Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Lincoln Square | Upscale & Vegetarian

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Lincoln Square | Upscale & Vegetarian

• Billy's Bakery — American · rated 5/5: Billy’s Bakery serves as a nostalgic sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of browned butter and melting chocolate invites guests to linger over a vibrant collection of handcrafted treats. The counter gleams with an array of decadent indulgences, ranging from fudgy, velvet-textured brownies to whimsical bars layered with creamy peanut butter and colorful marshmallow crunches. Whether starting the day with a tender, golden banana muffin or savoring a rich Hello Dolly bar, every visit offers a sweet escape into the heart of classic American baking.
• The Three Monkeys — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant social haunt hums with energy, drawing guests into a space where the aroma of spicy buffalo chicken and sizzling salt-and-pepper bites sets the stage for a spirited evening. The kitchen turns out an eclectic array of shareable delights, from crispy brussels sprouts to delicate dumplings and molten mac and cheese, all designed to be enjoyed amidst the clinking of glasses and lively conversation. It is a destination where global comfort food meets a playful, communal atmosphere, making every visit feel like a festive gathering of friends.
• Ballfields Café — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in natural light, this charming parkside escape invites guests to linger over the comforting aroma of toasted paninis and golden-crusted pizzas fresh from the oven. The counter gleams with an artisanal spread of buttery pastries and decadent sliced cakes, perfectly paired with a robust espresso for a midday lift or a chilled glass of wine as the afternoon fades into evening.
• Rosetta — Italian · rated 5/5: The scent of golden, oven-fresh dough fills this vibrant artisanal space, where the craft of the Italian bakery is elevated through a stunning array of hand-stretched focaccias and crisp, airy pizza in teglia. From the paper-thin, cheese-filled layers of traditional Recco-style crusts to wholesome sandwiches tucked into vibrant turmeric and multi-grain breads, every bite celebrates a harmony of rustic textures and contemporary flair. It is a sun-drenched haven for bread lovers, offering a sophisticated yet soulful journey through the diverse landscapes of Mediterranean flour and fire.
• Chalong Southern Thai — Thai · rated 4.9/5: Chalong pulses with the vibrant energy of a Southern Thai kitchen, where the air is thick with the pungent, aromatic perfume of fermented shrimp paste and toasted turmeric. Diners dive into a world of unapologetic heat and coastal soul, where fiery curries are tempered by cooling coconut and the bright, citrusy snap of kaffir lime. It is a sensory celebration of bold, rustic flavors that brings the sun-drenched spirit of the Thai peninsula to life in every searing, spice-laden bite.
• Noi Due Carne — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Bathed in a warm, sophisticated glow, this modern Italian steakhouse invites guests into a world where the smoky aroma of the grill meets the refined artistry of the Mediterranean. Masterfully seared prime cuts and rich, house-made pastas take center stage, delivering a symphony of bold flavors in a space that feels both intimate and high-energy. It is a destination where the tradition of the butcher’s craft is elevated by sleek design and a passion for soulful, fire-kissed cuisine.
• Sala Thai — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Step into a sanctuary of vibrant flavors where the aromatic perfume of fresh galangal and kaffir lime leaves drifts from a bustling open kitchen. The dining room glows with golden accents and intricate wood carvings, setting the stage for a culinary journey that balances the fiery heat of bird's eye chilies with the soothing creaminess of hand-pressed coconut milk. Every dish brings together time-honored techniques and garden-fresh herbs, creating an immersive experience that transports guests to the heart of a lively Bangkok night market.
• Loi Estiatorio — Greek · rated 4.7/5: Bathed in the crisp, white-washed glow of a Mediterranean villa, this sophisticated sanctuary transports diners to the shores of the Aegean with its airy elegance and warm, soulful hospitality. The kitchen celebrates the vibrant purity of the Greek pantry, where the golden glint of premium olive oil meets the charred perfection of tender octopus and the delicate sweetness of honey-drizzled yogurt. It is a place where ancient culinary wisdom and contemporary flair converge, creating a dining experience that feels both indulgent and deeply nourishing.
• Sempre Oggi — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Sempre Oggi captures the fleeting beauty of the seasons within a luminous, modern space that pulses with the warmth of spirited Italian hospitality. Here, the kitchen transforms peak-harvest ingredients into vibrant, hand-crafted pastas and coastal-inspired plates that celebrate the simple joy of the present moment. It is a soulful retreat where timeless Old World traditions are reimagined with a fresh, contemporary energy, inviting guests to linger over every sun-kissed bite.
• Wondee Siam — Thai · rated 4.6/5: This bustling Hell’s Kitchen sanctuary envelops guests in a cloud of aromatic steam, where the sharp fragrance of crushed lemongrass and toasted chilies promises a truly authentic escape. Within its cozy, unpretentious walls, vibrant plates of lime-drenched salads and rich, velvety curries burst with a complex harmony of heat and herb, capturing the spirited energy of a Bangkok street market.
• Emmy Squared — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Emmy Squared reimagines the classic pizzeria experience with its signature Detroit-style squares, where a lacy, caramelized cheese crust gives way to a pillowy center topped with vibrant streaks of sauce. The atmosphere buzzes with a playful, neighborhood energy, inviting diners to linger over indulgent double-stack burgers and shareable Italian-inspired plates that celebrate bold, comforting flavors.
• Ippudo — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this bustling ramen sanctuary, guests are greeted by the rhythmic energy of an open kitchen and the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered pork bone broth. Each bowl is a symphony of textures, from the springy, house-made noodles to the velvety tonkotsu that coats the palate in rich, savory layers of umami. It is a vibrant celebration of Japanese comfort food, where modern design meets time-honored craft in a space that feels both high-octane and deeply soul-warming.
• Bareburger — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this rustic-chic sanctuary of reclaimed wood and vibrant energy, the aroma of flame-grilled, organic proteins immediately signals a fresh, elevated take on the classic American burger joint. The sizzle of grass-fed beef and wild game meets a garden of artisanal toppings, creating a customizable feast that pairs perfectly with thick, hand-spun shakes and a soulful commitment to sustainable, earth-friendly dining.
• Bengal Tiger — Indian · rated 4.5/5: Bengal Tiger invites diners into a sensory tapestry of the subcontinent, where the rhythmic sizzle of the tandoor meets the comforting fragrance of saffron-infused basmati and warm, hand-stretched naan. Each dish arrives as a vibrant mosaic of color and spice, from velvety, slow-simmered curries to charred meats that capture the smoky essence of traditional clay-oven cooking. The atmosphere glows with an inviting warmth, creating a spirited backdrop for a culinary journey that celebrates the bold and complex soul of Indian heritage.
• Estiatorio Milos — Greek · rated 4.5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary of Mediterranean elegance, where a glistening altar of pristine seafood on ice serves as the vibrant heart of the room. The kitchen honors the raw beauty of the Aegean with the simple alchemy of charcoal, sea salt, and liquid-gold olive oil, creating a masterclass in flavor served amidst an atmosphere of crisp white linens and sophisticated coastal charm.
• Nice Matin — French · rated 4.5/5: Nice Matin transports diners to the sun-drenched terraces of the French Riviera, where golden-hued walls and expansive windows create a bright, bustling sanctuary in the heart of the Upper West Side. The air carries the aromatic promise of garlic and saffron as guests linger over plates of tender steak frites and chilled rosé, soaking in an atmosphere that balances sophisticated Parisian flair with the warm, welcoming energy of a neighborhood classic.
• Alfie's — American · rated 4.5/5: Alfie’s reimagines the quintessential American neighborhood haunt, where the warm glow of amber lighting and the rhythmic shake of a cocktail tin set the stage for an evening of soulful indulgence. The air carries the irresistible scent of seared prime beef and crispy, herb-flecked fries, inviting guests to settle into plush leather booths for a dining experience that feels both comfortingly nostalgic and vibrantly current.
• Burrito Box — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: Burrito Box pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling street-side cantina, where the air is perpetually seasoned with the smoky aroma of seared proteins and the bright, citrusy tang of house-made salsas. Guests watch as oversized tortillas are transformed into hefty, hand-rolled treasures, each bite delivering a harmonious explosion of slow-simmered spices, velvety beans, and the refreshing crunch of garden-fresh toppings.
• Raku It’s Japanese II — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this serene sanctuary, diners are greeted by the rhythmic clatter of the open kitchen and the enticing aroma of toasted sesame and simmering umami-rich broths. The space marries minimalist elegance with a vibrant energy, where artfully plated sashimi and steaming bowls of udon transport the palate to the heart of Japan. Every detail, from the gentle glow of the lighting to the precision of each knife stroke, cultivates an atmosphere of refined yet soulful hospitality.
• Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar — American · rated 4.5/5: Steeped in musical legacy, this intimate Upper West Side sanctuary wraps guests in a soulful embrace of exposed brick, warm candlelight, and the rhythmic pulse of live R&B. The kitchen serves up elevated American comfort food that resonates with heart and flavor, creating a vibrant sensory experience where every savory bite is harmonized by the smooth melodies drifting from the stage.
