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Empire Steak House
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Empire Steak House
8.3
Run by the Sinanaj brothers, Empire leans into generously sized USDA Prime cuts, a deep Scotch list, and an upbeat dining room that’s friendlier to walk-ins than some older institutions. Multi-platform reviews highlight reliable cooking across porterhouse, Japanese Wagyu, and seafood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Porterhouse for Two, Empire Crab Cake, Japanese Wagyu Ribeye
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: High-review-volume, independently run steakhouse balancing big cuts with polished service.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting serious steak without stuffy formality.
When to visit: Pre-theater early evenings or late post-theater reservations.
What to order: Porterhouse, Empire crab cake, Japanese Wagyu ribeye.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu or seasonal Wagyu and seafood specials at the host stand.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; nearby paid garages along E 50th–52nd St. Street parking is scarce after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and dressy jeans are fine; jackets not required.
Noise level: Moderate—energized room but still easy to hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for walk-ins; faster for small parties at off-peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during peak business-lunch windows (12–1pm).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—salads, sides, and pasta dishes; no dedicated vegetarian mains.
Vegan options: Very limited—salads (modified) and vegetable sides; confirm butter use.
Gluten-free options: Yes—steaks and many seafood dishes are naturally GF; staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, comfortable spacing, and polished service create a confident but not overly formal setting. Works best for dates who appreciate classic steakhouse energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes—this location is more walk-in-friendly than legacy steakhouses. Aim for early evening, late dinner slots, or smaller parties for the best chance.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids who enjoy steak will be fine; no children’s menu and the atmosphere leans adult. Best for families with teens rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Large-format steaks, a broad Scotch list, and more approachable walk-in flexibility than old-guard Midtown steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a modern, chef-driven steakhouse, ultra-quiet dining, or extensive vegetarian/vegan options.
Empire Steak House
8.3
Empire Steak House’s 50th Street outpost channels a grand, almost opera-house feel with high ceilings, chandeliers, and leather banquettes framing oversized cuts. The menu leans indulgent, from American Wagyu tomahawks and bone-in ribeyes to lobster-heavy surf-and-turf plates and shareable sides.
Must-Try Dishes:
American Wagyu Tomahawk Steak for Two, Bone-In Ribeye, Lobster Mac and Cheese
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Showpiece tomahawks and a gleaming, high-ceilinged room tailor-made for celebratory steak nights.
Who should go: Duos or groups craving dramatic, shareable steak presentations
When to visit: Prime weekend slots 7–9pm when the room buzzes
What to order: American Wagyu Tomahawk for Two, bone-in ribeye, lobster mac
Insider tip: Split a tomahawk and supplement with appetizers and sides instead of ordering separate steaks to keep costs in check.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; street parking is scarce after 5pm. Closest dependable options are paid garages within a 1–2 block radius.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—button-downs, dresses, and polished denim all fit the room’s upscale atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversation is doable for couples but the room hums during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on party size.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; typically seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but serviceable—salads, vegetable sides, and a handful of pasta options.
Vegan options: Very limited—expect just a couple of modifiable salads or vegetable plates.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly proteins and sides; staff accommodates substitutions but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a dramatic, upscale setting—the chandeliers and spacious room create a memorable backdrop. It’s less ideal if you prefer quiet, intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often possible for small parties early evening or late night, but weekend prime hours almost always require a reservation to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens who enjoy steakhouse dining; no dedicated kids’ menu and the room skews adult, especially during peak dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Showpiece steaks, celebratory group meals, and an elegant Midtown backdrop with generously sized cuts.
Skip if: You want a quieter, modern-minimalist steakhouse or need strong vegan/vegetarian options.