Ella Social

- 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023

In the bustling landscape of New York City's Upper West Side, where every block seems to offer a new culinary adventure, Ella Social stands out as a charming and inviting destination. This women-owned restaurant and cocktail bar at 249 Columbus Ave brings a warm, Mediterranean-inspired vibe to the neighborhood. Ella Social is more than just a place to eat; it's a social hub designed for friends to gather, share small plates, and enjoy a perfectly crafted drink in a lively yet cozy atmosphere. It is the ideal spot for a post-work happy hour, a celebratory dinner, or a memorable weekend brunch.

The essence of Ella Social lies in its focus on shared experiences. The menu of small plates, inspired by Spanish tapas and modern American cuisine, encourages conversation and exploration. The ambiance is both casual and trendy, striking a perfect balance that appeals to a diverse crowd, from locals to tourists. With a commitment to friendly service and an inclusive environment, it has quickly become a beloved spot for those who value good food, great drinks, and a welcoming community feel.

Ella Social is located at 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. Its prime location in the Upper West Side places it at the center of one of Manhattan’s most sought-after neighborhoods. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation and is just a stone's throw away from Central Park. This makes it a convenient choice for a meal after a stroll or a visit to the American Museum of Natural History. For those driving, the area offers paid parking lots and paid street parking options nearby.

The restaurant is designed to be accessible and accommodating. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can comfortably enjoy their dining experience. The availability of outdoor seating provides an additional option for patrons who prefer to dine in the open air, a desirable feature in New York City.

Ella Social offers a dynamic and versatile menu, making it a great choice for any meal of the day, from a casual lunch to a full-blown dinner gathering.

• Diverse Small Plates and Tapas: The menu is centered around small plates, making it perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of dishes. Highlights from the dinner menu include popular items like Padrones (blistered peppers), Bravas (crispy potatoes), and Shrimp Ajillo. For those seeking heartier fare, there are also full-sized options like the Agave Glazed Salmon and the Skirt Steak.

• Brunch and Lunch Specials: The restaurant is particularly popular for its weekend brunch, which features delicious options like Eggs Your Way, Shakshuka Andaluz, and Buttermilk Pancakes. The weekday lunch specials, available until 4:00 pm, offer a selection of favorite dishes at a set price, providing a quick and affordable meal for those working or visiting the area.

• Exceptional Bar Program: Ella Social is a standout cocktail bar with a fantastic selection of drinks. The bar menu features creative cocktails like the Elena and Salome, a great wine list, and a variety of beers and hard liquors. The "Zero-Proof" cocktail options are a thoughtful touch for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. The "Happy Hour" food and drink specials are a major draw, making it a lively spot in the evenings.

• Takeout and Delivery: In addition to its dine-in service, Ella Social provides convenient options for takeout, delivery, and even curbside pickup and no-contact delivery, ensuring you can enjoy their food and cocktails from the comfort of your home.

Ella Social has a number of key features that contribute to its popularity and unique appeal in the New York City dining scene.

• Women-Owned Business: The restaurant identifies as a women-owned business, a notable feature that resonates with many patrons who wish to support diverse local businesses.

• Lively and Cozy Atmosphere: The vibe is consistently described as casual, cozy, and trendy. The restaurant's design and layout create an intimate yet lively space, which can get a bit loud during busy periods, but adds to the bustling, social energy. It's a fantastic spot for groups to share a meal and catch up.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The bar program is a significant highlight, with patrons praising the delicious cocktails and a great wine list. The selection of natural wines and a variety of hard liquors ensure there's a perfect drink for everyone.

• Inclusivity and Community Focus: Ella Social is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment for all. This focus on community and acceptance is a major draw for both locals and tourists.

• Fast and Friendly Service: The service is consistently rated as being fast and friendly. Servers are often praised for being attentive, helpful, and personable, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Address: 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (212) 579-9929

For New Yorkers seeking a vibrant and flavorful dining experience on the Upper West Side, Ella Social is a premier choice. What makes this restaurant particularly worth choosing is its successful blend of a lively social atmosphere with a high-quality, diverse menu. The concept of small plates and tapas is perfect for groups who want to try a little bit of everything, making dinner an interactive and exciting affair. The food is consistently praised for being delicious and well-prepared, from the perfectly cooked eggs for brunch to the flavorful shakshuka and flavorful small plates.

Beyond the food, the bar program is a significant draw, offering expertly crafted cocktails and a thoughtful wine list that elevate the entire experience. The friendly and efficient service, noted in numerous reviews, ensures that your visit will be smooth and enjoyable. The restaurant's commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all, combined with its popularity among locals and tourists, solidifies its status as a neighborhood gem. Whether you're in the mood for a casual weekend brunch, a delicious burger, or a fun dinner with friends, Ella Social provides a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable experience that is well worth seeking out on Columbus Avenue.

Ella Social

249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA