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Abe & Arthur's
Categories: Restaurants American (New) Nightlife Bars Lounges American (New), Lounges [Edit]
409 W 14th St(between 9th Ave & 14 St)
New York, NY 10014
Neighborhoods: Chelsea, West Village, Meatpacking District
(646) 289-3930
- Nearest Transit:
-
8 Av (L)
14 St (A, C, E)
14 St (1, 2, 3)
- Hours:
Mon 6 pm - 11 pm
Tue 9 am - 11:30 pm
Wed 9 am - 12 am
Thu 9 am - 12:30 am
Fri-Sat 9 am - 1 am
Sun 9 am - 11 pm
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
177 reviews for Abe & Arthur's
Review Highlights
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"Tuna tartare tacos - yummy." In 7 reviews -
"the spinach and artichoke dip was a great way to start the..." In 7 reviews -
"truffle fries, crab cakes and tuna tartare." In 10 reviews
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177 reviews in English
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Review from Tom C.
Manhattan, NY
5/13/2012
I had the cod with rock shrimp. It was very good. A bit salty and not in any way innovative, but it was delicious and I'd certainly eat here again.
The service was very good.
This place attracts lots of models. Half the people I saw enter were models. Maybe it was a party. -
Review from Maxine S.
FOREST HILLS, NY
5/1/2012
No complaints here.
FOOD: As an appetizer, I've had their Meatballs & Sliders. Both were good. The sliders were definitely more notable. They come with cheddar and bacon, and are perfectly sized. Twice, I've had the fish entree which changes depending on market selection. My first time there I had the Branzino which was impeccable. It comes grilled with lemon & herb flavoring. Very standard Mediterranean seasoning. It was nice & light. I've also had the Filet Mignon which melts in your mouth. As for sides, the Mac & Cheese, Truffle Parm Fries, Creamed Spinach and Garlic Mash are all worth while. For dessert I've had the Apple Cobbler, which I very unfortunately had to share. It was SOOO good. The cookies and cream souffle is REALLY good too. (& worth the wait.)
DRINK: As for their by-the-glass selection, the sparkling wine & champagne are very agreeable. The foods I've ordered have all worked well paired with these options. They have a drink on their cocktail menu called the American 75. It's definitely more of a feminine drink and a bit sweet, but it's good and I've had it on more than one occasion. I wouldn't be able to have more than 1 or 2 because of the sweetness (I'm a vodka/club kind of girl). There was another drink on the menu called the Sweet Savannah. I haven't had it but it sounds good & I would order it on a future visit. (Absolute Wild Tea, Peach & Mint) I was also surprised by their Beer selection.. They have a fairly wide array of options. I believe I saw Ommegang on the list.
SERVICE: The staff is very well trained & they do a great job at making sure everything goes smoothly during your time there.
AMBIANCE: Whether you're sitting upstairs or down, the feel is similar. Low lighting and background music. I don't think I've ever been there and not seen a few celebrities dining nearby. Sometimes they don't do a good job of keeping the crowd contained. I was there recently when Kris Humphries & Vinny from the Jersey Shore (OMG! I know? right?!- Juuussttt kiddingg! =] ) were eating together & people were coming in off the street, and crowding the table area in order to take pictures and gawk at them. It was a little bit of a scene I didn't expect from a place like this, but I guess it happens.
Overall, the place is pretty great and the food & drink have yet to disappoint. -
Review from Eileen J.
Paramus, NJ
4/30/2012
This is a super delayed review....
It was over all meh...the host wasnt very helpful with finding other members of our party that was already seated...I was expecting better than what I received food quality wise as well. Entree wise, I ordered a fish with chili rock shrimp. The rock shrimp was delicious, but its strong flavors made the fish seem bland. We ordered an extra side of the rock shrimp to help alleviate that...in addition to that, the only other memorable dish for me was the meatball appetizers...
that's all i could really remember... -
Review from Leslie D.
4/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Free dinner without having to perform sexual favors* = #winning
I received a comped dinner at Abe & Arthur's last week before a night of dancing in the Meat Packing District. Please note that I believe can still judge the food and service even though I didn't pay a dime. If anything that makes me less biased since I don't have to factor money into the equation!
So of course there was alcohol. A bottle of red and a bottle of white. Recently becoming a red fanatic I decided to go with the Cabernet Sauvignon. Considering that this was probably one of their cheaper house bottles, I found it to be very agreeable. Of course with drinking alcohol comes food cravings. Thank goodness we received a lot!
For appetizers, we started with the crab cakes and the Caesar salad. That salad was "clutch" according to my new blonde friend Shannon. The croutons were large and crunchy, the romaine was crisp, and the dressing was light. The crab cakes surprisingly had some decent meat in them and came with an interesting slaw.
Next for the main course, we received seared sesame crusted Ahi tuna, filet mignon, garlic mashed potatoes and sauteed string beans. The filet mignon was cooked to a perfect juicy medium rare and I heavily enjoyed eating it with the creamy potatoes. The Ahi tuna was good but I've never been a huge fan of seared tuna. Give it to me raw please. If I were to come back to Abe and actually pay for my food, I would definitely go with the filet. That was some good meat.
Dessert was an assortment of dishes consisting of a parfait, a jar of freshly cut fruit and berries, and a wheel of zeppoles with different sauces. The zeppoles were by far my favorite. They came to us hot and doughy and went divinely with the warm chocolate dipping sauce they provided us. I could have eaten all of them myself if I didn't have six other women in the way.
