Stylish Basque spot known for shareable plates like jamón Ibérico and duck, plus an excellent Spanish wine list [1].
Ernesto's is a stylish Basque restaurant in Manhattan, offering a lively atmosphere and a menu designed for sharing [1]. The mid-century modern decor creates a cool vibe, perfect for communal dining. Highlights include signature potato chips with jamón Ibérico and slow-braised tripe, all complemented by an excellent selection of organic and biodynamic Spanish wines [1].
Ernesto's offers a Basque and Spanish culinary experience, celebrated for its excellent pinchos, including Iberico hams and shrimp toast, and its duck dishes, considered among the finest in the city [1]. The menu also features Spanish snacks like Jamón served over potato chips and hearty options like slow-braised tripe. While some users hoped for steak options, the restaurant is primarily known for its Spanish fare, with one mention of Basque-style cheesecake being a bit overpriced [1, 2].
"The restaurant is highly recommended for its Basque-inspired dishes, particularly the pinchos like Iberico hams and shrimp toast, and its duck dishes [1]."
Customers generally have a positive view of Ernesto's, with specific praise for its Basque cuisine and shareable dishes. Some noted that while the Basque cheesecake is excellent, it can be a bit overpriced [1].
Important Note
One article notes that unshoveled sidewalks and inoperable public transit can hinder foot traffic, affecting customer willingness to dine in due to concerns about wet or dirty clothing [1].
"This user mentioned Ernesto's as the sister restaurant to Bartolo and stated it is also great."
Positive"This commenter gives an honourable mention to Ernesto's for their basque style cheesecake, but notes it's a bit overpriced."
Negative"This commenter mentioned Ernesto's as a preferred Spanish restaurant among their friends in New York."
Neutral"This commenter noted that Ernesto's is not known for serving paella regularly, but if they had a special, it would be worth trying."
Neutral"This commenter listed Ernesto's as an upscale Spanish option."
Positive"Ernesto's is donating."
Positive"The commenter expresses support for restaurants participating in the day's events and states they will patronize these establishments when possible."
Positive"Ernesto's is recommended."
Positive"User recommended Ernesto's as a dinner option."
Neutral"Ernesto’s is mentioned as a place for Basque cuisine."
Neutral"This restaurant is listed as a recommendation."
Neutral"This user mentioned Ernesto's as a personal favorite in the East Village area."
Positive"The user checked Ernesto's menu and did not find steak listed, but hopes they will add it since they recently opened."
Neutral"This restaurant may be able to source comparable American aged dairy cow meat, which is the best option found in NYC kitchens currently for a similar beef experience."
Positive"The user plans to try Ernesto's based on a recommendation."
Neutral"Ernesto's is suggested as a better alternative to Txikito for Basque cuisine."
Positive"Ernesto was simply listed as a recommendation for fried calamari."
Neutral"Ernesto was included in a comprehensive list of restaurants that did not make it onto the 2025 NY Times list."
Neutral
