TLDR
Upscale Basque-inspired plates and exceptional sherry in a stylish, modern LES setting. Perfect for sharing tapas with friends or an intimate date night.
Details
Located in the Lower East Side, this stylish Basque-inspired destination offers a lively atmosphere and a menu perfect for sharing [1]. Guests can enjoy signature dishes like potato chips with jamón Ibérico alongside a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring organic and biodynamic Spanish options [1]. The restaurant's modern, brick-walled space has made it a popular spot for both casual outings and romantic dates [1], [2].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Basque and Spanish regional cuisine, featuring crowd-pleasers like tapas-style sandwiches and signature potato chips with jamón Ibérico [1], [6]. While the Spanish omelette is a popular request, some diners note it falls short of the traditional experience found in Spain [6]. Recommended dishes include the Basque-style cheesecake, though it has received feedback regarding its pricing [5].
Highlights / Recommended
"Popular items include the signature potato chips with jamón Ibérico, tapas-style sandwiches, and the Basque-style cheesecake [1], [5], [6]."
Customer Sentiment
Patrons frequently praise the high-quality menu and the restaurant's status as a local favorite, often highlighting its excellent selection of sherry and vermouth [3], [4]. While generally well-regarded, some guests find specific items like the Basque cheesecake to be slightly overpriced [5].
Caveats
The establishment does not serve paella on a regular basis, though it may appear as a special [7]. Additionally, some patrons have noted that certain items, such as the cheesecake, can be perceived as overpriced [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ERNESTO'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Bars With A Good Vermouth List Other Than Bar
"This user mentioned Ernesto's as a potential place with a good vermouth selection."
PositiveFrom post: Bars With A Good Vermouth List Other Than Bar
"This user noted that Ernestos is more of a restaurant but has an excellent selection of sherry and vermouth."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best Thing Youve Eaten In The Past Week
"A tapas-style sandwich at Ernesto's was mentioned as a positive food experience."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish
"This commenter strongly agrees with the recommendation for Ernesto's, calling it a great place."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Spanish
"Ernesto's is recommended as a place that satisfies cravings for Spanish omelettes, though the commenter notes it doesn't fully replicate the taste from Spain."
NeutralFrom post: Which Would You Choose The Corner Store Or 4
"This user mentioned Ernesto's as the sister restaurant to Bartolo and stated it is also great."
PositiveFrom post: Cheesecake
"This commenter gives an honourable mention to Ernesto's for their basque style cheesecake, but notes it's a bit overpriced."
NegativeFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter mentioned Ernesto's as a preferred Spanish restaurant among their friends in New York."
NeutralFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter noted that Ernesto's is not known for serving paella regularly, but if they had a special, it would be worth trying."
NeutralFrom post: Upscale Spanish Restaurant
"This commenter listed Ernesto's as an upscale Spanish option."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurantsbars Taking Part Today On 13026
"Ernesto's is donating."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurantsbars Taking Part Today On 13026
"The commenter expresses support for restaurants participating in the day's events and states they will patronize these establishments when possible."
PositiveFrom post: Where Should I Take My Uncle Offbrand Anthony
"Ernesto's is recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Need A Rec For Saturday Dinner Les Looking For
"User recommended Ernesto's as a dinner option."
NeutralFrom post: Regional Cuisine That Isnt The Stereotypical
"Ernesto’s is mentioned as a place for Basque cuisine."
NeutralFrom post: Where Are The Service Industry Peeps Dining
"This restaurant is listed as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Whatre The Best Restaurants In East Village Noho
"This user mentioned Ernesto's as a personal favorite in the East Village area."
Positive