Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale & Paleo

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale & Paleo

• Nai Brother Sauerkraut Fish — Chinese · rated 5/5: Steaming cauldrons of golden broth take center stage at this vibrant destination, where the sharp, tangy aroma of fermented greens meets the electrifying hum of Sichuan peppercorns. Silky fillets of tender fish melt into a complex, zesty soup base punctuated by the crunch of pickled cabbage and a fragrant finish of toasted chilies, offering a bold and soul-warming communal feast.
• Fumo — Italian · rated 5/5: Fumo invites guests into a chic, high-energy space where the sizzle of the kitchen and the hum of conversation create an irresistible urban pulse. Golden-fried riceballs and bubbling eggplant parmigiana arrive at candlelit tables alongside buttery lobster roll sliders, blending soulful Italian comfort with a sophisticated, modern edge. Whether sharing a plate of creamy burrata and prosciutto or crisp, spicy calamari, diners find a vibrant retreat where every bite celebrates bold flavors and effortless style.
• Dear Mama — Mexican · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams into this soulful neighborhood hub, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the aroma of griddled brioche create a warm, communal embrace. Guests linger over poetic liquid creations like the floral Sakura Blossom or the shimmering Golden Hour latte, pairing their brews with vibrant plates of zesty avocado toast and the hearty, spice-kissed El Barrio B.E.C. It is a place where the morning ritual is elevated to an art form, blending urban energy with the comforting, familiar feeling of home.
• Omega Bakery & Cafe — Greek · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of Omega Bakery & Cafe, where the vibrant hues of cold-pressed juices and creamy smoothies offer a refreshing, nutrient-packed antidote to the daily grind. Guests craft their own garden-fresh salads or dive into nourishing Asian vegetable bowls, while the comforting aroma of toasted bagels provides a warm, savory anchor to this bright and wholesome neighborhood retreat.
• Le Monde — French · rated 4.7/5: Le Monde transports diners to a sun-dappled Parisian corner where the golden glow of vintage lamps illuminates tables laden with buttery escargot and velvety red wine reductions. The air hums with the rhythmic clink of crystal and spirited conversation, inviting guests to linger over crusty baguettes and rich, herb-flecked classics that capture the soulful essence of French gastronomy.
• Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria captures the vibrant spirit of the Italian coast and countryside, where the warmth of a wood-fired oven meets the breezy elegance of a Mediterranean escape. Sun-ripened produce and fresh catches from the sea come together on plates of artisanal pasta and blistered, thin-crust pizzas, each bite celebrating the harmony of simple, high-quality ingredients. Guests find a welcoming sanctuary where authentic flavors and heartfelt hospitality turn every meal into a leisurely celebration of the good life.
• Dos Toros Restaurant — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Dos Toros pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling taqueria, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers and the aroma of charred chilies create an atmosphere of spirited, fast-paced craftsmanship. Golden, hand-pressed tortillas wrap around slow-simmered meats and zesty, house-made salsas, delivering a punch of bright, West Coast-inspired flavor in every bite. It is a lively destination where the creamy richness of hand-mashed guacamole meets the smoky heat of adobo, offering a fresh and authentic tribute to the bold culinary traditions of San Francisco’s Mission District.
• Elis Wine Bar — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting and the rhythmic clinking of crystal, Elis Wine Bar transports guests to a sun-drenched coastal escape where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and sea salt. Vibrant Mediterranean flavors come alive through artfully composed plates that celebrate the bounty of the land and sea, perfectly paired with a curated cellar of regional vintages. This convivial sanctuary invites long, lingering evenings where the spirit of the Old World meets modern elegance in every shared bite.
• Lido — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Lido captures the sun-drenched spirit of the Italian coast, welcoming guests into a breezy, light-filled space that hums with the effortless elegance of a Mediterranean summer. The air carries the intoxicating aroma of charred crusts and simmering pomodoro, as the kitchen turns out silken, hand-rolled pastas and vibrant seafood dishes that celebrate the simple, soulful beauty of seasonal ingredients. It is a place designed for lingering, where crisp glasses of wine and shared rustic plates invite diners to slow down and savor the timeless rhythm of la dolce vita.
• Pisticci — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the soft glow of candlelight and the soulful strains of live jazz, this neighborhood sanctuary wraps guests in a rustic embrace of exposed brick and local art. The kitchen breathes life into traditional Southern Italian flavors, where the aroma of slow-simmered ragu mingles with the brightness of farm-to-table produce to create plates of silky, hand-rolled pasta. Every meal feels like a spirited celebration of community and craft, offering a timeless escape that lingers long after the last drop of wine is poured.
