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4 Charles Prime Rib
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
4 Charles Prime Rib
8.0
Old‑school prime rib and classic cuts served in a brownstone setting with strong drinks and a moody atmosphere — a late‑night steakhouse refuge in the West Village. Patrons return for the consistent renditions of hearty cuts and reliable wine list. It remains one of the few true‑to‑tradition steakhouses inside the 10014 zip.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Rib, Ribeye Steak, Classic Cheeseburger
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Old‑school brownstone steakhouse with late‑night prime rib and rich cocktails.
Who should go: Steak lovers seeking classic cuts and old‑school ambiance.
When to visit: Late evenings for relaxed, after‑hours dining.
What to order: Prime rib, Ribeye steak, Classic cheeseburger.
Insider tip: Ask for the late‑night seating after 10 PM for fewer crowds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but limited, especially after 6 PM. Valet service is not offered.
Dress code: Smart casual is recommended; jeans are acceptable, but lean towards dressier attire.
Noise level: Moderate - you can hear your date, but the ambiance remains lively.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45-60 minute wait without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait during weekday lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited vegetarian options, with a few sides and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited - options are mostly sides and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes - the restaurant offers gluten-free options and a separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, 4 Charles Prime Rib is a great choice for a first date. The cozy, intimate ambiance and delicious prime rib make for a memorable evening, while the quiet atmosphere lets you focus on conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While it's possible to get a table without a reservation, especially during weekday lunches, weekends can be busy. It's best to make a reservation to avoid long wait times, especially for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? The restaurant is not particularly designed for young children due to its upscale atmosphere, but older kids and teens who enjoy steak will likely feel at ease. The menu does offer a cheeseburger option that could be suitable for kids.
Best For
Better for: 4 Charles Prime Rib excels in its old-school, prime rib focus, making it a top destination for steak lovers who appreciate classic cuts and a nostalgic vibe.
Skip if: Consider alternatives if you're looking for a modern or trendy steakhouse with a more extensive menu that includes contemporary dishes or a more casual atmosphere.
4 Charles Prime Rib
8.6
An intimate, clubby basement supper club where candlelight, leather banquettes, and heavy silver frame rich cuts of prime rib, a cult cheeseburger, and steakhouse sides. Prices are steep and reservations punishingly hard to land, but for many the combination of meat, martinis, and exclusivity is worth the effort.
Must-Try Dishes:
4 Charles cut prime rib, Cheeseburger with egg and bacon, French dip sandwich
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A tiny, reservation-scarce steakhouse where serious beef and a now-famous burger anchor a moody supper-club setting.
Who should go: Steak and burger diehards willing to splurge and plan
When to visit: Early-week, early-evening slots are marginally easier to secure
What to order: Prime rib, signature burger, truffle mac and cheese
Insider tip: If you can’t snag prime hours, a late reservation still lets you work through the burger and key sides at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on narrow West Village blocks; expect to circle. No valet. Nearby paid garages on Charles St and Hudson St are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets optional but common; elevated denim is fine, athleisure is not.
Noise level: Moderate-loud; intimate but energetic. You can hold a conversation, though the room’s buzz is constant.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins are rarely accommodated; without a reservation expect to be turned away or quoted 60–90 minutes at best.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — the restaurant does not serve lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — sides like salads, creamed spinach, and potatoes are the main options.
Vegan options: Not recommended — essentially no substantial vegan entrées and heavy reliance on butter and animal fats.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be made gluten-free (prime rib, certain sides) but cross-contact is possible; confirm with the server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a high-impact, intimate first date if you want a moody, special-occasion feel. The space is dim, cozy, and romantic, but the heavy food and prices make it better suited for diners seeking a splurge rather than something casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Rarely. Prime hours are fully booked weeks out. Your best bet is a very early weekday slot or late-night bar seats if you’re flexible and willing to wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal. The room is small, dark, and adult-oriented with no children’s menu or space for strollers. Teens comfortable with steakhouse dining may be fine, but younger kids are unlikely to be a fit.
Best For
Better for: Luxurious, indulgent steakhouse dining in a tiny, atmospheric room where the prime rib and burger compete with NYC’s best.
Skip if: You want menu breadth, lighter food, easy reservations, or a setting suited to families or larger groups.
Hours
Monday4pm - 11:30pm
Tuesday4pm - 11:30pm
Wednesday4pm - 11:30pm
Thursday4pm - 11:30pm
Friday12pm - 11:30pm
Saturday11am - 11:30pm
Sunday11am - 10pm