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KEENS STEAKHOUSE

Updated

Phone: (212) 947-3636

Address: 72 WEST 36 STREET 10018

TLDR

An iconic 1885 institution famous for its legendary mutton chop and historic, pipe-lined atmosphere. A must-visit classic for authentic New York steakhouse vibes.

Reddit Sentiment for KEENS STEAKHOUSE(based on 499 Reddit opinions)

61% Positive22% Neutral14% Negative

Reddit Sentiment Over Time

Unique Posts Over Time

Achievements and Accolades

Achievement logo
Achievement logo

Tags

american 342steakhouse 75french 4steak 227steakhouse 72mutton chop 51View All

Neighborhoods

Midtown

Instagram Posts References

Keen's English Chop House is a legendary steakhouse in New York City, established in 1889. It is renowned for its high-quality prime steaks, particularly its signature Mutton Chop. The restaurant boasts a rich history and a classic, upscale ambiance, complete with a collection of antique pipes displayed on its walls. In addition to steaks, Keen's offers a selection of appetizers, seafood, and sides, including roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. The establishment also has an impressive bar with a wide array of whiskeys and cocktails, contributing to its status as a quintessential New York dining experience.

Keen's Steakhouse is presented as an upscale dining establishment, with an image showcasing a beautifully prepared steak, accompanied by French fries and various sauces. The presentation suggests a high-quality dining experience, ideal for steak enthusiasts.

Keens Steakhouse is a celebrated Midtown institution famous for its signature mutton chop. It also boasts a unique and extensive collection of 130-year-old pipes, adding to its historic charm.

A true New York City institution since 1885, Keens is renowned for its dry-aged steaks and historic atmosphere. It is a must-visit for its famous mutton chop, a favorite of Anthony Bourdain, and its impressive collection of pipes.

Featured Articles

Dedicated reviews and comprehensive features focusing directly on this restaurant.

Keens Steakhouse
positive

Molly Fitzpatrick reviews Keens Steakhouse, a historic Midtown Manhattan restaurant known for its legendary mutton chop and time-traveling ambiance, praising its classic dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Molly FitzpatrickMay 3, 2025
Read More →
Infatuation

Other Article Mentions

Lists, round-ups, and guides where this restaurant is mentioned alongside others.

Mentioned In
The Best Old School Restaurants In New York City
positive

An original since 1885, Keens Steakhouse boasts huge mutton chops, creamed spinach, and shrimp cocktail. Admire the collection of historic pipes adorning the ceiling and savor food that has stood the test of time.

Siobhan ReidJun 18, 2026
Mentioned In
New York Grill in Tokyo Honors a New York That Never Really Existed
neutral

Keens is a New York steakhouse that executive chefs from New York Grill visited to understand the current steakhouse scene, informing their own culinary decisions.

No author specifiedMay 13, 2026
Read More →
Grubstreet
Mentioned In
The 10 best restaurants near Bryant Park
positive

One of NYC's oldest steakhouses, Keens is renowned for its dry-aged steaks, chops, and "legendary" mutton chop, set in a historically rich, throwback decor featuring numerous tobacco pipes.

Amber Sutherland-Namako & Morgan CarterDec 9, 2024
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
NYC’s Essential Bites: A Time Capsule of Dishes to Eat Before You Die
positive

Keens Steakhouse's mutton chop is lauded as its best piece of meat, a majestic 26-ounce cut of year-old lamb saddle, described as fatty and flavorful.

Bryan KimDate unknown
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
The 38 Best Places To Eat Lunch In Midtown
positive

Molly Fitzpatrick highlights Keens Steakhouse as ideal for corporate power lunches or solo bar visits, recommending their 26-ounce mutton chop, prime rib hash, and the house burger, with a nod to the 12pm martinis.

Will HartmanDate unknown
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
The Best Steakhouses in New York City
positive

A historic Midtown steakhouse serving surprisingly good food, with standout dishes like the 'Taste of Mutton' appetizer and a perfectly cooked porterhouse.

Bryan KimDate unknown
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
New York's Oldest Restaurants: A Guide to the City's Timeless Establishments
positive

Established in 1885, Keens Steakhouse is a historic Midtown establishment known for its unique atmosphere lined with pipes and its signature mutton chop.

undefinedDate unknown
Mentioned In
The New York Steakhouse: A Timeless Classic Gets a Refresh
positive

Keens Steakhouse, a historic Midtown establishment since 1885, offers a unique ambiance with dozens of pipes lining the walls and is renowned for its signature mutton chop.

Date unknown

Details

A historic Midtown institution serving classic American fare since 1885, this steakhouse is renowned for its time-traveling atmosphere and expansive collection of antique pipes [1]. While recently acquired by a new hospitality group, the restaurant continues to draw crowds for its signature, generously portioned mutton chop [2] and its well-regarded prime rib [3]. The cozy, wood-paneled dining rooms and lively bar provide a quintessentially New York dining experience perfect for special occasions or a classic, hearty meal [4].

Food Overview

The restaurant is famous for its signature mutton chop, which is often described as tender, fatty, and flavor-forward [4]. While the prime rib and various steak cuts are popular recommendations [3], customer feedback on steak quality can be inconsistent [5]. Many also praise the hot fudge sundae [4], prime rib hash [1], and the restaurant's ability to accommodate guests with severe allergies [6].

Highlights / Recommended

"The signature 26-ounce mutton chop is the most frequently recommended dish [1], [3], followed by the prime rib [3] and the hot fudge sundae [1]."