Overall, a lovely meal that I highly enjoyed without having to open my empty wallet. Service was attentive and spot on. True I have no idea what this would have cost if I had to throw down some Bens but does that really matter if the food was good? I think not. This really is a place to see and be seen at. Apparently celebrities frequent this MePaDi restaurant quite often so maybe I'll get lucky and see one next time I go. That is, if there is a next time. Help a poor gal out! I want some more filet mignon and I want it bad.
*not that I ever would, you perv.Listed in: Good drink, good MEAT, good…
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Review from Anthony D.
Manhattan, NY
4/22/2012
Not a big fan of Steak Houses. I find they are full of large groups of over belly-ed men in their late 40's and 50's who have lost one too many slices of hair.
That being said, this particular steak house does have some decent eye candy from time to time. ( staff not included).
The food is very mediocre. The service is also not that great. The bar scene can be enjoyable from time to time if you happen to want someplace different to pop into while in the meat packing area.
More from me at http://www.twitter.com... -
Review from Denise S.
4/12/2012
Stepping in I thought I had entered the island of fat ties. I mean seriously every handsome well dressed man in the meatpacking district was in this place. I don't know which was better the food or the eye candy.
The meal didn't start off with a bang, hostess people were aloof and once seated we were served overcooked popovers. Total popover disappointment.
However, the rest of the meal was amazing. The presentation of the salad course was stunning. I had the beet and goat cheese salad - it was deconstructed , made of fresh goat cheese and 3 different types of beets including the golden kind(yum). I had the pasta made with porcini mushrooms that was superb but the real gem of the meal was desert.
Desert gets it's own paragraph here. Bread Pudding. Freaking amazing bread pudding. Sweet, delicious, just the right constancy. Perfection. Bread Pudding.
Full disclosure - I did not try the cocktails/wine or any other alcoholic beverage so this review is not for the drinks. I will go back and review the booze, it is a good excuse to eat the bread pudding again.
All in all great place to hang out if you are a GQ model or if you like really great food. -
Review from Frances G.
Brooklyn, NY
3/27/2012 3 Check-ins Here
Our wait was a hour long after our reservation. That part I wasnt happy about but at 1030pm and straving you just cant walk out...lol.
I dont eat meat but my fiance loved the steak! I had the branzino and it was delicious! The Lavender drink was very good. I had two when I should have had just one as I am not a tequilla person but it was so good that I couldnt resist.
I would go again but will be more stern on the wait while others with no reservation were let in. -
Review from Alison C.
3/28/2012
After a fun and cocktail-filled evening spent gallivanting around the Meatpacking District, my friend and I decided to enjoy a lavish dinner at Abe & Arthur's. I had first learned about the restaurant from seeing a party thrown there on an episode of "The Real Housewives of NYC" (or was it "Bethenny Ever After"? Whatever, same thing.) The decor appeared fabulously glitzy, yet comfortable enough for an intimate dinner. I was intrigued and rushed to my computer to research the menu, which I discovered was as seductive as the atmosphere.
Abe & Arthur's made the perfect destination for the continuation of our girls' night on that summer evening. We walked past the completely packed bar area and were escorted up the stairs to what I would consider a VIP table based on its visual access of the main dining section below. The crowd was upscale and attractive, but not cheesy like many places in the area. While the beer and cocktail lists were rather extensive, I opted for what turned out to be a future favorite wine - a 2009 Pinot Gris from the Willamette Valley Vineyards. It was perfectly balanced and simply spectacular. Of course I have yet to find the bottle in a wine shop; I hate how that always happens!
But, I digress...
We munched on some delicious bread and were soon gifted our even-better entrees. The Roasted Free-Range Chicken was extremely moist and flavorful. It was accompanied by some healthy field mushrooms and asparagus, making for a hearty and comforting plate. My friend adored her perfectly-cooked, hefty steak as well. Regardless of our full bellies, there was no way that we were going to pass up the French Toast Bread Pudding, and I was certainly glad that we had made that decision. This is my favorite dessert variety to both cook and feast upon, so I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur. This particular bread pudding was the best I have ever had! The moist mound of dough had the perfect consistency and was served in a rustic mini-skillet. It was covered with a gooey bourbon-maple syrup and topped with a silky butter-pecan ice cream. It was pure, sweet heaven...
Just thinking about the decadent meal makes my mouth water, and I long to return. I would also love to check out their bar scene again, as it was certainly a popular spot. -
Review from J. C.
Manhattan, NY
5/9/2012
Dined here a year ago and then again 2 months ago and have to say that the both experiences were pretty good. This place just feels "cool". The owners do a good job at making you want to kick back and have a good time and drop some $$ while you're at it. Special cocktails and the bartenders were excellent!
On our most recent visit the Host stand was friendly enough but we definitely had to wait for 50 minutes past our reservation and kept having to check back with them. In my opinion, they should be the ones who checked in with us to let us know that we weren't forgotten. Anyways, upon our 3rd visit to the Maitre D', we were finally seated upstairs.
Service was very friendly but slow. It took 20 minutes to get our cocktails at the table. I guess the bar upstairs isn't as efficient as the one downstairs, but the drinks were still delicious. The food was solid. It wasn't a culinary adventure but I enjoyed everything I ate. Special thumbs up to the scallops and foie gras and the beignet circus wheel!!
Overall, I find myself suggesting this place to out-of-towners looking for a cool NYC restaurant. Suggestions, make a reservation and make yourself known to the Maitre D' so you get seated at a reasonable time, have some cocktails and order all of the desserts: you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Ash C.
