Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Manhattan Valley | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Manhattan Valley | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Smoke Jazz & Supper Club — American · rated 5/5: Step into a world of velvet-draped intimacy where the soulful wail of a saxophone mingles with the clink of crystal and the aroma of elevated American comfort food. This legendary Upper West Side haunt invites guests to linger over candlelit tables, savoring rich flavors and world-class performances that transform a simple dinner into a timeless, multisensory celebration of jazz culture.
• Mom's Food Market — American · rated 5/5: Mom’s Food Market serves as a vibrant neighborhood cornerstone where the nostalgic aroma of slow-simmered stocks and freshly baked loaves draws guests into a space brimming with artisanal finds. This bustling culinary sanctuary invites visitors to wander through aisles of hand-picked ingredients before settling in for a soulful, home-style meal that feels like a heartfelt invitation to a family table.
• Park Cafe — American · rated 4.8/5: Located on Manhattan's Upper West Side, Park Cafe offers an easygoing setting where you can enjoy all-day comfort food and quick bites. With a kid-friendly atmosphere and vegetarian options, the menu features breakfast, sandwiches, and Mediterranean specialties such as börek and Turkish panini. They also serve smoothies, juices, coffee, and delightful desserts like baklava and brownies. Perfect for solo diners or families, Park Cafe provides catering and takeout services as well.
• Zaad - Amsterdam Ave — Middle Eastern · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Manhattan Valley, Zaad is your go-to spot for health-conscious Middle Eastern comfort food. With a rating of 4.7 and over 390 reviews, you'll find a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside popular items like falafel and shawarma. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff warmly welcomes you, adding to the charm. Whether you're dining solo or with family, Zaad promises a delightful culinary experience at an affordable price.
• Afternoon - Upper West Cafe — Korean · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Bloomingdale, Afternoon - Upper West Cafe delights visitors with its Korean-inspired comfort food, cozy ambiance, and friendly service. Offering a diverse menu ranging from breakfast to dinner, guests can savor egg sandwiches, mochi donuts, and Korean-style corn dogs, with vegetarian options available. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this charming cafe is family-friendly and offers fast service at affordable prices.
• Virgil's Real BBQ - Upper West Side — American · rated 4.7/5: Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, Virgil's Real BBQ is a beloved barbecue joint known for its classic meat dishes like brisket and ribs, alongside comfort food favorites. With a welcoming atmosphere, it's perfect for solo diners or large parties. The friendly staff is frequently praised, making every visit enjoyable. Don't miss the mac and cheese, or the banana pudding for dessert!
• Saiguette — Vietnamese · rated 4.6/5: Saiguette hums with the vibrant energy of a bustling street-side eatery, where the air is thick with the intoxicating perfume of slow-simmered bone broths and charred lemongrass. Crispy, golden baguettes shatter at the first bite to reveal layers of savory meats and zesty pickled vegetables, while steaming bowls of pho offer a soulful embrace of aromatic spices and fresh, bright herbs. This neighborhood gem captures the heart of Vietnamese soul food, balancing crunch, heat, and fragrant depth in every meticulously crafted dish.
• Chick Chick — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Chick Chick pulses with a vibrant energy, where the irresistible aroma of double-fried chicken and simmering spices fills a sleek, modern space. Each piece of poultry arrives with a glass-like crunch that gives way to tender meat glazed in bold, umami-rich sauces, while steaming bowls of savory noodles offer a comforting, aromatic embrace. It is a spirited destination where the fiery heat of gochugaru meets the cool crispness of pickled radish, creating a soulful celebration of contemporary Korean comfort food.
• Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano captures the vibrant energy of a bustling street market, where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted masa and the sizzle of slow-simmered spices. This lively neighborhood gem brings together the bold textures and bright, zesty flavors of traditional Mexican street food, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a festive celebration in the heart of Mexico.
• ELIS WINE BAR & RESTAURANT — French · rated 4.6/5: Located in Bloomingdale, Elis Wine Bar & Restaurant serves up Mediterranean comfort food in a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Enjoy tapas-style plates, classic and updated entrées, and an extensive wine and cocktail selection. Popular dishes include oysters, tuna tartare, and steak tartare. Praised for its exceptional service, it's an ideal spot for date nights and gatherings with friends. Visit us at 1012 Amsterdam Ave, New York.
• Plum Vietnamese Restaurant — Vietnamese · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the Central Park West Historic District, Plum Vietnamese Restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed ambiance perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy traditional Vietnamese comfort foods like pho and banh mi, alongside delightful dishes such as kimchi fries and chive pancakes. Catering to various preferences, the menu includes vegetarian options and happy hour drinks. Guests praise the attentive staff and quick service, making every visit a memorable one.
• Carmine's — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Carmine's is a delightful family-style Italian restaurant located at 200 W 44th St, New York. Known for its generous portions of traditional Southern Italian fare, it offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere ideal for sharing meals with loved ones. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Carmine's also serves up delicious desserts and offers a selection of wines and cocktails. Reservations are recommended.
• Roti Roll (Bombay Frankie) — Indian · rated 4.4/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a Mumbai street corner, thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and sizzling, spice-rubbed meats. Hand-rolled roti wraps cradle a kaleidoscope of savory fillings and zesty chutneys, offering a bold explosion of authentic flavor that captures the soul-satisfying spirit of Indian street food.
• Pico De Gallo Bar & Kitchen — Mexican · rated 4.4/5: Pico De Gallo Bar & Kitchen pulses with a festive energy, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of charred chilies and the rhythmic song of cocktail shakers. Sun-drenched flavors leap from every plate as zesty lime and hand-pressed tortillas meet the bold, slow-simmered depths of traditional Mexican soul food. It is a spirited sanctuary where the clink of salt-rimmed glasses and the warmth of communal tables invite guests to linger over artisanal tequilas and bright, garden-fresh salsas.
• Just Pho You — Vietnamese · rated 4.4/5: The intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered bone broth and star anise greets you at the door, setting the stage for a dining experience rooted in warmth and tradition. Vibrant platters of fresh Thai basil, crisp bean sprouts, and bright lime accompany oversized bowls of silky rice noodles, creating a sensory symphony that captures the soulful essence of Vietnamese comfort food.
• Telio Taverna — Greek · rated 4.4/5: Located in the heart of the Central Park West Historic District, Telio Taverna is a cozy Greek eatery known for its Mediterranean comfort food, flavorful gyros, and souvlaki. With outdoor seating and live music, it offers a charming atmosphere perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Menu highlights include a Greek sampler, vegetarian options, and happy hour drinks. Telio is family-friendly and ideal for groups, with reservations recommended. Enjoy fast, friendly service at this vibrant spot where customers typically spend $20-30.
• Lion's Head Tavern — American · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Manhattan Valley, Lion's Head Tavern offers a cozy tavern atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal. Famous for its comfort food and ample beer selection, this spot is a favorite for sports enthusiasts and hosts engaging trivia nights. Patrons rave about the fast service and welcoming staff. With affordable prices ranging from $10-20, Lion's Head Tavern is a must-visit for a delightful dining experience.
• 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.
• The Tang — Korean · rated 4.3/5: The Tang pulses with a modern urban energy, where the air is heavy with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered broths and the sharp sizzle of spicy aromatics. Vibrant bowls of chewy noodles and rich, fermented stews bring the bold, soulful flavors of Korea to life, balancing traditional heat with a sleek, contemporary flair. It is a communal sanctuary that celebrates the heart-healing power of deep umami, inviting guests to lose themselves in the warmth of authentic K-soul food.
• Taqueria Y Fonda La Mexicana — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: Located in the heart of the Upper West Side's Bloomingdale area, Taqueria Y Fonda La Mexicana offers a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying classic Mexican comfort food. Their menu includes homemade enchiladas, tacos, and generously-sized burritos, with three kinds of fresh salsa to choose from. Known for its friendly service and quick bites, it’s a go-to spot for both dine-in and takeout. With over 476 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this no-frills taqueria is popular for its flavorful dishes and free delivery service until 10 PM.
• Tartina — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Located in the heart of Morningside Heights, Tartina is a delightful Italian restaurant known for its comforting cuisine and inviting outdoor seating. Offering a diverse menu including pasta, steak, pancakes, and arancini, Tartina pairs its delicious food with a variety of drinks such as beer, wine, and cocktails. The casual yet romantic atmosphere, complemented by live jazz, makes it a great spot for families and couples alike. Fast and attentive service ensures a pleasant dining experience every time. Reservations recommended.
• 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.
• Au Jus — French · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Bloomingdale, Au Jus offers a delightful BBQ experience with a wide range of comfort foods such as brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. The informal setting is perfect for families, complete with high chairs for the little ones. Guests rave about the fast and friendly service, as well as the delicious offerings from mac and cheese to banana pudding. With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, Au Jus ensures a great meal for any occasion. Enjoy their selection of beer, wine, and cocktails while soaking in the casual atmosphere.
• Living Thai Cuisine — Thai · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in Manhattan Valley, Living Thai Cuisine offers a delightful array of comfort food and quick bites perfect for lunch and dinner. This casual Thai restaurant boasts a menu filled with classic noodle and rice dishes, including popular vegetarian and vegan options. With a great selection of teas, efficient service, and availability for takeout and delivery, it's a go-to spot for delicious and affordable Thai fare in the heart of New York City.
• Freda's Cuisine — American · rated 4.2/5: Located in Manhattan Valley, Freda's Cuisine is a laid-back Caribbean eatery serving hearty soul food for lunch and dinner. Popular dishes include jerk chicken, mac and cheese, callaloo, and rice and peas. The venue is family-friendly and perfect for solo diners. Reservations are accepted, and the service is known for being fast. Pricing is budget-friendly, ranging from $10 to $20. Come savor the rich flavors of the Caribbean at this beloved local spot.
• Szechuan Garden — Chinese · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Bloomingdale, Szechuan Garden offers a dynamic dining experience with its flavorful Sichuan comfort food. Known for their generous portions, the menu delights with a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Popular dishes such as ma po tofu and sesame noodles are served swiftly in a casual, family-friendly setting. Diners can enjoy a fulfilling meal ranging from $20-$30.
• Holy Schnitzel (Upper West Side) — Middle Eastern · rated 4.1/5: Located in the historic Central Park West area, Holy Schnitzel (Upper West Side) is a casual, 100% kosher eatery known for its hearty comfort food. The made-to-order menu includes a variety of salads, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers, with popular choices like schnitzel and chicken fingers. Perfect for families, the restaurant also features a kids' menu and convenient options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
• Cheesy Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The air here is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour and molten mozzarella, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the art of the perfect slice takes center stage. Each hand-stretched pie emerges from the heat with a beautifully charred crust, draped in rich, pull-apart cheeses and fragrant herbs that celebrate the soulful simplicity of Italian comfort food.
• 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.
• Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano — Mexican · rated 4/5: Stepping into Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano feels like entering a bustling street market where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted corn and sizzling, spiced meats. Vibrant colors and lively energy set the stage for a feast of authentic "little cravings," from hand-pressed tortillas topped with zesty house-made salsas to rich, comforting classics that celebrate the bold heart of Mexican soul food.