ZipPicks Awards
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Upper West Side
Best American in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
The Heights Bar & Grill
8.0
A long-running neighborhood bar-and-grill that leans Tex-Mex in the food, but the real value is the hang: big energy, frozen drinks, and a reliable “meet friends here” rhythm. It’s at its best when you keep it bar-forward—one shareable plus one main—and let the margarita do the heavy lifting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Heights wings, Chopped taco salad, Frozen margarita
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A Broadway staple for big hangs, drinks, and dependable bar-and-grill comfort.
Who should go: Happy-hour groups and casual meetups
When to visit: Weekday happy hour or weekend afternoon
What to order: Wings, taco salad, a frozen margarita
Insider tip: Order one shareable first—then decide if you actually need mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 6pm. Public transit is easier (Broadway corridor buses and nearby subway stops).
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual. Jeans, sneakers, and going-out tops all fit the room.
Noise level: Lively to loud during peak hours—conversation is possible early, but expect raised voices during happy hour and weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; happy hour fills faster than food service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – salads, veggie tacos, sides, and customizable Tex-Mex options.
Vegan options: Limited – possible with modifications (skip cheese/sauces, lean on sides and salads).
Gluten-free options: Limited – some grilled proteins and salads work, but cross-contact is likely.
Best For
Better for: Big-group hangs, happy hour energy, frozen drinks, and casual meetups where the vibe matters more than culinary precision.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, a food-first experience, or strong dietary accommodations—there are calmer, more polished options nearby.