by Jennifer Creel
The exclusive uptown neighborhood is the perfect place to shop, dine, enjoy Central Park and some pampering. For many, it’s a forever classic that’s always full of life’s quiet pleasures.
The Upper East Side of Manhattan is very much my home. I was born and raised in this neighborhood and can’t imagine myself living anywhere else. While I adore traveling and never let my luggage rest for too long, coming home to the UES is always a relief.
Most mornings start the same way—a cappuccino at Sant Ambroeus on Madison Avenue. It’s simple, consistent, and always good. I’ll answer a few messages, say hello to familiar faces, and map out the day.
If it’s sunny, I take my dog, Pepper, for a long walk in Central Park. It’s the best part of living uptown—open space, nature right around the corner, and the feeling that the city slows down for a minute. Some days I’ll head to the gym instead, but the park usually wins.
Late morning is for a little culture. I love The Frick; it’s elegant and calm, and I always leave inspired. A stop at the Gagosian gallery nearby adds a nice mix of contemporary art.
Sometimes I’ll meet a client to discuss a custom jewelry piece. It’s one of my favorite parts of the job—creating something meaningful and wearable. Lunch at Fleming by Le Bilboquet or The Carlyle is always pleasant. After lunch, I might do a little shopping or browsing at Hermès, Bergdorf Goodman, or Saks Fifth Avenue. As the holidays approach, I always stop to see the windows at Saks. It’s a small tradition that never gets old.
The Upper East Side is perfect for shop-hopping; everything is close and beautifully kept. Ulla Johnson, TOTEME, and Thom Browne are some of my favorites. Afternoons are for errands and self-care. A facial at Vicki Morav is the ultimate refresh. Zitomer Pharmacy is where I pick up soaps, creams, and vitamins. Diptyque for candles, Butterfield Market or Citarella for fruits and veggies. Birley Bakery is my favorite for the most delicious chocolates or a light lunch upstairs. I’ll often stop at Eros Flowers for fresh-cut blooms; they always have something seasonal and simple. Then it’s teatime at Ladurée, and I may pop into Ralph’s for a bag of ground coffee to take home.
Dinner depends on the night: La Bilboquet if I’m meeting friends; Chez Fifi or Sette Mezzo for something quieter; Café Commerce for an easy meal; or a burger at JG Melon is the ultimate comfort food.
After dinner, I like to wind down. I’ll read, catch up on a show, or ask friends what’s new on Netflix. There’s usually a box of Birley chocolates nearby, and Pepper is never far from my side.
The Upper East Side will always be my favorite—classic, convenient, and full of small comforts. Every street has a favorite spot, and every day brings something familiar to enjoy.
