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Peter McManus Café
Master Critic Review
Peter McManus Café
8.7
Historic NYC bar famed for its burger — a late‑night favorite among locals for decades, with reliable quality and an old‑school pub ambiance. The burger has repeatedly won local “best burger” contests, and the kitchen runs until 4 AM, making it a dependable after‑hours choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pop Pop’s Top Shelf Burger, Classic Cheeseburger, Fries & Guinness combo
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Decades‑old bar burger with cult status and 4 AM kitchen hours.
Who should go: Night owls and pub‑goers needing post‑bar sustenance.
When to visit: After midnight, especially after a night out.
What to order: Top Shelf Burger, fries, pint of Guinness.
Insider tip: Ask for extra house sauce — adds to the nostalgic burger flavor.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be challenging, especially after 6 PM. There is limited metered parking nearby and no valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is perfectly fine. Jeans and a T-shirt are common, but feel free to dress up if you like.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easily possible, but expect lively chatter during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially after midnight when the late-night crowd peaks.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, as it's a late-night spot rather than a daytime destination.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are a few vegetarian options available, though the focus is on burgers and pub fare.
Vegan options: Limited - there are a couple of vegan-friendly options, but the menu is not vegan-focused.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options available, with separate prep for gluten-free items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date due to its pubby, no-frills atmosphere. However, if you're after a laid-back, fun vibe and love late-night bites, it could be perfect for a more casual date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but be prepared to wait, especially on weekends or late-night hours. If you're going after midnight, you’ll have better luck finding a table without a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? It's not particularly kid-friendly, given the late hours and pub-like atmosphere. Best suited for older children or teenagers who can enjoy the casual vibe.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burgers and reliable food after hours. The combination of 4 AM kitchen hours and cult-status burgers makes it a go-to for late-night cravings.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quiet, upscale dining experience or family-friendly environment, consider alternatives.