The 21 Club NYC
 

Hey everyone, I was just hoping to get your opinion on the 21 Club in NYC. I will be in the city next month and was looking for a good place to eat. A friend of mine said this was an excelent choice, so if anyone has eaten there and cares to let me know how it was, I would appreciate it.
Thanks,
Josh

We found the food in 21 very rich and heavy. Before we went there we had thought we'd like it but it definitely wasn't our favourite place to eat in NYC. Our favourite is Le Bernardin - www.le-bernardin.com - which is wonderful if you like fish (admittedly not so good if you don't!).

21 is a New York classic, and one goes as much for the history and the atmosphere as anything else - the environment is great - admittedly, the food is pricey for what it is, but the menu was updated during the Michael Lomonico era - the classics (yummy steak tartare) are still there as are some more "modern" dishes - and the bartenders are some of the best in the city - go for the experience and make a night of it.

(And then watch REAR WINDOW as Grace Kelly delivers a meal from 21 to Jimmy Stewart - what room service!!!)

i really enjoyed it & be sure to ask to see the wine cellar! I think everyone has to dine at 21 at least once in their life - just a great experience.

I've been to 21. It's very nice.

The only reason you should go to 21 , or Tavern on the Green, is to say that you've been there. Now ask me if I'd go back?

dh

Tavern on the Green isnt worth going to to just say you've been there - not anymore atleast. The only people I find still going there are the idiots from out of town (this includes jersey folk).

The 21 Club is a good time great if not some of the greatest bartenders...

-Vincent

My brother in law is a regular there & between the time he walks in the front door & back to the bar, his favorite drink & ready & waiting for him - never ceases to amaze me...!

Why 21
 

There are sooo many excellent restaurants in NYC. Check Zagats for the listing. I agree with previous poster heavy, dark, 1950's.

Can't imagine EVER trusting ZAGAT's - usually the Cheesecake Factory is on the top of their favorite restaurants in each city - scary.

There are so many aspects which go into a restaurant rating, and Zagat's, while a worthy source, is certainly not a be-all-end-all for reliability.

21 is a genuine institution, and, unlike many other "historical" places, it is NOT simply trading on its name or reputation. Yes, it offers a "classic" menu which some may feel is old-fashioned, but you don't consider GOING to 21 if you are seeking nouveau Food Channel heat - and the food is pretty darm well prepared and served. You go to 21 BECAUSE it is the kind of establishment it is, with the kind of history and ambience it has (as well as for those perfect cocktails!).

If you want to seek the heat and light, Per Se and others beckon. But 21 won't miss those who decide to go elsewhere.

Ok Thank you everyone. I will deffinately give this one a try. I'll let you all know how it was later. Thanks again.

21 will be a positive experience, but I agree with previous posters that there are way better restaurants in NYC.