• Falafel on Broadway — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: The scent of toasted cumin and fresh coriander spills onto the sidewalk, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer creates a lively urban soundtrack. Golden, herb-flecked falafel nests inside pillowy pita alongside velvety hummus and zesty pickled cabbage, offering a masterclass in contrasting textures and sun-drenched Middle Eastern flavors. This bustling haven of culinary tradition transforms a quick Broadway bite into a fragrant, soulful journey through the heart of the Levant.
• Fumo — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Fumo invites diners into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of wood-smoke and toasted flour sets the stage for a modern Italian feast. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the glowing oven with perfectly blistered crusts, while silken ribbons of pasta are tossed in rich, slow-simmered ragus that evoke the warmth of a traditional Roman kitchen. It is a place where the energy of a bustling open kitchen meets the intimacy of a candlelit table, creating an atmosphere that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply comforting.
• Melba's — American · rated 4.3/5: Melba’s pulses with the vibrant energy of a neighborhood gathering, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-fried chicken and sweet, buttery waffles. This soulful sanctuary invites guests to linger over plates of elevated American comfort food, blending a warm, communal atmosphere with flavors that feel like a heartfelt embrace.
• Angel of Harlem — American · rated 4.3/5: Pulsing with the vibrant energy of its namesake neighborhood, this stylish social hub blends urban sophistication with a soulful, high-octane atmosphere where the rhythm of the music perfectly matches the spirit of the crowd. The kitchen reimagines American comfort through a bold, Afro-Latin lens, serving up plates that pop with color and spice alongside tropical-infused cocktails that keep the celebration going from sun-drenched brunch to late-night revelry.
• Nikko Hibachi Asian Fusion — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: The air crackles with theatrical energy as skilled chefs command the hibachi grills, transforming fresh ingredients into a mesmerizing display of leaping flames and rhythmic clanging. This culinary stage gives way to a sophisticated fusion of flavors, where delicate, jewel-toned sushi meets the bold, savory depth of contemporary Asian-inspired plates. It is a vibrant destination that balances the high-octane excitement of the grill with a sleek, modern atmosphere perfect for shared celebrations and lingering over creative cocktails.
• Amity Hall Uptown — American · rated 4.3/5: This expansive, bi-level gastropub pulses with neighborhood energy, blending industrial-chic aesthetics with the cozy, communal spirit of a traditional beer hall. Sun-drenched by day and glowing with amber light by night, it is a place where the clinking of craft beer flights meets the savory aroma of elevated tavern fare and char-grilled burgers. Whether tucked into a leather booth or gathered around
• Thai Market — Thai · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into Thai Market feels like a sensory journey to the heart of Southeast Asia, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted chilies, fresh galangal, and aromatic jasmine rice. The kitchen hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks, turning out vibrant plates that masterfully balance the bright zing of lime with the rich, velvety depth of coconut milk. It is a lively, sun-drenched space where every bite captures the bold, soul-warming spirit of traditional Thai street food.
• Sapps — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Sapps captures the electric energy of a modern Tokyo eatery, blending industrial-chic design with the warm, inviting glow of a neighborhood haunt. The air hums with the sizzle of the grill and the precise slice of the sushi knife, delivering a sensory journey that ranges from the buttery melt of premium nigiri to the deep, complex depths of slow-simmered broths. It is a place where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary flair, offering a spirited escape where every shared plate and chilled glass of sake celebrates the art of Japanese hospitality.
• The Heights Bar & Grill — American · rated 4.2/5: Perched high above the bustling streets, The Heights Bar & Grill offers a vibrant escape where the clinking of artisanal cocktails mingles with the savory aroma of flame-grilled burgers and golden, hand-cut fries. Guests soak in sweeping views from the sun-drenched terrace, enjoying a spirited atmosphere that transforms from a breezy afternoon hangout into a sophisticated, starlit destination for elevated American comfort food.
• Freda's Caribbean and Soul Cuisine — American · rated 4.2/5: Freda’s Caribbean and Soul Cuisine serves as a vibrant crossroads where the fiery spirit of the islands meets the deep, comforting traditions of the American South. The air hums with the intoxicating scent of pimento-smoked meats and slow-simmered greens, drawing guests into a space that feels both festive and familiar. Each plate is a colorful celebration of heritage, offering a soulful symphony of spice and heart that warms the spirit long after the last bite.
• La Savane — French · rated 4.1/5: La Savane unfolds as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the crisp linens of a classic French brasserie meet a warm, earthy palette of textures and light. The kitchen breathes life into the soul of France, sending out plates of silken sauces, herb-crusted meats, and delicate patisserie that celebrate the art of the slow, indulgent meal. It is a place where the clink of crystal and the aroma of browned butter create an atmosphere of effortless sophistication, inviting diners to lose themselves in a symphony of Gallic flavors.
• Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too — American · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic Harlem sanctuary where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-crisp fried chicken and the sweet, buttery fragrance of its namesake spoonbread. Red-checkered tablecloths and walls adorned with memories create a soulful backdrop for generous plates of velvety mac and cheese and slow-simmered greens that evoke the warmth of a family kitchen. This neighborhood landmark captures the heart of Southern hospitality, offering a soul-satisfying experience that feels like a homecoming in every bite.
• The Fox — American · rated 4/5: The Fox serves as a spirited neighborhood sanctuary where the warm hum of conversation pairs perfectly with the irresistible aroma of elevated comfort classics. Crispy organic wings and tender Angus sliders anchor a menu designed for communal indulgence, while plates of hand-breaded calamari and golden butterfly shrimp bring a touch of refined flair to this lively social hub.
• Jin Ramen — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of artisanal broth take center stage at this vibrant ramen destination, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-simmered tonkotsu and aromatic spices. From the fiery depths of the Volcano Tonkotsu to the delicate clarity of shio, each bowl offers a soul-warming journey through Japan’s most beloved comfort foods, accented by tender kakuni and zesty kimchi.
• Symposium — Greek · rated 4/5: Symposium invites guests into a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors, where the air is bright with the scent of fresh herbs and the convivial spirit of a traditional Greek gathering. Silky bowls of lemon-laced Avgolemono and rustic, feta-topped salads lead the way for communal samplers of velvety Melitzanosalata, creating a dining experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly soulful.
• Silvana — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Silvana pulses with a vibrant energy, where the enticing aroma of sizzling lamb shawarma mingles with the buttery scent of pastries fresh from the oven. Guests gather to share plates of velvety hummus and golden, crispy cauliflower, pairing these Mediterranean-inspired flavors with botanical cocktails or the comforting ritual of a French press coffee. This soulful neighborhood haunt offers a seamless blend of warmth and modern flair, inviting diners to linger from the first bite of herb-flecked falafel to the final sip of organic tea.
• Atomic Wings — American · rated 3.9/5: The air hums with the irresistible aroma of tangy buffalo sauce and the satisfying crunch of golden-fried perfection, drawing diners into a vibrant space dedicated to the art of the American wing. From the first succulent bite of heat-drenched poultry to the cooling dip of creamy blue cheese, every basket offers a bold, hands-on journey through a spectrum of flavors that ignite the palate and fuel a lively, communal spirit.
• Wu + Nussbaum — Chinese · rated 3.8/5: Steam rises in rhythmic clouds from an open kitchen where hand-pleated dumplings and springy noodles take center stage in a bright, bustling space filled with communal energy. This modern neighborhood anchor brings together the soul-warming comfort of traditional Chinese street food with a sleek, urban sensibility, offering everything from pillowy bao buns to rich, aromatic broths. It is a vibrant culinary crossroads where the fast-paced spirit of the city meets the timeless, savory satisfaction of authentic flavors crafted with contemporary flair.
• Giovanni's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 3.8/5: The air at Giovanni’s is thick with the comforting aroma of wood-smoke and garlic, drawing guests into a rustic space where the rhythmic slap of dough provides a steady heartbeat. Each hand-stretched pie arrives with a crackling, leopard-spotted crust and vibrant toppings that sing of the Mediterranean sun, offering a soulful taste of Italian tradition. This neighborhood gem transforms the simple act of sharing a pizza into an intimate, sensory journey through the heart of the Old World.
• Chocolat Restaurant Lounge — American · rated 3/5: Step into a world where sultry lounge vibes meet the heart-warming aromas of the South, creating a vibrant social hub that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The air carries the irresistible scent of golden-crisped chicken and honey-kissed biscuits, while plates of zesty Cajun shrimp and tender, slow-cooked ribs bring a bold, flavorful flair to the table. Whether you’re tucking into a delicate jumbo lump crab cake or sharing a platter of spice-dusted wings, every moment is infused with a rhythmic, soulful charm that lingers long after the final toast.