Ella Social

- 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023

Tucked away on bustling Columbus Avenue on the Upper West Side, Ella Social is a vibrant and inviting restaurant that brings the warmth of Mediterranean and Spanish dining to New York City. This is a place where small plates are meant for sharing and conversation flows as freely as the excellent wine. With its casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, Ella Social provides a perfect backdrop for a range of occasions, from a lively weekend brunch to a relaxing evening of tapas and cocktails. The restaurant is a women-owned business, which adds to its unique character and welcoming vibe, and it prides itself on creating a space that is inclusive and friendly to all, including the LGBTQ+ community.

The culinary philosophy at Ella Social is all about celebrating fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu is a delightful collection of tapas and larger plates, designed for a social dining experience. The kitchen expertly crafts dishes that are both comforting and exciting, from classic Spanish favorites like "Boquerones" and "Empanadas Argentinas" to more modern creations like "Smoky Sprouts." The brunch menu, in particular, has earned a loyal following, with unique and delicious offerings like the "Shakshuka Andaluz" and the "Norwegians" (eggs benedict with smoked salmon). The restaurant's commitment to quality extends to its beverage program, which features a great wine list and creative cocktails that are as much a highlight as the food.

Ella Social's energetic and relaxed vibe is a major part of its appeal. The space, while sometimes described as a little loud and cramped during peak hours, is always lively. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, contributing to a truly enjoyable dining experience. It's a place where locals feel at home and tourists feel like they've stumbled upon a genuine neighborhood gem. This balance of a lively atmosphere with a professional, caring staff and high-quality food makes Ella Social a standout on the Upper West Side.

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Ella Social is conveniently located at 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. Its prime position on Columbus Avenue, between 71st and 72nd Streets, places it in the heart of the Upper West Side, one of Manhattan's most desirable and vibrant neighborhoods. The restaurant is a stone's throw away from Central Park, as well as a variety of cultural institutions and shops, making it an excellent stop before or after a day of exploring. Its central location makes it easily accessible for a wide audience, from local residents to tourists.

For those using public transportation, the restaurant is a short and easy walk from several subway stations that serve major lines, providing a convenient way to get there from other parts of the city. While street parking is available, it is often a paid option and can be challenging to find in this bustling area. However, there are paid parking lots nearby for those who choose to drive. The restaurant also has wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating, ensuring that all guests can dine in comfort. With its sidewalk seating, Ella Social also offers a great spot for people-watching on a pleasant day.

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Ella Social provides a comprehensive range of services to accommodate its guests, from a quick meal to a full dining experience. Their service model is built around flexibility and hospitality.

• Dine-in: The restaurant offers a comfortable and stylish setting for dining in, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Takeout: For those on the go, takeout is a convenient option, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tapas and dishes at home.
• Delivery: The restaurant provides both standard and no-contact delivery services, making it easy to enjoy Ella Social's food without leaving your home.
• Curbside Pickup: A convenient service for those who want to quickly grab their order without having to enter the restaurant.
• Reservations: Ella Social accepts reservations for lunch, brunch, and dinner, which are highly recommended, especially during popular times, to secure a table.
• Catering: For parties and events, the restaurant offers catering, allowing you to share its unique flavors with a larger group.

These services highlight the restaurant's commitment to being accessible and convenient for a variety of customers. Whether you're planning a special meal or just looking for a quick bite, Ella Social is equipped to meet your needs.

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Ella Social's appeal lies in its key features and highlights that create a truly social and enjoyable dining experience. These elements combine to make it a go-to spot on the Upper West Side.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The restaurant is known for its creative and delicious cocktails, as well as an impressive list of natural wines, perfect for pairing with small plates.
• Authentic Tapas: The menu offers a wide variety of Spanish- and Mediterranean-inspired small plates, providing a great way to sample different flavors and share with a group.
• Standout Brunch: The brunch menu is a major highlight, with unique and flavorful dishes like "Shakshuka Andaluz" and "Norwegians" that go beyond typical brunch fare.
• Casual and Trendy Vibe: The atmosphere is a perfect blend of casual comfort and trendy style, making it a comfortable place for a variety of crowds, including groups, locals, and tourists.
• Inclusive Environment: The restaurant identifies as a women-owned business and is noted for being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender-safe space, which adds to its welcoming nature.
• Happy Hour Specials: Ella Social offers happy hour drinks and food, making it an excellent and affordable option for a post-work gathering.
• Fast Service: Customers often note the fast and friendly service, which ensures a smooth dining experience even during busy hours.

These features, from the quality of the drinks to the inclusive atmosphere and unique menu, demonstrate that Ella Social is a place that values a social and high-quality dining experience. It's a true hub for community and great food on the Upper West Side.

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When choosing to dine at Ella Social, what is most worth selecting is to embrace the tapas concept and order a variety of small plates to share. Dishes like the "PULPO A LA GALLEGA," "SHRIMP AJILLO," and the "CROQUETTES" are all excellent choices that capture the essence of Spanish cuisine. For a weekend brunch, the "Shakshuka Andaluz" is a must-try for its depth of flavor and comforting qualities. The cocktails, like the "Elena" and "Gabriela," are also worth trying, as they are a significant highlight of the restaurant. The prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, particularly during happy hour.

Ultimately, what is worth choosing about Ella Social is the lively, communal experience. It’s a perfect spot for a casual date, a group dinner, or even a solo meal at the bar. The combination of delicious food, a great drink menu, and a vibrant atmosphere makes it a great choice for a truly social and satisfying meal on the Upper West Side. It's the kind of place you'll return to again and again.

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Ella Social
Address: 249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA
Phone: (212) 579-9929

Ella Social

249 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA