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Albert Hall Tavern
Categories: Restaurants Gastropubs Restaurants American (Traditional) Gastropubs, American (Traditional) [Edit]
508 9th Ave(between 39th St & 38th St)
Manhattan, NY 10018
Neighborhoods: Hell's Kitchen, Midtown West
(646) 490-4803
- Nearest Transit:
-
42 St - Port Authority Bus Terminal (A, C, E)
34 St - Penn Station (A, C, E)
Times Sq - 42 St (7, 7X)
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sun 11 am - 12 am
Thu-Sat 11 am - 2 am
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
89 reviews for Albert Hall Tavern
Review Highlights
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"Bone Marrow with Deviled Beef and Pickled Beets - YUM." In 13 reviews -
"they're duck fat and truffle oil fries." In 4 reviews -
"Great draft beer selection." In 9 reviews
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89 reviews in English
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Review from Jesse G.
Woodside, Queens, NY
5/19/2012
Bourbon. Burgers. Beer. These are among my boyfriend's favorite things (along with other 'B' words that refer to my anatomy =). So the Living Social deal that got us the above seemed like fate for the Birthday Boy.
And it was.
I had a minor panic because I didn't see the fine print about making reservations, but it was no problem. We go in last night, around 8pm, and the bar area is packed in the front, but the back room is old school London pub, complete with red telephone booth, and 4 other couples going out for dinner. Perfect. Intimate, but not creepy. Our server was knowledgable, helpful, kind, and all-around made our evening better with her beer suggestions.
We start with a Michter's and Elijah Craig on the rocks. The Michter's was smooth and crisp, and the EC was a little rough but sweet. We are not rushed, and we decide, obviously, on the burgers and Sessions dark and reg. lager to go with them.
These burgers were So. Good. Perfectly done MW for me, juicy, with a warm buttery bun. Boyfriend is in heaven. Even the fries- thin cut, with duck fat and truffle oil? Yes, please. And I like a malty beer, so the dark lager was great for me.
We were too full for dessert, but I will tell you that I had 4 bites of my burger left, and the BF had them wrap it to go. Seriously. It was just that good.
Girlfriend scores! -
Review from Muir P.
New York, NY
4/8/2012
I usually don't dine in this part of town but a friend of mine from California and her 10-year old son are here for the holiday weekend and I wanted to find a casual, affordable, kid-friendly restaurant near their hotel. They were out all day visiting many of the iconic NYC sights and I wanted to make it easy on them as I knew they would be tired.
After skimming most of the restaurant review sites and NY food blogs, I came upon the decision that this place would be appropriate for our dinner. Not an over-priced and touristy Times Sq location, not too far into Hell's Kitchen and crowded on a Saturday night and just enough diversity in the menu to appear interesting and appealing. She told me her son likes to cook and we don't have to go to a place with a kids menu.
Any place with "tavern" in the name is going to have a bar and it could be its prime focus. But one reviewer said she took her children there and it was family friendly. The place is family friendly but when you first walk in, you realize the location is about 2/3 bar and not a pretty one at that. Sort of divey looking and smelling of a frat house. Fortunately the hostess was very friendly. She took us to the back where the dining room is located. It was about a 1/3 full. Not bad so far. But she tried to seat us at the table at farthest corner of the room, next to the kitchen and under the stereo speaker. Not a good idea, especially when when there were plenty of better tables to sit at.
I didn't have high expectations of the menu...and my expectations were met. The fish & ships came with just two pieces of fish, when three would have been a more realistic dinner portion. The fish was soggy, not crispy. It took 3 reminders to get the waiter to bring us vinegar.
Overall, it was an ok dinner and it was an easy walk back to my friend's hotel but you know what, this is NEW YORK CITY! Note to self - next time, go to a place I know and love and am proud and excited to share with my out-of-town friends. Even if it is a bit crowded and pricey and a Saturday night. I can tell you right now this is not going to be one of their most memorable moments of their weekend in New York City. I could have done better!
Can I get a do-over?? -
Review from Sheenon O.
Los Angeles, CA
4/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
When did Albert Hall Tavern steal my IPod? I felt totally at home with the cool vibe and nice tunes.
I started with a glass of Pinot Noir which was superb. Followed by some Oysters. Our server was a little confused whether they were from B.C. or Seattle. In any case, they were amazing and went well with the deviled eggs. Since Albert's is tagged as a gastro pub I went ahead and ordered the Mac and cheese which was great. I was really loving on this place. I think I would have even handed out 5 stars.
Sadly, the red velvet cake was dry and fridge stale. I feel as a server it is your job to steer your customers to something good. It could have been a simple you should try to this dessert it is super fresh right now. Also the service lacked a bit. We got our first appetizers long before our water came and we asked to finish with coffee which was totally forgotten. None the less the food was great. