Great seafood in a large airy setting. The fish is prepared in a variety of styles ranging from basic broiling to Asian-inspired techniques. Some approaches are more successful than others. It's owned by the same folks that run Blue Fin, Blue Water Grill and Ocean Grill.
Candle Café
Address: 1307 Third Avenue (at East 75th Street)
Phone: 212-472-0970
Website: www.candlecafe.com
Yes, it's good for you. And yes, it's still good. Really. The fact that it's vegan keeps as many folks away as it draws them in. And that's a downright shame. The stuff here is actually pretty tasty even if your idea of healthy eating is skipping the bacon on your cheeseburger.
Guastivino's
Address: 409 East 59th Street
Phone: 212-980-2455
Website: guastavinos.com
Worth a visit to see the spectacular interior design. This late-night favorite, located beneath the 59th street bridge, features a soaring tiled and arched ceiling. The service is hit or miss, but the food is consistently top notch. Oysters Rockefeller, crab cakes and pork chops are just a few of the house specialties.
J.G. Mellon
Address: 1291 Third Avenue (at East 74th Street)
Phone: 212-744-0585
This place has been feeding the Izod crowd since before the Preppy handbook gave them a quasi-identity. The burgers still hold up, and it's always a safe bet for a quick meal. Between the throngs of regulars and the crowded bar, it can get a little loud. But, hey, that's part of its charm. Love it or hate it, J.G. Mellon is part of the very fabric of the Upper East Side.
Mezzaluna
Address: 1295 Third Avenue (between East 74th & 75th Street)
Phone: 212-535-9600
Website: www.mezzalunany.com
A huge hit with neighborhood locals, the wood-oven pizzas and other Italian dishes have patrons raving that this is the best Italian in the neighborhood. This is no small boast, considering the competition. Always a reliable place to go for a casual Italian meal.
Orsay
Address: 1057 Lexington (corner of East 75th Street)
Phone: 212-517-6400
This classic French spot moved into the hallowed site of Mortimer's about four years ago. It's been bringing in the crowds ever since. High-end French in an upscale Bistro setting make this the perfect place for a date. Tartares are a house specialty.
Park Avenue Café
Address: 100 East 63rd Street
Phone: 212-644-1900
Website: www.parkavenyc.com
Just off of Park Avenue, this place looks a bit more casual and inexpensive than it is. Flavorful, modest portions of high-end American grub continue to attract a power suit crowd with a few Park Avenue locals thrown into the mix. Quite good, it's not cheap and remains a notch or two below the top dogs in town.
