The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side

- 157 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023

The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side is a truly unique culinary destination that defies simple categorization. It's a place where two vibrant food cultures, Mexican and Middle Eastern, come together in a delicious and innovative fusion. The restaurant's menu reflects this "migration of taste and technique," paying homage to the cultural roots of its founders while creating something entirely new and exciting. This isn't just about mixing ingredients; it's about telling a story through food—a story that is both creative and collaborative.

Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, The Migrant Kitchen has quickly become a go-to spot for locals looking for a meal that is both healthy and satisfying. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft a menu of bowls, sandwiches, and empanadas that are packed with flavor. It's the kind of place you can visit for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, with a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, including plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

While a few customer reviews have noted minor issues with specific dishes or portion sizing for drinks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Many customers have praised the "delicious" food, "very friendly and helpful staff," and the high quality of the ingredients. One reviewer highlighted the "delicious lamb torta" and a complimentary empanada, calling the food "high quality, tasty, and filling without being too greasy." This consistent praise for flavor and quality is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to delivering an exceptional experience.

The Migrant Kitchen is conveniently located at 157 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. This places it in a prime, easily accessible spot on the Upper West Side, just a short walk from Lincoln Center, Central Park, and the American Museum of Natural History. Its position on a major avenue makes it a simple and convenient stop for tourists exploring the neighborhood or for locals running errands.

The restaurant's accessibility is a key feature of its business. It offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that all guests can comfortably enjoy their meal. For transportation, the area is well-served by public transit. The 1 train stops at 66th Street-Lincoln Center, and the A, B, C, and D trains are available at the nearby Columbus Circle station. For those who drive, paid street parking is available in the vicinity.

In addition to dine-in service, The Migrant Kitchen also provides several convenient options for those on the go. You can order for takeout, delivery, or even enjoy the weather with outdoor seating. The fast and efficient counter service makes it a perfect choice for a "quick bite" during a busy day. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as "casual" and "cozy," making it a welcoming and relaxed place to grab a meal.

• Dine-in and Outdoor Seating: Enjoy a comfortable meal in the casual, cozy indoor space or at the outdoor tables, where dogs are also welcome.
• Delivery and Takeout: The Migrant Kitchen offers convenient delivery and takeout services, so you can enjoy their food at home or at work.
• Lunch and Dinner: The menu is available for both lunch and dinner, making it a reliable option for a satisfying meal at any time of day.
• Catering: With a focus on bowls and empanadas, The Migrant Kitchen is an excellent choice for catering events, office lunches, or large gatherings.
• Counter Service: The restaurant operates with a fast and efficient counter service model, perfect for a quick and convenient experience.

• Unique Fusion Cuisine: The menu's creative blend of Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors sets it apart from other restaurants in the city.
• Healthy and High-Quality Ingredients: The Migrant Kitchen focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering healthy and wholesome options.
• Diverse Menu: The menu caters to a variety of dietary needs, with numerous vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free choices.
• Community-Focused Mission: A core part of the restaurant's mission is to provide meaningful opportunities for migrant employees and give back to the community by serving meals to those in need.
• Signature Sauces and Whips: The homemade whips and sauces, like Garlic Whip, Chili Whip, and Fig Whip, are a unique and popular feature that enhances the flavor of every dish.
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: The staff is consistently praised for being warm, welcoming, and helpful, making the dining experience enjoyable.

Address: 157 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (212) 301-6091

When visiting The Migrant Kitchen, the best way to experience the menu is to dive into the unique fusion dishes that make it so special. A top recommendation from a customer is the Lamb Torta, which was featured in The New York Times and described as "high quality, tasty, and filling without being too greasy." It's a must-try for meat lovers. Another popular choice is the Slow Roasted Smoked Pork Bowl, which is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients like turmeric rice and black beans.

The Empanadas are a fantastic choice, both for a snack or as a full meal with a side. The Chicken Tinga Empanada and the Lamb Empanada are highly recommended for their delicious and flavorful fillings. For a lighter, healthier option, the Za'atar Salmon Bowl is a standout, praised as "delicious" and "a new spot for my lunch." The Crispy Cauliflower side is also a great choice, whether you order it as a standalone snack or as part of a meal.

Don't forget to customize your meal with their signature sauces and whips. The Garlic Whip, Chili Whip, and Sumac Whip are all excellent and can be added to any dish to add an extra layer of flavor. To complete your meal, be sure to try one of their refreshing house-made drinks. While a review mentioned an issue with the size of the lemonade, many customers still rave about the flavor of the Cucumber Mint Lemonade and the Hibiscus Iced Tea.

Ultimately, what's worth choosing at The Migrant Kitchen is a dish that highlights the unique blend of Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors. The generous portions, high-quality ingredients, and a genuinely friendly staff make this place an excellent choice for a delicious and satisfying meal in the heart of the Upper West Side.

The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side

157 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA