There seems to be a restaurant every 10 steps or so you take in New York City, but with so many options it's hard to know which ones are worthy of having your name on their reservation lists. If you find yourself famished in the city, specifically on the Upper West Side near the Metropolitan Museum, there are a few topnotch places to choose from right around the corner. Whether you are watching your spending or in town to live it up, the options are endless.
A day at the MET can help you work up a healthy appetite, one that can only be matched with a strong helping of table-side guacamole. This is where Rosa Mexicano comes in. Taking a modern spin on classic Mexican dishes, Rosa Mexicano satisfies your craving for great food and great atmosphere. There are three locations in the city, but the two-story restaurant at Lincoln Center has arguably the best atmosphere, plenty of seating, and a gorgeous waterfall that greets you at the door. Rosa Mexicano has won many fans over with its amazing homemade guacamole. Although it can be a bit pricey, depending on your entree, it is well worth the money. Main dishes fall between $16 and $30; appetizers here, though, are big enough to eat for dinner and are much more affordable.
Rosa Mexicano
61 Columbus Ave. at 62nd St.
New York, NY 10023
rosamexicano.com
(212) 977-7700
If you're only in town for a few days and want to try something completely different, check out Shun Lee West. With choices such as ostrich and Sichuan alligator, Shun Lee is a round-trip vacation for your taste buds. Although pricey, with dinners ranging between $15 and $30, this creative take on Asian food provides an amazing atmosphere, dim sum, and then some.
Shun Lee West
43 West 65th Street
New York, NY 10023-6601
(212) 595-8895
shunleewest.com
Has all that time in the American/Colonial wing made you start craving hamburgers and Americana cuisine? Located in the Lincoln Center area, Josephina is a great place to bring friends, family, and, yes, even kids, for a classic sit-down meal. Serving American/Continental cuisine, Josephina offers something for everyone. With everything from brunch to desserts, this large (for a New York City) restaurant is never too crowded and offers a great meal and friendly service. As for pricing, brunch options start around $13, and the average dinner price is about $20. Josephina is the perfect spot for a girl's lunch, a stop before a show, or a group brunch.
Josephina Restaurant
1900 Broadway (between 63rd and 64th St.)
New York, NY 10023
josephinanyc.com
(212) 799-1000
Southern comfort food in the Upper West Side seems like an oxymoron and far too good to be true; but the folks at 107 West get it just right. With a focus on Cajun/Creole cuisine, the food here warms your heart and fills your belly. After a day of learning about art and history, nothing could be better than a true, down-home meal. Prices here are moderate, including Jambalaya for $17.50, and the menu includes everything from chicken wings and crab cakes to tofu. This is an excellent place to meet up with friends, share a fun night out with your partner, or grab a bite to eat after a day at the MET.
107 West
2787 Broadway at 107th St.
New York, NY 10025
107west.com
(212) 864-1555
