Despite its physical proximity, the Upper East Side seems to be a relatively neglected district for Columbia students. Seen as a haven for women in fur coats and Brooks Brothers devotees, the UES discourages starving students with its intimidating classiness. But despite its chic shine, the UES has a few reasonably priced restaurants where students can dine on a dime. All you need to do now is learn to navigate the crosstown bus system.
Sarabeth’s is a landmark Upper East Side establishment serving reasonably priced American cuisine the way your mother used to make it. The space is elegantly decorated and there is a discernible air of class when you step inside—the restaurant is popular with Upper East Side locals.
Some of the more popular entrees are Long Island duck breast and lobster ravioli, but what makes Sarabeth’s legendary is its brunch. On weekends, one might wait 30 minutes or more for a table (reservations are not accepted), but most that have brunched there would say it is worth the wait.
For brunch perfection, order Sarabeth’s fresh-squeezed orange juice (though it’s a bit of a splurge for $5.50), the delicious house jam on a perfectly singed English muffin, and a selection from the long and creative list of pancakes and omelettes. My personal favorite: Goldie Lox, scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and cream cheese.
The grandeur of the Sarabeth’s brunch tradition and the overall refinement of the establishment can be experienced at a fairly low cost—even with the fantastic OJ, a typical meal will only cost around $24 including tax and tip. To avoid the maddening waits, it is a good idea to take your brunch excursion on a weekday. While there are other Sarabeth’s locations around Manhattan, this is the one to go to if you feel the need to satisfy your inner blue blood.
For Euro trendsters on a budget, Serafina is another terrific option. Located on the second and third floors of a building on the corner of 79th and Madison, the restaurant is in close proximity to the art galleries and boutiques of the Upper East Side. But don’t let the art dealers, fashionistas, and jet-setters who dine here scare you away from what is actually a moderately priced eatery.
The full name of the restaurant is Serafina Fabulous Pizza, and while there are indeed delicious brick oven pies to be enjoyed, Serafina also offers fantastic pasta ($10 to $16) as well as some of the best risotto in Manhattan. The risotto with Veuve Clicquot champagne and black truffle ($22) is rich and delicious enough to comprise an entire meal.
The restaurant is decorated with flowers and colorful murals that create a friendly and familiar atmosphere. Serafina is a great place to know about—it features reliable Italian dishes at decent prices and is able to retain the style and charm of the neighborhood, without any of the stuffiness.
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