.
• 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.
• Miriam — Mediterranean · rated 4.3/5: Miriam transports diners to a sun-drenched Mediterranean oasis where the air is perfumed with the warm, earthy aroma of toasted za’atar and freshly baked pita. Vibrant plates of creamy hummus and sizzling shakshuka arrive at bustling tables, creating a communal tapestry of bold flavors and bright citrus notes that celebrate the soulful, rustic heart of Levantine cooking.
• Viand — American · rated 4.3/5: Viand welcomes guests into a polished yet soulful sanctuary where the comforting aromas of slow-roasted meats and toasted grains drift through a space bathed in warm, amber light. Every plate serves as a vibrant tribute to American culinary heritage, blending nostalgic flavors with a sophisticated touch that transforms a simple meal into a shared celebration of the seasons.
• West Side Wok & Konata Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: West Side Wok & Konata Sushi invites diners into a vibrant space where the high-heat energy of the wok meets the serene precision of the sushi bar. Fragrant clouds of steam rise from savory, flame-kissed stir-fries while skilled hands craft delicate, jewel-like rolls, offering a sensory journey through the diverse textures and bold flavors of Japanese cuisine. Whether settling in for a comforting bowl or lingering over an artfully plated spread, guests experience a seamless blend of culinary tradition and modern flair in every bite.
• Pappardella — Italian · rated 4.2/5: Bathed in the golden glow of soaring windows and rustic charm, this neighborhood sanctuary celebrates the timeless allure of the Italian table through silken, hand-cut ribbons of pasta and fragrant, slow-simmered sauces. The air hums with the warmth of shared stories and the enticing aroma of toasted garlic and fresh herbs, creating an atmosphere where every meal feels like a soulful, unhurried celebration of tradition.
• Cafe 82 — American · rated 4.1/5: Cafe 82 serves as a vibrant neighborhood anchor where the nostalgic sizzle of the griddle and the rich aroma of dark-roast coffee invite guests into a space brimming with sun-drenched warmth. The kitchen transforms humble American staples into elevated experiences, balancing the hearty satisfaction of savory, slow-cooked flavors with the crisp brightness of seasonal ingredients. Every meal unfolds in a setting that hums with welcoming energy, making a simple seat at the counter feel like a cherished daily ritual.
• St. James Gate — American · rated 4/5: This inviting retreat captures the spirit of a classic Celtic pub, where the rich, savory aroma of bubbling onion soup and toasted cheese beckons from a warm, wood-paneled interior. Crisp, artfully composed salads like the vibrant Cobb and fresh spinach offer a bright, garden-fresh counterpoint to the cozy atmosphere, creating a balanced experience that feels both timeless and refreshing. It is a place where the charm of the Old World meets a menu of bright, seasonal flavors, perfect for a lingering lunch or a spirited evening gathering.
• 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.
• Alice's Tea Cup Chapter i — American · rated 4/5: Step through the looking glass into a whimsical sanctuary where the aroma of warm, buttery scones and fragrant loose-leaf teas fills a space brimming with storybook charm. Tiered towers arrive laden with delicate finger sandwiches and house-made preserves, inviting guests to lose themselves in the playful ritual of "The Madhatter" tea service. This enchanting escape turns every visit into a magical journey, where the clink of china and a sip of tea transport you straight into the heart of Wonderland.
• The Throwback — American · rated 4/5: This high-energy sanctuary pulses with a nostalgic spirit, where the thrill of the game meets the comfort of a neighborhood hangout over plates of molten mac and cheese bombs and fiery wings. Crispy totchos and blistered shishito peppers offer a playful, modern riff on classic stadium fare, creating a vibrant social hub perfect for sharing a sprawling "Crash Board" of indulgent bites. Every juicy cheeseburger slider and golden mozzarella stick serves as a delicious tribute to the glory days, making every visit feel like a celebration of good times and great company.
• Momoya — Japanese · rated 4/5: Momoya serves as a refined sanctuary where the precision of sushi artistry meets a contemporary urban pulse, inviting guests to linger over vibrant sashimi platters and the botanical brightness of a Gin Ray cocktail. The experience bridges the gap between land and sea, pairing the savory sizzle of grass-fed rib eye and glazed Scottish salmon with the delicate grace of hand-pressed nigiri and comforting noodle bowls. The evening finds its ultimate expression in a rare dessert omakase, a choreographed finale that transforms the final course into a whimsical exploration of sweetness and craft.
• The Crossbar — American: This vibrant neighborhood hub pulses with energy, where the morning air is thick with the aroma of freshly pulled Devoción espresso and the golden glow of flaky, house-made pastries. As the day matures, the space transforms into a convivial retreat where guests tuck into juicy, charred burgers and crisp, colorful salads paired with a curated selection of craft beers and fine wines. It is a versatile sanctuary that captures the effortless transition from a sun-drenched breakfast spot to a relaxed evening destination.
• Ozen — Japanese: Steaming bowls of fragrant broth take center stage at Ozen, a serene sanctuary where the air is thick with the restorative scents of lemongrass, ginger, and earthy miso. Guests are invited to linger over silken wontons and vibrant, spice-kissed soups that warm the soul, offering a comforting journey through the diverse and delicate flavors of the East.
• West Side Wok & Konata Sushi — Japanese: This vibrant neighborhood destination brings together the bold, savory heat of classic wok-fired favorites and the delicate artistry of fresh sushi in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The air hums with the aroma of toasted sesame and ginger as plates of golden-crisped spring rolls and tender, pan-seared dumplings arrive at the table, inviting diners to indulge in a playful yet comforting fusion of textures and flavors.
• Tarallucci e Vino — Italian: The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked pastry and toasted almonds fills this sun-drenched cafe, where the art of the morning ritual is celebrated with every golden, buttery flake. Guests find themselves whisked away to a European corner as they indulge in sugar-dusted bomboloni, honey-kissed cornetti, and rich pain au chocolat crafted with artisanal care. It is a sanctuary of rustic elegance, perfect for lingering over a delicate fruit-filled turnover or a hearty, nut-studded muffin while the world rushes by outside.
• 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.
• Tacqueria 86 — Mexican: Taqueria 86 invites diners on a spirited culinary road trip across Mexico, where the air is thick with the scent of charred corn and slow-simmered meats. Golden, crispy flautas and zesty pico de gallo set the stage for a parade of regional tacos, ranging from the smoky depths of Michoacán to the rich, succulent birria of Guadalajara. It is a vibrant, flavor-forward escape where every hand-pressed tortilla serves as a canvas for the bold, authentic traditions of the streets.