NYC restaurants located within a 5 minute walk of 81st Street – Museum of Natural History Station | Ratings, Reviews & Maps
The following New York City restaurants are all conveniently located within a 5 minute walk of the 81st Street – Museum of Natural History Subway Station. When you are looking for a great place to eat near 81st Street – Museum of Natural History Station in NYC, any of the following restaurants should prove to be a good choice.
Shake Shack Upper West Side Overall Rating 4.2 out of 5![Shake Shack Upper West Side Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.2_stars.png)
Overview: Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.
Dining Options: Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Address: 366 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (646) 747-8770
Official Website: Shake Shack Upper West Side
Reviews
If you’re a vegetarian, the veggie burger is pretty good for less than $10. The fried onions made it so tasty. My family ordered their own burgers and crinkle cut fries.
The server here was so sweet. She brought our food to the table and genuinely said, Welcome to Shake Shack. Another server came around checking on every table and even brought a baby seat to a family who just arrived.
I really appreciated the kindness, it goes a long way to make someone’s day.
Miramar Lee - 3 weeks ago
This place is a fantastic burger 🍔 joint! Just like all of their spots in NYC 🗽, Shake Shack on the UWS serves a wonderful selection of delicious 🤤 burgers, sandwiches 🥪, fries 🍟, and more! Their crown 👑 jewel 💎 is definitely the shakes ! 🥤 Get the Vanilla Shake - it's absolutely amazing! 🤩 Service is super quick. ⏲️ I wish I came here more often!
Alon Grinshpoon - a month ago
This is a great Shake Shack. As soon as we entered the manager Natasha greeted us at the door and lead us to the kiosk to order our food. The restaurant is clean and the food was delicious. It was my birthday and Natasha made me feel very special. I will definitely be returning here, and I love this area.
Lorrie Urena - 3 months ago
I had a great experience at Shake Shack! The atmosphere was relaxed, and the tables were impressively clean, which made it even more enjoyable. The food was fantastic—the SmokeShack was juicy, the fries were crispy, and the ShackSauce added a perfect touch. Every bite hit the spot. The service was quick and friendly, and overall, it was a perfect spot to satisfy a burger craving. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a delicious, casual meal! I enjoyed the SmokeShack w/ avocado, truffle fries, and a speciality milkshake for the holidays. Give it a try yourself!
Nicholas Bonano (Nick) - a month ago
Table seating is limited. Place your order at the kiosks. Lower level has an odd smell to it. Very limited staff interaction. My sandwich was messed up. Clearly this location is in demand, the line was to the door the whole time we were there. Cheese fries were good.
Jason Saltsman - 5 months ago
Sushi of Gari UWS (Gari Columbus) Overall Rating 4.5 out of 5![Sushi of Gari UWS (Gari Columbus) Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.5_stars.png)
Overview: Minimalist branch of a local upscale sushi chain offering creative rolls, Japanese fare & sake.
Dining Options: Dinner | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 5:00 – 9:45 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 5:00 – 9:45 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 5:00 – 9:45 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 5:00 – 9:45 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 5:00 – 9:45 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 9:45 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 9:45 PM
Address: 370 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 362-4816
Official Website: Sushi of Gari UWS (Gari Columbus)
Reviews
Beautiful and delicate food, beautiful balanced flavours and authentic. Some of the most tender and tasty outside of Japan.
Cannot understand the negative reviews other than to think they don’t know what good quality Japanese food is.
Zo - a week ago
The Chicken Teriyaki was perfectly cooked—definitely among the best I’ve had. The "Sushi Regular," with eight pieces of sushi and one tuna roll, was fresh and flavorful, though the wasabi inside was a bit unexpected. The seaweed salad was delicious and beautifully presented.
We were treated to complimentary Konacha tea, though I would have preferred it to be served during the meal rather than at the end. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was cozy, enhanced by beautiful wall art. The only downside was the limited dessert menu.
Olga NYC - a week ago
We have dined at Sushi of Gari on the Upper West Side twice, once in the restaurant a long time ago, and then again for takeout tonight. The sushi has been great on both occasions. It's not my favorite Japanese in Manhattan, but along with Sushi Yasaka, it is definitely the best Japanese cuisine on the Upper West Side. Gari is the more formal experience while Sushi Yasaka is more laid back. Both places are great.
A R - 7 months ago
After nearly 20 years, Gari remains one of our family’s favorite omakase places! The fresh fishes, their rice and unique sauces make Gari’s sushi among the best. Service is impeccable.
eric yao - 7 months ago
Best sushi in NYC! I have been coming here for years,one of the few sushi spots where they still have actual Japanese chefs preparing your food. Nothing not to like, beautiful dining room great food and the hostess Priya brought a touch of class to the place! Chef Gari has proven once again no soy sauce necessary.