New York, NY
3/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is one of those places that fits into the "trying to be super trendy and not so focused on food" places. Very few restaurants can achieve both the trend-factor and the food-factor at the same time (Spice Market in the area succeeds on both counts). The space here actually doesn't even really come close to achieving a wow-factor - I found it very standard and mundane.
We had a reservation for 8:30 and waited over an hour to be seated. Most I've ever waited for a reservation in my life I think. I think they secretly just wanted us to keep buying drinks in the meantime.
Appetizers were good - tuna tacos and the raw bar. Thinking back, I wouldn't have done the raw bar option - this wouldn't be the place for it, who knows if they are even shucking the oysters right before they are served? Main meals were the steak (chewey and not the highest quality meat), the mushroom pasta (mushrooms were good, portion was generous, pretty yummy actually), and the fish (a very small portion). Sides were the truffle fries and sweet potato fries (both satisfying) and the brussel sprouts (terrible!!!).
In the end, I felt like I not only wasted 5 hours of my life, but for the quality of food and quality of experience, we grossly overpaid. You can definitely spend your money wiser elsewhere... and I recommend you do! I don't give this place very long in the NY spotlight. -
Review from Eden O.
3/12/2012
Have been dying to go here for years and finally made it out last week. Started off with some fun drinks as they had a decent selection at the bar downstairs. I went with the Lavender Bee which comes with Lavender (shocking), Jalapeno, and Tequila. Unfortunately, it lacked the jalapeno kick I was really looking for.
We then were moved upstairs to our table for dinner. As I walked through the restaurant, I noticed how everyone was dressed for a serious night on the town, can't imagine this place on a weekend. We tried a bunch of different appetizers and sides, the only thing that really stood out was the Cauliflower. Get it, you will not regret it. At a table of five, everyone loved it the best (even picky-non-vegetable-eating males).
My main dish I got the Foie Gras Scallops, the Scallops were puny and didn't really get the flavor of the Foie Gras. . . so just okay in my opinion. My friends however, got the Porterhouse steak which came with a Truffle Butter. I had one bite and wish I had gone in on sharing this thing with them. Cooked perfectly, cut with a butter knife and delicious flavor.
For me, I'm not sure it would be worth the wait times, scene or price. Maybe, I'd pop in for a drink in hopes of some fun celebrity spotting which I've heard can happen. -
Review from Jacob Y.
3/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
If you are looking for a place where you like to see and be seen? Don't look any further. Abe and Arthur's definitely got this covered. What does that mean? For the gents, put on your best foot forward and suit it up a bit. For the ladies? Get those stilettos going.
Aside from the ritzy crowd, the ambiance of this place on a Friday evening is sizzling. Modern and chic. And from the couple of times I have been there, get a reservation in advance if you want a table, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Ok, enough about aesthetics on the crowd and the restaurant. Let's get to the goods.
So with no reservations last Friday night, a friend and I headed to the bar upstairs instead, considering we wanted just drinks and appetizers.
For drinks? You MUST try the lavender bee. Jalapeno tequila, lavender syrup, lime juice and honey. Forewarning...these suckers creep up at ya, so watch your intake! And if mixed drinks is not your thing? They have a good wine list as well!
For appetizers? The grilled octopus is out of this world. Highly recommend it. I can honestly say they were one of the most succulent versions I have had.
And as a second appetizer we got the chicken liver terrine. With sauteed onions and bread. And the smallest pickles I have ever seen. Coupled with the onions, this dish gives pate a good run for their money.
And the service? Our waiter Kevin at the upstairs bar was friendly, helpful and very attentive. -
Review from Christine G.
Brooklyn, NY
2/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Fancy schmancy restaurant that is slightly confused whether it's a restaurant or a bumpin' club. But who cares....The food IS delicious and everyone's fabulous, right? This place had that NY buzz about it complete with celebrities I apparently don't recognize in real life (Stars, they're just like US and eat food!), the wannabes (a table of Snooki look-alikes that came, sat, downed champagne and checked "being seen" off their list before heading out), supermodels and the I-bankers trying to meet them. My friend insisted on this place on a Thursday night and I was happy to accompany him for a most delectable, deliciously expensive meal (esp since his work was treating).
Drinks:
Whoa Naughty Nora: She looks all granola and summertime-in-the-south being served up in a jar but that bitch has some bite. She's sweet, refreshing and really, really strong.
Lavender Bee: The lavender syrup made me think relax, but the jalapeno tequila kinda slapped me in the face. It's a tasty contrast of flavors and very delicious.
Food:
Grilled octopus: Nice charred flavor without the octopus being rubbery. Pretty awesome. The cannelini beans on the side didn't really do it for me but that chorizo sauce was well cast in this starter.
Blue point oysters: Yum!
Scallops & foie gras: They should have advertised it as 4 decently big scallops with a tiny dot of foie gras. The scallops were nicely seared and tasted delicious but come on... gimme more foie gras if you're charging me for it. The cauliflower almond puree was tasty.
Short rib special: A giant caveman looking bone with exquisitely tender meat. Yum. I should've ordered this instead especially since my friend ate it took quickly for me to steal enough bites.
Brussel sprouts with bacon: I know everyone has it and like most things cooked in bacon, this doesn't disappoint.
Desserts:
Apple cobbler: Should not be shared. It's not enough for two people or at least, I shouldn't have shared it with someone since it was really ooey gooey good with crumbly oat streusel. The rum raisin ice cream was not enough especially since it was a race to eat it before it melted over the hot apples and poached quince.
