Over 50 vodkas! Festive Russian bar in the Theater District. Great martinis & unique dishes.
Arden Shore reviews Russian Vodka Room, a Theater District bar with over 50 types of vodka, perfect for pre-theater drinks and a lively atmosphere. The review highlights their vodka martinis and several Russian dishes.
Step into a festive, windowless haven in the heart of the Theater District, renowned for its unparalleled selection of over 50 types of vodka. This Russian gem offers a lively atmosphere with a pianist and a diverse crowd, making it a perfect spot for pre-theater drinks and a unique dining experience. From refreshing cold borscht to nourishing buckwheat with mushrooms, the food complements the extensive cocktail menu.
The cuisine is Russian, with a strong emphasis on vodka and vodka-based cocktails, especially martinis. Standout dishes include the highly recommended cold borscht, described as vinegary and refreshing, and the nourishing kasha buckwheat with mushrooms. Other offerings like cucumber tomato salad, chicken tabaka, and Russian dumplings (pelmeni) are also available, though the borscht and kasha receive the most praise.
"The cold borscht is highly recommended for its refreshing taste, and the kasha buckwheat with mushrooms is noted as a nourishing 'sleeper hit'."
Customers generally have a positive view, praising the extensive vodka selection, lively atmosphere, and specific dishes like the cold borscht and kasha. Service has also been noted as 'cool'.
Important Note
One review suggests that the restaurant might be overpriced and of lower quality compared to Mari Vanna.
"User found Russian Vodka Room to be a fun atmosphere and doesn't mind vodka."
Positive"User described Russian Vodka Room as a fun place with Russian food, infused vodka, and a piano bar."
Positive"User noted that the beef stroganoff at Russian Vodka Room is served with buckwheat and expressed thanks."
Positive"User found the beef stroganoff at Russian Vodka Room to be pretty good a few years back and mentioned it's served with buckwheat."
Positive"This commenter implies that Russian Vodka Room is overpriced and of lower quality compared to Mari Vanna."
Negative"This user seconds the recommendation for the Russian Vodka Room, stating it's one of their favorite haunts."
Positive"This commenter suggests the Russian Vodka Room as a good option in Manhattan for trying Russian dishes."
Positive"The commenter stated their personal tipping practice is between 18-20%."
Neutral"The commenter acknowledged that tipping is a necessary aspect of American service culture."
Positive"The commenter questioned the original poster's understanding of tipping customs, implying they should be aware of the norms."
Negative"The commenter sarcastically critiqued the original poster's perceived entitlement and lack of consideration for the bartender's work, even for simple tasks like opening a can."
Negative"The commenter briefly stated that the original poster was indeed wrong."
Positive"The commenter questioned the original poster's location, comparing ordering a canned drink at a bar to ordering a bottled beer elsewhere, implying tipping is standard."
Positive"The commenter affirmed that tipping for all drinks is expected and apologized for the negative experience the original poster had."
Positive"The commenter suggested a tipping guideline of $1 for beers/shots and $2 for other drinks, regardless of the bar type."
Positive"The commenter stated that tipping the bartender is always expected, regardless of the establishment type or drink ordered. They also noted the treatment received was acceptable given the lack of a tip."
Positive"It is customary to tip bar staff, even when they simply hand over a canned drink."
Positive"Tipping is crucial for bartenders as it forms a significant part of their income. Even a small tip for future or current orders is appreciated."
Positive"The commenter suggested that if the original poster wishes to drink without tipping, they should purchase drinks from a store and consume them at home."
Positive"The commenter advised that tipping $20 for drinks would save the original poster time and effort, especially in a busy NYC dive bar."
Positive
