Finding delicious, healthy, and organic food in the Upper East Side can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! This bustling Manhattan neighborhood boasts a surprising number of restaurants committed to sourcing fresh, organic ingredients. This guide showcases 13 of the best, ensuring your next meal is both tasty and ethically sound. We've categorized them to help you find the perfect fit for your taste and budget.
Upscale Organic Dining Experiences
These restaurants offer a refined dining experience with a focus on organic and sustainable practices. Expect higher prices but exceptional quality and service.
1. ABC Kitchen
- Focus: Farm-to-table, seasonal American cuisine. ABC Kitchen prides itself on sourcing ingredients from its own farm and local partners. Their commitment to organic practices is evident in every dish.
- Why it's great: Stunning ambiance, creative menu, impeccable service.
- Price range: $$
2. Via Carota
- Focus: Rustic Italian fare with a strong emphasis on organic produce. The menu changes frequently based on seasonal availability.
- Why it's great: Charming atmosphere, delicious pasta dishes, excellent wine list. A true neighborhood gem.
- Price range: $$
3. The Smith
- Focus: American brasserie with a dedicated organic section on the menu. They source many ingredients locally and organically whenever possible.
- Why it's great: Lively atmosphere, solid cocktails, great for groups.
- Price range: $$
Casual Organic Eats
These spots provide delicious organic options without the hefty price tag. Perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
4. Dig Inn
- Focus: Seasonal, farm-fresh bowls and plates. Dig Inn sources its ingredients from local, sustainable farms.
- Why it's great: Healthy, fast, and affordable. Great for a quick and nutritious meal.
- Price range: $
5. Sweetgreen
- Focus: Customizable salads and bowls with an emphasis on organic and local ingredients. Their commitment to sustainability is a key part of their brand identity.
- Why it's great: Customizable options, fresh ingredients, convenient location.
- Price range: $
6. Just Salad
- Focus: Build-your-own salad and grain bowl concept with many organic options. They’re increasingly focused on sustainable practices.
- Why it's great: Affordable, customizable, quick service.
- Price range: $-$
Unique Organic Experiences
These restaurants offer something a little different, incorporating organic principles in unique and creative ways.
7. Dirt Candy
- Focus: Vegetarian tasting menu, highlighting seasonal vegetables with an innovative twist. Their commitment to organic produce is central to their culinary philosophy.
- Why it's great: Innovative and exciting vegetarian cuisine, truly unique dining experience.
- Price range: $$
8. Hu Kitchen
- Focus: Paleo-friendly, focused on whole foods and organic ingredients. They emphasize nutrient-dense foods and avoid processed ingredients.
- Why it's great: Clean eating, healthy and delicious options, great for those with specific dietary needs.
- Price range: $
Organic Options with a Twist
These restaurants aren't exclusively organic but offer substantial organic options on their menus.
9. Sarabeth's
- Focus: Classic American brunch spot with several organic dishes available. They’re known for their delicious pancakes and other brunch favorites.
- Why it's great: Popular brunch spot, great for weekend mornings. Offers organic eggs and other ingredients.
- Price range: $
10. J.G. Melon
- Focus: Upscale burger joint. While not strictly organic, they use high-quality ingredients and often have organic options available.
- Why it's great: Famous for their burgers and milkshakes. Look out for their seasonal offerings that might include organic ingredients.
- Price range: $$
Ethnic Organic Cuisine
This section includes Upper East Side restaurants that incorporate organic principles within specific ethnic cuisines.
11. Tamarind Tribeca (while technically Tribeca, close enough for a special mention)
- Focus: Modern Thai cuisine featuring fresh, organic ingredients where possible.
- Why it's great: Exciting flavors, high-quality ingredients. They strive to source responsibly.
- Price Range: $$
12. Cafe Mogador (East Village, but worth the trip)
- Focus: Moroccan cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Many of their vegetables are organically sourced.
- Why it's great: Unique flavors, great for groups. Their commitment to high-quality ingredients is evident.
- Price Range: $
13. Lilia (Williamsburg, another slightly further but worthwhile option)
- Focus: Italian pasta and other dishes. While not strictly organic, many dishes highlight fresh, locally sourced, and high-quality ingredients including organic ones where available.
- Why it's great: Excellent pasta, great ambiance. Their dedication to quality shines through.
- Price Range: $$
Note: Price ranges are estimates and can vary. It's always recommended to check the restaurant's menu and website for the most up-to-date information on pricing and organic offerings.
This list provides a solid starting point for your search for organic restaurants on the Upper East Side. Remember to check individual restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm their current organic practices and menu offerings. Enjoy your delicious and ethically conscious meal!
