Green Kitchen UES - 1619 2nd Ave
GREEN KITCHEN💚🥞🍳
Spotted:
two lovebirds cozying up at Green Kitchen on the Upper East Side, tucking into a quiet corner for an intimate afternoon. A smoky mango cocktail for him, an espresso martini for her — cocktails at lunch? So scandalous!
As for the food? It is as timeless as the spot itself. Everything you’d ant for a cozy diner date. Skirt steak and eggs for him, Nutella pancakes stacked high with strawberries and bananas for sharing, and a classic chicken souvlaki with fries for her. Because, let's be honest, no diner date is truly complete without it.
Word on the street? The pancakes weren’t the only thing bringing the sweetness. Green Kitchen has been a neighborhood staple for decades, serving up the Upper East Side, and this charming lunch date seemed to be serving more than just delicious food. Careful, darlings — every bite comes with a live it, love it, learn it experience.
xoxo
Green Kitchen Upper East Side - 84th Street
GREEN KITCHEN
💚🥞🍳
GREEN KITCHEN 💚🥞🍳
HERE IS THE SCOOP:
Green Kitchen has been a beloved fixture in Manhattan's Upper East Side since 1931, originally located at First Avenue and 77th Street. For more than nine decades, it served as a cornerstone of the community, known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic diner fare. After 91 years, the original location closed in August 2022.
However, the legacy lives on at their TWO new locations - on 2nd Avenue and 70th Street, which opened in May 2023 and another location on 84th street - which I had the pleasure of visiting!
SINCE 1931
During our recent visit to Green Kitchen, we were instantly embraced by the same warm ambiance and commitment to quality that has made this spot a neighborhood favorite for years. The cozy lighting, friendly chatter, and familiar scent of freshly prepared dishes created an atmosphere that felt like stepping into a modern time capsule, blending nostalgia with a fresh touch. The menu offered an impressive selection, making it difficult to choose, but ultimately, we decided to indulge in a delightful mix of both savory and sweet dishes that perfectly captured the essence of comfort dining.
GREEN KITCHEN UES - Midday 1:14PM the day after Christmas 2024
We started with the Skirt Steak & Eggs, a beautifully presented plate (on a wooden chopping block) with the steak cooked to a perfect medium, tender and juicy with just the right amount of sear on the outside. The eggs, prepared over hard, had a satisfying firmness while still retaining flavor. Served alongside golden, crispy home fries and buttered toast that added a comforting crunch, the entire dish was both hearty and satisfying, making for a classic yet elevated diner experience. Priced at $29.00, it felt well worth the indulgence.
Skirt Steak - medium
Up next, my go-to favorite! I ordered the Classic Chicken Souvlaki, a plate that felt as familiar as an old favorite. The grilled chicken was tender, yet not overly cooked with just the right amount of char to give it a smoky edge, while the extra helping of tzatziki sauce ( thank ya chef!)—just elevated the dish completely. Salad + pita of course and fries, fried to golden perfection! Each bite felt like my grandma was right next to me! Like the kind of meal you crave when you're looking for simple, honest comfort. Priced at $19.00.
& of course we couldn’t resist the Nutella Pancakes—an irresistible stack topped with fresh banana slices and juicy strawberries. The drizzle of Nutella hazelnut spread melted perfectly into the warm, fluffy pancakes, while a cloud of whipped cream added the perfect finishing touch. To be honest, it was so good, we did not even drizzle syrup, we went right in just as is! Every bite was rich yet light, (not doughy at all!) I have a thing for pancakes and these are definitely on my top list! Priced at $20.00, it was the perfect dish to linger over.
DRINK. DRANK DR…
The Espresso Martini was bold and bitter, crafted with freshly brewed espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and garnished with coffee beans. It delivered a rich caffeine kick, more on the dark side and cost $16.00.
We also tried the Smokey Mango, a unique cocktail blending mezcal, mango puree, lime juice, and a touch of chili for a subtle heat. The smoky mezcal balanced beautifully with the sweetness of the mango, making it both refreshing and complex, priced at $16.00. The dried fruit and chili on the side of the glass as decor was just a true sight for sore eyes, gorgeous!
Our experience at Green Kitchen was nothing short of delightful, reaffirming its status as a neighborhood staple. The combination of rich history, a welcoming environment, kind staff and a diverse, satisfying menu makes it a must-visit for both longtime patrons and new visitors alike. Thank you so much TO EVERYONE on the team at Green Kitchen NYC! We had a great dining experience!
LUNCH @ 12:30PM booked via RESY
How can you get there?
Q Line: The 86th Street station on the Q line is just a short walk away, providing easy access along 2nd Avenue.
4, 5, 6 Lines: The 86th Street station on the 4, 5, and 6 lines is also nearby, located on Lexington Avenue and East 86th Street.
LIVE IT, LOVE IT & ALWAYS, LEARN FROM IT!
Quick Take:
Ambiance: Cozy, classic diner feel. Beautiful Interior with comfy booth seating & tables + a full bar!
Food: Comfort food with generous portions.
Service: Friendly and efficient.
Must-Try: Pancakes, Smokey Mango.
Overall: Great spot for casual dining with NYC charm & unique classics.
XO,
KRYSTLE CLEAR 🔮🫧✨
Let’s eat! Follow me on IG for more @its.krystleclear
