K
yle Hotchkiss Carone, restaurateur of American Bar, is expanding to the Upper East Side after five years in the West Village. The new location will offer a similar menu to its downtown counterpart and seat almost 100 diners. This move marks a shift for the area, which was once quiet and separate from downtown's pulse.
The Upper East Side has undergone significant changes in recent years, with luxury residential developments, exclusive restaurants, trendy art galleries, and more popping up along its streets. Residents no longer need to venture downtown for a "cool fix," as it's now available at their doorstep.
David Gromet, vice president of marketing at Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group, notes that the neighborhood's restaurant scene exploded in recent years, bringing with it a renewed demand for living in the area. According to Robin Schneiderman, managing director of Brown Harris Stevens Development Marketing, the Upper East Side new development market eclipsed $1 billion in sales volume last year.
The area is attracting young professionals and families who want to be at the center of the action. Lawyer Kimberly Cozza closed on a three-bedroom home at the Matteo, citing the neighborhood's blend of history and modernity as a major draw. Elyse Leff, vice president of marketing and sales for Elad Group, saw an opportunity to bring a more contemporary offering to the area with The 74.
The Surrey hotel has undergone a renovation, adding 100 luxe guest rooms and suites, including 14 private homes. Pradeep Raman, managing director of the Surrey, notes that the building's history and legacy have inspired its new energy. Residents have access to hotel services, including the spa and fitness center, as well as an exclusive membership to Casa Tua club.
Restaurateurs David and Joshua Foulquier have opened Chez Fifi, a French restaurant with Basque accents, in memory of their mother. The brothers aim to cater to high-net-worth individuals who want to dine well where they live. Robin Birley, the London club king, has also set his sights on the Upper East Side.
The neighborhood is also experiencing an art renaissance, with smaller galleries moving north and world-class museums like the Met and Guggenheim remaining a staple. Marcelo Zimmler, founder of Upsilon Gallery, notes that the Upper East Side is a collector's neighborhood, attracting both long-time residents and younger buyers.
For those on the house hunt, several new developments are now selling in the area, including The Matteo, 133 E. 73rd St., 200 E. 75th St., 255 E. 77th St., The Treadwell, and The 74. Prices start from $2.49 million for a three-bedroom at The Matteo to $12.8 million for a glam five-bedroom spread at 133 E. 73rd St.
