Historic tavern with Revolutionary War roots; enjoy classic American fare & a unique atmosphere.
Molly Fitzpatrick reviews Fraunces Tavern, a historic Financial District institution dating back to 1762, noting its George Washington connections and reliable, albeit unexceptional and pricey, pub fare.
Step back in time at Fraunces Tavern, a historic Financial District institution dating back to 1762, renowned for its deep ties to American history, including hosting George Washington. While the tavern offers a unique atmosphere and a glimpse into the past with its colonial-ambiance dining rooms and museum, the culinary experience garners mixed reviews. Patrons can enjoy classic pub fare like burgers and pot pies, but should be aware that while the historical significance is undeniable, the food itself can be inconsistent and pricey.
Fraunces Tavern offers American and Pub Cuisine. While dishes like the chicken pot pie and burgers are mentioned, customer feedback on the food is varied. Some reviewers find the food unexceptional and pricey, citing issues like a thin filling in the pot pie or a rare burger. Others highlight specific dishes like the 'great chicken pot pie' and good burgers with excellent sweet potato fries.
"The chicken pot pie is frequently recommended, with one user calling it 'great' and particularly good in winter. The Tavern Burger is also mentioned positively, especially for its accompanying sweet potato fries."
Customers generally have a positive view of Fraunces Tavern, appreciating its historical significance and atmosphere. However, opinions on the food are more mixed, with some finding it unmemorable or overpriced, while others enjoy specific dishes.
Important Note
Some reviews suggest the food can be unexceptional and overpriced.
"The user recommends Fraunces Tavern for its chicken pot pie, especially in the winter."
Positive"Fraunces Tavern has cool historical aspects but the food is only considered okay. The commenter suggests calling Industry Kitchen to see if they can accommodate and checking out Malibu Farm at Pier 17 for a chill vibe suitable for families."
Neutral"Fraunces Tavern is described as having solid food, being kid-friendly, and offering a good vibe. It's suggested to make a reservation in advance and request seating in the front for a historic feel. The author also mentions Funny Face Bakery in the Seaport for excellent chocolate chip cookies."
Positive"Fraunces Tavern is recommended as a good choice with very good food, multiple dining areas suitable for different preferences, and a kids' menu."
Positive"The food at Fraunces Tavern is described as being very bad."
Negative"Fraunces Tavern is considered the best historical option because it is in the same building as the original, even though it has undergone changes. It has been owned by a historical society since 1904 and operates as both a museum and restaurant."
Positive"Fraunces Tavern is mentioned as the oldest restaurant in NYC, and the commenter is unsure if it fits the user's specific historical theme."
Neutral"Heywhatsuphello29 suggests Fraunces Tavern, noting they have a "great chicken pot pie" which might be a close alternative to vol au vent."
Positive"A commenter states there is nothing particularly historic about Fraunces Tavern's actual menu offerings."
Negative"A commenter agrees Fraunces Tavern is historically significant ('George Washington clout') but finds the food just 'okay'."
Neutral"A commenter recommends checking out Fraunces Tavern for its history (1762, Revolutionary War), calling it the oldest bar in NYC. However, they found the food unmemorable ('mid') and recalled an incident where a well-done burger order came out rare."
Neutral"The bar area is recommended, especially if the relative is patriotic."
Positive"Lists Fraunces Tavern (misspelled as Frances) as a recommendation for the work dinner."
Positive"A commenter suggests visiting bars that offer a sense of NYC history, listing Fraunces Tavern as an example."
Neutral"A commenter suggests adding variety by including old historic bars like Fraunces Tavern."
Neutral"A dog was given a lap cloth napkin tucked into his collar."
Negative"Harry’s = Agree; FT = respectfully disagree. Both are a bit dark wood for Wedding Day."
Negative"Fraunces is the place, Full Irish weekends only starting at 11; it’s owned/run by people from Ireland"
Positive"Fraunces Tavern has New England Clam Chowder on their menu"
Neutral