• Yakitori Torishin — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: The air hums with the intoxicating scent of glowing binchotan charcoal as master chefs perform a choreographed dance of fire and precision at the open hearth. Every skewer is a masterclass in texture and flame, where succulent cuts of chicken are kissed by smoke and finished with a delicate balance of sea salt or rich, savory tare. Guests perched at the minimalist wooden counter are treated to an intimate omakase experience that transforms traditional yakitori into a soulful, elevated art form.
• Farinella — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Sun-drenched windows and the intoxicating scent of rising dough invite diners into this vibrant Italian sanctuary, where the rhythmic dusting of flour sets the stage for a meal rooted in artisanal tradition. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the heat with perfectly blistered crusts, while ribbons of golden pasta are tossed in sun-ripened sauces that celebrate the soulful, rustic elegance of the Mediterranean.
• Shalel — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Descend into a subterranean sanctuary where flickering candlelight and the soothing murmur of a trickling waterfall transform a hidden grotto into an intimate Mediterranean escape. The air carries the enticing fragrance of aromatic tagines and charred mezze, inviting guests to linger over wine in secluded, stone-walled nooks that feel worlds away from the city streets above.
• Tuscany Steakhouse — Steakhouse · rated 4.5/5: Tuscany Steakhouse captures the intersection of old-world Italian charm and the grandeur of a premier Manhattan chophouse, where the amber glow of the dining room and the crisp snap of white linens promise an evening of refined indulgence. The air is thick with the savory perfume of USDA Prime steaks dry-aged to perfection and seared at high heat, complemented by the delicate textures of hand-rolled pastas and a cellar of robust, full-bodied reds. It is a sanctuary of timeless hospitality, where every sizzling plate and attentive gesture creates an atmosphere of celebration and culinary mastery.
• Blue Seafood Bar — Seafood · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in cool azure tones and a sophisticated coastal glow, Blue Seafood Bar transports diners to the water’s edge with its sleek, modern aesthetic and vibrant energy. The briny sweetness of freshly shucked oysters meets the smoky char of perfectly seared catches, creating a sensory journey where every bite is brightened by zesty citrus and delicate herbs. Whether lingering over a towering platter of chilled shellfish or a crisp glass of wine at the marble bar, guests find themselves immersed in a refined escape that celebrates the ocean’s purest flavors.
• Gari Columbus — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: A sophisticated Upper West Side sanctuary where minimalist elegance meets the vibrant energy of a masterfully orchestrated sushi bar. Each piece of signature nigiri arrives as a miniature masterpiece, adorned with inventive sauces and delicate garnishes that transform pristine seafood into a symphony of unexpected textures and bold, umami-rich flavors. This is a space of quiet discovery, where the boundaries of Japanese tradition are pushed through artistic innovation to create a truly transcendent dining experience.
• Two Boots Pizza Upper West Side — Italian · rated 4.5/5: This vibrant Upper West Side corner pulses with an eclectic, indie spirit, where colorful folk art lines the walls and the air carries the irresistible aroma of cornmeal-dusted crusts baking to a perfect crisp. The kitchen harmonizes the spicy soul of the Bayou with traditional Italian roots, crafting whimsical, thin-crust masterpieces topped with bold, zesty ingredients that ignite the senses. Under the warm glow of neon signs, diners find a high-spirited neighborhood sanctuary that transforms a simple slice into a flavorful, artistic celebration of New York’s diverse culinary landscape.
• Carnegie Diner & Cafe — American · rated 4.4/5: This bustling Manhattan corner captures the timeless energy of a classic American eatery, where the warm glow of neon and the rhythmic clinking of coffee cups create a symphony of urban comfort. From the sizzle of the griddle to the indulgent swirl of a hand-spun milkshake, every dish celebrates the soulful simplicity of diner fare in a space that feels both nostalgic and vibrantly modern.
• Quality Italian — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Quality Italian reimagines the classic steakhouse through a vibrant Mediterranean lens, where soaring ceilings and warm leather banquettes create an atmosphere of high-energy sophistication. The air hums with the aroma of sizzling dry-aged cuts and house-made pastas, while playful, theatrical presentations turn every meal into a shared celebration of modern Italian-American flair.
• Nobu — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Nobu serves as a glamorous crossroads of culture where minimalist Japanese design meets a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that crackles with sophistication. The experience centers on a revolutionary fusion of flavors, blending the delicate artistry of fresh sashimi with bold Peruvian influences like citrusy yuzu and spicy jalapeño. Each visit unfolds as a sensory celebration, from the buttery richness of signature black cod to the rhythmic, choreographed precision of the world-class sushi bar.