Mentioned Dishes:

  • mutton chop(41)
  • mutton(36)
  • steak(23)
  • prime rib(22)
  • creamed spinach(11)
  • mutton chops(11)
  • sundae(10)
  • burger(10)
  • carrot cake(8)
  • porterhouse(8)
  • lobster bisque(7)
  • ribeye(7)
  • steaks(7)
  • king's cut prime rib(6)
  • fries(6)
  • taste of mutton(5)
  • prime rib hash(5)
  • bacon(5)
  • lamb chops(4)
  • butterscotch sundae(3)
  • ice cream sundae(3)
  • lamb(3)
  • hash(3)
  • porterhouse for two(3)
  • bananas foster(3)
  • creme brûlée(3)
  • kings cut prime rib(2)
  • shrimp cocktail(2)
  • turkey schnitzel(2)
  • steak salad(2)
  • scotch(2)
  • hash browns(2)
  • hash brown(2)
  • caesar salad(2)
  • filet(2)
  • coffee cantata(2)
  • mint jelly(2)

Customer Sentiment

Patrons frequently praise the restaurant for its unique, museum-like atmosphere and classic steakhouse charm [4]. However, feedback is mixed, with some diners experiencing inconsistencies in meat quality and service depending on their visit [5].

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About KEENS STEAKHOUSE

A detailed post giving a 9.6/10 rating for a meal featuring the wedge salad, mutton, and sirloin steak, calling it a top-tier NYC steakhouse experience.
A discussion thread featuring mixed reviews; many recommend the mutton chop and prime rib, while others suggest better steak options exist in the city.
A thread where many users suggest this establishment as a perfect final meal to represent New York history.

Recent Reddit Mentions

From post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve

"Notes the surprising amount of ginger flavor in the ginger ale at Keens, describing it as fresh ginger in seltzer and very refreshing."

Positive
Jun 27, 2026View Comment →

From post: Team Dinner Near 30th And Broadway 10 People For

"This commenter suggested Keens, possibly for steak, alongside Korean BBQ."

Positive
Jun 24, 2026View Comment →

From post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One

"The commenter recommended Keens' Mutton Chop and Escarole."

Positive
Jun 24, 2026View Comment →

From post: Team Dinner Near 30th And Broadway 10 People For

"This user simply recommended Keens."

Positive
Jun 24, 2026View Comment →

From post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One

"The commenter recommended Keens' mutton chop and escarole."

Positive
Jun 24, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Prime Rib Spot In Manhattan

"Responding to a negative review of Keens, this user asked if the criticism was specifically about the King Cut Prime Rib. They stated that their experience with the prime rib has been great over many visits, though they prefer other places for ribeye or other cuts."

Positive
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Prime Rib Spot In Manhattan

"This commenter stated that Keens' meat quality is terrible, despite acknowledging it has a great atmosphere. They believe the food quality needs significant improvement to be considered world-class."

Negative
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Prime Rib Spot In Manhattan

"The original poster clarified they do enjoy Keens but want to try other places. They also praised the coconut dessert and mutton there."

Positive
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Dinner Near Penn Station Looking For More High

"Keens is listed as a solid restaurant option near Penn Station, considered among the best available in the area."

Positive
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Prime Rib Spot In Manhattan

"This user asked if the original poster disliked Keens or was simply seeking variety. They recommended 4 Charles as their top choice for prime rib."

Neutral
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Dinner Near Penn Station Looking For More High

"Keens Steakhouse is suggested as a good dining option near Penn Station."

Positive
Jun 23, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Prime Rib Spot In Manhattan

"The original poster mentioned Keens, and the replier inquired if they disliked the Prime Rib or were just looking for alternatives. This replier also noted that fancy steakhouses often offer to redo orders if not executed well."

Neutral
Jun 22, 2026View Comment →

From post: Need An Amazing Steak Sandwich Under 30 Doesnt

"The top sirloin sandwich from the pub area at Keens is recommended for lunch."

Positive
Jun 22, 2026View Comment →

From post: Recommendation For Celebratory Dinner 800 Omakase

"Keane's was suggested as a potential spot for the user's celebration."

Positive
Jun 11, 2026View Comment →

From post: Recent Trip Allergenfriendly Dining Report Egg

"This commenter found Keens Steakhouse promising for their son who has multiple severe allergies (milk, egg, nut, peanut) and is cautious about cross-contamination. They note that many steak places use butter for finishing, making Keens' ability to accommodate particularly valuable."

Positive
Jun 8, 2026View Comment →

From post: Recent Trip Allergenfriendly Dining Report Egg

"The staff was very knowledgeable and helpful with allergies. They were able to prepare steak without dairy, and the fries are cooked in a dedicated fryer. The dining experience was great overall."

Positive
Jun 7, 2026View Comment →

From post: Great Places For Carnivore Husband And My Dairy

"Keen's was mentioned as a steakhouse that is often recommended in the city."

Positive
Jun 5, 2026View Comment →

From post: Need Help Selecting A Location For A Work Team

"This commenter suggested Keens, highlighting its multiple private rooms suitable for various group sizes and its ability to balance a casual drinking vibe with a nice dinner experience, also noting good shareable entrees and appetizers."

Positive
Jun 1, 2026View Comment →

From post: Strip House Is The Undisputed Best Steakhouse In

"This commenter agrees that Keens is mediocre and overrated within the NYC dining scene."

Negative
May 31, 2026View Comment →

From post: Strip House Is The Undisputed Best Steakhouse In

"This user fully agrees with negative sentiments expressed about Keens."

Negative
May 31, 2026View Comment →