TESSA Introduce
Located in the bustling heart of the Upper West Side, TESSA is more than just a bar; it’s a sophisticated and inviting destination for a memorable night out in New York City. With its chic and warm ambiance, TESSA strikes a perfect balance between a lively neighborhood spot and an upscale dining experience. The atmosphere is casual yet trendy, and even romantic, making it a versatile choice whether you’re planning a date night, a dinner with friends, or a relaxing solo meal.
TESSA has earned a reputation for its expertly crafted cocktails, extensive wine list, and a menu that features a compelling mix of modern American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The culinary team puts great thought into every plate, ensuring that each dish is not only delicious but also beautifully presented. From small plates perfect for sharing to hearty entrees, the food here is as impressive as the drinks. The service is attentive and friendly, contributing to a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all who visit. TESSA truly embodies the spirit of a great New York City establishment, blending high-quality offerings with a comfortable and stylish setting.
TESSA is conveniently situated at 349 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA. Its prime Upper West Side location makes it easily accessible for anyone in the Manhattan area, whether you're a local or a tourist exploring the city.
The bar is well-connected by public transportation, with numerous subway and bus routes a short walk away. For those who prefer to drive, there is paid street parking available nearby. TESSA is also dedicated to being accessible to all guests, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. Additionally, they offer a pleasant outdoor seating area, which is perfect for enjoying a drink or a meal during warmer months while soaking in the energy of the neighborhood. The combination of its central location and commitment to accessibility makes TESSA a convenient and welcoming spot for everyone.
TESSA offers a variety of services designed to provide a top-tier dining and drinking experience.
- Dining Options: The establishment is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, with full table service available. Whether you're in the mood for a late-night bite or a mid-day meal, TESSA has you covered.
- Reservation and Planning: TESSA accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for dinner and brunch, especially on weekends, to ensure you secure a spot. The ability to plan ahead is a great feature for those looking to avoid a wait.
- Takeout: For guests who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, TESSA offers convenient takeout service, allowing you to savor their delicious food wherever you are.
- Beverage Service: As a bar, TESSA excels in its beverage program. They offer a great beer selection, a remarkable wine list, and expertly mixed cocktails. You can also find hard liquor, along with a wonderful selection of coffee and tea. They even have happy hour drinks available for those looking for a great deal.
- Dietary Accommodations: The menu includes a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs, including vegetarian options and a range of healthy options, ensuring there is something for everyone.
TESSA stands out from other bars and restaurants in the city due to its unique blend of features and high-quality offerings.
- Exceptional Beverage Program: The bar's reputation for its great cocktails, great wine list, and great beer selection is a major highlight. They also serve a fantastic selection of coffee and tea, showcasing their commitment to quality across all their beverage offerings.
- Delicious and Diverse Menu: The menu is a key feature, with a range of dishes from small plates to full entrees. Highlights include the Wagyu Burger and the popular Cacio e Pepe, which has been described as having a super rich flavor and excellent presentation. The menu also features delicious healthy options and comfort food like the Crispy Chicken Sliders.
- Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw. It’s described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, providing a comfortable yet sophisticated setting. The space is a little on the darker side, which enhances its intimate and romantic feel.
- Attentive and Thoughtful Service: Customers praise the service for being attentive and the pacing between courses as "just right." The staff are known for their friendliness and professionalism, which contributes to a great overall experience.
- Quality Desserts: The dessert menu is a standout, with a great selection of treats. The Baked Alaska is a popular choice and has received rave reviews from customers.
- Clean and Well-Maintained: The restrooms are clean and well-kept, which is always a sign of a well-managed establishment. With multiple restrooms available, it's convenient for all guests.
For reservations or inquiries, you can reach TESSA at:
Address: 349 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 390-1974
When you visit TESSA, you’ll find that a lot of thought has gone into creating a menu that is both exciting and comforting. For a first-time visitor, exploring some of the most popular items is a great way to start. The Cacio e Pepe is a must-try, known for its rich flavor and unique presentation with a light foam. The Wagyu Burger is another excellent choice for those craving a classic with a gourmet twist. The Blackened Salmon and Seared Scallops are also great picks for a delicious and well-prepared entree.
Don't overlook the appetizers and small plates. The Octopus appetizer is a fan favorite, praised for being exceptionally well-cooked and flavorful. The Cauliflower Fritto and TESSA Meatballs are also perfect for starting your meal. For sides, the Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Rosemary Fries are highly recommended.
The dessert menu at TESSA is not to be missed. The Baked Alaska is a delicious and highly-praised option, and the Doughnuts are another popular choice. And of course, no visit to TESSA is complete without trying one of their signature cocktails or a glass from their fantastic wine list. The bar has something to satisfy every palate, from classic drinks to creative concoctions. TESSA provides a full experience, where every item on the menu, from the food to the drinks, is crafted with care and a clear commitment to quality.
