Escape to an Alice in Wonderland-themed fantasy w/ opulent, whimsical decor. Perfect for magical dates & afternoon tea, but expect a lively, sometimes zoo-like vibe.
Step into a whimsical wonderland at Oscar Wilde's, a visually stunning American restaurant that immerses you in an Alice in Wonderland-inspired fantasy. With its opulent decor, elaborate floral arrangements, and unique themed experience, it's a must-visit for a magical date night or a delightful afternoon tea. While the ambiance is a major draw, be prepared for a lively, sometimes zoo-like atmosphere, especially on weekends.
The restaurant offers American cuisine with a focus on visually appealing dishes and themed cocktails. While some specific items like the 'crispy calamari' and 'The Butcher's Sandwich' (a Philly cheese steak) have received high praise, other feedback suggests that food and drinks can be mediocre and overpriced, especially considering the energetic atmosphere. It's particularly known for its afternoon tea service and happy hour deals on oysters.
"While specific dishes receive mixed reviews, the 'crispy calamari' and 'The Butcher's Sandwich' (a Philly cheese steak) have been praised. The restaurant is also known for its happy hour oysters and its elaborate afternoon tea service."
Customers are captivated by the restaurant's stunning, whimsical decor and unique themed atmosphere, often recommending it for special occasions and dates. However, many note that the lively, often loud atmosphere, particularly on weekends, can detract from the dining experience.
Important Note
The restaurant can be extremely loud and crowded, especially on weekend nights, described as a 'zoo' or 'madhouse.' This atmosphere may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet or intimate dining experience. Some reviews suggest the quality of food and drinks does not match the price or the excessive decor, and that the restaurant may be considered a tourist trap or has declined in quality since its opening.
"Oscar Wilde is suggested as a suitable option for a date."
Positive"Oscar Wilde is mentioned as a place to go before heading to Izakaya Seasun for food."
Neutral"This restaurant was suggested as one of many options near the user's location. It's considered a good choice depending on the user's food preferences."
Neutral"This establishment was mentioned as a potential dinner option for first-time visitors to NYC, located near Hell's Kitchen/Hudson Yards. The user is considering it among other places."
Neutral"The user agrees with previous comments that the initially listed restaurants, such as Oscar Wilde, are not good options and suggests exploring other places."
Negative"The user strongly advises against the restaurants mentioned, including Oscar Wilde, stating they are not good and are often promoted through discount platforms like Groupon because they lack appeal."
Negative"The user suggests that the listed restaurants, including Oscar Wilde, will likely leave a visitor unimpressed with NYC's culinary scene and advises against them."
Negative"Oscar Wilde"
Neutral"Food and drink were mediocre. Annoyed by having to purchase fries separately for an almost $30 burger. Feels the decorations are its best feature."
Negative"Prefers their Halloween decorations over the Christmas ones."
Neutral"Commenter agrees it was better a few years ago."
Negative"Recommended for lunch when it's super chill and pleasant, contrasting with nighttime which is 'insane' and requires screaming to be heard."
Neutral"Characterized as 'vulgar and gauche', comparing it unfavorably to a 'Victorian-themed TGI Fridays with a pretentious Instagram account'."
Negative"Liked more as a day drinking spot as it's less of a 'madhouse', even though it still looks like one."
Neutral"Drinks are considered decent but not the best. The commenter would go more often if it wasn't such a 'madhouse'."
Neutral"Points out that expecting a popular bar to be quiet on a weekend is unrealistic."
Neutral"Used to be very cool when it first opened, but is now considered a tourist trap."
Negative"Provides context: opened in 2017, started catering to Instagram crowd around 2019. Notes the weekday vibe is still like it was when it opened."
Neutral"Suggests that a loudly flamboyant atmosphere should be expected given the name."
Neutral"Called 'Garbage'. Drinks and food are described as very mediocre. The cool look fades quickly and 'everything about it sucks'."
Negative