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P.J. Clarke's
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
P.J. Clarke's
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A classic 1884 saloon best known for its Cadillac-style burgers, cold martinis, and crowded barroom energy. Locals and office regulars come for reliably juicy patties, thin onion rings, and a slice of old Midtown East that still feels lived-in rather than themed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cadillac Burger, Classic Cheeseburger, Shoestring Onion Rings
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Historic Midtown saloon serving one of NYC’s most storied burgers.
Who should go: Burger traditionalists, Midtown workers, and first-time NYC visitors.
When to visit: Weeknights for lively bar energy without brutal waits.
What to order: Cadillac Burger, classic cheeseburger, shoestring onion rings.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar; burgers come faster and service stays sharper.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive during peak office hours; nearby paid garages along 3rd Ave typically run $25–$35 for short stays.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Office attire fits right in, but jeans and a tee are fully acceptable.
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours; expect raised-voice conversations near the bar, quieter in back booths.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes for a table; bar seats often open up faster.
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes depending on office crowd surges; early arrivals rarely wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Modest but workable—veggie sandwiches, salads, and sides can form a complete meal.
Vegan options: Very limited; salads and a few sides may work with modifications, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: They can serve burgers without buns and offer several naturally gluten-free items, but no dedicated GF fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want classic New York character over intimacy. The energy is fun and unpretentious, but it can get loud—better for casual dates than romantic ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes. The bar is first-come-first-served and often the quickest route. For peak dinner hours, expect a short wait unless you arrive early.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like burgers and bustling rooms. High chairs are limited, and strollers can be tough to maneuver during rushes.
Best For
Better for: Classic, straightforward burgers with a real NYC saloon vibe—perfect for visitors and office regulars who want history and consistency.
Skip if: You want chef-driven patties, avant-garde toppings, or quieter dining; nearby upscale pubs or modern burger specialists fit those needs better.
P.J. Clarke's
8.3
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Sports Bar Central
Serving New Yorkers since 1884, this classic saloon pairs its famed burgers with overflowing baskets of sea salt fries. Steak frites, truffle fries, and a well-worn barroom setting make it a go-to for old-New-York atmosphere with dependable fry-centric plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
1884 Cheeseburger with sea salt fries, Newport Steak Frites, Parmesan Truffle Fries
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Historic Midtown tavern where sea salt fries and burgers define the experience.
Who should go: Burger traditionalists and visitors chasing classic New York charm.
When to visit: Off-peak lunch or late evening to avoid the heaviest crowds.
What to order: 1884 Cheeseburger, sea salt fries, Newport steak frites.
Insider tip: Ask for a booth in the back room for a quieter, old-school feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and metered; expect difficulty during peak hours. Several paid garages sit within a 1–2 block radius on 3rd Ave and 55th St.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans, sweaters, and business-casual attire all blend in.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours, especially near the bar; conversation is easier in the back dining room.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during major sporting events.
Weekday lunch: Typically a short wait or seated immediately, though business-lunch rush can add 10–15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate options: salads, sides, and a few non-meat plates, but the menu is burger-forward.
Vegan options: Limited—fries and a few sides are safe, but entrées are minimal; best to confirm preparation details.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-friendly (e.g., bunless burgers); the kitchen does not guarantee a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Good for a relaxed, classic NYC vibe—less ideal if you want intimacy, but great if you prefer a lively, old-school saloon atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes. Solo diners and small parties often get seated quickly; groups should expect to wait during prime hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with kids 7+; the menu is straightforward, staff is accommodating, and noise levels mask kid chatter. No dedicated play area.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York tavern ambiance, dependable burgers, and consistently crisp sea-salt fries served in generous portions.
Skip if: You want a quieter, chef-driven fry experience or need extensive vegan/gluten-free options.