Many tend to flock to the Upper West Side for its premier arts and culture offerings—ranging from the Metropolitan Opera to the Museum of Natural History. However, the Manhattan neighborhood is also home to an eclectic array of shops, unique boutiques, and artisan food markets with international flavor.
The Upper West Side is the last true neighborhood [in Manhattan] where you walk down the street and you run into 10 people you know and the store owners have known you for years. — Mark D. Friedman
From fashion flagships to gourmet groceries, here is your guide to the top shopping destinations to the Upper West Side, complete with recommendations from our Brown Harris Stevens Manhattan Agents.
Fashion
Darryl’s is more than just a chic boutique, it is an Upper West Side mainstay that locals flock to for contemporary fashion and accessories. Its owner, “the fabulous Darryl,” as Amelia Gewirtz put it, is always willing to help customers look and feel beautiful. With an always-circulating array of unique pieces, Darryl’s is sure to appeal to a variety of style preferences.
Far more than just a museum gift store, Julie Delf-Smith’s recommendation features fine, one-of-a-kind jewelry curated from a team of artisans selected by the store for its jewelry studio. Additionally, the store sells quality home goods and a small yet diverse collection of clothing and accessories.
Also recommended by Julie Delf-Smith, Shishi offers chic clothing and accessories at an approachable price point. From sequined skirts and jumpsuits to comfortable staples, the boutique is great for both day and eveningwear.
Part of the Time Warner Center, it is easy to see why Mark D. Friedman and Amelia Gewirtz recommend the Shops at Columbus Circle. The multi-level indoor shopping mall has dozens of shops, including several noteworthy brands like Jo Malone and J. Crew.
Food
Among Anna Kahn’s favorite places to shop on the Upper West Side is Citarella, a beloved local staple specializing in fresh seafood. Founded in 1912, the business has opened locations throughout NYC and the Hamptons throughout its history, but its Upper West Side location is the flagship.
Another recommendation from Anna Kahn, Zabar’s is a gourmet market known for its smoked fish, pastries, bagels, and gift baskets. The market also has an extensive collection of Kosher goods.
A one-stop shop for fresh produce, organic juices and deli items, and vitamin supplements, The Health Nuts was recommended to us by Amelia Gewirtz and is easily one of the most well-stocked natural food stores in the city. Whether fresh, prepackaged, or frozen, there is a wide array of products from which to choose, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, the store can place a personalized order for you.
“The best place to find delightful farm to table food items is the weekend outdoor green market surrounding the Natural History Museum,” said Amelia Gewirtz. The market runs year-round every Sunday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.