Cheesecake parfait: I don't love cheesecake since usually it is too heavy and rich. However, this version is light with a great crumbly crust floating throughout.
If dessert cocktails are in order (and you're a baller), then definitely get the Macallan 18 year Highland. I'm no scotch expert but man, that was incredibly smooth.
Overall, the restaurant isn't especially cool-looking inside. It's nice but I kinda expected more of such a large space. The acoustics were terrible, combined with the excessively loud but good music (I was happy with hearing New Order and Joy Division). So even if you aren't out dancing with your arms in the air and screaming, "this is my jam" to every song, your voice will feel that way from screaming to talk to the person next to you. But that's all part of the fabulousness, right? -
Review from Rachel H.
Milford, CT
2/19/2012
Been to A +As about 4 times now, and the place never lets me down! The service has always been spot on and the food delish! They are frequently busy, so a reservation is necessary.
Wine list is fabulous, by the glass especially. I love Pinot Gris, and this is one of the few places that have it by the glass. Apps that I recommend include the crab cakes + meatballs. Dinner, the cavatelli is dreamy as well as the beef short rib. So so good. Entrees are a la carte, big enough portions, but it never hurts to get some sides. Onion rings?? Yes please. For dessert, carnival for 2. Memorable...
I would say, depending on what you get 1 app, 2 entrees, 1 side leaves enough room for dessert for 2 pp. A great line up my husband and I had recently were the crab cake app, I got the cavatelli, he the beef short rib, a side of green beans and a side of onion rings. We did not have room for dessert. Minus a side, we might have....
The only reason why this place doesn't get 5 stars is b/c it's too pricey. The food is awesome, but when the apps start at $13 a piece and a side of green beans is $10, it's kind of a joke. But, it won't stop me from going back. However, I would go there more if it was a little less expensive. -
Review from Jane K.
I've only had really, over the top awesome experiences here so I'm gonna go ahead and drop a fiver on 'er.
The trick is going here in the right mood with the right expectations. My sweet spot? Totally upbeat, fabulous and crazy girls nights. But really, any time you want to do it up and celebrate with friends, family or loved ones with fabulous cocktails, gorgeous people, fancy grub and spectacularly friendly service then I'd say, go to Abe & Arthur's. It's the perfect pre-game, in my humble opinion.
In terms of dish recommendations...
1) Starters: I can't get enough of the beet and goat cheese starter, crab cakes and meatballs.
2) Entrees: the steak is their specialty here so I'd say go for that with a mix of the sides to share.
3) Dessert: The doughnut balls are incredible. Arranged on a circular cup contraption and paired with strawberry and caramel sauce in ketchup bottled. Stick that sucker in the doughnut and squeeze to make jelly filled!
And then when you've had enough gluttony and too much wine, teeter next door to Simyone where you'll dance the night away! -
Review from Bettina G.
Manhattan, NY
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Loved pretty much everything food, drinks (so good), wait staff, bartender...yeah everything. Aside from waiting for about 30 mins with reservations it was an awesome experience more so since the bar had fun and very good drinks. Can't wait to go back.
*Ladies: Great dim lighting here. :) -
Review from David W.
12/26/2011
Want to do date night while reminding her that she better step up her game since she's in NY? Meeting the future in-laws for the first time and want to impress them? Just have a bunch of buddies getting together and want to see some gorgeous people as you eat? This should be under consideration for all scenarios.
First thing's first, while at the bar sipping my rum as I wait for my friends, I take a gander at what the guy next to me is looking up on his iphone. Oh he's looking up prostitutes? Cool...I kinda wanted to stare at his screen some more to see which ones he's considering, but I figured that might be bad form.
Now onto the food, appetizer, tuna tartare tacos. Eh...kinda gimmicky by putting it into make your own taco form, wasn't a huge fan for some reason. Main dish was the pork loin and I think it was a winner. Cooked nice and soft though it could've used a little more of whatever sauce they had on the side. For the sides, we got mac and cheese, creamed spinach, truffled parmesan fries, and mashed potatoes. I'll keep this simple, get the parmesan fries!! Everything else was eh, but the fries, out of this world.
So net net, fun place, food is good, but you're paying for the space, the clientele, and fun location as well. Would I come here again just for a random dinner because the food was so great? No. But would I come here for an occasion due to the experience? Yes. -
Review from Sophia S.
New York, NY
12/13/2011
First of all, it takes a certain person to be a host (also a doorman) but I don't wish their job on anyone. The host seemed like he was going to have a nervous breakdown all night he was wound so tight.
Bar: scene is decent early. The women not so pretty the men not so handsome but everyone is average and having some fun. I ordered a gruner from the bar and the guy gave me a chard. Ok, well I think it's past, can you please smell it? Ugh, fine it's smells like a stick of butter (horrified at his wine vernacular), what do you want me to do? Can you just exchange it for the glass I asked for? (I normally wouldn't say anything if the varietal was off but the wine was oxidized). Ok, thank you sorry for the inconvenience. (another patron leans over and says really loud: you NEVER have to say sorry for that) sheer comedy, really.
Table: Our party was an hour late (half of us were at the bar for an hour, the other half was curling their hair). Dinner turned into several orders of these for the table and I think this was better this way anyway.
tuna tartar tacos: good, would order again
grilled octopus: amazing yes yes
beth's meatballs: spaghettios makes a better meatball
pork belly steam buns: great
sliders: eh
branzino: good, little too creamy
cod: eh
mac and cheese: decent
fries: everyone talks about them but you put truffle oil on crisp fries and it's always a hit.