Greg Shamah - a month ago
UNO Pizzeria & Grill Overall Rating 4 out of 5![UNO Pizzeria & Grill Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4_stars.png)
Overview: Family-friendly chain serving Chicago-style pizza along with pasta, steaks & burgers.
Dining Options: Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: 432 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 595-4700
Official Website: UNO Pizzeria & Grill
Reviews
One of the few remaining UNO's that I found in New York state. Nice local, pub-like feel, with a small bar and plenty of tables. Deep dish pizza at UNO's has been one of my favorites for years and the food was consistently delicious once again.
Chris Aldrich - a week ago
I love the pizza! Can't recommend the Farmer's Market enough. They offer a lunch special which is an individual pizza + soup or salad for $13 and it's SO worth it!
Isy Gp - 3 months ago
Went for my mom's Bday, Sat in the back. They were SEVERELY understaffed and made it clear. Despite that, the server was so amazing and attentive. There were 2 people working the entire place and they worked so hard. Bless their heart. Please hire more people.
Food was amazing btw! Drinks were mehhhh. I wouldn't get more drinks but pizza was so good!
Anthony Parris - 9 months ago
Noi Due Cafe Overall Rating 4.6 out of 5![Noi Due Cafe Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.6_stars.png)
Overview: Kosher Italian fare & brick-oven pizzas are the focus of this eatery with indoor/outdoor seating.
Dining Options: Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 6:45 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Address: 491 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 712-2222
Official Website: Noi Due Cafe
Reviews
Excited to be the 1700 the review!!congratulations to you guys. We had an excellent experience shout out to Sean our server did an excellent job great attitude overall left with a big smile on our face. Everything we ordered was seriously amazing thank you guys congratulations to you guys on an excellent dining experience you’ve created.
Coby Siegel - a month ago
The food was delicious—loved the Bronzino, salmon teriyaki, iced coffee, and green salad.
Service was impressively fast, even though the place was packed. I did have a minor stomach ache afterward, though I’m not sure it was related to the meal. Regardless, the food was excellent and the atmosphere was great.
Michael - 6 months ago
Everything was perfect, except for the ending. The waiter brought me the bill, which I paid for in cash. For some reason it became normal to tip a minimum of 20%. The options at the bottom of the receipt started at 20%, 30% and 40%. And that’s from the total after the tax is added. I gave about 10% as a tip and the waiter came running back with my change even though I told him I don’t need the change. He started asking if everything was okay and if the service was good. I said it was fine and he responded “okay” with such entitlement as if I owned him something. It’s not the customers responsibility to pay the staffs salary or even leave a tip. If you’re not making enough go find another job or speak to your boss. Don’t talk to customers as if they did something wrong by not tipping how much you want. I paid the bill, your salary is not my problem
Gavriel Murdakhayev - in the last week
We had a great experience!!! The ambiance to the food to the service is just beyond. I can not come to this place enough it is just amazing and is consistent with the great food… you will not be disappointed. Marco who was our server was kind and nice and really took care of us!!! Highly recommend
Malka Klitnick - 6 months ago
Met a friend here for dinner, didn't have reservation but manager found a spot. Service was excellent and food was as well. The vibe is nice. Manager is cool. Thanks Lewis!
Mina Rostom - 2 months ago
Thyme & Tonic Overall Rating 3.9 out of 5![Thyme & Tonic Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_3.9_stars.png)
Overview: Health-minded meals featuring veggies, fish & fowl to suit everyone from vegans to carnivores.
Dining Options: Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM
Address: 474 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (718) 344-4789
Official Website: Thyme & Tonic
Reviews
Just had a great dinner here! Went here for a friends reunion, 11 ppl & had a lovely time! Service and food was great! Owner was very friendly and accommodating. Never felt rushed or puahed out. We were there from 5ish-830?. Portions were great, prices very reasonable, esp for kosher, yummy and creative drinks. Orderd a bunch of apps and mains. We had an amazing time! Definitely would come back!
Masha-Mariya Kishkina - 4 weeks ago
I went with a group of friends for a birthday brunch! It was amazing. Everyone was very attentive and the owner/manager (i think) found out it was my friends birthday and brought out a bouquet of flowers for her. He checked in on us multiple times. The food was also delicious!
