Best Upscale Kosher Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale & Kosher

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Kosher Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale & Kosher

• The Wren — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in a warm, convivial glow, this spirited gathering spot invites guests to linger over a vibrant array of elevated snacks and shareable plates designed for social dining. The air hums with energy as tables fill with charred shishito peppers, smoky brisket croquettes, and velvety whipped ricotta, each bite celebrating bold textures and communal flavors. Whether diving into a golden-fried chicken sandwich or sampling colorful vegetable dips, diners find a welcoming retreat where sophisticated comfort food takes center stage.
• Sushi Dairo — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Sushi Dairo invites guests into a serene, minimalist sanctuary where the rhythmic dance of the chef’s blade transforms the morning’s freshest catch into exquisite edible art. Each hand-pressed piece of nigiri is a masterclass in balance, marrying warm, vinegared rice with buttery seafood that melts upon the palate to reveal deep, umami-rich flavors. This intimate experience honors the quiet precision of Japanese tradition, turning every bite into a fleeting, flavorful moment of pure culinary grace.
• Tara Rose — American · rated 4.7/5: Cascading florals and plush velvet nooks transform this neighborhood gem into a whimsical sanctuary where the air hums with the clink of artisanal glassware and lively conversation. The kitchen breathes new life into American comfort, layering nostalgic flavors with modern flair to create soul-warming plates that pair effortlessly with botanical-infused cocktails. From sun-drenched afternoon brunches to intimate, candlelit evenings, every corner invites guests to linger in an atmosphere that feels both vibrantly social and charmingly tucked away.
• All'Antico Vinaio — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into this legendary Florentine institution, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of warm, salt-dusted schiacciata bread and the lively energy of a bustling Tuscan marketplace. Each towering sandwich is a masterclass in texture and flavor, layering velvety stracciatella and artisanal cold cuts between golden, oil-kissed crusts for a sensory experience that captures the very soul of Italian street food.
• noreetuh — Hawaiian · rated 4.6/5: Noreetuh reimagines the vibrant spirit of the islands through a lens of sophisticated urban elegance, where the warmth of polished wood and soft lighting sets the stage for a refined exploration of Hawaiian soul. The kitchen transforms humble staples into artful masterpieces, balancing the savory depth of glazed musubi with the bright, crystalline freshness of the Pacific. This intimate sanctuary pairs its bold, tropical flavors with an exceptional wine list, creating a transportive dining experience that feels both deeply nostalgic and strikingly modern.
• Vezzo — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of exposed brick and flickering candlelight, this neighborhood gem invites diners into a rustic sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour. Artisanal, paper-thin crusts shatter with a satisfying crunch, providing a delicate canvas for vibrant Mediterranean toppings and rich, velvety sauces that celebrate the soulful simplicity of Italian tradition. Every visit feels like a spirited escape to a bustling Roman side street, where time slows down over a shared bottle of robust red and a perfectly charred pie.
• Joe Junior — American · rated 4.5/5: Step into a timeless slice of Manhattan nostalgia where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the comforting clatter of heavy ceramic mugs define the neighborhood's heartbeat. Golden-brown burgers and velvety, hand-spun milkshakes are served across a polished Formica counter, offering a soulful retreat where the warm glow of neon and the snug embrace of a vinyl booth celebrate the enduring charm of the classic American diner.
• Hanoi House — Vietnamese · rated 4.5/5: This intimate escape captures the soul of Vietnam’s capital, where the air hums with conversation and the intoxicating fragrance of star anise and charred lemongrass. Vibrant plates of herb-strewn bun cha and bowls of deeply restorative, slow-simmered pho bring the bold, balanced flavors of the Hanoi streets to life in a space that feels both rustic and refined.
• Craft — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this architectural sanctuary of warm wood and soft light, guests encounter a masterclass in culinary restraint where the natural beauty of American ingredients takes center stage. Each dish celebrates the purity of the harvest, from heritage meats roasted to succulent perfection to farm-fresh vegetables that burst with seasonal clarity, all served in an atmosphere of understated elegance that honors the honest connection between land and table.
• Hearth — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into Hearth feels like a warm embrace, where the gentle crackle of a wood-burning oven and the intoxicating aroma of charred oak set the stage for a soulful American feast. Golden light spills over rustic wooden tables as the kitchen transforms seasonal harvests into charred, smoke-kissed plates that celebrate the rugged beauty of open-fire cooking.
• Elephant and Castle — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this timeless American haunt feels like a warm embrace, where the glow of polished wood and the hum of lively conversation create an inviting backdrop for soulful comfort food. Golden-brown fries and succulent burgers take center stage, served alongside chilled pints in a space that balances the charm of a classic bistro with the vibrant energy of a beloved neighborhood gathering spot.
• Marumi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Marumi captures the quiet elegance of Japanese tradition, where minimalist decor provides a calm backdrop for the vibrant artistry unfolding at the sushi bar. From the delicate char of grilled skewers to the pristine freshness of hand-pressed nigiri, every dish is a sensory celebration of texture and balance that transports guests to the heart of a bustling Tokyo neighborhood.
• Motorino — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Motorino captures the spirited essence of a Neapolitan pizzeria, where the centerpiece wood-fired oven turns out artisanal pies defined by their signature blistered crusts and vibrant, high-quality toppings. The space buzzes with a warm, urban energy as the aroma of toasted dough and melting pecorino wafts through the air, inviting diners to settle into marble-topped tables for an experience that feels both timeless and effortlessly cool.
• Cosme — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Cosme is a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the earthy aroma of freshly nixtamalized corn meets the sophisticated energy of a modern Mexican atelier. Artfully plated dishes celebrate the soulful flavors of heritage ingredients through a contemporary lens, from the rich, communal ritual of slow-roasted duck carnitas to the delicate, smoky sweetness of charred corn husk meringue. Every vibrant bite pulses with a refined artistry that honors tradition while pushing the boundaries of the modern palate.
• Ichibantei — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into Ichibantei feels like discovering a hidden Tokyo gem, where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill and the aromatic steam of simmering broths wrap guests in a warm, inviting embrace. The space hums with energy as diners savor the delicate balance of umami-rich flavors, from the crisp snap of golden tempura to the comforting depth of hand-crafted bowls that celebrate the soul of Japanese comfort food.
• Aldea — Spanish · rated 4.3/5: Aldea captures the soulful essence of a Spanish village, inviting guests into a warm, sun-drenched space where the aroma of smoked pimentón and sizzling garlic drifts from a lively open kitchen. The kitchen weaves a tapestry of bold Iberian flavors through vibrant plates of charred seafood and rich, saffron-infused rice, creating a communal sanctuary that celebrates the effortless elegance and timeless warmth of Mediterranean dining.
• Malibu Diner — American · rated 4.2/5: Malibu Diner serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the nostalgic hum of a classic American eatery meets a breezy, coastal charm. Guests settle into polished booths amidst the comforting aroma of sizzling griddles and fresh-brewed coffee, enjoying a soulful menu that transforms timeless comfort staples into a vibrant, all-day celebration of flavor.
• Mark's Off Madison — Italian · rated 4/5: Mark's Off Madison captures the spirited pulse of Manhattan, blending the warmth of a neighborhood trattoria with the polished elegance of a sun-drenched bistro overlooking the park. The air hums with lively conversation and the enticing scent of hearth-baked breads, setting the stage for a meal where silky, hand-rolled pastas and vibrant seasonal produce take center stage. Every plate reflects a masterful balance of rustic Italian soul and urban sophistication, inviting diners to linger over an experience that feels like a celebrated New York tradition.
• Bread Story — Korean · rated 4/5: The air inside this artisanal haven is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted grain and warm yeast, drawing guests toward shelves lined with golden, crackling baguettes. From the rustic, earthy crumb of the buckwheat Tourte De Meule to savory loaves studded with briny olives and pockets of melted cheese, every creation celebrates the timeless, tactile art of the traditional boulangerie.
• Il Buco Alimentari — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a sun-drenched Italian marketplace where the scent of freshly baked bread and bubbling wood-fired pizzas fills the air, inviting guests to linger over rustic wooden tables. Hand-stretched dough meets vibrant toppings like spicy green olives and savory pepperoni, while crusty panini overflow with paper-thin prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and marinated eggplant for a true taste of old-world craftsmanship. It is a vibrant culinary sanctuary that celebrates the simplicity of high-quality ingredients, offering a soulful escape where every bite feels like a journey to the heart of Italy.