Overall, Abe and Arthurs was probably better before. It's a bit sceney but really not, it's kind of turned into what Pastis has: business. An MPD kind of hang out where it's decent enough to go, out of towners will get a kick and locals will find themselves there once in awhile but it's nothing special and nothing terrible. -
Review from Nasilele H.
Brooklyn, NY
3/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
Wonderful everything! Atmosphere, service, music and most importantly FOOD!!!
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Review from Amanda G.
NEW REVIEW:
So, I am updating my review because since I ate here last, some things have changed in a BIG way. They have changed the menu and no longer serve the Cookies & Cream Souffle but they DO offer a C&C Sundae now.
They still have the French Toast Bread Pudding (which is still YUMMM). I still stand by our favorite Usual Suspects, like the Tuna Tacos, Mac & Cheese and Bread Pudding.
We also ordered a few items I never had before, like the Four Cheese Potato Gratin, I wish I had every day of my life, one of the new additions, the Shrimp Scampi, with the largest shrimp I've ever laid eyes upon, and Roasted Brussel Sprouts w/Bacon, that I wish I could have eaten but I don't eat pork.
If you like white wine, please do yourself a favor and order a glass of the Chateauneuf-De-Pape. So crisp and light with a very pleasant bouquet.
OLD REVIEW:
OK, I've been here a few times. The bar area is a bit pretentious but that's mainly due to the patrons, NOT the staff. They have some crazy good original drinks.
I have to say that you MUST try the Grilled Octopus (they can prepare it w/o the chorizo), Tuna Tartare Tacos, Steak Tartare, Pork Belly Buns, Cod & Rock Shrimp, Scallops w/Foie, Mac & Cheese, Truffle Parm Fries, Carnival for Two (FUNN), French Toast Bread Pudding and my FAVE, the Cookies & Cream Souffle (order with your entree). So decadent and worth every penny.
Make reservations for dinner because they don't open for seating until after 6pm, daily, and they fill up very fast. Happy eating! -
Review from Vanessa N.
Brooklyn, NY
12/11/2011 1 photo
I've been here twice. The first time I came here me and my girls were already drunk and probably should've went home. After 3 sweet savannah teas (which are served in mason jars) we were entirely too drunk and the night ended up with us....well, I guess that information is irrelevant for this review.
The 2nd time I came here was cause us and another couple we were with were looking to have some drinks and some apps before heading home so I suggested here cause I really wanted some of the savannah tea. We tried the spinach artichoke dip, the sliders and crab cakes - all of the apps we tried were delicious. -
Review from Anonymous A.
Midtown East, Manhattan, NY
3/26/2012
I am not going back to this restaurant mainly for the rude host. I had a 9:30 reservation and waited almost an hour for a table. There were clearly some empty tables but only those people who knew the host were getting seated right away. The obnoxious host (stuck up bearded guy wearing a suit) claimed that he thought we were waiting for 45 minutes for another person in our party who hadn't yet gotten there- which was ridiculous and such BS. Only once we namedropped to a manager there did we actually get a table (within seconds). This place acts like an exclusive club, not a restaurant. The restaurant is so loud that you can barely hear the person next to you. The food is good, but really isn't enjoyable when most of the staff is so obnoxious and full of themselves.
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Review from Justin B.
Virginia Beach, VA
12/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been here a couple times and just forgot to post a review. I love it here. There is high energy, a young crowd, good looking people, great service and outstanding food.
From the times I've been here I've had the following;
*Beth's meatballs
*BBQ pork belly steamed buns
*Roasted bone marrow
*Dry Aged New York Strip
*Wood-Grilled Branzino
*Pork Chop
*Mac and Cheese
All of it was amazing. I've never tried something here that wasn't.
Get here a little before your reservation; post up in the bar and have a cocktail or two and enjoy the scenery. Then get your table order a couple appetizers for the table and enjoy even more scenery. Take your time and don't rush your entree. There is lots to look at so take your time and enjoy it.
I'll be back again and again. -
Review from Nik C.
Manhattan, NY
1/29/2012 Seated via OpenTable
I'm sure that my review wont dissuade the bridge and tunnel, Kim Kardashian/reality show star wannabes from continuing to flock here but this place misfired on so many cylinders that upon leaving i honestly thought "no way that just happened"!. I'll admit freely that i avoid all things meatpacking as a rule, because I think the whole "hey we're a top tier restaurant that acts like a CLUB" thing is problematic, but I'd heard good things about the food and space so off I went. The evening started horribly, I ADMIT: WE WERE LATE FOR OUR RESERVATION, MY FAULT I BLAME NO ONE BUT MYSELF. Having said that when we showed up for out 9:15 reservation, the hostess quipped " well you're late so we let your reservation go and we'll have to recirculate you back into the system for another table when it opens up". I looked at my phone, 9:30, OK 15 minutes late understood, no argument. I asked her "OK well do you maybe have an outside idea on what the wait for two is now"? her response, which two weeks later still astounds me: " I cant tell you how long it will be because we're really busy seating people who were actually ON TIME for their reservations but it shouldn't be that long but you can wait at the bar and we'll get you when we're ready" she snapped., I mean SNAPPED. Just then a well suited euro looking, bearded man, standing behind the host stand with her made a bit of an unconscious wince upon hearing this response to me, I can only imagine he was one of the managers but he didn't step in or say anything. So off to the bar which was insanely crowded. My date turns to me and says " is it my imagination or was she a complete bitch to you"? I said "If you noticed then yes since you're nice to EVERYONE". A drink and about 15 minutes later she asked me " how will they know to find us"? I said " good question" she then walked back to the host desk and asked the bearded man the same question who then waved me over and said " ill seat you now" I said "OK thanks" he replied "better now than later in the night" I didn't know what he meant but whatever, off to the table.
