Classic NYC vibe + great food. $$$ Good for special occasions. Reservations needed.
This classic American steakhouse boasts a "sexy and cool vibe" with a "timeless good food" reputation, making it a popular choice for celebrations and casual outings alike. While it offers a refined dining experience with attentive service and a sophisticated atmosphere, reservations can be quite challenging to secure.
This American steakhouse is celebrated for its "elevated diner food," with standout dishes including the King Crab Rangoon, Caesar salad (especially the whitefish variation), French dip, and various desserts like chocolate pie and carrot cake. While the burgers, including a Wagyu option, receive mixed reviews (some find them good but plain or overrated, others highly recommend them), the consensus is that the appetizers and desserts are consistently excellent. The restaurant is also noted for its strong cocktail program, with martinis and Bloody Marys being particularly well-regarded.
"Standout dishes include the King Crab Rangoon, Caesar salad (especially the whitefish variant), French Dip, truffle mac and cheese, and various desserts like the chocolate pie and carrot cake. The regular burger is also frequently recommended over the Wagyu version."
Overall, customer sentiment leans positive, with many praising the "sexy and cool vibe," "timeless good food," and excellent cocktails. However, a minority find it overrated or too pricey, and some express disappointment with specific dishes like the burger.
Important Note
Reservations are notoriously difficult to secure, especially for larger groups. Some users have found the burger to be overrated or that the restaurant, while good, is not unique enough to prioritize. There are also concerns about the use of Sysco patties by some users, though this is not confirmed.
"This user advised checking for same-day or next-day cancellations at Monkey Bar, recommending to look about 24 hours before the desired reservation time."
Positive"This user suggested that getting a weekend reservation at Monkey Bar is generally easy and can be secured with a notification system."
Positive"This user provided specific information on Monkey Bar reservations, stating they become available 20 days in advance at 9 am."
Positive"This user speculated that Monkey Bar, being under the same ownership as Au Cheval and 4 Charles, likely serves the Au Cheval burger with the Chicago bun, though they have no direct knowledge."
Neutral"This user was able to get a seat at the bar and have a great meal at Monkey Bar without a reservation, though they note that timing is important."
Positive"Monkey Bar is considered a strong contender for the best French Dip in the city, nearly on par with Minetta."
Positive"Monkey Bar offers a great French Dip sandwich."
Positive"Monkey Bar is recommended as a favorite spot for French Dip."
Positive"Monkey Bar is listed as a highly recommended spot for French Dip."
Positive"Monkey Bar is mentioned as an alternative location for a good French Dip."
Positive"This user recommended the whitefish Caesar salad at Monkey Bar, suggesting a weekday lunch visit. They also recommended ordering the chocolate pie."
Positive"Commenter enthusiastically recommended Monkey Bar for its vibe."
Positive"Commenter described Monkey Bar as having a steakhouse vibe, being good for groups, and louder, contrasting it with Don Angie."
Positive"Commenter recommended Monkey Bar, suggesting using the app Snatch'd to book reservations."
Positive"Commenter advised that whichever restaurant, including Monkey Bar, can be reserved is the best option."
Neutral"Monkey Bar was listed as a potential restaurant suggestion."
Neutral"Commenter described Monkey Bar as an old-school New York experience with good food, recommending the caviar, roasted chicken, and pasta, but not the burger as the best item. They also mentioned the monkey bread is good for groups."
Positive"Commenter defended the question about wealth concerning reservations for Monkey Bar and Don Angie."
Neutral"Commenter recommended Monkey Bar for a birthday, noting that both it and Don Angie have competitive reservations."
Positive
