My Favorite Allergy-Friendly Joints on the Upper West Side
Living with allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, and dairy means I’m always on high alert when dining out. It’s not just about avoiding ingredients — it’s about trust, transparency, and knowing a place truly understands the risks of cross-contact.
Over time, I’ve found a handful of Upper West Side spots where I can actually relax and enjoy a meal without that usual knot of anxiety. Here are my go-to allergy-friendly favorites:
Canto (Broadway & 68th)
Italian-inspired menu with allergy-friendly flexibility
Staff willing to adjust dishes based on allergy needs
Go-to: Orecchiette salsiccia e rapini and costolette corte
Pizza Collective (Columbus Ave & 74th)
Extremely clear about allergens and cross-contact
Offers dairy-free cheese stored separately from others
Go-to: Vegan Margherita
Two Boots (71st & Columbus)
Plenty of gluten-free and vegan options available
Staff knows ingredients and is allergy-aware
Go-to: Vegan Larry Tate
Lenwich (74th & Columbus)
Custom sandwiches free from peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, and dairy
Allergy info is accessible; staff uses clean gloves and utensils
Go-to: Lettuce wrap with turkey, avocado, tomato, and bacon
Mitote (69th & Columbus)
Mexican street food with allergy-conscious modifications
Many dishes can be made free from peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, and dairy
Go-to: Steak platter and chips with guacamole
Harvest Kitchen (Columbus & 73rd)
Staff is kind, thorough, and always double-checks ingredients
Familiar with food allergies and open to substitutions
Go-to: Turkey burger on a lettuce wrap with fries — or their brunch omelets
Ella Social (Columbus & 71st)
Allergy-conscious Mediterranean menu with flexible options
Proactive communication with the kitchen to avoid cross-contact
Go-to: Bravas, smoky sprouts, hand-cut fries, and olives
Living with food allergies isn’t easy — but finding restaurants that truly care makes all the difference.
My top dining-out tips:
✔️ Call ahead and flag your allergies when you book
✔️ Remind the staff once you're seated
✔️ Dine during quieter hours so they have time to give your order extra care
These Upper West Side spots have become my go-tos because they listen, communicate, and prioritize safety — without sacrificing flavor.
Know a UWS spot that’s allergy-friendly? DM me on Instagram @eatsafelivebig or leave a comment. I’m always looking to discover (and share!) new safe places to eat!
XXOO,
JJ