Waiter was really cool offered many helpful menu suggestions, we started with tuna tar tar tacos, VERY tasty!. I had the cod with crispy rock shrimp, also very tasty. The lady inquired about the spinach salad with bacon and, and egg on it. She asked if it would be possible to have it with chicken instead of the bacon or egg, the waiter responded " well yeah but they're going to charge you" she said "OK fine' . NOW REMEMBER THAT SALAD!!!. To drink i had a glass of Riesling, she had water.
The bill comes, $170 and change, I'm looking thinking that cannot be right. I notice there are about five drinks on the bill that were not ours. I called the waiter over and said " hey i didnt have a makers mark or any of these other four drinks". ASTONISHINGLY he says "Oh yeah that is a mistake, that's not your table, the manager was supposed to take that off, ill do it". It took everything in me not to ask " so why would you bring it over without looking at it first if you knew there was an issue with the check"?. So the check comes back; $128, which made more sense but given the initial mishap I decided to scrutinize it further. Cod with rock Shrimp, check, Spinach salad? check, CHICKEN $28.........??????. I called the waiter back over to inquire about the $28 chicken, "is this right man"?. He explained that this charge was correct and what they charged for the chicken to be put on her spinach salad, in essence it was a chicken breast, which they charged as an entree. So I've just paid $28 to put chicken on a FOURTEEN DOLLAR SALAD. My date now mortified kept saying "babe I'm so sorry" . i said you have nothing to be sorry about your food was good, you enjoyed it and I'm happy about that. I just think as a matter of principle I've never encountered anything like charging us for a full entree to put chicken on a salad that's half the price of the "entree" .
So the space is beautiful as is much of the clientele, the food actually was fairly good. The hostess lacked the slightest hint of professionalism or manners for that matter but the waiter was quite attentive up until the screw up with the check. Upon walking out I bumped into a friend of mine who i happen to know has a personal net worth in the several millions, ( I kiddingly refer to him as "MC Bottle service") who was also leaving,. While his night was somewhat better than mine when he asked me if I would return as I told him the saga he just stared and said "Man, these guys really do believe their own bullsh*t don't they". yeah, clearly they do. -
Review from Kristen R.
Hoboken, NJ
9/13/2011
Let me start by saying that I'm shocked this place gets above a 3 star total rating. I was unimpressed with the food relative to its high prices, and even more unimpressed with the service.
When our group walked in, there were more waitstaff than patrons in the restaurant. Our server seemed preoccupied and a bit smug. He was pushing all of the expensive dishes and wines, and was not knowledgeable about the dishes when we asked. It was not a personal experience. In response to one yelper referring to the bar-staff as being 'cool' - i'm not sure what warrents the term cool. If cool means pushing the most expensive cocktails and overpriced wines-by-the-glass, without cracking so much as a smile to your patrons, Abe & Arthurs is your place.
The food was fine, but not nearly worth the ridiculous prices we paid. Plenty of other restaurants in highline / meatpacking that blow this place out of the water in every sense. The fries were the best part of the dining experience. -
Review from John D.
11/12/2011
Very expensive but a thumbs up as far as the food goes. I went here on the company's dime so I can't really complain but I don't think I'd go back if I had to pay my own way. Too many other good steak options in NYC although this isn't your typical chop joint. They have a more eclectic menu than most, offering multiple seafood options, a pasta and a chicken dish. Great appetizer options too. We got the pork buns, sliders and crab cakes. All were delicious.
If you're into trendy restaurants, check it out. The atmosphere is great and that's what you're paying for. -
Review from Monica W.
New York, NY
1/28/2012
Abe and Ar-the-Gossip-Girl-cast here?
Tonight I had a experience at Abe and Arthur's that I must tell you about. We arrived on a Saturday night at 9:30ish for a 9:45 res Immediately we were hit with the scent of Paco Rabanne and a guy who cut us in line at the bar only to order dozens of drinks for his friends and then turn to us and say hey I'm a mixologist let me order something special for you. Many dollars later we were finally seated. Apparently Abe's over books regularly. The crowd was totally affected. I admit I'm not that into the whole celebrity thing in fact I've been known to trip on Dennis Hopper and not know it was him. The silly backwards baseball hats competing with dudes in v-neck sweaters and oxfords was too much to deal with. I mean I get it, the cast of Gossip Girl deserve a night of out too. Except I have no idea who you are, and honestly I don't care. Recently I had a 30 min conversation with David Byrne about iPads only to realize after who he was. Any how Abe's has great food but the crowd is more than any mere mortal NYer should have to take. -
Review from Elizabeth E.
Raleigh, NC
11/26/2011
I've been here three times. Twice, I was already sloshed. The third time, I quickly became immersed in an abundance of alcohol. That said, the food I can remember was good. The popovers aren't going to make your eyes roll back in euphoria, but they're decent. The beef carpaccio (pretty sure it's called filet mignon carpaccio on the menu) was delish. I lurve my raw meat. The octopus/calamari (can't remember which one) salad was fresh. The roasted beets and chevre salad was impeccable. I recall something like fish tacos.... they were yum, although I tossed the taco part and just ate the fish (oh, drunkenness). There was more food, can't remember... it's all fairly trendy, contemporary and American.
