MONKEY BAR
Updated
Phone: (212) 404-0365
Address: 60 EAST 54 STREET 10022
$$$Mains mostly $38.99–$79.99
TLDR
A glamorous, historic haunt offering an immersive old-school NYC vibe, perfect for classic cocktails, decadent desserts, and indulgent American comfort food.
Instagram Posts References
The post showcases a variety of brunch dishes, including two stacked burgers topped with eggs, pulled meat, tomato, and avocado. Another dish features crispy croquettes served with a dipping sauce, and a third plate presents fried shrimp with a side of sauce. The presentation of the food is elaborate, with decorative garnishes and colorful plating.
The post features Monkey Bar as one of New York's most iconic dining rooms, emphasizing its classic ambiance. A specific recommendation is given for the chocolate martini available on the dessert menu, highlighting it as a key item to try.
Monkey Bar is presented as an iconic New York City dining institution, operating since 1936. The post emphasizes its classic ambiance and recommends a specific dessert, the chocolate martini, as a must-try item. The overall sentiment suggests a place that embodies the essence of old New York.
Monkey Bar, a glamorous Midtown dining room, offers an upscale rendition of the classic American cheeseburger.
This post highlights Monkey Bar as a historic Midtown institution, operating since 1936. The author visited for a late brunch and found it packed, indicating its popularity. The small plates were consistently delicious, with the 'viral monkey bread' being the star of the show. Service was described as flawless, attentive, and warm. The restaurant is praised for its iconic ambiance and status as a New York City landmark. Specific dishes mentioned include Truffle Monkey Bread, King Crab Rangoon, Crispy Potato Pancakes, Truffle Mac & Cheese, and a Double Cheeseburger. A cocktail, the 'Tokyo Old Fashioned,' was also noted.
The post showcases a dramatic presentation of a whole Peking duck set aflame, indicating a theatrical and potentially traditional cooking or serving style. The visual emphasizes the crispy skin and succulent meat, suggesting a high-quality culinary experience. Other dishes, like stir-fried greens and a soup with duck meat, are also implied, pointing to a comprehensive Chinese dining experience.
The post highlights a restaurant that is offering a special sushi platter for customers to enjoy during the FIFA World Cup Final. Patrons have the option to dine in at the restaurant's dining room or order catering for their at-home watch parties. The post also mentions that reservations are still available via OpenTable.
The post highlights the excellent lighting at Monkey Bar, suggesting it's a great spot for photos. The author found the lighting so good that no filter was needed.
Monkey Bar is noted for its difficult-to-obtain reservations, which are released on Resy around 20-21 days in advance at 9 AM. The post specifically mentions that dinner reservations are extremely difficult to secure, especially on weekends, and gives it a rating of 9.5/10.
Monkey Bar in Midtown is recognized for its distinctive and whimsical mural that covers the walls, depicting circus-like figures and animals. This unique artwork creates a lively and memorable atmosphere.
A historic, swanky Midtown landmark under new management, serving an extravagant menu of steaks, pasta, and classic cocktails.
Details
This Midtown East destination offers a transportive, old-school New York atmosphere characterized by its historic monkey murals and red vinyl booths [1]. Under the management of the Hogsalt group, it serves an upscale American menu that consistently impresses diners [2], [3]. While securing a reservation can be quite competitive, walk-in guests often find success at the bar area [4], [5].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on elevated American classics and steakhouse staples, often served a la carte [1]. Standout items include the indulgent truffle monkey bread, savory king crab rangoon, and the highly recommended prime rib French dip [2], [3]. While many items are beloved, some guests have noted that certain dishes, such as the burger, can feel over-salted or inconsistent compared to sibling establishments [4], [5].
Diners consistently recommend the truffle monkey bread, king crab rangoon, prime rib French dip, and the signature chocolate pie [1], [2]. The wedge salad and vodka rigatoni are also frequently cited as excellent orders [3], [4].
Patrons frequently praise the vibrant, lively atmosphere and attentive service, often describing it as an essential city experience [1], [2]. However, some diners find the reservation process challenging and occasionally label the pricing as excessive for the experience provided [3], [4].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01Burger$29.9970 mentionsMenu: Double CheeseburgerThe burger is frequently debated, with some calling it excellent ...
- 02French Dip$39.9924 mentionsMenu: Prime Rib French DipThe French dip is highly recommended by multiple reviewers, with ...
- 03Crab Rangoon$29.9921 mentionsMenu: King Crab RangoonThe crab rangoon is frequently praised as the best the reviewer h...
- 04Monkey Bread$34.9919 mentionsMenu: Truffle Monkey BreadThis dish is a must-order, described as remarkably delicious, war...
- 05Caesar Salad$27.9917 mentionsMenu: Smoked Whitefish CaesarThe Caesar salad, particularly the whitefish version, is highly p...
- 06Martini$25.9515 mentionsMenu: Monkey Bar MartiniMartinis are consistently praised, with descriptions like 'great,...
Caveats
Reservations can be extremely difficult to secure, and the restaurant is generally considered unsuitable for young children due to limited amenities [1], [2]. Some diners have expressed frustration with noisy, crowded conditions at the bar and occasional inconsistencies in food quality [3], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MONKEY BAR
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: I Went To 4 Charles Prime Rib And It Didnt
"The restaurant is mentioned as sharing the same 'over-topped' burger style as 4 Charles."
NeutralFrom post: If I Always Have Great Meals At Quality Bistro
"Listed as a recommended option."
PositiveFrom post: Hard To Get Reservations That Are Now Getable And
"Still maintains high hype; martinis are recommended, though missing out on the monkey bread is a regret."
PositiveFrom post: Eloping In The Les Where Should Two Foodies
"Does not feel worth the effort."
NegativeFrom post: Has Anyone Gone To 4charles Monkey Bar Au Cheval
"The burger was the worst of the three, with bread that was difficult to bite through."
Negative