Exclusive NYC spot with a chic ambiance, but divisive food reviews—some call it a must-visit, others a disappointment.
The Polo Bar offers a classic American dining experience in a sophisticated setting, often lauded for its impeccable ambiance and exclusive vibe. While many find the atmosphere and service to be top-notch, the food receives a more divided opinion, with some deeming it good but not outstanding. Securing a reservation is notoriously difficult, contributing to its allure and exclusivity, though some guests feel the effort isn't fully justified by the culinary offerings.
The food at The Polo Bar is generally described as classic American, with some reviewers finding it to be good but not exceptional, comparable to golf course food. While some dishes like the corned beef sandwich, fried olives, and coffee ice cream are praised, others like the burger and fries receive mixed to negative reviews. The 'pigs in a blanket' are frequently mentioned as being mediocre.
"While opinions on the main courses are mixed, the coffee ice cream and the corned beef sandwich have received specific praise. The fried olives served with drinks have also been highlighted as a positive."
Customers have mixed feelings about The Polo Bar, with some praising its ambiance and exclusivity, while others find the food to be underwhelming and the reservation process overly difficult. There are reports of long hold times for reservations and some express that the restaurant doesn't live up to the hype.
Important Note
The reservation process is notoriously difficult, often requiring significant persistence or connections. Some diners feel the food does not justify the effort or price, with reviews frequently comparing it unfavorably to more casual dining options.
"The commenter inquired about the menu after reading a positive review of The Polo Bar's ambiance."
Neutral"The commenter stated that Monkey Bar offers a significantly better meal and vibe compared to The Polo Bar."
Positive"The commenter sarcastically suggested that complaining about 'WASP-y' food in a 'WASP-y' restaurant is like complaining about sausage in England."
Neutral"The commenter described the food at The Polo Bar as looking abysmal."
Negative"The commenter described the food at The Polo Bar as looking abysmal."
Negative"The commenter's wife chose Monkey Bar over The Polo Bar for her birthday dinner, prioritizing good food over the difficulty of obtaining a Polo Bar reservation."
Neutral"The commenter humorously suggested the previous reviewer fits the restaurant's target demographic."
Neutral"The commenter stated that Red Hook Tavern is 'so good'."
Positive"The commenter stated that Red Hook Tavern is 'so good'."
Positive"The commenter stated they had never heard of The Polo Bar."
Neutral"The commenter stated they had never heard of The Polo Bar."
Neutral"The reviewer recounted a negative experience where they were asked to leave after a patron became aggressive towards them and the manager sided with the aggressive patron. They stated they would not return."
Negative"The commenter used a facepalm emoji to describe a fancy restaurant serving food considered a 'delicacy' at food trucks."
Negative"The commenter used a facepalm emoji to describe a fancy restaurant serving food considered a 'delicacy' at food trucks."
Negative"The commenter noted that Chicago also has exclusive restaurants and that its version of 'douchery' is comparable to NYC's, but RL in Chicago tends to attract an older crowd than The Polo Bar."
Neutral"The commenter asked if the difference between Chicago and NYC dining experiences was the reason for the contrast in restaurant vibes."
Neutral"The commenter recommended Minetta Tavern for its black label burger and Corner Bistro."
Positive"The commenter questioned if a country club ambiance was considered a positive attribute."
Neutral"The commenter recommended Temple Court for a superior dining experience."
Positive"The commenter recommended Temple Court for a superior dining experience."
Positive