The decor is trendy and fantastically Meatpacking. I'm 6 ft tall in 4-inch heels and that makes me around average female height here. Plenty of hot, hot, hot and trendy women here. Mix of models, girls who are one job away from being legit, bill-paying models, and really made-up chicks who probably wake up with a fresh face of makeup already on. I always feel so not high maintenance in comparison when I come here (and I'm high maintenance by anyone's standards). The guys are considerably less to look at. Sigh. Pout.
And need I even say, the drinks here are doable. My lips didn't complain. -
Review from Jessica D.
New York, NY
12/5/2011
While I had an absolutely fantastic time at Abe's, I have to say that I was with someone who knew exactly what to order for our party of six and we shared everything family style. He basically ordered the best dishes on the menu.
For apps we had a beet salad, grilled octopus, crab cakes and two orders of tuna tartare tacos. My absolute favorite was the tuna tacos. You literally make your own mini tacos with avocado and fresh tuna flavored with an amazing citrus soy sauce. The beets came stacked in little cubes sprinkled with goat cheese. I want to say there were cubes of watermelon as well. An excellent presentation and very delicious.
When it came to entrees, we had a porterhouse steak, butternut squash risotto, yellowfin tuna, and sides of grilled artichokes and truffle fries. The steak was cooked perfectly, I preferred the NY Strip side. Goes great with red wine sauce. As for our sides, I could eat a whole meal of just those fries and artichokes.
Somehow, we had room for dessert, which was, in my opinion, some of the best dessert I have ever eaten, anywhere. The chocolate molten cake and cheesecake parfait were good, but the wheel of donuts with funnel cake and french toast bread pudding were to die for. The donut holes come on a ferris wheel type thing with squeeze bottles with different sauces. You stick the end of the bottle in a donut and fill it will something yummy like caramel sauce, or simply dip it in a ramekin of chocolate. The french toast bread pudding with maple bourbon sauce simply melts in your mouth. A must have!
I may have missed a dish or two, but order any of the above and you will be extremely happy at Abe and Arthurs. And why would I be missing a dish or two? That's because I was pretty tipsy by the end. The cocktails are so delicious we each had about four. Personal fave was the Irish Fig - Jameson and Fig puree. Other favorite was The American 75 - Absolute Pear, lemon, champagne. I've also heard the Naughty Nora is amazing, but they were out of and ingredient and we couldn't try it.
The service was impeccable, the infinity mirrors on the ceilings of the main room make it feel even more cavernous that it already is, and I'm obsessed with the lighting. As for the "scene"... we came early-ish on a friday. Crowd looked fairly normal to me, but it probably gets trendier later on at night, if you are into that thing. -
Review from Brittany H.
New York, NY
8/31/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Abe & Arthur's is the quintessential meatpacking "scene". Decked out glass windows, hardwood floors over two sustainable levels and a rectangular open bar... Drinks and scene with food in between. The place has got sass and class, no doubt.
For the money, it's not worth it... if you want steak, go to a true steakhouse. I actually liked what I had, but it is not a staple on their menu...it's the fish special of the day, dorado fish with crab cous cous. It was very flavorful. The scallops with foie gras was a poorly small portion. Way underwhelmed even for somebody like me with a less than average appetite.
I found everything to be too salty. The bread, the truffle fries, even the steak and fish. (unfortunately, a very common problem everywhere). Their only savior of grace is their bread pudding. Not the best, but pretty decent. Oh, and my dorado fish... YUM, yum, yum....they really need to add it to their menu. Their menu is in need of slight tweaks or complete makeover. -
Review from Roy P.
West Hollywood, CA
11/30/2011
My review is based solely on the bar.
We walked over from a quick stint at Sea. We had drinks and appetizers there before meeting up with some friends for more drinks here at A&A. We decided to stick close by since we had a birthday event to attend at the swanky Simyone Lounge (S.L.) later in the evening. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by a lovely hostess and directed over to the bar.
The drinks were well made. I asked for something spicy just to see what they would say, and they went right ahead and made me one of the more amazing spicy drinks I have had to date. The bartenders were friendly, knowledgeable, and very attentive. The staff, overall, were all very helpful and friendly. The crowd in there, that evening, was extremely sexy and everyone in there seemed in great spirits; needless to say that our experience was almost flawless.
The drinks are average in pricing relative to the Meat Packing District in general. The decor at Abe & Arthur is very chic and warm, and the crowd is more like the "see and be seen" crowd that you would expect to see at Cipriani's Downtown.
A good place for some drinks if you have any out of town-ers you would like to impress with no hassles at the door. -
Review from Amanda J.
10/25/2011
My friends were always talking about this place, so i thought i should try it. And i was kinda disappointed. I think there are much better places if you are looking for the meatpacking crowd... Spotting celebrities and football players is always fun, but this is not the only place.
We had a dinner reservation at 8:30PM and didn't get seated until 9:15PM, that is over 45 minutes... I think they just want us to spend more time at the bar, normally i won't mind, but not when I was starving. I ordered the Filet Mignon and it was standard, nothing to brag about. Overall, I was not impressed. -
Review from JOHN R.
North Haven, CT
1/24/2012
Super cool trendy place with great food . Was there on a night when it was packed with promotional tables which doesn't hurt , 30 or 40 6ft tall supermodels ! How could I not have a great time
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Review from Christina B.
