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KEENS STEAKHOUSE

Updated

Phone: (212) 947-3636

Address: 72 WEST 36 STREET 10018

$$$Mains mostly $34–$75

TLDR

Historic steakhouse landmark famous for its legendary mutton chop and extensive collection of antique pipes. Offers a quintessential, old-school New York dining atmosphere in a time-capsule setting.

Reddit Sentiment for KEENS STEAKHOUSE(based on 385 Reddit opinions)

67% Positive22% Neutral11% Negative

Reddit Sentiment Over Time

Unique Posts Over Time

Achievements and Accolades

NYT Top 100

Tags

american 299steakhouse 90french 3steak 182steakhouse 71mutton 36View All

Neighborhoods

Midtown

Instagram Posts References

This episode of 'Actually Worth the Reservation' features Keens Steakhouse, a historic New York City institution established in 1885. The reviewer starts with thick-cut bacon, praising its melt-in-your-mouth quality, but found the Caesar salad to be a miss with a slightly off dressing. The main event was a 12oz filet and a porterhouse for three, both cooked medium-rare and highly praised as the star of the meal. Sides included carrots, mashed potatoes, hash browns, fries, and spinach, all described as good but not exceptional. The restaurant is also noted as a good spot for celebrations, with banana foster and key lime pie mentioned as dessert options.

The illustration depicts a dining scene at Keen's Steakhouse, a well-known New York City establishment. The artwork, created by victoria.krylov.illustration, is part of a larger project. The image showcases a group of individuals enjoying a meal, with the restaurant's characteristic decor visible in the background, including a prominent portrait and framed pictures on the walls.

Recommended for those who want to try a "real New York steak."

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.

Featured Articles

Dedicated reviews and comprehensive features focusing directly on this restaurant.

very positive

Keens Steakhouse, a historic 140-year-old Midtown institution, remains a top destination for steak lovers, offering classic cocktails and its signature mutton chop in a timeless setting.

• Aug 5, 2026
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 Fitzpatrick • May 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 Reid • Jun 18, 2026
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 Carter • Dec 9, 2024
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
positive

A historic, atmospheric steakhouse in Midtown perfect for large groups who appreciate classic decor and expertly cooked red meat.

Bryan Kim • Nov 5, 2024
Read More →
Infatuation
Mentioned In
positive

Keens is highlighted as an old-school steakhouse destination that remains a classic part of New York's dining scene.

Eater Staff • Aug 15, 2023
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 Kim • Date 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 Hartman • Date 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 Kim • Date 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.

undefined • Date unknown

Details

Established in 1885, this historic Midtown Manhattan institution is renowned for its time-traveling atmosphere featuring thousands of antique clay pipes and rich wood paneling [1]. It is most famous for its signature mutton chop, a substantial, well-marbled cut served with mint jelly and sautéed escarole [1], [2]. While the menu is extensive, many diners consider the hot fudge sundae the standout dessert [1] and praise the bar area as an excellent spot for a classic, solo dining experience [1], [3].

Food Overview

The restaurant serves classic American steakhouse fare, with the signature mutton chop being a widely recognized, unique highlight [1], [5]. Other highly recommended items include the King's Cut prime rib [2], the prime rib hash [1], and the hot fudge sundae [1]. While many guests enjoy the steaks, some reviewers advise exploring the non-beef options or using dipping sauces like au poivre to enhance the experience [2], [6].

Customer Sentiment

Patrons frequently celebrate the restaurant's historic ambiance and classic vibe, often citing it as a must-visit NYC staple for special occasions [1], [3]. While many praise the consistent quality of the mutton and prime rib, some diners express concerns regarding high prices, occasional food inconsistency, or service lapses during busy shifts [2], [4].

Most Mentioned Dishes

  • 01
    mutton chop$73
    119 mentionsMenu: Our Legendary Mutton Chop
    Highly recommended and considered Keens' signature dish. Reviewer...
  • 02
    steak
    48 mentions
    While generally considered good and a reliable staple at this ste...
  • 03
    prime rib$89
    41 mentionsMenu: Prime Rib of Beef, King's Cut
    Considered exceptional by many, often compared favorably to other...
  • 04
    butterscotch sundae
    25 mentions
    Highly recommended and considered a standout dessert, often compa...
  • 05
    porterhouse$143
    18 mentionsMenu: Prime Porterhouse for Two
    Considered amazing and a highlight by many, this cut is praised f...
  • 06
    creamed spinach$17
    15 mentionsMenu: Keens's Creamed or Sauteed Spinach
    Praised as an indulgent and classic steakhouse side dish that per...

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About KEENS STEAKHOUSE

This discussion thread provides extensive community feedback on the restaurant, with many users debating the merits of the famous mutton chop versus their various steak cuts.
A deep dive into the restaurant's reputation, addressing its status as an iconic institution, its pricing, and comparisons to other notable NYC steakhouses.
A helpful comparative guide where regulars share tips on what to order, specifically highlighting the mutton, martinis, and preferred side dishes.

Recent Reddit Mentions

From post: Nyc Steakhouse Showdown For A 40th Birthday Keens

"The mutton chop is highly recommended and superior to any steak on the list."

Positive
Sep 21, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Mid To High End Restaurant For

"The user confirms the restaurant was already on their list and notes its appealing, cool vibe."

Positive
Sep 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Looking For A Good Mid To High End Restaurant For

"An excellent choice for the history and atmosphere, offering a unique experience that sets it apart from California steakhouses."

Positive
Sep 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Nyc Steakhouse Showdown For A 40th Birthday Keens

"The food is underwhelming compared to other steakhouses, though the atmosphere and history are good."

Negative
Sep 20, 2026View Comment →

From post: Nyc Steakhouse Showdown For A 40th Birthday Keens

"Reported poor service and cold steak, despite the restaurant's reputation."

Negative
Sep 20, 2026View Comment →

Often mentioned with Keens Steakhouse

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