Valeria Carballo · s - 2 weeks ago
great spot in the UWS that is fully gluten free and kosher. had a delicious girls night dinner, we were a party of 3 — with one of us celiac, another gluten sensitive. waiter was very friendly and we got a cozy corner spot on banquet.
to say we were excited to have dinner here is an understatement, especially with onion rings and churros on the brain.
we ordered:
— chicken tender
— steamed dumplings
— onion rings
— burger
— churros
plus a lovely red wine from israel.
everything was good — the churros, burger and chicken tenders was excellent. onion rings were a little heavy handed on the batter front but still tasty.
definitely a winner and reservations are highly recommended. such a treat to indulge, thanks to the folks behind modern bread ❤️
Erika Perzi - a month ago
A great gluten free spot right next to modern bread and bagel. An amazing menu for yummy goodness, the onion rings are killer and I loved the mocktails. We stopped for a light lunch but got a salted pretzel to go. Super great spot, service was a little slow but nothing major. The price isn’t the worst either considering everything is celiac safe.
Vanessa Pires - 5 months ago
Famous Original Ray's Pizza Overall Rating 4.1 out of 5![Famous Original Ray's Pizza Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.1_stars.png)
Overview: Part of a no-frills local chain serving pizzas, pasta, calzones, burgers, hoagies, wings & more.
Dining Options: Lunch | Dinner | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Address: 462 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 873-1134
Official Website: Famous Original Ray's Pizza
Reviews
This pizza restaurant is a slice of heaven for pizza lovers. The aroma of freshly baked pies fills the air, inviting patrons to indulge in a cheesy delight. The menu offers a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni to gourmet combinations, catering to diverse tastes. Each bite is a burst of flavor, with a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and crust. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meal. Whether you're craving a traditional Margherita or a specialty pizza, this restaurant is sure to satisfy your pizza cravings with its delicious offerings.
Chris X. C. - 9 months ago
Rays pizza feels like our second home! I go there with my toddler every day for lunch, and it’s always such a pleasure. The space is clean, spacious, and so welcoming—it’s truly amazing. We absolutely love Eliana, the pizza guys, and the entire team—Jose, Hanni, and everyone else make us feel like family. The food is consistently delicious, and my toddler loves it just as much as I do. There’s something special about this place that keeps us coming back. Love it, love it, love it!”
Izabelle D - 3 weeks ago
Great pizza. I raised my eyebrow a bit since it was a bit more pricey than I expected but the pizza ended up being well worth it. I ate 2 slices and they were both very tasty. Chatted with the staff. They were knowledgeable about how to make the pie and the history of the restaurant itself. Walked outta there a happy and full guy.
Robbie Hill - 2 months ago
Famous Original Ray’s has a cute, old-school diner vibe that really adds to the experience. The pizza was good, but with the fierce competition in New York, it didn’t quite measure up to some of the city’s best slices.
I ordered the pepperoni pizza, and the pepperonis were cooked perfectly—crispy and crunchy, which I loved. The rest of the food we tried was also solid, making for a decent overall experience.
That said, it feels more like a reliable spot for everyday New Yorkers to grab a meal rather than a must-visit tourist destination. Worth a try, but maybe not at the top of the list for visitors.
Geenath - 3 months ago
Quick slice of pizza.
Good flavor, they heat it up well and have various toppings and extra herbs and spices like crushed red pepper flaked you can add.
A bit pricey at a bit over $4 per slice though.
Leonard - 10 months ago
Cilantro NYC Overall Rating 4.3 out of 5![Cilantro NYC Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.3_stars.png)
Overview: This lively Southwestern cafe dishes generous portions of grub & pairs them with large margaritas.
Dining Options: Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Address: 485 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 712-9090
Official Website: Cilantro NYC
Reviews
They have a good menu if you come for brunch. Among our orders were eggs a la rachera, eggs benedict which was delicious and some nachos. The prices are affordable, they had good music, the food arrived on time and the service was good.
I loved that they have envelopes with wipes on the table so you can clean your hands, I thought it was quite original. The decoration of the restaurant made me feel comfortable.
RunaCat Review - 2 months ago
Stopped by Cilantro NYC for some after dinner drinks, chips & salsa, and some takeout for our son. The decor here is really unique and cool. The service at the bar was great, and my son LOVED his takeout chicken quesadillas! We will definitely return for a full sit-down meal when mexican cuisine calls the next time.
A R - a month ago
The taco here are so small and mine were barely warm. (see pics of taco compared to my hand). Every time I come here they bring complimentary chips and salsa, which is great, but the chips are usually stale and almost colder than room temperature. (Did they take these out of the fridge?) I tried the steak fajitas, but the steak had no flavor. I also had the tostadios, which were also not warm. I’m noticing a patten here - they can’t seem to warm things up. There are better options in the area that are tastier and warmer. And, looking closer at the bill, they sneak in an unmarked credit card surcharge, which I think is slimy. I do think the restaurant had a nice ambiance and I like the chocolate lava cake.
