Unlike some areas of New York City, the Upper West Side isn’t usually thought of as a shopping destination. But this picturesque uptown neighborhood offers a parade of indie boutiques and unique specialty stores. Despite the ongoing invasion of chains and big-box retailers, these Upper West Side shops continue to thrive.
Shop Broadway on the Upper West Side. Photo: Tracy Kaler
Browse an array of stores on Columbus Avenue, Amsterdam Avenue, and Broadway – particularly in the West 70s and 80s – for everything from smoked fish to best-selling books and fashionable menswear.
Magpie
Browse handmade, eco-friendly gifts such as jewelry, stationery, and home decor items as well as NYC-centric pieces ideal for souvenirs in this charming neighborhood shop. Some of Magpie’s treasures are crafted from recycled, sustainable materials while others are designed or made by local artisans. Opened in 2012, Magpie is a welcome addition to the Upper West Side retail scene, and a must-visit for stylish, eco-conscious shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a kind gifts.
488 Amsterdam Ave
Murray’s Sturgeon Shop
Murray’s Sturgeon sells some of the freshest smoked fish in town. Photo: Tracy Kaler
For some of the tastiest smoked salmon, sturgeon, and caviar in all of Manhattan, head to this highly rated shoebox of a shop. Beyond typical lox and bagels, Murray’s sells Jewish fare including potato latkes, matzo ball soup, and whitefish salad. In business since 1945, this hole-in-the-wall deli keeps a cult following and remains a slice of old New York on an ever-evolving stretch of Broadway.
2429 Broadway
Harry’s Shoes
Upscale comfort and top-notch quality are what you’ll find at this footwear mainstay in the heart of the Upper West Side. Harry’s diverse collection of American and European brands includes Ecco, Bruno Magli, Ugg, Aquatalia, and Skechers, to name a few. Buying a single pair is practically impossible in this stockpile of shoes that caters to both men and women. To shop children’s footwear, head up the block to the sister location at 2351 Broadway.
2299 Broadway
Book Culture on Columbus
Browse academic books, best sellers and the latest titles at Book Culture. Photo: Isaac M. via Yelp.
Shop academic books, bestsellers, and bargains as the Columbus Avenue branch of this top New York bookseller. Besides a wealth of books on the shelves, the shop features subscriptions in which a new book is wrapped and sent monthly, conveniently bringing the bookstore to its customers. Choose from categories such as Poetry, Picture Books, Around the World, and New and Noteworthy Nonfiction. Also, Book Culture hosts special events including book clubs, and the shop buys used books in exchange for store credit. As one of the city’s premier bookshops for arts and humanities titles, Book Culture gently reminds us that New York is indeed the literary capital of the world.
450 Columbus Ave
Laytner’s Linen
For sheets, Turkish towels, home furnishings, gifts, and accessories, look no further than this linen meets housewares emporium on the East Side of Broadway. In business since the 1960s, Laytner’s is one of the oldest surviving shops in the neighborhood and is still family owned and operated. The store strives to bring affordable home goods to the Upper West Side, and is an excellent option for bedding and beyond.
2270 Broadway
Frank Stella Clothiers
The brainchild of husband and wife, Frank and Stella, this shop has been a go-to resource for sophisticated menswear since 1976. Featuring slim, tailored, and classic cuts, Frank Stella’s collection is made from some of the most exquisite textiles in the world. Besides selling great-looking suits, blazers, pants, and shirts, this shop is well-known for its in-house tailors, ensuring that every purchase comes with a flawless fit.
440 Columbus Ave
Macaron Parlor
For a sinful break from shopping, pop into this French patisserie that purveys both sweet and savory macarons as well as croissants, muffins, cookies, and scones, among other delicious pastries. In 2014, Christina Ha and Simon Tung combined their passion, creativity, and love of baking to create Macaron Parlor’s second outpost (the first opened on the Lower East Side), and they haven’t looked back since. In this Upper West Side bakery, you’ll have traditional macaron options to choose from as well as more robust versions like brown sugar or candied maple and bacon. Bliss!
560 Columbus Avenue