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Benjamin Steakhouse
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Benjamin Steakhouse
8.4
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
Date Night Magic
Luxury Dining Elite
Benjamin Steakhouse, opened in 2006 just off Grand Central, has grown into a powerhouse for dry-aged porterhouses, classic sides, and clubby white-tablecloth service. High review volume and a strong following make it one of Midtown’s go-to American steakhouses for both business entertaining and special-occasion dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Porterhouse for Two, Creamed Spinach, Lobster Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Modern Midtown steakhouse near Grand Central focused on dry-aged porterhouse, classic sides, and attentive service.
Who should go: Steak-focused business diners and couples celebrating in the East 40s.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners and Friday lunches when the room is buzzing.
What to order: Porterhouse for two, creamed spinach, lobster mac & cheese.
Insider tip: Share steaks and sides family-style; portions run large and the Benjamin Home Fries travel well if you have leftovers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce near Grand Central; paid garages on E 41st and E 42nd are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual to business; jackets not required, but most diners lean polished.
Noise level: Moderate—steady steakhouse energy, but conversation is manageable at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though large parties should reserve.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—salads, vegetable sides, and a few non-steak entrées.
Vegan options: Very limited—primarily vegetable sides; not ideal for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodation—most steaks and many sides are naturally GF; alert staff for safer prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a classic, upscale steakhouse with attentive service; the polished room sets a formal tone that works well for milestone dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often possible at off-peak hours, but prime dinner windows fill fast; walk-ins may wait at the bar for 20–45 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older children who can handle a formal dining room; no dedicated kids’ menu, but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Dry-aged porterhouse, classic steakhouse service, and business-ready ambiance near Grand Central.
Skip if: You want extensive seafood-forward menus, a casual atmosphere, or strong vegetarian/vegan options.
Benjamin Steakhouse
8.5
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Birthday & Celebration Central
Date Night Magic
Luxury Dining Elite
Opened in 2006, Benjamin Steakhouse is a classic New York power steakhouse steps from Grand Central, known for dry-aged porterhouses, sizzling Canadian bacon, and clubby white-tablecloth service. It’s a go-to for expense-account dinners and occasions where you want old-school steakhouse theater without stuffiness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Porterhouse for Two, Sizzling Canadian Bacon, Creamed Spinach
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A Grand Central–area institution for dry-aged porterhouse and big-occasion steak dinners.
Who should go: Steak lovers planning business dinners or milestone celebrations.
When to visit: Prime-time weeknight dinners or Friday lunches for peak energy.
What to order: Porterhouse for two, Sizzling Canadian Bacon, creamed spinach.
Insider tip: Request a table in the main dining room if you want the full old-school steakhouse atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; street parking is scarce during business hours. Closest reliable options are nearby garages on E 41st–43rd St, typically $25–$40 for dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual. Jackets not required, but most diners lean polished—dark jeans or dress pants are appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak dinner; conversation remains manageable but expect classic steakhouse buzz.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially 6:30–8:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; walk-ins usually seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—salads, sides, and a few pasta options, but the menu is heavily steak-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited—vegetable sides are available, but entrée-level vegan dishes are not standard.
Gluten-free options: Good accommodations—steaks and many sides are naturally gluten-free; staff can advise on modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a classic, upscale New York steakhouse experience—dim lighting, strong service, and polished ambience. Not ideal if you prefer a quieter or more casual setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed. Walk-ins are easier at lunch or early dinner; peak dinner hours almost always require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Kid-tolerant rather than kid-focused. Older children who enjoy steakhouse fare will be fine, but there are no specific amenities or children's menu.
Best For
Better for: Dry-aged porterhouse consistency, attentive white-tablecloth service, and a more intimate, clubby atmosphere than some larger Midtown steakhouses.
Skip if: You want broad menu variety, vegetarian-focused dining, or a quieter, low-key meal—this is a classic steakhouse built around big cuts and celebratory energy.