Vibrant Basque-Spanish spot with electric vibes, celebrated for its authentic pinchos, exceptional duck, and elevated Spanish snacks.
Ernesto's is a vibrant Basque-Spanish restaurant that offers a truly electric dining experience. The midcentury-modern decor creates a lively atmosphere, always buzzing with patrons. Their menu is geared towards sharing, with a strong emphasis on authentic and hearty Basque dishes. Highlights include the highly recommended pinchos, such as Iberico hams and shrimp toast, and their duck is celebrated as one of the best in the city. For a classic Spanish snack, their jamón served over potato chips is a must-try. The extensive wine list, featuring selections from small, organic, and biodynamic Spanish producers, perfectly complements the rich flavors of the cuisine.
Ernesto's specializes in Basque-Spanish cuisine, receiving widespread acclaim for its authentic flavors and quality. Standout dishes include their pinchos, particularly the Iberico hams and shrimp toast, and their duck is noted as exceptional. The jamón served over potato chips is also a popular, highly recommended item. The restaurant is considered a prime spot for those seeking genuine Basque dishes in the city.
"The pinchos, especially Iberico hams and shrimp toast, are highly recommended. Their duck is also praised as some of the best in the city, and the jamón served over potato chips is a popular, must-try item."
Customers generally have a very positive view of Ernesto's, frequently praising its authentic Basque-Spanish cuisine. It's often highlighted as a top-tier choice for this specific regional fare in NYC, with many recommending it over other establishments. The ambiance is described as lively and electric, contributing to a great overall dining experience.
Important Note
One comment places Ernesto's on a list of restaurants that did not make the 2025 NY Times list, though this is presented in a context of many restaurants being excluded.
"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"Ernestos is recommended as a higher-end dining option (no Michelin stars mentioned)."
Neutral"The author inquired if anyone had experience with Ernesto's, a Basque Spanish restaurant, mentioning it was on their radar for Spanish cuisine in NYC."
Neutral"Recommended as a Basque Spanish restaurant by a commenter when the original poster was looking for regional Spanish cuisine in NYC."
Positive"User suggests Ernesto's as a dining option."
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