TLDR
Classic red sauce Italian w/ extensive vegan menu. Known for its old-school vibe & Sopranos filming location [1], [2].
Reddit Sentiment for JOHN'S OF 12TH STREET(based on 105 Reddit opinions)
Details
John's of 12th Street is a highly recommended, old-school Italian restaurant known for its traditional red sauce ambiance and extensive vegan menu options [1]. It's celebrated for its classic charm, suitability for various guests, and even its role as a filming location [2], [3]. While many praise its meatballs, chocolate cheesecake, and martinis, some diners have found certain dishes disappointing or average, though the calamari and garlic bread receive specific praise [4], [5].
Food Overview
This Italian restaurant is lauded for its classic red sauce fare and an impressive vegan menu, featuring items like Seitan Marsala [1], [2]. Specific dishes receiving praise include the meatballs, chocolate cheesecake, calamari, and garlic bread [3], [4]. However, some patrons have found certain pasta dishes and chicken to be average or disappointing, with a warning against butter sauce options [5], [6].
Highlights / Recommended
"The chocolate cheesecake and calamari are frequently highlighted as exceptional dishes. For entrees, the lasagna and pasta with meatballs receive positive mentions, though some advise caution with chicken dishes and butter sauces [1], [2]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •chicken parm(5)
- •ragu(2)
- •calamari(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customers largely praise the restaurant for its authentic, old-school Italian atmosphere and extensive vegan options. However, opinions on food quality are mixed, with some finding it disappointing while others rave about specific dishes like the calamari and garlic bread [3], [4], [5].
Caveats
Some diners have expressed that the restaurant might be living on its reputation, with food quality being a point of contention for a few. It's also noted that the restaurant was closed on Christmas Day [1], [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About JOHN'S OF 12TH STREET
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Johns Or Genes Ive Been To Both But Im On The
"The Spiedini alla Romana with anchovy sauce is recommended at John's on 12th St."
PositiveFrom post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One
"The commenter mentioned the carbonara from John's on 13th street circa 1995."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"John's of 12th Street was mentioned as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Restaurants Similar To San Marzano East Village
"This is an affordable Italian restaurant option, and a link to its menu is provided."
PositiveFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"After confusion about locations, this user admitted to confusing John's of 12th Street with John's of Bleecker, apologizing for the incorrect suggestion."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This commenter notes John's of 12th Street is known as the location where Tony Soprano curb-stomped Coco. They rate the food as 'okay,' about a 6/10."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This user clarified that the previous comment about John's of 12th Street possibly being confused with John's of Bleecker was correct and apologized for the mix-up."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This user expressed significant disappointment with John's of 12th Street, stating they were 'majorly let down' and are not a fussy eater."
NegativeFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"Responding to a question about the 'vibes' at John's of 12th Street, this user inquires if the atmosphere is geared towards tourists or if it's genuinely a good place to hang out, even if the food is only serviceable."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This user had a negative experience with heartburn after eating at John's of 12th Street ten years ago, suggesting that places like it and Monte's on Bleeker are loved for their vibe rather than their food."
NegativeFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This user strongly advises against John's of 12th Street, stating it's not good despite its appearance and recommends Frank or Lil Frankie's in the East Village as much better Italian-American alternatives at the same price point."
NegativeFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"The user advises that at a place like John's of 12th Street, one should order classic dishes that have been served for decades rather than experimental items on the menu."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This comment provides an address for 'Sam's Place' (132 E 39th) as a local's choice, implying it's a better option than John's of 12th Street."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"A brief comment stating that John's of 12th Street is fun and good for what it is."
NegativeFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"John's of 12th Street is described as 'fine' with large portions and a reasonable price. The user suggests Bamonte's as a slightly better option for old-school, no-frills Italian dining."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"A short, positive statement indicating that John's of 12th Street is 'really good'."
PositiveFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This commenter agrees that the calamari at John's of 12th Street is exceptional and highly recommends it."
PositiveFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This user clarified that Faicco's is a different type of place and location, responding to a suggestion to go there instead of John's of 12th Street."
NeutralFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"This commenter praised the lasagna at John's of 12th Street, noting the cheap house wine, free bread, and the restaurant's cool historic atmosphere. They highlighted that while reservations are recommended a week in advance, walk-ins are usually accommodated, making it a good mix of accessibility and experience."
PositiveFrom post: Johns Of 12th Street Is It Any Good Suggestions
"As a vegetarian who enjoys mob movie aesthetics, this user finds John's of 12th Street perfect and lists it as one of their two favorite places, also mentioning a liking for the 'john s old fashioned' drink."
Positive