ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in Midtown East
Best French Fries in Midtown East
Master Critic Review
P.J. Clarke's
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A classic 1884 saloon best known for its Cadillac-style burgers, cold martinis, and crowded barroom energy. Locals and office regulars come for reliably juicy patties, thin onion rings, and a slice of old Midtown East that still feels lived-in rather than themed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cadillac Burger, Classic Cheeseburger, Shoestring Onion Rings
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Historic Midtown saloon serving one of NYC’s most storied burgers.
Who should go: Burger traditionalists, Midtown workers, and first-time NYC visitors.
When to visit: Weeknights for lively bar energy without brutal waits.
What to order: Cadillac Burger, classic cheeseburger, shoestring onion rings.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar; burgers come faster and service stays sharper.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive during peak office hours; nearby paid garages along 3rd Ave typically run $25–$35 for short stays.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Office attire fits right in, but jeans and a tee are fully acceptable.
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours; expect raised-voice conversations near the bar, quieter in back booths.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes for a table; bar seats often open up faster.
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes depending on office crowd surges; early arrivals rarely wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Modest but workable—veggie sandwiches, salads, and sides can form a complete meal.
Vegan options: Very limited; salads and a few sides may work with modifications, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: They can serve burgers without buns and offer several naturally gluten-free items, but no dedicated GF fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want classic New York character over intimacy. The energy is fun and unpretentious, but it can get loud—better for casual dates than romantic ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes. The bar is first-come-first-served and often the quickest route. For peak dinner hours, expect a short wait unless you arrive early.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like burgers and bustling rooms. High chairs are limited, and strollers can be tough to maneuver during rushes.
Best For
Better for: Classic, straightforward burgers with a real NYC saloon vibe—perfect for visitors and office regulars who want history and consistency.
Skip if: You want chef-driven patties, avant-garde toppings, or quieter dining; nearby upscale pubs or modern burger specialists fit those needs better.