Elaine's
Address: 1703 Second Avenue (between East 88th & 89th Street)
Phone: 212-534-8103
Technically East of Carnegie Hill, people don't come here for the food. They come here because the likes of Woody Allen do. The basic Italian grub isn't bad, mind you, but that's really not the point. A word to the star-gazer, unless you are a celebrity yourself, you well be shuttled off to the back of the restaurant and be forced to view the celebs with a pair of binoculars.
The uptown outpost of this mega-burger joint can be just the thing when you're craving a basic burger. That being said, the burgers (and chicken sandwiches) are as basic or elaborate as you desire with a cornucopia of toppings to choose from, ranging from the regular to the exotic: A vegetarian hell and a burger lover's paradise.
Sarabeth's Kitchen
Address: 1295 Madison Avenue (between East 92nd & 93rd Street)
Phone: 212-410-7335
This is one of several locations of this ultra-cute American restaurant. Brunch is the main event, however. People line the halls on weekends for a taste of Sarabeth's mouthwatering baked goods and award-winning jams. They do prepare other meals as well, by the way. A true New York tradition, not to be missed.
Table d'Hote
Address: 44 East 92nd Street
Phone: 212-348-8125
This tiny French bistro has been frying up pommes frites for more than twenty years. The secret to its longevity is the quality of the food and the legions of loyal regulars. Of course, popularity has its price. It can be difficult to secure one of the few, precious tables on Friday and Saturday nights. But it's definitely worth the wait.
Vico
Address: 1302 Madison Avenue (between East 92nd & 93rd Street)
Phone: 212-876-2222
Website: www.vico-restaurant.com
This high-end Italian has a reputation for good food and outstanding service. Locals can't get enough of this basic Italian. There's nothing surprising on the menu, but that's only half its charm. Be forewarned: It's cash only.
Yura & Co.
Address: 1659 Third Avenue (East 93rd Street)
Phone: 212-860-8060
Website: cornercafe-bakery.com
This is one of two take-out locations for this sit-down restaurant/café. They also offer full catering services for small to gala events. The food tends to be fairly restrained with nothing terribly fancy, but fans of their simple, organic-inspired cooking wouldn't have it any other way.