Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Upper East Side | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Upper East Side | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill — Thai · rated 4.8/5: Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill pulses with a modern energy where the smoky allure of the open-fire grill mingles with the fragrant steam rising from deep bowls of rich, savory broth. This culinary sanctuary bridges the gap between the delicate heat of Thai spices and the comforting depth of Japanese soul food, offering a vibrant landscape of charred skewers and silky noodles. Each visit feels like a journey through a bustling night market, where the clinking of glasses and the aroma of lemongrass and woodsmoke create an unforgettable, multi-sensory escape.
• Koo Thai — Thai · rated 4.8/5: Located in Yorkville, **Koo Thai** is a cozy eatery specializing in traditional Thai comfort food for lunch and dinner. With options like pad thai, drunken noodles, fried rice, and yellow curry, the menu also features vegetarian and healthy dishes. Diners can enjoy Thai-style boba milk tea in a chill, modern atmosphere with friendly counter service. Perfect for a quick meal or takeout, Koo Thai is a local favorite. 🌟
• Thai Hot Box — Thai · rated 4.7/5: The air at Thai Hot Box crackles with the rhythmic clang of woks and the pungent, inviting aroma of toasted chilies and fresh galangal. Each dish is a vibrant collision of bold spices and cooling herbs, delivering the high-octane heat and soulful complexity of Thai street food in every steaming, flavor-packed bite.
• Joju — Vietnamese · rated 4.7/5: Joju reimagines the soul of Vietnamese street food within a sleek, modern space where the aroma of lemongrass-scented meats and the satisfying crackle of warm baguettes fill the air. A vibrant fusion of textures and tastes awaits, from the sharp tang of pickled daikon to the rich, spicy kick of signature aiolis, crafting an urban dining experience that is as bold as it is refreshing.
• Bruno — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Howard Beach, Bruno is an acclaimed Italian restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and delectable comfort food. With options for kids, vegetarians, and health-conscious diners, Bruno’s menu features delicious pizza, pasta, seafood, and irresistible desserts like tiramisu. Enjoy a glass of wine or a crafted cocktail while savoring dishes prepared in their brick oven. Valet parking and excellent service make this spot a must-visit. Rated 4.7 by over 800 satisfied diners, Bruno ensures a memorable dining experience for all.
• Trattoria L'incontro — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Trattoria L'incontro, located at 1572 2nd Ave, New York, is an upscale Italian restaurant offering a delightful blend of comfort food, vegetarian fare, organic, and gluten-free options. With a cozy setting perfect for both families and romantic evenings, this Astoria gem features menu favorites like pasta, pizza, and veal, as well as standout desserts like pistachio crème brûlée and tiramisu. Valet parking is available, making it easy for diners to enjoy the experience.
• Heidi's House by the side of the road — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the Upper East Side, Heidi's House by the side of the road is a charming neighborhood gem offering an eclectic array of comfort food paired with an impressive selection of beer and wine. Popular dishes include mac and cheese, paella, lobster, and tacos. With a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and fast service, it's an ideal spot for a delightful dinner or a late-night bite. Reservations recommended.
• Campagnola — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Lenox Hill, Campagnola offers an upscale Italian dining experience complete with a bar, live music, and a romantic atmosphere. This highly-rated restaurant is a local favorite for Italian comfort food, featuring popular dishes like veal chops, pasta, and tiramisu, along with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Open for lunch, dinner, and drinks, reservations are recommended for an evening visit.
• Home Kitchen — American · rated 4.5/5: Home Kitchen captures the nostalgic heart of a neighborhood gathering spot, where the air is thick with the aroma of freshly baked pies and the comforting sizzle of cast-iron skillets. Guests settle into sun-drenched booths to enjoy elevated American classics, from succulent pot roasts to vibrant seasonal sides that celebrate the bounty of the local harvest. It is a place where the simplicity of scratch-made comfort food transforms a casual meal into a soulful, lingering experience.
• Pinocchio Restaurant — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Located in the heart of Yorkville, Pinocchio Restaurant offers a cozy and casual Italian dining experience, perfect for family dinners or a relaxed date night. Their delivery-only service serves up comfort food favorites for lunch and dinner, including a diverse menu of pasta, chicken, and risotto dishes, alongside delectable burrata and daily fish specials. With vegetarian options, fast service, and highly-praised desserts and coffee, it's easy to see why this charming spot is a neighborhood favorite.
• Bohemian Spirit — European · rated 4.5/5: Bohemian Spirit Restaurant, nestled in Lenox Hill, is a favorite for traditional Czech cuisine and extensive beer selection. Guests rave about their steak tartare and potato soup, with apple strudel and fruit dumplings also winning hearts. The venue is ideal for families and offers private dining spaces. Efficient service and a cozy atmosphere make it a perfect spot to enjoy comfort food like schnitzel and goulash.
• Come Prima — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Come Prima is an upscale Italian restaurant located in Lenox Hill, offering a blend of comfort food and fine dining. Renowned for its pasta, seafood dishes, and delectable desserts like tiramisu, this cozy spot with a romantic atmosphere makes it perfect for intimate dinners. Highly rated and frequented by locals, reservations are recommended. Enjoy delightful meals accompanied by a fine selection of wines.
• Tabata Ramen & Yakitori Bar — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Steaming bowls of rich, umami-laden broth meet the smoky allure of the grill in this vibrant space where the art of Japanese comfort food takes center stage. Whether you’re savoring the delicate char of glazed yakitori skewers or losing yourself in the deep, soul-warming slurp of hand-crafted ramen, every bite captures a perfect balance of time-honored tradition and fiery energy.
• Nick's — American · rated 4.4/5: Nick’s captures the soul of the classic American grill, where the comforting aroma of flame-seared steaks and golden, hand-cut fries drifts through a space bathed in the warm glow of amber lights and polished wood. It is a lively neighborhood anchor where guests gather in cozy leather booths to enjoy elevated comfort food, from succulent burgers stacked high with fresh ingredients to decadent slices of house-baked pie. Every visit offers a slice of timeless hospitality, blending a bustling, friendly energy with the nostalgic flavors of a perfectly executed meal.
• Mediterraneo — Mediterranean · rated 4.4/5: Mediterraneo is a cozy Spanish restaurant in Bayonne, NJ, known for its delectable seafood, steak, and traditional comfort foods like paella and churros. Open daily from 11 AM to midnight, it offers lunch, dinner, and late-night dining with options for kids and groups. Enjoy a romantic atmosphere, excellent service, and a variety of cocktails, wine, and beer. Catering and takeout are also available.
• Balboa — American · rated 4.4/5: Located in Crown Heights, Balboa is a laid-back bar and grill offering delicious Caribbean comfort food, quick bites, and refreshing cocktails. Enjoy jerk chicken, peppersteak, or steamed mussels along with mojitos or red sangria. With a cozy, kid-friendly atmosphere and accommodating staff, Balboa is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Popular with locals, it’s a top spot for a relaxed meal or a celebratory gathering.
• Fumo Upper East Side — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Yorkville, Fumo Upper East Side is an upmarket Italian restaurant that offers a delightful array of pizzas, pastas, and other comfort foods for brunch, lunch, and dinner. With popular dishes like spaghetti carbonara, rigatoni bolognese, and truffle fries, there’s something for everyone, including vegan options. Patrons can enjoy a vibrant, modern atmosphere and a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. Visit us at 1626 2nd Ave, New York, or give us a call at +1 646-429-9887 to reserve your table.
• Italianissimo Ristorante — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Yorkville, Italianissimo Ristorante offers a romantic and cozy atmosphere perfect for an intimate dining experience. The menu brims with classic Italian dishes, including comfort food favorites like pasta and veal, and vegetarian options. Guests praise the accommodating staff and delightful offerings such as bruschetta and pappardelle alla boscaiola. Pair your meal with coffee, wine, or cocktails, and don't miss the desserts like ricotta cheesecake. Reserve a table for a memorable evening!
• The Penrose Bar — American · rated 4.4/5: Located on the Upper East Side, The Penrose Bar is a beloved American restaurant known for its inviting ambiance, delicious comfort food, and inventive cocktails. The menu highlights include burgers, mac and cheese, and brunch specialties. With accommodating staff and live entertainment, it’s a perfect spot for a cozy meal or a lively evening. Open daily from morning till late, it's a must-visit dining destination.
• Wa Jeal Sichuan Chili House — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Wa Jeal Sichuan Chili House invites diners into a world of bold, tingling heat where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted peppercorns and the rhythmic sizzle of fiery woks. Vibrant plates arrive glistening with aromatic chili oil and hand-torn peppers, offering a sensory journey through the complex, numbing flavors of authentic Sichuan soul food in a warm and lively atmosphere.
• Amber — Indian · rated 4.3/5: Bathed in a soft, golden glow that mirrors its namesake, Amber envelops guests in an atmosphere of refined warmth where the intoxicating aroma of hand-ground spices fills the air. The kitchen transforms traditional Indian soul food into an elevated sensory journey, balancing the smoky char of tandoor-fired delicacies with the complex, layered depths of slow-simmered sauces. Every plate arrives as a vibrant masterpiece of color and heat, offering a sophisticated escape that celebrates the rich, diverse heritage of the subcontinent.
• Luke's Bar & Grill — American · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side, Luke's Bar & Grill is a charming, cozy spot offering classic American comfort food. From hearty breakfasts to delectable dinners, their diverse menu features favorites like burgers and meatloaf, complemented by a fine selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. With fast, attentive service and options for kids and gluten-free diners, it's a welcoming place for everyone.
• Gracie Mews Diner — American · rated 4.3/5: Welcome to Gracie Mews Diner, a beloved local spot on 1550 1st Ave., New York. With a casual American café vibe, we serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering everything from hearty pancakes to delicious comfort food, complemented by beer, wine, and cocktails. Our family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating and a children's menu makes us the perfect choice for daily dining or a special weekend brunch. Highly rated (4.3 stars), we pride ourselves on fresh ingredients and outstanding service. Join us from 6 AM to midnight any day of the week! For reservations, call +1 212-861-2290.
• Two Wheels Vietnamese — Vietnamese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the Upper East Side, Two Wheels Vietnamese offers a warm and cozy setting to enjoy authentic Vietnamese comfort food. Serving pho, banh mi, and summer rolls, this spot delights with generous portions and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Friendly staff and casual digs make it perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. With plentiful positive reviews and reasonable prices, it’s a must-try for Vietnamese cuisine lovers.
• Tabata — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Midtown West's Garment District, Tabata specializes in authentic Japanese ramen and comfort food. This cozy, child-friendly eatery offers a delightful mix of vegetarian options, beer, sake, and wine. Highlights include the Tonkotsu and Tabata ramen, praised for their rich flavors. The atmosphere is informal with fast, attentive service. Typical meals cost between $10-$20, making it an ideal spot for a quick, delicious bite in the city. Visit us at 540 9th Ave, New York or check out [Tabata NYC](https://www.tabatanyc.net/). 🌟
• A la Turka — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: A la Turka, located at 1417 2nd Ave, New York, offers an inviting no-frills dining atmosphere perfect for families and solo diners alike. Specializing in Turkish-Mediterranean comfort food, the menu features succulent lamb dishes, grilled fish, and tantalizing meze. With a rating of 4.3 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews, patrons praise its friendly, efficient service and delightful offerings including vegetarian options and delectable desserts like baklava. Reservations are recommended.
• Centro Pizza — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Located at 1469 2nd Ave in New York, Centro Pizza offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying delightful thin-crust pies, generous slices, and other comfort foods. With a 4.3-star rating and over 270 reviews, it's a local favorite, known for its friendly service and family-friendly environment. Open late for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, it's an ideal spot for a quick, satisfying meal that won't break the bank.
• Canyon Road Bar & Grill — American · rated 4.2/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting and rustic timber, Canyon Road Bar & Grill offers a soulful retreat where the scent of wood-smoke and sizzling cast-iron fills the air. It is a place where elevated American comfort food meets a spirited, convivial atmosphere, inviting guests to linger over hand-shaken cocktails and hearty, flame-kissed plates that celebrate the rich, savory traditions of the American table.
• Bedford Falls NYC — American · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in Lenox Hill, Bedford Falls NYC is your go-to neighborhood bar and grill. This cozy spot is perfect for catching the game on one of over 20 HDTVs or enjoying comfort food like wings, nachos, burgers, and vegan options. With a garden patio and fast service, it offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Open daily until 4 AM, it's a great place to unwind with a beer, brunch, or a late-night bite.
• Yia Yia's- Homemade Greek Food — Greek · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in Lenox Hill, Yia Yia's offers a delightful taste of Greece with its homemade dishes. The casual eatery, perfect for dine-in, takeout, or delivery, serves up classics like gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita, with plenty of vegetarian options. With a 4.2-star rating from 445 reviews, customers praise the swift service and generous portions, making it a go-to spot for Greek comfort food in New York.