• Society Billiards + Bar — American · rated 4/5: The rhythmic click of billiard balls provides a lively soundtrack to this polished social hub, where low-slung lighting and a spirited atmosphere invite guests to linger over friendly competition. Between games, diners indulge in a vibrant array of elevated comfort fare, from the smoky warmth of Mexican street corn dip to zesty tarragon chicken sandwiches and crisp, garden-fresh salads that elevate the classic pool hall experience into a refined culinary retreat.
• Phebes — American · rated 3/5: Phebes captures the high-energy spirit of a classic neighborhood social hub, where the hum of conversation mingles with the enticing aroma of golden-fried wings and zesty spinach artichoke dip. Guests settle into the vibrant, unpretentious space to share overflowing plates of loaded nachos and savory mini burgers, creating a communal dining experience that celebrates the simple joy of comfort food and camaraderie.
• Empellón Al pastor — Mexican · rated 3/5: This high-energy taqueria pulses with a vibrant, urban spirit, where the sizzle of the griddle and the clink of mezcal cocktails create a lively backdrop for bold culinary experimentation. The kitchen playfully subverts tradition with inventive creations like their signature latke tacos, marrying the golden, salty crunch of potato pancakes with zesty salsas for a dining experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly unexpected.
• abcV — Mediterranean · rated 3/5: Bathed in ethereal light and minimalist elegance, this plant-forward sanctuary transforms the season’s bounty into vibrant, soul-nourishing works of art. The air carries the enticing aroma of whole roasted cauliflower and earthy koji-marinated tofu, inviting guests to linger over velvety squash dips and crisp avocado lettuce cups that burst with clean, global flavors. It is a sophisticated retreat where culinary innovation meets mindful dining, proving that vegetables can be both remarkably bold and deeply satisfying.
• Mark's Off Madison — Italian: This vibrant Madison Avenue haunt blends the soul of a classic New York bakery with the heart of a traditional Italian kitchen, where the morning air carries the aroma of hand-rolled bialys and warm, glazed donuts. As the day unfolds, the space transforms into a cozy sanctuary for comfort, serving up bubbling crocks of Lasagne della Nonna and golden-crusted chicken parm alongside heaps of their signature, paper-thin potato chips. The experience is a nostalgic embrace of Manhattan flavors, finished perfectly with the simple, shared joy of an overflowing house-made cookie tray.
• BLACKBARN Restaurant — American: Stepping into this urban sanctuary feels like entering a refined farmhouse, where reclaimed wood and warm lighting create an atmosphere of rustic sophistication. The kitchen celebrates the seasons with an eclectic menu that bridges the gap between comfort and artistry, from the earthy richness of wild mushroom toast to the bright, delicate layers of big-eye tuna tartare. Whether lingering over a bubbling bowl of French onion soup or sharing a vibrant plate of burratina and prosciutto, guests are treated to a soulful culinary journey that feels both grounded and worldly.
• Yama — Japanese: Yama invites diners into a refined sanctuary where the art of Japanese precision meets a vibrant, modern energy. The kitchen transforms pristine seafood into elegant masterpieces, from the delicate, buttery layers of hotate mille-feuille to the satisfying crunch of spicy tuna perched atop golden crispy rice. Every plate, from the zesty hamachi carpaccio to the savory depth of Chilean seabass kasuzuke, balances traditional soul with contemporary flair to create a sophisticated celebration of texture and taste.
• Black Seed Bagels — American: The aroma of wood smoke and toasted sesame drifts through this modern bakery, where hand-rolled bagels are boiled in honey water and baked to a signature golden-brown crunch. Whether biting into a classic salt-crusted ring or a vibrant turkey avocado sandwich, guests experience a masterful blend of traditional craftsmanship and fresh, contemporary flavors that elevate the humble breakfast staple.
• The Bean — American: Sunlight streams into this serene neighborhood retreat, where the deep, toasted aroma of artisanal espresso blends seamlessly with the fragrant steam of creamy chai lattes. The counter showcases a vibrant array of wholesome treats, from chewy coconut chia bars to decadent peanut butter date brownies, creating a mindful sanctuary for those seeking a sophisticated caffeine fix and a nourishing, soul-warming bite.
• Zucker's — American: Zucker's captures the quintessential soul of a New York morning, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of hand-rolled bagels and sizzling griddles. From the decadent crunch of a Latke BEC to the refined aroma of truffled eggs, each bite bridges the gap between old-world tradition and contemporary artisan craft. It is a bustling sanctuary where locals gather for perfectly chewy crusts and rich, classic fillings that define the city’s iconic breakfast culture.