TLDR
Historic, old-school red sauce joint in the East Village with a surprisingly robust vegan menu and classic mob-movie charm.
Reddit Sentiment for JOHN'S OF 12TH STREET(based on 100 Reddit opinions)
Details
An old-school East Village institution, this spot is celebrated for its historic, mob-movie atmosphere and dedicated vegan menu [1], [23]. While many patrons cherish the authentic vibe and friendly service [26], [27], opinions on the food remain polarized, with some enjoying classic staples while others find the quality inconsistent [38], [58]. It remains a popular, reasonably priced choice for group outings and traditional Italian-American comfort food [23], [56].
Food Overview
The menu spans traditional Italian-American red sauce favorites alongside a distinct vegan selection [1], [23], [26]. Customers frequently praise the meatballs, calamari, and garlic bread [46], [54], [60], though some report mixed experiences with pasta dishes and butter sauces [46], [58].
Caveats
Some diners caution that the culinary consistency can be hit-or-miss, with specific complaints regarding bland seasonings and rubbery pasta textures [46], [58].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About JOHN'S OF 12TH STREET
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations Midtown East
"Does not think the food is good."
NegativeFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations Midtown East
"Fantastic and exactly what is needed for old school; great value."
PositiveFrom post: Bamontes Vs Johns Of 12th For Sunday Night Dinner
"The commenter mentions that while foodies have said the food is good, the restaurant is defined by its Village ambiance and decor."
PositiveFrom post: Bamontes Vs Johns Of 12th For Sunday Night Dinner
"The commenter finds the cuisine to be comparable to cafeteria food, despite the cool vibe."
NegativeFrom post: Bamontes Vs Johns Of 12th For Sunday Night Dinner
"The commenter has enjoyed meals here and describes the vibe as a more casual, family-run atmosphere compared to Bamonte's."
PositiveFrom post: Want To Try Seitan Whats Your Fav Dish In The
"Suggested the seitan cutlet here."
PositiveFrom post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"Suggested for a group meal."
PositiveFrom post: What Are Some Restaurants And Bars That Tony
"Filming location for a scene where a character is curb stomped."
NeutralFrom 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."
Neutral