Grand Central Oyster Bar

Review summary

1. l

   laura

   VIP

   New York City

   7 reviews

   1.0

   7 reviews

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 1
   2. Food 1
   3. Service 1
   4. Ambience 2

   Waited over 40 minutes for a waiter and they were out of essentially halt the menu and sides. The first waiter was terrible. The second tried to help but there was no saving this meal.
   

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2. S

   Steve

   New York City

   2 reviews

   3.0

   2 reviews

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 2
   3. Service 1
   4. Ambience 5

   Iconic place great for a one-time experience, as it is a formidable landmark. However, the service was so bad the waiters were embarrassed. We waited almost a half hour before anyone even approached us. Two of the three who were near us spoke broken English, meaning they could not explain the specials. Our main waiter never knew the answers to our queries as what was something with 'fun' name. He was never sure what they had run out of, which turned out to be almost all specials and many of the regular dishes. Admittedly, this was later on Friday night and they were almost filled. But, at those prices, NO EXCUSES! Terribly over priced, I felt like this was a Disneyland experience, not a real restaurant. Also, be warned: most dishes are very plain, by design. Fresh fish, simple prep, etc.... except for the specials.
   

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3. R

   Ron

   Cleveland

   3 reviews

   5.0

   3 reviews

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   A Timeless New York Gem: The Grand Central Oyster Bar If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of New York City, The Grand Central Oyster Bar is an absolute must. Nestled beneath the iconic, vaulted ceilings of Grand Central Terminal, this legendary seafood haven delivers history, charm, and some of the freshest oysters and seafood in the city. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a bygone era—where white-jacketed servers glide between tables, the warm glow of vintage lighting reflects off the beautiful tilework, and the hum of bustling diners creates an electric yet cozy atmosphere. The Food? Exceptional. Let’s talk oysters. The raw bar selection is unparalleled, featuring an ever-changing lineup of oysters from both coasts, each one expertly shucked and served at peak freshness. Whether you’re a fan of briny East Coast classics or creamy West Coast varieties, there’s something for every palate. Beyond oysters, their menu is a seafood lover’s dream. The New England clam chowder is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. The lobster roll? Simply divine, generously stuffed with sweet, buttery lobster meat. The Experience? Iconic. Dining here isn’t just about the food—it’s about soaking in the history and nostalgia of an institution that has been serving New Yorkers and travelers alike since 1913. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at the counter, sipping a martini at the bar, or settling in for a full meal, this place exudes old-school New York charm. If you love oysters, seafood, and classic NYC institutions, do yourself a favor and visit The Grand Central Oyster Bar. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. 5 stars all the way!
   

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4. C

   Claudia

   New York City

   21 reviews

   5.0

   21 reviews

   Dined 2 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Still a great, classic New York restaurant - the oysters, as always, super-fresh and the pan roasts continue to be the seafood version of a warm yet unctuous hug. Service was impeccable, despite the Friday night and Valentine’s slam, and the gracious staff made every effort to accommodate us rven when we turned up early. And thanks to the saloon bar tender for the very . . . generous libation (!)
   

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5. P

   Patrick

   Milwaukee

   12 reviews

   4.0

   12 reviews

   Dined 2 days ago

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   Classic, a bit tired, but still charming ambiance. Seafood delicious. Drinks and dishes well conceived and executed. Service was excellent. Charming valentines lunch with my wife.
   

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6. s

   stephen

   New York City

   5 reviews

   5.0

   5 reviews

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The food and service are great. The main dining room is beautiful, but a little noisy. Had a great time.
   

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7. H

   Howard

   Philadelphia

   17 reviews

   5.0

   17 reviews

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   A trip back to older times in NYC. Lovely ambiance and old world service. Food was super fresh and excellent.
   

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8. R

   Ralph

   VIP

   New York City

   634 reviews

   5.0

   634 reviews

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great food and extra friendly service. Lively atmosphere.
   

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9. s

   shaun

   Manchester

   10 reviews

   5.0

   10 reviews

   Dined 5 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Fantastic experience and the food was fresh, great value. It is an experience not to be missed
   

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10. N

    Nicholas

    Caribbean

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    You go to the Oysyer Bar for the ambiance, the nostalgia of earlier years and also the food. Food is often good not great, but the experience remains great. I went with two young adults who had never been, and they were very excited by the place, the setting and the feeling.
    

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