Where to Eat Near The Met

Whenever friends visit and plan a day at The Met, the first question I get is: “Where should we eat?”

If you’ve ever wandered out of the museum hungry—only to be met with long lines, generic cafés, or overpriced bites—this list is for you.

Here are my go-to Upper East Side restaurants and cafés within a quick walk of The Met. Whether you want a latte and avocado toast, an elegant Viennese pastry, a stylish lunch, or standout Thai food, you’ll find something delicious.

Enjoy — and bookmark this for your next museum day.

Up Thai

Upscale Thai street food in a cozy, chic atmosphere. Order the Papaya Salad, BBQ Pork Bun, Similan Curry (spicy!), Claypot Fried Rice, or any of the classic noodle dishes. It’s always busy—call ahead.
📍1411 2nd Ave (between 73rd & 74th)

Café Sabarsky

Inside the Neue Galerie, this Viennese café is one of the most atmospheric spots on the Upper East Side. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon coffee and pastry. Try the Apfelstrudel, Linzertorte, or a classic Viennese sausage plate.
📍1048 Fifth Ave (at 86th St)

Orsay

A polished French brasserie ideal for a chic lunch. Highlights include French onion soup, croque monsieur, moules frites, and tarte tatin. Consistently lovely.
📍1057 Lexington Ave (at 75th St)

Bluestone Lane – Church of the Heavenly Rest

One of the most beautiful café settings in the city—inside a historic church with Central Park across the street. Enjoy brekkie bowls, avocado toast, flat whites, and peaceful outdoor seating.
📍2 E 90th St

Sant Ambroeus

An Upper East Side classic. Elegant, polished, and reliably delicious. Come for espresso & cornetto in the morning or settle in for prosciutto & mozzarella, tagliatelle bolognese, or branzino at lunch.
📍1000 Madison Ave (at 77th St)

Serafina

Beloved for its pizzas, pastas, and family-friendly atmosphere. Try the Regina pizza, meatballs, risotto tartufo, and the limoncello sponge cake.
📍1022 Madison Ave (at 79th St)

NEW ADDITIONS:

Kappo Sono

A serene, elegant Japanese spot offering omakase-style dishes and pristine ingredients. A sophisticated choice after a morning in the galleries.
📍1016 Lexington Ave (between 73rd & 74th)

Via Quadronno

A cozy, very Upper East Side Italian café known for its panini, cappuccino, and tiramisu. A perfect light lunch.
📍25 E 73rd St

The Penrose

A stylish gastropub with cocktails, burgers, and hearty brunch options. Cool, relaxed vibe.
📍1590 2nd Ave (at 83rd St)