Best Instagram Worthy Restaurants in Morningside Heights
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Maki
A sushi-and-bowls cafe where fresher-feeling grab-and-go anchors Columbia’s daytime routine.
Notable Picks
#1
Maki
8.3
Maki is a compact Japanese cafe near Columbia where grab-and-go sushi, rice bowls, and matcha drinks run fresher and more considered than typical takeout. Students and locals use it as a daytime staple for quick salmon and tuna rolls, rice bowls, and tea when they want something lighter but still filling.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna Roll, Spicy Salmon Don, Sake Ikura Don
What Makes it Special: A sushi-and-bowls cafe where fresher-feeling grab-and-go anchors Columbia’s daytime routine.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Sipsteria’s Morningside Heights location works as an all-day espresso bar that shifts into a natural-wine happy hour with Georgian-inspired plates, tapas, and charcuterie. It’s calmer than the Lenox bars, making it ideal for a glass of orange wine, small bites, and conversation before or after campus hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adjaruli Khachapuri, Georgian Salad, Cheese & Charcuterie Board
What Makes it Special: Daytime espresso bar that flips into a cozy natural-wine and small-plates happy hour with Georgian-leaning dishes.