TESSA Menu
SMALL PLATES
- CAULIFLOWER FRITTO $16.00
basil jalapeno aioli |
- HOUSE DIPS $17.00
garlic hummus, whipped ricotta, spinach-artichoke, crudite
- CRIPSY CHICKEN SLIDERS $16.00
spicy honey mustard, pickles, cabbages, carrot
- TESSA MEATBALLS $18.00
blend of lamb, pork & beef, pomodoro, arugula, Parmigiano crisp
- TAPAS BOARD
a selection of four, six, or eight served with crackers
APPETIZERS
- GIGANTE BEAN SOUP $14.00
andouille sausage, baby kale, parmigiano
- TUNA TARTARE $22.00
avocado, mango, scallions, ginger-sesame dressing, wonton chips
- BURRATA $20.00
cherry tomato, prosciutto, arugula, balsamic vinegar, crostini
- OCTOPUS $25.00
fingerling potato, smoked paprika, garlic, olives, red watercress
- GREEN P.E.I. MUSSELS $21.00
cilantro, tomato, garlic, coconut milk, white wine, crostini
SALADS
- BABY KALE SALAD $18.00
maple bacon, figs, squash, pumpkin seeds, blue chesse dressing
- PEAR SALAD $17.00
arugula, pomegranate, walnuts, feta cheese, lemon vinaigrette
- BEET SALAD $17.00
goat cheese & feta whip, hazelnuts, blood orange, citrus-thyme dressing
- TESSA SALAD $18.00
cucumber, tomato, dried cherries, sunflower seeds, crispy chickpeas, olives
- CAESAR SALAD $17.00
baby romaine, parmigiano, seeded rye croutons, pickled red onion
HOUSE MADE PASTA + RISOTTO
- CACIO E PEPE
linguine, pecorino, black pepper, basil crunch, parmigiano foam
- RIGATONI
eggplant marinara, herbs, buffalo mozzarella
- SHRIMP SCAMPI
spaghetti, shrimp, garlic, cherry tomato, white wine, parsley
- FETTUCCINE BOLOGNESE
lamb bolognese, whipped ricotta
- ARTICHOKE RISOTTO
marscapone, green peas, lemon, parmiango, basil |
- CAVATELLI
mushrooms, pancetta, cream, truffles, chives
- LOBSTER DIABLO
caserecci pasta, spicy lobster-tomato sauce, cherry tomato, lobster
ENTREES
- CHICKEN PAELLA $34.00
chorizo, mussels, tomato, bell peppers, olives, saffron
- DUCK BREAST $36.00
parsnips puree, cippolini onions, cherries, port reduction
- BLACKENED SALMON $35.00
coconut lentil wild rice, mushrooms, currant-olive chutney
- SEARED SCALLOPS $39.00
asparagus, potato, cherry tomato, orange beurre blanc
- PORK MILANESE $38.00
apple honey mustard, wilted bitter greens, agrodolce
- BRAISED LAMB SHANK $45.00
white cheddar polenta, broccolini, baby carrots
GRILL
- WAGYU BURGER $25.00
8oz burger, caramelized onion, apple wood bacon, fontina, hand cut fries
- GRILLED BRANZINO $33.00
broccoli rabe, fingerling potato, fennel, roasted pepper coulis
- HANGER STEAK FRITES $35.00
tomato chimichurri, crispy shallot, hand cut fries
- NEW YORK STRIP STEAK $55.00
truffle mashed potatoes, peppercorn cream sauce
SIDES
- Grilled Asparagus $10.00
lemon wheels
- Broccoli Rabe $10.00
garlic, chilli flakes
- Crispy Brussel Sprouts $11.00
bacon, apple, Parmigiano horseradish cream
- White Cheddar Polenta $10.00
- Rosemary Fries $11.00
- Parmigiano Truffle Fries $12.00
- Truffle Mashed Potatoes $12.00
DESSERTS
- BOURBON APPLE CRISP $15.00
vanilla ice cream
- ALMOND GALETTE $15.00
wine poached pears, hazelnut ice cream
- MEYER LEMON CHEESECAKE - $15.00
shortbread, pistachio marscapone, fresh blueberry
- CHOCOLATE COCONUT CUSTARD $15.00
cherries, cherry chocolate sorbet, vegan
- BAKED ALASKA $15.00
vanilla nut nougat ice cream, passion fruit sauce, flourless chocolate cake
- DOUGHNUTS $15.00
served 2 ways, glazed & vanilla sugar, chocolate espresso sauce
- CHOCOLATE TART $15.00
chocolate ganache, hazelnut crunch, vanilla ice cream
- AFFOGATO $10.00
vanilla ice cream, espresso, biscotti
APPETIZERS
- GIGANTE BEAN SOUP $14.00
andouille sausage, baby kale, parmesean
- BURRATA $20.00
arugula, cherry tomato, prosciutto, 25 year aged balsamic vinegar, crostini
- CAULIFLOWER FRITTO $16.00
cauliflower, basil jalapeno aioli
SALADS
- BABY KALE SALAD $18.00
blue cheese dressing, figs, pumpkin seeds, maple bacon
- PEAR SALAD $17.00
arugula, pomegranate, walnuts, feta cheese, lemon vinaigrette
- BEET SALAD $17.00
goat cheese & feta whip, hazelnuts, blood orange, citrus thyme dressing
