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

10 restaurants in Best Upscale Kosher Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale & Kosher

• 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.
• Ample Hills Creamery — American · rated 4/5: This whimsical creamery reimagines the classic ice cream parlor as a vibrant playground of flavor, where the air is sweet with the scent of fresh waffle cones and imaginative storytelling. Guests dive into velvety scoops of decadent Ooey Gooey Butter Cake or the salty-sweet crunch of The Munchies, each bite offering a nostalgic yet inventive journey through hand-crafted indulgence. From the playful layers of Walt’s Birthday Cake to the tropical brightness of Underneath the Mango Tree, the experience is a joyful celebration of artisanal sweetness that delights the inner child in everyone.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Shawarma Shabazi — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Shawarma Shabazi feels like an invitation to a soulful feast, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of slow-roasted meats and the comforting steam of golden matzah ball soup. Crispy Moroccan cigars and savory lamb bourekas offer a delightful crunch before giving way to the main event: overflowing plates of succulent, spice-rubbed shawarma and tender prime beef brisket. It is a vibrant culinary crossroads where traditional Middle Eastern warmth meets bold, hearty flavors, creating a dining experience that is both deeply nostalgic and undeniably exciting.
• 5 Napkin Burger — American: This bustling urban eatery pulses with a vibrant energy, where the enticing scent of seared prime beef and bubbling spinach dip draws a lively crowd into its polished, modern space. The experience centers on indulgent, juice-dripping burgers and architectural towers of crispy onion rings, yet surprises the palate with everything from delicate tuna poke to soul-warming bowls of traditional matzo ball soup. Every meal is a celebration of bold flavors and sophisticated comfort, offering a spirited atmosphere where a hearty, delightfully messy feast is always the main attraction.
• 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.