Shawn C. - 4 months ago
I enjoyed the Aztec nachos ($15 plus tax) and the garlic sautéed shrimp ($28). The accompanying French string beans were done exceptionally well. If anything, I wish the heat was upped a bit, as even the salsa was too mild. The menu is abbreviated compared to many traditional Mexican restaurants, but I think it works out better this way since diners avoid overchoice and Cilantro can concentrate on quality.
Augusto Paulino - 3 months ago
Stopped in here for a late night dinner. It was nice evening so we sat outside. Margaritas were very good and we shared an order of Shrimp fajitas. It was a nice presentation served with a choice of Flour or Whole Wheat tortillas, Sauteed Onions & Peppers, Pico de Gallo, Sour Cream & Guacamole. Guac was fresh and homemade. Great dinner!
A.L. Harris - 4 months ago
Starbucks Overall Rating 3.9 out of 5![Starbucks Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_3.9_stars.png)
Overview: Seattle-based coffeehouse chain known for its signature roasts, light bites and WiFi availability.
Dining Options: Breakfast | Lunch | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: 444 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 769-2296
Official Website: Starbucks
Reviews
This location of Starbucks is really nice - I stopped by this weekend while on Columbus Avenue to do some shopping on the Upper West Side, and I had a good experience!! The store is very clean + well-kept, and the staff were kind when I visited. My coffee was made exactly as I ordered it, and the bakery item I purchased was heated accordingly. On another note, this Starbucks is conveniently located by The Strand's Upper West Side location, which is a perk!!
Kristen L. Matulis - 3 months ago
Pumpkin spice latte grande. Clean, friendly, not many seats not busy in the morning so receiving my drink was quick. Definitely recommend this location for all Starbucks coffee drinkers
Cliff Evan Katz - 3 months ago
Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side Overall Rating 4.4 out of 5![Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side Star Rating](//cdn.tourbytransit.com/images/icons/5_Star_Rating_System_4.4_stars.png)
Overview: Espresso drinks & wines by the glass go with Italian small plates & baked goods at this urbane cafe.
Dining Options: Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner | Vegetarian | Beer | Wine | Takeout
Price Level: $$$$
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: 475 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 362-5454
Official Website: Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side
Reviews
Had made reservations for NYE which had a Prix Fixe menu with a decent split of vegetarian and meat selection across three courses. We went for the early seating and it was relatively quiet on a rainy last day of the year.
Alex, our server, was friendly and was kind enough to offer us a glass of wine on the house, after he felt bad having charged full price for our little one on the Prix Fixe menu.
Food overall was pretty decent. There was a Pappardelle pasta for our little one, and a few great options for meat lovers, including a Rib-eye steak which unfortunately lacked flavor, in spite of adding their rather heavy garlic and heavy cream sauce. The lobster tail was thoroughly enjoyed by the seafood lover on our table, and was enough to knock a person out on the table next to us, who possibly had a shell fish allergy. We were glad to see the person doing fine though, towards the end of the meal. Definitely not a nice way to end the year!
Noise levels were on the average end throughout our time there, and their menu and service were pretty good, definitely on the expensive end though. Will definitely visit again sometime in the near future!
Ameya Bhakay - a month ago
Tarallucci e Vino on the Upper West Side is a fantastic choice for a savory breakfast, offering both good food and an excellent dining experience. The cozy, inviting ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed morning meal, and the Farro e Quinoa is a standout dish—surprisingly good with its nutty farro and chewy quinoa, offering a satisfying. I opt for over easy eggs on top. Beyond that, the restaurant's Italian-inspired menu likely includes other options like avocado toast, quiche, French toast, and pastries. If you enjoy a tranquil, casual setting with good food, Tarallucci e Vino is an ideal choice for a breakfast on the Upper West Side. Whether you're a regular or a first-time guest, you can expect warm, accommodating service that enhances the overall dining experience.
s a - a month ago
A great surprise, it's one of those places where it's so pleasant that time seems to stand still. Perfect coffee, cappuccino and avocado toast. Friendly service, cozy and lovely.
Mauricio - 7 months ago
Who sales a steak an no baked potato or sweet potatoes. A really no mash till 5 pm this is Texas for the price it better be good….
Donald Prater (Donnie) - in the last week
Had a great dinner here tonight. Was able to get a nice table outside and do some great UWS people watching while enjoying a good bottle of Cab. Service was excellent from the hostess, the nice woman behind the bar, and Dillan our server, all making the evening so enjoyable. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly. Great night, Great atmosphere, great food.
A.L. Harris - 7 months ago