Where to Eat in the Upper East Side in 2025: 6 New Restaurants Redefining the Neighborhood
May 29, 2025
1. Gnocchi House Bar
Modern Campanian Italian, handmade gnocchi, curated wine list 📍 1431 1st Ave, NYC 10021
The Upper East Side just got a serious upgrade in comfort food. Gnocchi House Bar is a love letter to Southern Italy, serving up hand-rolled gnocchi in rich, soulful sauces that stick with you (in a good way). The truffle gnocchi is already gaining local legend status. The setting is moody, warm, and surprisingly modern—think candlelight, olive tones, and exposed brick. And the wine? Imported from Campania with intention. It’s intimate, romantic, and exactly what the UES needed.
2. Chez Fifi
French bistro elegance in a historic townhouse
📍 1708 Lexington Ave, NYC
Stepping into Chez Fifi feels like discovering a Parisian secret in the middle of Manhattan. Housed in a renovated townhouse, this new French bistro by the Foulquier brothers (of Sushi Noz fame) brings white-tablecloth refinement without the pretension. Expect buttery escargot, steak au poivre, and wine poured with flair. But the real draw? A vibe that’s romantic and radiant, especially at brunch when sunlight hits the antique mirrors just right.
3. Le Veau d’Or (Revived)
A classic reborn with culinary powerhouses at the helm
📍 129 E 60th St, NYC
Once a favorite of Julia Child and Anthony Bourdain, Le Veau d’Or is back—and better than ever. The iconic 1937 French restaurant has been brought back to life by the Frenchette and Le Rock team, and they’ve preserved its old-world soul while upgrading the experience. Onion soup comes bubbling under a crown of gruyère, and the roast duck is pure perfection. You don’t just eat here—you time travel.
4. Café Commerce
New American meets bistro with serious kitchen chops
📍 78th & Madison (exact address TBA)
Chef Harold Moore (formerly of Commerce in the West Village) is back with a refined neighborhood bistro that’s already creating buzz. Café Commerce is equal parts familiar and sophisticated: think elevated roast chicken, a killer burger, and a wine list that leans French but fun. The room is warm and minimal, and the staff treats regulars like royalty. A strong contender for your next weekly ritual.
5. Suki Desu
No-frills Japanese comfort with major flavor
📍 1315 1st Ave, NYC
If you’re into casual Japanese with quality that punches above its price, Suki Desu is a gem. Known for its loaded kaisendon (sashimi bowls) and neatly stacked bentos, this spot brings Tokyo soul to the East Side. It’s tiny, it’s chill, and the line moves fast. Pro tip: go early or you’ll miss the toro special.
6. Hoexter’s
Intimate supper club vibes with contemporary flair
📍 152 E 72nd St, NYC
Imagine if a members-only club and a chic downtown restaurant had a baby—that’s Hoexter’s. Tucked behind a modest entrance, this dinner-only spot leans into luxe comfort: bone marrow toast, duck fat potatoes, and a cocktail list that’s as tailored as the clientele. It’s moody, elegant, and somehow still a secret.
From handmade gnocchi to late-night spritzes, the Upper East Side is cooking up something special in 2025. Try one (or all) of these spots, and bring a friend who loves discovering the next local gem.
View the Gnocchi House Bar menu