Historic NYC steakhouse w/ legendary mutton chop & old-school vibe. Think pipes, history, and seriously good meat.
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.
Keens Steakhouse is a historic New York institution, renowned for its legendary mutton chop and authentic old-school ambiance. Established in 1885, it offers a unique dining experience with a palpable sense of history, featuring thousands of clay pipes and historical artifacts. While famous for its mutton, the restaurant also serves dry-aged steaks and other classic dishes like prime rib hash and a memorable hot fudge sundae.
Keens is celebrated for its legendary mutton chop, often described as tender, succulent, and a must-try. Steaks, particularly the porterhouse and prime rib, also receive high marks, though some reviewers find them slightly less exceptional than the mutton. Sides like creamed spinach and fries are consistently praised, and the hot fudge sundae is a standout dessert. While most feedback is positive, a few diners have reported issues with steak seasoning or preparation, but these appear to be outliers.
"The legendary mutton chop is universally recommended as Keens' signature dish. Other highly recommended items include the King's Cut Prime Rib, porterhouse steaks, prime rib hash, crab cocktails, thick-cut bacon, creamed spinach, and the hot fudge sundae."
Customers generally have a very positive view of Keens, praising its historic ambiance, excellent service, and particularly its signature mutton chop. While some have noted steak as only 'okay,' the overall sentiment is that it's a classic, must-visit New York establishment.
Important Note
Some diners have found the steak to be only 'okay' or underseasoned, and there have been a few reports of inconsistency in food quality or service, particularly regarding recent ownership changes. Reservations can also be difficult to secure.
"Keens is listed as an option for old-school style American steak."
Positive"Keens was mentioned as a recommendation."
Positive"This steakhouse was listed as a place where children have been observed dining, indicating it may be family-friendly."
Neutral"Recommends Keen's as a great steakhouse option."
Positive"Believes that getting bar seats at Keen's at 5 PM should not be an issue."
Positive"Suggests that the area near MSG/Penn Station has limited options and recommends Keen's for bar seats."
Positive"The original poster's plan B is to try for bar seats at Keen's if Don Angie is full. They need a dinner spot near MSG for less than 24 hours."
Neutral"The user confirms they have been to Keens Steakhouse before and enjoyed it."
Positive"The author recommends old-school steakhouses like Keen's for a proper American steak experience."
Positive"Suggests 'Creme brûlée with French fries for dipping'."
Neutral"States 'All of them' in response to the best dessert question."
Positive"This user feels the history is Keen's best asset, rating the food as mediocre and overpriced, primarily a place for 'finance bros'."
Negative"Believes the sundae is the best option and found the steak mediocre, while the lamb chops were decent."
Neutral"This user vouches for the creme brûlée and also mentions sharing an affogato."
Positive"Suggests that sundaes are the only worthwhile desserts at Keen's, as other dessert options are considered weak."
Neutral"Recommends anything 'mit schlag' (with whipped cream)."
Positive"States that the sundae is absolutely the best thing, even preferred over the steak."
Positive"Mentions 'Monster Ice Cream Special!! Featuring Bigscoop!' in response to sundae discussion."
Neutral"Highly recommends the butterscotch sundae, sharing an anecdote about accidentally knocking it over but still enjoying it immensely."
Positive"Prefers the creme brûlée for its custard texture, finding other desserts less appealing. They note it's not made in a traditional manner but fits their preference for classic, unsurprising choices."
Positive
