'Cesca

164 W 75th St, at Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10023 212-787-6300

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Co-owned by celebrated chef Tom Valenti, this restaurant sports a decor that is sure to impress even the most discerning of diners. Posh, elegant, suave ­ each of these accurately defines the space, which features chairs covered in smooth brown velvet, rustic iron chandeliers and lamps, stained wood-paneling, white walls adorned with subtle stenciling, and a high, coffered ceiling. The 'Cesca experience comes with a lofty price tag, but then impossibly bold Southern Italian fare like potato gnocchi with ragout of braised veal, wild striped bass with riso, or honey glazed squab with carnaroli rice ... well, let's just say that some indulgences are bargains no matter the cost. Pre-theatre menu is $31. TRAIN: 1,9,2,3 to 72nd and Broadway
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212

133 E 65th St, New York, NY 10021 212-249-6565

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Ahhh, the Sunday Brunch. When it's done well, you simply can't beat it, and 212 does it very well, indeed. Trademark dishes from the regular lunch and dinner menu make appearances, such as grilled artichoke and chopped arugula salad, pan-seared tuna rolls, and penne with chicken and roasted tomatoes. But you'll also find about 35 other things, including create-your-own omelettes, sandwiches and burgers, fresh fruit smoothies, and waffles. It's also the only restaurant in town that offers baby food at brunch, which makes it quite popular with families. Prix-Fixe lunch $20, Monday-Friday.
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540 Park

540 Park Ave, Loews Regency Hotel, New York, NY 10021 212-339-4050

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. If you're looking for a great place to have brunch on the Upper East Side, you'll find that this eatery ranks highly with locals. 540 Park is renowned for its "power breakfasts" and brunches alike. After hours, the restaurant morphs into the infinitely popular Feinstein's, one of the Upper East Side's most exclusive places to grab an expensive cocktail ­ the kicky cosmos are tops ­ and catch a fabulous cabaret act here, either. TRAIN: B, Q, N, R to Lexington Ave; 4, 5, 6 to 59th St
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Arabelle

37 E 64th St, Hotel Plaza Athenée, New York, NY 10021 212-606-4647

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Dining at Arabelle means indulgent service, a majestic setting and appropriately fine food. The French-style brunch is widely regarded as one of the best on the Upper East Side, thanks to traditional eggs Benedict, a seafood buffet, brioche French toast, omelets, and seared salmon. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 59th St; 6 to 68th St-Hunter College; N, R to Lexington Ave
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Baraonda

1439 2nd Ave, at 75th St, New York, NY 10021 212-288-8555

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Italian for "big crowd," Baraonda is also the place to see and be seen by the "in crowd." Patrons pack in (especially during weekend nights), for the masterpieces of chef Luca Casadio. Signature meals include zucchini-wrapped shrimp, grilled calamari, and a variety of pasta dishes. The walls are papered with the vibrant paintings of Colombian artist Valentino. Dress is business casual. TRAIN: 6 to 77th St
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Barking Dog Luncheonette

1678 3rd Ave, at 94th St, New York, NY 10128 212-831-1800

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. This place has gone to the dogs! Literally that is ­ stuffed animals and a doggyesque drinking fountain play up the canine theme that draws adults and kids alike. Try popular menu items like the pan-fried crab cakes and the notorious fried calamari. Diner-style sundaes make for the perfect ending to your lunch break during a dog-eat-dog day! Great spot for breakfast and weekend brunches, too. Cash only policy. TRAIN: 6 to 96th St
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Café des Artistes

One W 67th St, New York, NY 10023 212-877-3500

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Romantic and magnificent define both the food and the décor of this lovely French café that serves an outstanding Saturday and Sunday brunch. The interior showcases famous Howard Chandler Christy-designed nudes. After brunch, take a stroll in Central Park, as this restaurant is located right off of Central Park West. TRAIN: 1, 9 to 66th St-Lincoln Ctr
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Cafe Evergreen

1288 1st Ave, at 69th St, New York, NY 10021-5569 212-744-3266

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. This hip restaurant, whose contemporary décor is ideal for the Upper East Side, specializes in quality Cantonese cuisine. If you want a true Chinese experience, try their Five-Course Gourmet or Five-Course Seafood menus. Evergreen's surprising wine list sports several French and Californian selections, and their Wine Events are worthwhile affairs, featuring wine tastings and exclusive fixed menus. Dim Sum Brunch Sat-Sun 11:30am-3:30pm. Reservations are suggested, and required for Wine Events. TRAIN: 6 to 68th St
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Calle Ocho

446 Columbus Ave, between 81st and 82nd Sts, New York, NY 10024-5130 212-873-5025

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Exotic and exciting, Calle Ocho offers an air of mystery. The interior space features copper walls, whitewashed wood ceilings and dramatic black steel accents. The food is just as mysterious with dishes that focus on the flavors and textures of Latin America. Try their specialty, the crispy snapper entree, or delve into the black bass swathed in banana leaves. Wash it all down with sangria while enjoying the lively, upbeat atmosphere. Reservations accepted. Casual dress. TRAIN: B, C to 81st St
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David Burke & Donatella Modern American Restaurant

133 E 61st St, New York, NY 10021 212-813-2121

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. This glamorous yet whimsical space retains its original mantel pieces, chair molding and antiques while also featuring sharp geometric patterns, contemporary artwork, and color scheme of bold reds, earthy browns, and creamy whites. Owner-chef David Burke weaves a spellbinding tapestry of New American brunch offerings, ranging from ginger-rubbed salmon with rock shrimp hash browns to lobster dumplings with black mussels. TRAIN: F to 63rd & Lexington; N, R, W to 59th & Lexington
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JoJo

