Classic NYC haunt w/ glamorous vibe & great cocktails [1, 2]. Known for Wagyu burger & French Dip [2, 3], but reservations r tough [2, 4]. Worth a splurge for ambiance & desserts like carrot cake [1, 4].
Monkey Bar, a classic New York establishment in Midtown, is lauded for its old-school charm, lively bar scene, and refined American comfort food [1]. While known for its glamorous ambiance and celebrity sightings, securing reservations can be challenging [2]. Popular dishes include the Wagyu Cheeseburger and French Dip, though some patrons suggest the burgers may not surpass those at sibling restaurants like 4 Charles [3]. The restaurant also boasts memorable desserts, such as a decadent chocolate pie [4].
Monkey Bar is celebrated for its American cuisine, with standout dishes including the Wagyu Cheeseburger, French Dip, and Caesar salad. The truffle monkey bread and carrot cake are also frequently mentioned as delicious desserts. While many praise the food, some Reddit users suggest that while good, certain dishes like the burger may not reach the same heights as those at sister restaurants like 4 Charles. There are also mixed reviews on whether certain dishes, like the prime beef sandwich, are worth the price, with some finding them bland or over-salted [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
"Highly recommended dishes include the Wagyu Cheeseburger, French Dip sandwich, Caesar salad, truffle monkey bread, and the carrot cake. Many also praise the cocktails, particularly the espresso martini."
Customer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for Monkey Bar's "sexy and cool vibe," cocktails, and food, particularly its Caesar salad and French Dip [1, 2]. While some find the burger overrated or the overall experience less unique, the restaurant is consistently recommended for its ambiance and as a classic New York experience [3, 4].
Important Note
Securing reservations at Monkey Bar can be very difficult, with many users suggesting strategies like using reservation apps, checking for cancellations, or trying to walk in early, especially on weeknights. Some users also find the bar area to be crowded and noisy, and it is not recommended for young children due to a lack of amenities like high chairs or booster seats. There are also differing opinions on the value proposition, with some finding certain dishes, like the burger, to be overrated or overpriced.
"This user lists Monkey Bar as a place to consider."
Neutral"Monkey Bar was recommended as having excellent food and a beautiful room, though it's noted as a difficult reservation to get. This commenter also recommended 425 and Oceans."
Positive"Monkey Bar was listed among several other restaurant recommendations."
Neutral"The commenter identified Monkey Bar as a good pick from the original poster's list and suggested Waverley Inn as a higher-budget alternative with similar vibes. They also recommended Hutong as a replacement for Tao."
Positive"The commenter suggested that Monkey Bar is better for lunch and a stroll through Central Park, implying it might not be ideal for a romantic dinner."
Neutral"The original poster is looking for romantic/special dinner spots on the Lower East Side for a Monday-Thursday night. They prefer places with dramatic rooms, low lighting, interesting decor, and hearty/shareable food over experimental or tasting menus. They have found Cecci's, La Lanterna di Vittorio, Tao Downtown, and Monkey Bar as potential options and are seeking further recommendations."
Neutral"The original poster is looking for romantic/special dinner spots on the Lower East Side for a Monday-Thursday night. They prefer places with dramatic rooms, low lighting, interesting decor, and hearty/shareable food over experimental or tasting menus. They have found Cecci's, La Lanterna di Vittorio, Tao Downtown, and Monkey Bar as potential options and are seeking further recommendations."
Neutral"This user countered the previous statement, claiming to be correct and that no sources support the other user's definition of shoestring fries."
Negative"This user insisted their classification of Monkey Bar's fries as shoestring was correct and told the other user to 'read a book'."
Neutral"This user disagreed with the classification of Monkey Bar's fries as shoestring, stating that McDonald's fries are shoestring."
Negative"This user considers shoestring fries a 'farce' and recommended Monkey Bar's burger and regular fries as a cheaper, excellent alternative."
Negative"The user suggested Monkey Bar as a lively option for a grad dinner for a party of 8, recommending booking as soon as possible due to high demand during grad season."
Positive"This user simply agreed with the recommendation for Monkey Bar."
Positive"Monkey Bar is suggested as a place with a good French Dip."
Positive"The original poster notes Monkey Bar no longer takes reservations but plans to join the waitlist."
Neutral"This commenter advises that reservations might be needed for Monkey Bar to avoid being turned away, as walk-ins are not guaranteed."
Neutral"Had a solo lunch at Monkey Bar and they comped a beer upon mentioning it was the user's birthday."
Positive"This commenter advises against Monkey Bar for an old-school steakhouse experience before a show, citing it's often crowded with limited bar seating, and suggests Gallagher's as a better alternative."
Negative"The original poster plans to walk into Monkey Bar for a classic old-school NY feel before a Broadway show."
Positive"The original poster mentioned Monkey Bar for drinks and apps as part of their itinerary."
Neutral
