Must Do, See and Eat in NYC’s Upper East Side

No visit to NYC is complete without a visit to the Upper East Side. This place is a wonderland of classic New York: chic men headed to luncheons, beautifully dressed women headed to Madison and 5th for world-class shopping; the cities’ elite float down the street with the confidence that they exist in the very center of the world.

For those visiting, here are a few suggestions on how to spend a day in this stratosphere:

Central Park

Central Park is a must-see for any visitor. There is much to see and do in the famous park for any age. If time allows, the Central Park Zoo is a fine place to spend a few hours looking at all the animals that have a more fashionable zip code than the rest of us.

Museum Mile

There is much to explore and learn from this great city. Museum Mile is another must, which is home to NYC’s biggest names in museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim, as well as a few others such as the Jewish Museum, the Museum of the City of New York and El Museo del Barrio. Each museum is rich in history and culture, making the Upper East Side museums a must-see.

Food and Shopping

Next, head over Madison Avenue, but don’t forget the credit cards! All the biggest names in haute fashion can be found here from Chanel to Barney’s to Montblanc. When hunger pangs strike, there is a literal world of food to satisfy. Via Quadronno for panini, Naruto Ramen for a bowl of ramen, Up Thai for chill vibes and Thai food or San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina for a panuozzo (like a folded-over pizza sandwich). Or try one of the myriad sushi places, such as Sushi Seki, Tanoshi Sushi or Sushi City.

For something sweet after the meal, Lexington Candy Shop has just the thing. Then comes the call for libations. For bespoke cocktails head to The Penrose, Guthrie Inn or JBird Cocktails. For a pint head to Earl’s Beer and Cheese or The Pony Bar. For wine,  AVB Wine Bar is a great selection. Dinner is a whole universe unto itself when dining at JG Melon for burgers, Uva for Italian, and the Kaia Wine Bar for a whole new experience of eating out.

Arts and Theater

In the long afternoon hours, take in a concert or lecture at 92nd Street Y, a community center that is in a league of its own. Or take a stroll through one of the many art galleries such as Praxis Art to work up an appetite for dinner.