160 E 64th St, between Lexington and 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021 212-223-5656

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Specializing in innovative takes on traditional French bistro fare, JoJo is one of the Upper East Side's true gems. Popular with area movers and shakers, this Lexington Avenue eatery boasts a comfortable dining area and superbly friendly waitstaff. The recipe for pleasure here is quite simple. Order a bottle of fine French wine, relax, and opt for the prix fixe dinner, which may feature lobster tartine, seasoned rack of lamb with cucumber-mint relish, or grilled sirloin with gingered shiitake mushrooms. Multi-course tasting menu $65. TRAIN: Q to Lexington Ave
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La Boite en Bois

75 W 68th St, between Columbus & Central Park W, New York, NY 10023 212-874-2705

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Small and cozy, this French restaurant offers pre-theater and prix fixe dining options that are well worth the small price they request! Farm equipment and wood walls lend a casual, earthy charm to the dining room. Dishes include such delights as fish soup, grilled salmon dipped in anchovy butter and red snapper. Reservations accepted. Casual attire appropriate. TRAIN: 1, 2, 3, 9 to 66th St-Lincoln Center
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Le Pain Quotidien ­ Madison

1131 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10028 212-327-4900

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Looking for goodies after an evening at the Met? Then this Belgian bakery is the perfect spot for you. The name translates "the daily bread," and is apropos as you can choose sweets or sandwiches on freshly baked bread. The décor features a farmhouse style that brings with it a casual atmosphere and communal table. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St
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Maz Mezcal

316 E 86th St, Between 1st and 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028 212-472-1599

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Located between First and Second Avenues, Maz Mezcal recently underwent renovations, so it's not as snug as it used to be. Make no mistake, though, it still gets quite packed. Expect to see a lot of happy revelers here, sipping on tasty (and potent) margaritas and going through basket after basket of complimentary tortilla chips. When you get around to ordering, keep in mind the fajitas ­ beef, chicken or shrimp, you can't go wrong. Free delivery is available. Dinner reservations are suggested, especially on the weekends. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St
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Ocean Grill

384 Columbus Ave, at 78th St, New York, NY 10024-5104 212-579-2300

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. Known for having a large selection of fresh seafood and an excellent raw bar. The kitchen prepares such savory selections as crab cakes served with roasted corn salsa, grilled swordfish and steamed clams. Finish off a great dining experience with the sinfully delicious caramelized figs served over ice cream. Reservations are recommended, as this place is usually crowded. Casual dress. TRAIN: B, C to 81st St; 1, 9 to 79th St
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Orsay

1057 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021 212-517-6400

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. With a colorful Art Deco environment and truly creative French food, Orsay stands as one of the Big Apple's most popular brasseries. Try the tasty appetizers that include such treats as smoked salmon, sturgeon and trout. Main entrées that demand attention include the veal short ribs, the steamed bass, and the duck soufflé. Don't expect a quiet evening though ­ this place is energetic and quite popular. Prix fixe dinner $45, lunch $24-29. Casual dress. Reservations recommended ­ taken up to one month in advance. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 77th St
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Our Place

1444 3rd Ave, at 82nd St, New York, NY 10028-1904 212-288-4888

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. This Upper East Side Chinese eatery enjoys a fair amount of positive pub for both its spicy Szechuan dishes and great prices. Expect to be treated like royalty by the sharply dressed waitstaff, who will go to the extra mile to ensure that you enjoy your meal at Our Place. Menu favorites include the Szechuan chicken, Grand Marnier shrimp, and lobster in white wine sauce. Reservations are accepted, and take-out is available. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St
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Park Avenue Café

100 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10021 212-644-1900

Description: UPPER EAST SIDE. Interesting American cuisine with a unique twist. Brunchers can select from an array of deliciously prepared and beautifully presented dishes with a global influence. The inviting interior, with warm hues and rich woods, is a relaxing place to enjoy a leisurely meal. TRAIN: N, R to Lexington Avenue; 4, 5, 6 to 59th St
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Shun Lee West

43 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023 212-595-8895

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. This chic address is just a short walk from Lincoln Center. Shiny black lacquer dominates the interior and is complemented by dream-like elements ­ the alabaster monkeys that dance around the bar, the gold and red dragon encircling one dining room. The adjacent dim sum café is more retro with its black and white tiles. The menu, meanwhile, focuses on "haute" versions of traditional Cantonese, Hunan and Szechwan dishes, resulting in remarkable creations like Grand Marnier prawns with honey walnuts, braised sea bass in hot bean sauce, and buffalo fillet sautéed with leeks. TRAIN: 1, 9 to 66th St-Lincoln Center
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Telepan

72 W 69th St, New York, NY 10023 212-580-4300

Description: UPPER WEST SIDE. New American chef par excellence, Bill Telepan opened this fashionable dining room on West 69th in the winter of 2005, and in the time since it has enjoyed no shortage of critical acclaim. The reason for this is simplicity ­ that is, Telepan has a knack for molding basic, familiar ingredients in ways that amaze the palate. The menu changes seasonally, with representative dishes including dry-aged sirloin with short-rib hash, monkfish with lobster-corn sauce, and seared duck breast with apricots, black and gold rice, and baby turnips. Several prix fixe and tasting options are available for those wanting a truer brush with fine gastronomy.
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