Last Updated: 8 days ago
Phone: (212) 475-9531
Address: 302 EAST 12 STREET 10003
Old-school Italian red sauce joint w/ a legit vibe. Known for classic dishes & surprisingly robust vegan options.
This East Village institution has been serving up classic Italian-American fare since 1908, offering a taste of old-school New York. It's praised for its charming, non-touristy atmosphere, reminiscent of a bygone era, and its commitment to traditional red sauce dishes. The restaurant also stands out for its surprisingly extensive vegan menu, making it a versatile choice for diverse dining groups.
This restaurant specializes in classic Italian-American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on traditional red sauce dishes. Reviewers frequently mention the excellent meatballs and the overall comforting, nostalgic food experience. Notably, the establishment offers a dedicated vegan menu that includes items like seitan marsala, seitan parm, and vegan meatballs, satisfying a wider range of dietary preferences.
"The meatballs are frequently singled out as exceptional, with one commenter calling them the best in the city. The chocolate cheesecake is also highly praised, with claims of it being better than Veniero's. The restaurant also offers a notable vegan menu with items like seitan marsala and seitan parm."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the authentic, old-school atmosphere and the quality of traditional Italian-American dishes. The addition of a comprehensive vegan menu is also frequently highlighted as a significant positive.
Important Note
One commenter noted a past concern about the restaurant being cash-only, though this was later addressed and confirmed to be no longer the case. Another user expressed a negative dining experience, finding the food inedibly bad, though this is contrary to the general sentiment.
"This user seconded the recommendation for John's of 12th Street."
Positive"This commenter noted that John's of 12th St is 'Soprano approved'."
Positive"John's of 12th Street is recommended for its old-school vibes and friendly service."
Positive"John's of 12th was suggested for serviceable red sauce Italian food with great old-school vibes, described as a place to take people who are not necessarily seeking a trendy dining experience."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is suggested as a good option for an old-school Italian experience, with a note that Arthur Ave in the Bronx also offers an authentic Italian environment."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is recommended for its very good food, old-school vibe, and Sopranos filming history. The ragu dish is specifically mentioned."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is a favored spot and is also vegan-friendly."
Positive"This commenter agrees that John's of 12th St. is delicious and has been used as a filming location for shows and movies."
Positive"This is considered the best option for an old-school Italian experience. It's been around for a long time, offers good food and atmosphere, and has been featured in movies and shows. The nearby Veniero's pastry shop is also recommended."
Positive"The original poster is booking a table at John's of 12th St. because it seems to offer the perfect balance of what they are looking for."
Positive"The original poster is considering John's of 12th St., along with Patsy's and Arthur & Sons."
Positive"This commenter's children enjoy John's of 12th St., specifically mentioning the garlic bread and cannoli."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is considered the safest bet for a classic red sauce Italian experience."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is recommended as one of the only two correct answers for an old-school Italian experience."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is a good option, and a Sopranos scene was filmed there. Pietro's in midtown is also recommended as an alternative with better food."
Positive"A scene from The Sopranos was filmed at John's of 12th St., adding to its classic appeal."
Positive"John's of 12th St. is recommended as an excellent, non-touristy, and reasonably priced choice for an old-school Italian meal."
Positive"This is a highly recommended, kid-friendly, old-school Italian restaurant."
Positive"John's on 12 is mentioned as a suggestion."
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