Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. New York City

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Upper East Side

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

136 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tavern on the Green restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(18924)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 112 times today
Tavern on the Green, located in the enchanting setting of Midtown West, New York, is not just a restaurant; it's an iconic American dining experience. Nestled in Central Park, this gem offers a magical ambiance and a menu that captures the essence of American cuisine with impeccable flair. Guests often describe their visits as "amazing" and praise the "delicious" American classics like the filet mignon salad and the French onion soup, each prepared with a unique twist that elevates the familiar to the extraordinary. One diner raved, "The food, ambience, service…all of it was 5 star," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether it's a sunny brunch or a special dinner, Tavern on the Green consistently delivers an unforgettable American dining experience that makes every visit memorable.
A photo of BG - Bergdorf Goodman restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4668)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 63 times today
At BG - Bergdorf Goodman, nestled in the heart of Midtown West, New York, American cuisine is elevated to an art form, offering a unique blend of classic flavors and modern flair. Patrons are consistently captivated by the "sophisticated and lovely" ambiance, where each dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of New York. From the "excellent duck dumplings" to the "best dressing in town," BG’s menu reflects a modern take on beloved American staples, all while diners enjoy stunning views of Central Park. Accolades from guests like "Always a beautiful, special lunch spot" and "Perfect meetup spot" underscore the exceptional dining experience. BG’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking the quintessence of American dining in NYC.
A photo of Butter Midtown restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(5873)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 9 times today
Butter Midtown, nestled in the vibrant heart of Midtown West, New York, is a gem for Contemporary American cuisine. Executive Chef Alex Guarnaschelli crafts traditional American dishes with global inflections and a strong seasonal focus, bringing a unique flair to each plate. Reviewers rave about the restaurant, noting that "The entrees were 2 of the best we’ve ever eaten" and praising the "otherworldly good" Dark Chocolate Pudding. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "awesome," making Butter not just a meal, but an experience. A highlight is their attentive service, with one patron sharing, "We were taken care of like family!" Butter Midtown is consistently celebrated for its exquisite culinary offerings and exceptional dining environment.
A photo of Bacall's restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1441)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Theater District
Booked 36 times today
Bacall's in New York's vibrant Theater District masterfully captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its dynamic and evolving menu. Diners rave about the "delicious" food, from the perfectly cooked Bronzino to the "top 3 steaks" and succulent brick chicken. The restaurant's flair for the dramatic in both ambiance and plating makes each meal an "experience." With its strategic location and "excellent service," Bacall's is hailed as a perfect pre-theatre dining spot. Patrons consistently praise the diverse menu and the craft cocktails, affirming that Bacall's is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and high-quality Contemporary American dining in a beautifully themed setting.
A photo of L'Adresse - Bryant Park restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1896)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Midtown West
Booked 91 times today
L'Adresse in Midtown West, New York, is a culinary gem that skillfully blends international flavors, drawing on Contemporary American cuisine with French and Asian influences. Located across the scenic Bryant Park, this restaurant is praised for its innovative dishes and exceptional service. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and ambiance," with specialties like the "delicious brick chicken and fresh oysters" receiving glowing reviews. The atmosphere is described as "stylish and elevated," making it perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to business meals. Whether it's the "fluffy, flavorful matcha pancakes" or the "top tier steak and drinks," L'Adresse consistently impresses, making it a must-visit for an authentic and exquisite international dining experience.
A photo of The Met Dining Room restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3016)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Upper East Side
Booked 47 times today
Nestled in the Upper East Side with a stunning view of Central Park, The Met Dining Room exemplifies the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine. By sourcing ingredients from within a 150-mile radius, this restaurant ensures freshness and supports local farming, providing an "elevated cuisine experience." Diners rave about the authenticity and quality of the food, noting it as "outstanding" and celebrating the restaurant's ability to make each guest feel "special." The Met Dining Room is not just about dining; it's an experience, blending artful surroundings with a menu that's both innovative and rooted in local tradition. Patrons leave with memories of "fabulous food & service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true Farm-to-table experience in New York City.
A photo of Sojourn Restaurant restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1877)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Upper East Side
Booked 6 times today
Sojourn Restaurant, nestled in the vibrant Upper East Side of New York, is a treasure trove of Tapas and Small Plates that delight the palate with their authenticity and quality. Described by patrons as a place where "the food is REALLY good," and "everything was delicious," Sojourn offers a dynamic menu that celebrates diverse flavors with dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and lamb skewers. The restaurant's lively copper-coated wine bar and cozy, cabin-like atmosphere complement the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Praised for its "great quality food" and "amazing service," Sojourn is highly recommended for anyone looking to savor meticulously prepared Tapas in a welcoming environment.
A photo of ABC Kitchen restaurant
4.4
Awesome(6534)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Gramercy Park
Booked 37 times today
ABC Kitchen in Gramercy Park, New York, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its unwavering commitment to organic, local, and sustainable ingredients. Helmed by the celebrated Chef Jean-Georges, the restaurant serves dishes that are a testament to the purity and authenticity of American cooking. Diners rave about the "innovative dishes especially the sashimi appetizer" and the "excellent service," highlighting the restaurant's ability to transform simple, wholesome ingredients into extraordinary culinary creations. The use of ingredients like pasture-fed meats, locally sourced fish, and herbs from their rooftop garden ensures each dish bursts with freshness and flavor. The dining space, crafted from reclaimed materials, complements the menu's ethos, creating a truly "beautiful, creative" dining experience. As one reviewer perfectly summed it up, ABC Kitchen offers an "excellent and memorable meal" making it a must-visit for those seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining.