Brooklyn, NY
1/22/2012
Went there for the first night and had a fun time. The Naughty Nora cocktail was delicious. We had wine from a 1987 cabernet large-format bottle that they were serving from that evening that was truly wonderful. We shared the bone-in ribeye special, the sauteed mushrooms, the parmesan truffle fries, and the green beans, and each was wonderful. The sauteed mushrooms were really unique. I had the lobster bisque to start and it was one of my favorite versions of this classic dish. The downside? The tables are RIDICULOUSLY close together. I was literally elbowed by the woman at the next table of the course of the night. If they just removed a few tables it would be so much nicer.
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Review from Mike J.
Roslyn, NY
2/22/2012 Seated via OpenTable 1 Check-in Here
Had a 10:30pm res for two. showed up early to grab drinks at the bar. Asked if an earlier seating was available and they were accommodating. They get a star for that. Got a menu and wine list. Ordered the steak which was mid $30s so pretty normal. Forget what the gf ordered. To me, the food was forgettable. What was unforgettable was the absurdity of their drink menu. I order the house Pinot bc I had a few drinks earlier that evening and wasnt in the mood for getting pricey wine at that moment. Then I noticed a glass of that was $21. For a glass of the most basic wine out there. No wonder pretentious "royals/socialites/DBS" swamp that area. Ill pay that much at Marea or Rao's, not at Abe & Arthur's. Anyway I changed my order to a $13 cocktail that was actually pretty good. Prob best part of the meal. Another star for that.
Would not go back and would not recommend....unless you're into that sort of thing. When you're done, I have a bridge for sale. -
Review from Suzanne L.
Manhattan, NY
10/27/2011
I really liked this place. The food was very good and the drinks were unique and creative (the pumpkin pie cocktail was surprisingly good - it's been a week and I'm still thinking about it). Be prepared to spend a lot though, this place ain't cheap. But if you're throwing thrift to the wind one night and really want to go out in meatpacking, then I would recommend it.
Really not sure why they call it Abe & Arthur's though, it makes it sound like an old man's joint. But rest assured, it's not Ram's Horn. -
Review from Kimberly A.
Fresh Meadows, NY
1/23/2012
This was my first time eating at Abe & Arthurs and now, I cant wait to go back! The food was so fresh! To start I had tuna tartar tacos, steak tar tar, grilled octopus & the meatballs. All of them were delicious! The best was my entree which was the Tuna. I asked the waiter if it was black and blue and he said no that it was medium rare. Turns out it was black and blue. Is it me or medium rare & black and blue is not the same thing? Anyway, it was incredible. I absolutely loved it and I prob would have the same meal all over again. For desert, we had the donuts. If your a fan of zeppoli's, go for it. its a cool presentation and idea but, I'm not a fan of fried dough so it wasn't my cup of tea.
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Review from Mona F.
New York, NY
2/15/2012
First Question: How many people does it take to find a coat?
Answer: Well, if you're at Abe and Arthur's for Valentine's Day dinner, the answer would be 3 overly pretentious hosts and 1 clueless coat check girl.
Second Question: How many minutes does it take to get seated for a 9:00pm reservation, when a restaurant is half empty?
Answer: Over 30 minutes, because of course, that's how long it takes 4 adults to find a jacket for ONE patron in a 4 x 6 coat closet.
And don't even dream of interrupting the inefficient process to ask what exactly is taking so long, because then you will be met with a snappy "I'll seat you if you give me a second" from a host that I wouldn't even trust to water my plants.
But, I digress. The food was good, and overly priced, as to be expected for a trendy establishment in the Meatpacking area. My friends and I ordered the chicken and cod; both were cooked very well with great flavor. I would definitely recommend the mac and cheese. I probably could have taken down 6 of those in 5 minutes. Drinks were...meh, which was a tad disappointing considering the pricing, but I would give them credit for how unique their cocktail menu is.
All in all, food at Abe and Arthur's wasn't too bad, but unfortunately the snotty service we received at the beginning of the night put a damper on the overall experience. Unfortunately, I won't be returning. -
Review from Geert D.
New York, NY
8/31/2011 Seated via OpenTable 2 Check-ins Here
It is NOT:
- the best bar in the MPD
- the best restaurant in the MPD
- the prettiest place in the MPD
But:
- It is still one of my favorites
- It has that NY buzz
- I love the crowd
And:
- The bar-staff is cool
- The food is more than decent
Perfect place to start your MPD night-out!
(Best spot for people watching on Halloween's even!) -
Review from Christine C.
Manhattan, NY
8/5/2011
Just had dinner here. We got a bunch of apps and some drinks. I'm a fan of summerthyme and sweet savannah. The mushrooms and truffle fries are both delish. The spinach and artichoke dip was a bit heavy for me, but my dinner companions loved it. We also got the tuna tacos...honestly, I would skip the mini taco shells and just serve it as a tuna tartare with avocado. That's how we ate it. YUM!
The stairs that go upstairs are interesting. There's a glass floor and it looks like the stairs keep going down, which is a bit confusing because you actually have to turn and keep going down another short flight of stairs. Hard to explain, but go and check it out.
We ate upstairs and were by the stairs, which was hilarious because we could see all of the drunk people walking up and down the stairs freaking out because they didn't want to "fall" down the stairs.
The crowd is very much bankers in suits after work and skinny models who don't speak English. The servers are super nice and very professional.
