Iconic grand central oyster bar w/ classic NYC seafood & ambiance. Must-try oysters, pan roast & clam chowder.
Willa Moore reviews Grand Central Oyster Bar, a historic New York seafood spot. She recommends visiting for the fresh oysters and martinis, highlighting the counter seating as the ideal spot to soak in the classic, bustling atmosphere.
This iconic establishment, nestled within the stunning architecture of Grand Central Terminal, has been serving up classic New York seafood since 1913. While some find the main courses a bit dated, the focus here is undeniably on the raw bar, with a vast selection of fresh oysters and beloved dishes like the oyster pan roast and clam chowder. It's a place where history and fresh seafood meet, offering a quintessential NYC experience, especially when seated at the bustling oyster counter.
Known for its extensive selection of fresh oysters and classic American seafood dishes, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is a standout. Popular recommendations include the oyster pan roast, clam chowder, and raw oysters themselves. Some diners find the main cooked courses to be less impressive, suggesting a focus on the raw bar and traditional preparations.
"The oyster pan roast, raw oysters (especially Blue Points), and clam chowder are frequently recommended. It's also suggested to sit at the lunch counter or back bar for the best experience."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment, praising the iconic atmosphere and fresh oysters. However, some mention that cooked entrees can be underwhelming, and a few have noted issues with oyster preparation.
Important Note
The restaurant is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Some diners have reported issues with oyster preparation (shell fragments) and found cooked main courses to be less impressive than the raw bar selections.
"The commenter mentions the classic Grand Central Oyster Bar as a spot they visit."
Positive"Grand Central Terminal Oyster Bar is recommended."
Positive"Grand Central Terminal Oyster Bar offers a classic experience, even if not considered the absolute best."
Neutral"The oyster stew at Grand Central Oyster Bar is mentioned."
Positive"A commenter left a rating of 6.9/10 for Grand Central Oyster Bar."
Neutral"Responding to a commenter, the author clarified that the clam chowder at Grand Central Oyster Bar was good but a bit too thick for their preference, and the lunchtime atmosphere was noisy. They would return but ranked it lower compared to other meals."
Neutral"A commenter expressed disappointment with the original poster's rating for Grand Central Oyster Bar, stating they have the best raw bar and oyster stew and rarely order the clam chowder. They also noted the place can be noisy."
Neutral"The author had clam chowder and oysters at Grand Central Oyster Bar, giving it a 6.5/10."
Neutral"Grand Central Oyster Bar is recommended for its classic, original vibe."
Positive"Grand Central Oyster Bar is listed as a restaurant suggestion."
Neutral"This user recommends Grand Central Oyster Bar for its unforgettable room, great oyster selection, and decent seafood dishes, describing it as having a unique and fun atmosphere."
Positive"This user mentions Grand Central Oyster Bar as a fun place to visit, noting it's not downtown."
Positive"This commenter suggested The Oyster Bar for a classic NYC experience, highlighting its beautiful space and old-school wait staff, in addition to good food."
Positive"The back bar is suggested as the place 'real New Yorkers' go, offering a great vibe and decent food, emphasizing the historical aspect."
Positive"The annual herring event is a unique and enjoyable niche activity in the city."
Positive"An iconic New York establishment where the commenter has never had a bad experience."
Positive"Recommends oysters, pan roast, or bouillabaisse, suggesting a visit to Grand Central and the Campbell apartment beforehand to enhance the historical mood."
Positive"The oyster pan roast is mentioned as a personal favorite."
Positive"The commenter wishes for a better Bloody Mary and plans to try a martini next time."
Neutral"The commenter primarily orders the pan roast and feels no need to try other dishes."
Positive
