Iconic seafood institution in Grand Central, famed for its fresh oysters and classic atmosphere.
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, a staple since 1913, offers a quintessential New York seafood experience within the bustling Grand Central Terminal. It's lauded for its vast and fresh oyster selection and classic preparations like the oyster pan roast. While the atmosphere is often described as historic and bustling, especially at the counter, some find the main dining room less appealing.
The restaurant is renowned for its extensive selection of fresh oysters and seafood. Popular choices include the oyster pan roast and clam chowder, though one review found the oyster pan roast to be a letdown. Other dishes like calamari, clams casino, and various seafood entrees are available, alongside a notable burger. While some find the overall seafood to be solid, the focus remains on the raw bar and classic seafood preparations.
"The oysters are consistently praised as the main event, with the oyster pan roast and clam chowder also being frequently recommended. The dirty martini is also a popular choice."
Customers generally have positive experiences, highlighting the restaurant as an iconic and classic New York establishment with a great selection of fresh seafood, particularly oysters. Some suggest the sit-down side can be disappointing, recommending the lunch counter instead. A few negative reviews exist, with one diner reporting a very bad meal.
Important Note
Some diners have reported very negative experiences, with one calling it one of the worst meals they've ever had. Another commenter found the oyster pan roast disappointing and the 'Today's Catch' dish boring.
"The oyster bar in Grand Central Terminal is mentioned as an option."
Neutral"The oyster stew at Grand Central Oyster Bar was recommended by a commenter as a dish to return for."
Positive"The Oyster Bar in Grand Central, despite its name, offers standard fare and has a charming decor with unique steam-powered stew pots, allowing for a child to order from the regular menu."
Positive"The Oyster Bar is a great spot for lunch and offers various seafood options. The commenter also mentions the fun whispering gallery in the same location."
Positive"The commenter expresses interest in visiting the Grand Central Oyster Bar due to its location and history, noting that they enjoy oysters and have good ones in Scotland."
Positive"The Grand Central Oyster Bar is recommended as an old-school New York experience that is easily accessible for those in Midtown."
Positive"The user plans to check out the Oyster Bar in Grand Central based on the recommendation."
Neutral"This venue is recommended for a delicious oyster experience, suggesting their oyster stew or pan roast as a creamy and buttery option, even without cheese."
Positive"Grand Central Oyster Bar is mentioned as a historical location. The commenter is unsure if it fits the user's specific historical theme."
Neutral"Grand Central Oyster Bar offers a worthy experience, especially considering its location in a train station."
Positive"The commenter loves the Pan Roast dish at Grand Central Oyster Bar, which is described as clams and cream."
Positive"The Oyster Bar is considered a classic, but the commenter personally doesn't think it's very good."
Negative"Grand Central Oyster Bar (GCOB) is a classic establishment, acknowledged as being somewhat dated and imperfect, yet still considered perfect in its own way."
Neutral"The original poster states they love Grand Central Oyster Bar and have visited it many times previously."
Positive"Grand Central Oyster Bar is mentioned as a traditionally New York spot to visit."
Neutral"This commenter has had a positive experience finding luck with Grand Central Oyster Bar for group dining."
Positive"The commenter suggests Grand Central Oyster Bar as a true 'slice of New York' for a solo meal at the counter. They describe the food as solid but not amazing."
Neutral"This commenter recommended Grand Central Oyster Bar."
Neutral"Goes to Grand Central Oyster Bar specifically for the old fashioned oyster pan roast, stating it's the only place they know in the city for it."
Positive"Advises sitting in the back 'saloon' at Grand Central Oyster Bar, preferably at the bar, for a good experience."
Positive
