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Sammy's Roumanian Steakhouse
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sammy's Roumanian Steakhouse
8.5
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Late Night Legends
Trendy Table Hotspots
Sammy's Roumanian is a revived Lower East Side institution where Romanian-style skirt steaks, chopped liver and family-style platters come with frozen vodka, singalongs and Borscht Belt energy. It’s less about polished steakhouse formality and more about a loud, nostalgic party where the food and schmaltz land hardest in big groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Romanian tenderloin skirt steak, Chopped liver with schmaltz, Stuffed cabbage
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A decades-old Jewish-Romanian steakhouse where dinner feels like a rowdy celebration.
Who should go: Groups who prioritize fun, nostalgia, and hearty steak
When to visit: Friday or Saturday nights for peak music and energy
What to order: Romanian tenderloin, chopped liver, stuffed cabbage
Insider tip: Book well in advance and plan on the set family-style menu, which keeps ordering simple and the table covered in food.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on the Lower East Side is limited, especially after 6pm; budget extra time or use nearby paid garages on Delancey or Essex.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; people lean slightly dressy for celebrations, but comfort-first is completely normal.
Noise level: Very loud—live music, singalongs, and packed tables make conversation challenging at peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a significant wait or no availability without a reservation; walk-ins are rarely accommodated on Fridays and Saturdays.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is not typical here; for early-evening weekday seatings, waits are generally minimal with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—this is a meat-heavy menu, but a few vegetable sides can work for vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Minimal to none—vegan diners will struggle due to schmaltz-heavy prep and limited plant-based dishes.
Gluten-free options: Some steak and simple vegetable dishes can be gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely; ask the staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves chaotic, high-energy dining. It’s loud, festive, and communal—better for couples who already know each other rather than a quiet getting-to-know-you meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends; this is a high-demand group spot. Weekday early-evening walk-ins occasionally succeed, but reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens may enjoy the high-energy atmosphere, but the loud volume and late-night vibe make it less ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Loud group celebrations, nostalgic Jewish-Romanian comfort dishes, and a party-like steakhouse experience you won’t find at polished, traditional steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, refined service, or a classic steakhouse format with formal ambiance and a wide selection of cuts.
Sammy's Roumanian Steakhouse
7.8
Revived 2024 after decades as a LES institution, Sammy’s serves Romanian‑Jewish style garlicky steaks and vintage comfort food in a convivial, nostalgia‑tinged setting; it’s more about the history and vibe than white‑tablecloth polish. Great for a fun, slightly off‑beat date night where shared plates, big portions, and a sense of history set the tone. Expect a casual atmosphere, hearty food, and a touch of old‑New‑York character.
Must-Try Dishes:
1¾ lb Prime Rib Steak, Mix Grill for Two (steak & lamb chops), Latkes with applesauce
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Revived LES staple serving Romanian‑Jewish steakhouse classics and community vibe
Who should go: Couples craving hearty, old‑NY steak with character
When to visit: Weekend or evening for lively, nostalgic feel
What to order: Prime rib steak, mix grill for two, latkes
Insider tip: Share a large steak for good value; ask for schmaltz on potatoes
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce and metered; best to use nearby parking garages or rideshare, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and a nice shirt are fine, no need for formal attire.
Noise level: Moderate to lively – you can have a conversation, but expect background chatter and clinking plates in peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes without a reservation; reservations recommended for peak times.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though larger groups may require a short wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited options – a few sides and salads, but main focus is meat dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited – mostly pickled vegetables or simple salads; not a primary focus.
Gluten-free options: Some options available; steaks and most grilled items are naturally gluten-free, but check sauces and sides.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – its cozy, nostalgic vibe makes it fun and memorable, but be prepared for a casual, slightly noisy setting rather than a quiet, romantic dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or early evenings, but weekends are busy and reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; best suited for teens or older kids who can enjoy hearty portions and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Sammy's excels at delivering nostalgic, garlicky Romanian-Jewish steaks in a historic Lower East Side setting, with large portions and a communal vibe competitors often lack.
Skip if: Skip if you want a refined, white-tablecloth steakhouse or need extensive vegetarian/vegan options.