Clubby NYC dining w/ challenging reservations, but great vibes & classic American fare. Worth the hype for many.
This upscale American restaurant offers a clubby, sophisticated ambiance reminiscent of a private members' club, attracting a discerning clientele. While reservations are notoriously difficult to secure, many find the experience, atmosphere, and classic American dishes, such as the corned beef sandwich and excellent desserts, to be worth the effort. It's a prime spot for those seeking an elegant night out with potential for celebrity sightings.
The American cuisine here is characterized by classic dishes, with particular praise for appetizers like 'Pigs & Blanket' and 'Caviar & Potatoes,' as well as desserts such as the Coconut Cake and Chocolate Brownie. The corned beef sandwich and coffee ice cream also receive positive mentions. While some find the food excellent and
"While opinions are divided, the corned beef sandwich, appetizers like 'Pigs & Blanket,' and desserts such as the coconut cake and chocolate brownie are frequently highlighted as excellent. The coffee ice cream and hot fudge sundae have also received strong praise."
Customers generally praise the sophisticated ambiance and classic American dishes, finding it a worthwhile splurge despite difficult reservations. However, a notable segment of feedback criticizes the food as mediocre and not living up to the hype, alongside issues with the reservation process and a perceived 'WASP-y' or exclusive vibe.
Important Note
Reservations are extremely difficult to obtain and often require persistent effort or connections. Some diners feel the food does not live up to the hype or the price point, and the ambiance can be perceived as exclusive or 'WASP-y'.
"Polo Bar is recommended as an American dining option in Midtown."
Positive"Found Polo Bar's food and drinks to be good but detests the reservation process, arrogant service, and 'waspy' vibe."
Negative"Suggests calling Polo Bar closer to the date as people often cancel reservations."
Neutral"Criticizes Polo Bar's ambiance, calling it 'sad and mid' and comparing it to a 'nursing home cafeteria' due to the older clientele."
Negative"Offers to help the original poster secure a table at Polo Bar, mentioning there are ways to get tables beyond the initial release."
Neutral"Describes Polo Bar's food as 'awful' and 'country club tier', and dislikes the reservation process, service, and vibe."
Negative"Unable to get a reservation at Polo Bar after trying unsuccessfully."
Negative"States they were never a fan of Polo Bar's food."
Negative"The Polo Bar is listed as a restaurant suggestion for the anniversary occasion."
Neutral"Polo Bar is listed as a restaurant that the commenter has really enjoyed for ball-out meals, noting it's hard to get into and pricey but has good food and a great vibe for celebrating."
Positive"This commenter listed Polo Bar as a restaurant that often comes up in discussions about hyped places."
Neutral"This commenter stated that Polo Bar was one of the biggest disappointments they had experienced."
Negative"The author, Bryan Kim, mentioned The Polo Bar as one of the spots he has reviewed. His role is editorial lead for Infatuation in NYC."
Neutral"The user mentioned getting into Polo Bar for dinner during odd dining times and considered the experience to be worth it."
Positive"This user expressed reluctance to dine at Polo Bar, citing multiple reviews that described the experience as mediocre, despite their desire to eat there."
Negative"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