A photo of Glass House Tavern restaurant
4.4
Awesome(5904)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Theater District
Booked 53 times today
Step into the vibrant ambiance of Glass House Tavern, located in the heart of New York's Theater District, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This gem is celebrated for its exceptional use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, crafting dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners consistently praise its culinary delights, like the "perfectly cooked" filet mignon and the "delicious" crab cakes, highlighting the tavern's commitment to quality and flavor. Guests are not only impressed by the food but also by the attentive service and warm neighborhood hospitality, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the "creamy and delicious" burrata appetizer or the creatively presented salmon with corn risotto, Glass House Tavern ensures a dining experience that's both authentically American and genuinely delightful. Perfect for pre-theater dining or a special night out, it's a place where every guest feels welcomed and every meal is an occasion.
A photo of R Lounge at Two Times Square restaurant
3.7
Very Good(2230)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Theater District
Booked 48 times today
Dine at R Lounge at Two Times Square, where the essence of American cuisine is captured in every bite, amidst the iconic backdrop of Times Square. Praised for its "awesome" food and "great customer service" by satisfied diners, this restaurant offers a culinary experience that celebrates the diversity and authenticity of American flavors. Located in the heart of New York's Theater District, it's not just the food that will captivate you, but also the "breathtaking panoramic views" from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether it's a "romantic dinner" or an "amazing breakfast," guests consistently herald R Lounge as the epitome of American dining, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sandra
    New York City •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Amazing holiday classic! The decor is just amazing- beautifully decorated for the holidays. The food was equally amazing. We had the tomahawk steak special with three included sides. The steak was delicious and perfectly cooked. The lobster Mac and cheese and vegetables were delicious and the presentation was worthy of photos which didn’t do it justice. The service was friendly but efficient. We will be back.
    More info
    Tavern on the GreenPrice: Expensive• American• Midtown West
    4.7
  • linds
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Amazing service and experience I have come to expect from BG
    More info
    BG - Bergdorf GoodmanPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Midtown West
    4.8
  • RobertVIP
    New York City •38 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We came at 7pm on a Friday (made a reservation) before the place got filled… and by 8pm is was hopping. From the look of it everyone was having a great time. It’s a cozy dark interior made to be more intimate than many brighter spots. Lots of “regulars.” Service was super attentive without being on top of you. Even the “bus boys” were gracious and concerned if you were enjoying everything. The food: Salads and soups were delicious, abundant and nicely presented. Bronzino and pasta were delicious (although the ravioli could have been warmer). All delicious. The point being: screw ordering in. Go out. Go to Sojour.
    More info
    Sojourn RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Upper East Side
    4.3
  • Nicole
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The croutons in the Cesar salad were delicious. Pricing range for the meals was decent. Appetizer price range could have been lower for the amount you got but it is NYC.
    More info
    Bacall'sPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Theater District
    4.2
  • RicardoVIP
    Greater Boston •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I have been to New York many times and have always wanted to try Butter, but I was always alone and when I go to nicer restaurants I always want to have a shared dining experience. This week my husband and I had a week of Christmas in New York and I made sure Butter was on the list of places we would eat. Butter did not disappoint. The hostess and our server Janeth were top-notch. I had a modified Butter Espresso Martini minus the Mezcal. Delicious. For dinner, we split a Buratta Salad and some Parker House Rolls. Whatever the vinaigrette that accompanied the salad was fabulously delicious. The best hunk of Buratta which was so creamy and not the usual curds that most burattas are. The acorn squash and delicata chips were a welcome accompaniment. The Parker House rolls were better than any I've had in Boston's Parker House. We both had the Brazino with Rainbow Chard in a lemon sauce viniagrette. Crispy skin, and tender fish. Well done. We had a bottle of Whitehall Lane Sauvignon Blanc. I was the only who had dessert, just one scoop of the Mocha Chocolate Ice Cream. Perfect finish to a wonderful dining experience or so I thought. Our lovely server Janeth, who was a delight all evening brought us a glass of lovely Champagne to send us off into the busy cold New York City night. The reason I had heard of Butter was because a former New England Patriots Quarterback used to frequent the place and also I am kind of a fan of the own of the restaurant. But yes, if you are in NYC and want a lovely dinner, visit Butter. You won't be sorry!
    More info
    Butter MidtownPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Midtown West
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Upper East Side

Explore the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in the Upper East Side of New York City, Manhattan, where a diverse range of restaurants offers a unique blend of innovative dishes and traditional flavors. The dining scene in this affluent neighborhood is characterized by its sophisticated atmosphere, where local chefs pride themselves on crafting menus that blend classic American ingredients with modern culinary techniques. Restaurants in this area are celebrated for their creative interpretations of familiar dishes, ensuring each meal is both memorable and delectable. Patrons can expect menus rich with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, often presented with artistic flair and a keen eye for detail. The culinary experiences vary from intimate, cozy settings to vibrant, bustling environments, each maintaining a high standard of service and quality. Whether you're looking for a casual dining experience or a luxurious evening out, the Upper East Side offers an array of options that cater to every taste and occasion. In summary, the Upper East Side stands out as a prime destination for food enthusiasts who appreciate a mix of traditional and contemporary American dishes, all served within an elegant and inviting atmosphere. This locale not only promises delicious food but also a dining experience that is deeply rooted in New York City's rich gastronomic culture.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo