TLDR
Upscale casual American dining staple known for its cult-following French dip and consistently high-quality scratch-made menu.
Reddit Sentiment for HILLSTONE MANHATTAN(based on 104 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
Hillstone is highlighted for a decadent chocolate brownie dessert. This rich, dense brownie is topped with a scoop of ice cream, a caramel drizzle, and chopped nuts, creating a delightful combination of textures and sweet flavors. The presentation is completed with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
The reviewer details a highly positive dining experience at Hillstone, noting that it exceeded expectations. They particularly enjoyed the crushed green grape cocktail, describing it as refreshing. The spinach and artichoke dip was rated 10/10, with the reviewer suggesting the accompanying salsa was unnecessary. The stacked sushi was also praised for being delicious and fresh. The chicken sandwich was highlighted as the absolute star of the show, with the reviewer stating they had never had a better one. A salad was also described as flavorful and delicious. The only slight disappointment was the french fries, which were found to be too thin, although they were still consumed.
The reviewer discusses their experience at Hillstone Park Avenue, mentioning that the restaurant is somewhat overpriced and reservations are hard to secure. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer found the experience to be very good. Specifically, the pressed sushi was noted as delicious but small, and the goat cheese olives in the martini were described as amazing. The chicken sandwich also received positive feedback. While not a place the reviewer would actively seek out, they would gladly return if a reservation was readily available.
Details
Renowned for its 'shockingly reliable' quality and upscale casual atmosphere, this Manhattan institution is a frequent favorite for both locals and visitors [1], [2]. While it functions as a small national chain, many diners consistently return for its scratch-made American fare [3], [4]. Despite occasional debates regarding its value and reservation difficulty, the consistent dining experience remains a major draw [5], [6].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on elevated American comfort food, with the French dip sandwich frequently cited as an 'all-time favorite' and a city benchmark [8], [10]. Other standout dishes include the spinach and artichoke dip, which received a perfect 10/10 rating [11], and the Hawaiian Ribeye, which is often preferred over offerings from specialized steakhouses due to its unique marinade and char [12]. While some diners praise the ribs and Caesar salad [13], [14], others have noted that the shoestring fries can be unexpectedly thin [11].
Highlights / Recommended
Mentioned Dishes:
- •french dip(17)
- •martini(5)
- •chicken sandwich(3)
- •ribs(3)
- •spinach artichoke dip(2)
- •sushi(2)
- •caesar salad(2)
- •flying chicken platter(2)
- •coleslaw(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customer sentiment is largely positive, with many diners praising the establishment as a reliable, high-quality choice for a consistent meal [1], [7]. However, opinions are occasionally polarized by the restaurant's chain status and the competitive challenge of securing a reservation [8], [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HILLSTONE MANHATTAN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Hillstone Park Ave Closing No Reservations
"The commenter expresses confusion over the restaurant's popularity, comparing it unfavorably to a chain establishment."
NegativeFrom post: Hillstone Park Ave Closing No Reservations
"The diner experienced poor service where all food was delivered simultaneously, and staff were rude regarding the use of a laptop."
NegativeFrom post: Hillstone Park Ave Closing No Reservations
"The author argues that the restaurant has declined in quality due to poor staffing and management, making it feel overpriced for the service received."
NegativeFrom post: Where To Take Picky Parents Out To Brunch Dinner
"Suggests sitting at the bar for burgers, comparing them favorably to Shake Shack."
PositiveFrom post: Where To Take Picky Parents Out To Brunch Dinner
"The food is standard fare but consistently good and reliable."
PositiveFrom post: Is There A Place Where Steak And Sushi Is Served
"Highly recommended for the user's needs, specifically praising their sides."
PositiveFrom post: Is There A Place Where Steak And Sushi Is Served
"Recommended for the user's inquiry."
PositiveFrom post: Is There A Place Where Steak And Sushi Is Served
"Briefly recommended for the user's inquiry."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Reliably Get Prime Rib Roast Beef In
"User expresses love for Hillstone but notes they only serve a prime rib sandwich now."
NeutralFrom post: Where Can I Reliably Get Prime Rib Roast Beef In
"Suggests Hillstone as a higher-end chain alternative."
PositiveFrom post: Salt Hank Phenomenal Sandwich But Very Rude Staff
"Mentioned as a reliable, high-quality reference point for a French dip sandwich."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For A Nice Dinner For Two 200 All Told In
"A lovely, quiet place with good food."
PositiveFrom post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One
"The commenter recommended the ribs and Caesar salad at Hillstone."
PositiveFrom post: Team Dinner Near 30th And Broadway 10 People For
"This commenter recommended Hillstone and stressed the importance of making reservations ASAP."
PositiveFrom post: Need An Amazing Steak Sandwich Under 30 Doesnt
"In response to a comment questioning the price and inclusion of sides, the replier defended the suggestion of the $33 sandwich as a reasonable option for an excellent meal."
PositiveFrom post: Need An Amazing Steak Sandwich Under 30 Doesnt
"A user pointed out that the recommended sandwich exceeds the requested budget of under $30 and includes sides, questioning the relevance of the suggestion."
NegativeFrom post: Need An Amazing Steak Sandwich Under 30 Doesnt
"The French Dip sandwich at Hillstone is recommended and costs $33."
PositiveFrom post: Best Caesar Salad With A Vinaigrettey Dressing In
"Hillstone is mentioned as a potential place for a Caesar salad with the desired dressing style, though it's uncertain if they still chop it."
NeutralFrom post: Wheres The Best French Dip In Brooklyn Manhattan
"The user finds Hillstone's French Dip to be a surprisingly good, albeit basic, option. Other users agreed, stating that it's their best dish and a great chain."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This user asked if Houston's, known as Hillstone in NYC, might fit the bill."
Neutral