- TESSA SALAD $18.00
cucumbers, cherry tomato,, dried cherries, sunflower seeds, crispy chickpeas, olives
- CAESAR SALAD $17.00
baby romaine, Parmigiano, croutons, pickled red onion
EGGS
- EGGS ANY STYLE $13.00
two eggs, hash browns , mixed greens
- TESSA OMELETTE $16.00
mushroom, spinach, goat cheese, hash browns, mixed greens
- THE WAKEUP CALL $19.00
burrata, soft eggs, eggplant marinara, calabrian chili, olives, sourdough
PASTA
- CACIO E PEPE
linguini, pecorino, black pepper, basil crunch, parmigiano foam
- SHRIMP SCAMPI
spaghetti, shrimp, garlic, cherry tomato, white wine, butter, parsley
- LOBSTER DIABLO
caserecci pasta, spicy lobster-tomato sauce, cherry tomato, lobster
BOWLS
- TUNA POKE BOWL $25.00
jasmine rice, mango, edamame, sesame- ginger dressing, avocado aioli
- BLACKENED SHRIMP BOWL $24.00
quinoa, red onion, tomato, cucumber, tzatziki sauce
SANDWICHES
- BLT & A $17.00
bagel, bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, garlic aioli, mixed greens
- AVOCADO TOAST $16.00
harissa lemon, whole wheat, sunny side up egg , mixed greens
- SHRIMP ROLL $18.00
- arugla, garlic aioli, tahini coleslaw, hand cut fries
- GRILLED CHEESE $18.00
fontina cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, hand cut fries
- ULTIMATE BREAKFAST SANDWICH $16.00
English muffin, chicken sausage, mini omelette, tomato chutney, gruyere, harissa aioli
- TESSA 8OZ WAGYU BURGER $25.00
caramelized onion, applewood bacon, fontina, hand cut fries
SIDES
- Fruit Bowl $9.00
- Sauteed Spinach $10.00
- Rosemary Fries $11.00
- Truffle Parmesan Fries $12.00
TOAST
Served with butter & jam
- White Sourdough $4.00
- Whole Wheat $4.00
- English Mufiin $4.00
- Bagel & Chive Cream Cheese $6.00
SWEETS
- Cookie Plate $13.00
assorted cookies & sweets
- Affogato $10.00
vanilla ice cream, espresso, biscotti
SWEETS
- BREAD BASKET $13.00
four different breakfast pastries, butter, jam
- GRANOLA BOWL $14.00
greek yogurt, housemade granola, mixed berries, local honey
- THE MOST AMAZING FRENCH TOAST $15.00
custard dipped brioche, fresh strawberries, maple butter
SMALL PLATES
- BURRATA $20.00
cherry tomato, prosciutto, arugala, 25year aged balsamic vinegar, crostini
- BAGEL PLATE $16.00
smoked salmon, pickled red onion, caperberries, chive cream cheese
SALADS
- BABY KALE SALAD $18.00
blue cheese dressing, figs, squash, pumpkin seeds, maple bacon
- PEAR SALAD $17.00
arugula, pomegranate, walnuts, feta cheese, lemon vinaigrette
- BEET SALAD $17.00
goat cheese & feta whip, hazelnuts, blood orange, citrus thyme dressing
- TESSA SALAD $18.00
cucumbers, cherry tomato, dried cherries, sunflower seeds, crispy chickpeas, olives
- CAESAR SALAD $17.00
baby romaine, Parmigiano, croutons, pickled red onion
EGGS
- EGGS ANY STYLE $13.00
two eggs any style, hash browns, mixed greens
- TESSA OMELETTE $16.00
goat cheese, mushrooms, spinach, hash browns, mixed greens
- CLASSIC BENNIE $17.00
two poached eggs , english muffin, canadian bacon, hollandaise, mixed greens
- LOBSTER BENNIE $26.00
two poached eggs, lemon arancini, lobster, tomato herb hollandaise
- THE WAKEUP CALL $19.00
burrata, soft eggs, eggplant marinara, calabrian chili, olives, sourdough
PASTA
- CACIO E PEPE
linguini, pecorino, black pepper, basil crunch, Parmigiano foam
- FETTUCCINE CARBONARA
bacon, egg yolk, Parmigiano, pecorino
- FALL PRIMAVERA
green peas, mushrooms, delicata squash, sundried tomato
SANDWICHES & MAINS
- AVOCADO TOAST $16.00
harissa lemon, whole wheat, sunny side up egg, mixed greens
- BLT & A $17.00
bagel, bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, garlic aioli, mixed greens
- SHRIMP ROLL $18.00
arugala, garlic aioli, tahini coleslaw, hand cut fries
- GRILLED CHEESE $18.00
fontina cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, hand cut fries
- ULTIMATE BREAKFAST SANDWICH $16.00
glish muffin, chicken sausage, mini omelette, tomato chutney, gruyere, harissa aioli
- TESSA BURGER $25.00
8oz wagyu beef, carmelized onion, applewood bacon, fontina, hand cut fries
- STEAK & EGGS $26.00
hanger steak, two eggs any style, hash browns, chimichurri sauce
PASTRIES
- BANANA BREAD $4.00
- CROSSIANT $3.00
- PAIN AU CHOCOLATE $3.00
- CHEESE DANISH $3.00
- BREAD BASKET $13.00
one of each pastry, butter, jam
TOAST
served with butter and jam
- White Sourdough $4.00
- Whole Wheat $4.00
- English Muffin $4.00
- Bagel & Cream Cheese $6.00
SIDES
- Sauteed Spinach $10.00
- Grilled Asparagus $10.00
- Applewood Smoked Bacon $10.00
- Rosemary Fries $11.00
- Hash Browns $9.00
- Fruit Bowl $9.00
- Truffle Fries $12.00
TESSA Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
TESSA Photos










TESSA Location
TESSA Reviews
happy hourcacio e pepeoctopusmediterranean restaurantbeet saladwagyu burgerfoamtuna tartareshrimp scampiasset
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We had an early dinner here on a Saturday with a reservation, but there were plenty of open tables. The space has a cool ambiance but a bit on the darker side.The service was mostly attentive throughout the meal, and the pacing between courses felt just right. Presentation across the board was excellent. Every dish came out looking like there was thought put into them. The standout for me was the cacio e pepe. Super rich flavor, and the foam layering the sauce on both sides was a nice touch.We also had the octopus appetizer, which was really well-cooked and flavorful.Prices are definitely on the higher side, but there’s clearly thought behind everything from the visuals to the taste.The bathrooms are clean. There’s one upstairs and three downstairs.
June 28 · Osama MalikEnjoyed the food and atmosphere. It does get really hard to hear even though there isn’t music blasting. The pork chop was good but I wish the eggplant rigatoni had more eggplant in it. I thought it only had tomatoes at first. I got the small plate which is good for a single serving, I think the large would be great for sharing.For dessert we got the baked Alaska and it was delicious! Wish we had more room to try out the other desserts. Server was super nice and friendly.
December 17 · Christina W.Stepping into Tessa, you're immediately struck by the wonderful ambiance – The flavorful Meatball is an absolute must-try. If you are keen on healthier starter, I recommend “house dips” which come with 3 dips; garlic hummus, whipped ricotta, spinach-artichoke, with veggie sticks. And if you're looking for a satisfying main, don't miss the juicy and flavorful pork chop – cooked to perfection! You can tell the ingredients are fresh and carefully chosen, and the dishes are prepared with obvious care. I'm already looking forward to my next visit.
February 15 · s aCame tonight (Thursday around 7pm) and got seated and greeted immediately despite it being a full house. We received complimentary bread and butter and a cheerful staff from the host stand to the waiter to busboy. I ordered the pear salad and WOW. Incredible!! Blood orange martinis sent me to a summertime oasis-absolutely fantastic. Brussel sprouts were shared and so delicious too. My friend ordered the burger and devoured it. The ambiance is so nice-romantic yet chic. Classic NYC. I can’t wait to return and try more from the menu!
February 27 · Jamie BurkeHad a forgettable dinner at this place. The service was awful. The servers (more than one came at the table) kept rushing us. I understand we’re not in Europe and we’re in nyc and people rush through dinner, but this was just awful. The food was so so. My friend had the shrimp pasta which she didn’t really enjoy. The gazpacho was bland. The thing that was decent were the rosemary fries. The Aperol spritz was good. We had asked three different servers for bread and olive oil on the side and it never came. The space was small and felt claustrophobic. Left quite disappointed.
September 07 · Xtee M
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