The Daisy NYC: 5 Reasons This Upper East Side Bar & Restaurant Is Still A Must-Visit In 2025

The Daisy New York City, nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side, continues to be a vibrant staple in the neighborhood's dining and nightlife scene as of late 2025. This beloved venue, located at 1641 Second Avenue, has successfully carved out a niche for itself by blending sophisticated craft cocktails with a creative, seasonally-driven New American menu that features subtle, yet distinct, Latin roots. The result is an atmosphere that is both chic and unpretentious, making it a perfect destination for everything from a casual brunch to a special dinner out. The restaurant’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer a high-quality experience without the downtown fuss, solidifying its reputation as a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. With its beautiful interior, attentive service, and a constantly evolving menu, The Daisy NYC is more than just a bar; it is a full-service culinary experience that remains fresh and relevant year after year.

The Leadership Profile: James O'Hanlon and Chef Olivo

The success of The Daisy NYC is strongly tied to the vision and experience of its key leadership. The establishment is a testament to the power of combining business acumen with culinary passion.

• Venue Name: The Daisy NYC
• Location: 1641 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10028 (Upper East Side)
• Concept: Craft Cocktail Bar & Seasonal New American Restaurant with Latin Roots
• Restaurateur/Owner: James O'Hanlon
• Executive Chef: Chef Olivo
• Known For: Exceptional Cocktails, Lively Brunch, Attentive Service, Beautiful Interior
• Other Ventures: James O'Hanlon is also a successful restaurateur known for his work with *Agave* in the West Village, demonstrating a strong track record in the competitive New York City hospitality market.
• Culinary Philosophy: Chef Olivo’s journey is a classic New York story, having risen from the back of the house to become the head chef, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to internal growth and passion-driven cuisine. The menu reflects a dedication to seasonal ingredients and creative interpretations of New American fare.

The Signature Experience: Cocktails and Latin-Inspired Flair

The cocktail program at The Daisy NYC is arguably the heart of its identity, drawing inspiration from a variety of spirits that have become staples in the New York City cocktail scene. The bar excels at creative twists on classics, ensuring every drink is both familiar and surprising.

The Craft Cocktail Program: More Than Just a Drink

The focus here is on exceptional cocktails, and the bar staff delivers with skill and flair. Patrons frequently rave about the innovative drink menu, which provides a welcome respite from the standard Upper East Side offerings. * The Margarita Flight: A consistent crowd-pleaser and a perfect example of their creative approach. This flight allows guests to sample several unique variations of the classic drink, highlighting the bar's expertise in agave-based spirits. * The Bloody Orange: Another frequently mentioned favorite, known for its vibrant flavor and refreshing profile, making it an excellent choice for a cocktail or as part of their popular brunch service. * Seasonal Variations: The cocktail list changes regularly, ensuring that repeat visitors always have something new to discover. This commitment to seasonal ingredients extends beyond the kitchen and into the craft cocktail preparation. The bar is a great spot to explore new NYC cocktail trends. The overall atmosphere is often described as having "immaculate vibes," with music that is consistently fun and a mix of old classics, contributing to a lively and memorable night out.

A Deep Dive into The Daisy's New American Menu

While the cocktails may draw you in, the food menu is what keeps The Daisy NYC firmly planted in the conversation of top Upper East Side restaurants. The kitchen focuses on seasonal New American fare with a noticeable, yet subtle, Latin twist, a nod to the owner’s background with the acclaimed *Agave* restaurant. The menu is structured to allow guests the flexibility to enjoy a few small plates or a full dinner.

Must-Try Dishes and Culinary Entities

The menu is constantly evolving, reflecting the freshest ingredients available, which ensures a dynamic and fresh experience with every visit. However, several dishes and culinary entities have become signature highlights that embody the restaurant’s style: * Burrata with Strawberry Jam, Prosciutto, and Jalapeño: This dish is a perfect example of the restaurant's creative fusion, blending the creamy richness of Italian burrata and salty prosciutto with the sweetness of strawberry jam and the unexpected heat of jalapeño. * Brussel Sprouts Salad: A popular and often-cited starter that demonstrates the kitchen’s ability to elevate simple vegetables into a complex and satisfying dish. * The Brunch Experience: The Daisy is widely regarded as an amazing brunch spot on the UES. While the specific brunch dishes change, the quality of the food, combined with the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cocktails, makes it a weekend destination. * Seasonal Dishes: The menu features a range of plates that change with the season, from light snacks to substantial large plates, catering to every dining intention. The focus on seasonal ingredients ensures the food is always at its peak flavor. The combination of New American cuisine techniques with Latin-inspired flavors provides a unique and memorable profile that distinguishes The Daisy from the traditional dining options in the area.

Topical Authority: Why The Daisy Remains Relevant

The longevity and continued popularity of The Daisy NYC in one of the most competitive culinary markets in the world is a testament to its successful execution of a clear, compelling concept. Its topical authority in the Upper East Side dining category is built on several key pillars: 1. Consistent Quality: The seamless blend of high-quality craft cocktails and expertly prepared seasonal dishes ensures that both the bar and the kitchen are operating at a high level. 2. Vibrant Atmosphere: The interior design and the carefully curated music selection create a beautiful interior and a lively, fun atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd. This makes it a destination for both casual dining and celebratory occasions. 3. Strategic Location: Situated on Second Avenue, The Daisy benefits from the revitalization and growing modernity of the UES, making it a central Upper East Side hotspot. 4. Experienced Leadership: Restaurateur James O'Hanlon’s proven success with other ventures, combined with the hands-on expertise of Chef Olivo, provides a solid foundation for operational excellence and menu innovation. Whether you are seeking a refreshing margarita flight, a creative Brussel Sprouts Salad, or simply a fun, vibrant place to enjoy dinner and drinks, The Daisy NYC continues to push the boundaries of what an Upper East Side cocktail bar and restaurant can be. It is a modern classic that truly makes uptown cool again.