Over-the-top opulent Russian, a true NYC classic with gilded ceilings & red velvet. Noted as a "Tootsie" filming site, but recent feedback questions value vs. price.
Step into a lavish and iconic New York City institution, once a filming location for "Tootsie." This Russian restaurant transports you with its opulent decor, featuring gilded ceilings and plush red velvet booths. While it offers a classic "old world" experience, recent feedback suggests that the high prices may not align with the current quality of food and service, leading many to recommend it only for cocktails or for its unique ambiance rather than a full dining experience.
The cuisine is Russian, with some mentions of American influences and afternoon tea. While classic dishes like Chicken Kiev are mentioned, feedback leans towards disappointment with food quality and value for money. Some recommend sticking to cocktails or exploring other Russian establishments for a better culinary experience.
"While some classic dishes like Chicken Kiev are mentioned, specific recommendations are scarce due to predominantly negative food feedback. The suggestion is to focus on cocktails or caviar tasting if visiting."
Customer sentiment is largely negative, with many finding the restaurant to be overpriced and not living up to its reputation or hype. While the ambiance is often acknowledged, the food quality and value are frequently criticized.
Important Note
The restaurant is frequently described as being past its prime, with many suggesting it's overpriced and not worth the full cost. Some patrons recommend visiting only for a cocktail or for sentimental reasons due to its historic and cinematic significance.
"The commenter states that Russian Tea Room has lost its quality over time and is not a good option."
Negative"The commenter advises against Russian Tea Room, stating its food is worse than Lillie's, which was described as 'mid'."
Negative"Following negative feedback, the original commenter clarified that while the Beef Wellington wasn't great, the ambiance was fun and it was freshly made."
Neutral"In response to the Russian Tea Room recommendation, this user stated it 'shouldn’t be recommended to anyone except your worst enemies'."
Negative"This commenter initially recommended the Russian Tea Room for Beef Wellington."
Neutral"The user acknowledged that while the Russian Tea Room might be overpriced and underwhelming, it's considered a classic spot for its atmosphere."
Neutral"The Russian Tea Room was mentioned as a place for tea, though its value is debated."
Neutral"The Russian Tea Room is described as horrible."
Negative"The Russian Tea Room is recommended for its 'old world' experience."
Positive"This user suggested going to the Russian Tea Room for cocktails, finding the interior and vibe interesting, including the hallways."
Neutral"Responding to a question about its quality, this user stated that while not 'per se' bad, the Russian Tea Room was oddly expensive, and they barely touched the three dishes ordered."
Negative"This user inquired if the Russian Tea Room is not good, as they had wanted to visit."
Neutral"This commenter suggested the Russian Tea Room, and in a reply, expressed that their recent experience was oddly expensive with mediocre food."
Negative"After initially being denied access to a decor piece designed by their father at the Russian Tea Room, the maitre d' became accommodating upon seeing photos, granting the users a private tour of the event room and offering ample vodka."
Positive"The commenter strongly advises against visiting The Russian Tea Room, expressing surprise that it is still in business."
Negative"This user supports Russian Samovar and notes that the Russian Tea Room would only be worth visiting for sentimental reasons, mentioning its upcoming centenary."
Neutral"This user visited the Russian Tea Room and felt their money would have been better spent elsewhere. They also commented that the cuisine and ambiance felt more European and continental than specifically Russian."
Negative"This commenter visited the Russian Tea Room in July and found it to be empty and awkward, questioning its business viability. They also described the food as terrible and even their dirty martini was bad."
Negative"The advice is to manage expectations by assuming the experience will be poor, which could lead to pleasant surprise if it's merely mediocre. The commenter suggests sticking to classics like Chicken Kiev for a potentially 'fine' meal."
Neutral"The commenter visited the Russian Tea Room once during Restaurant Week many years ago and believes that is the only price point worth considering, definitely not full price."
Neutral
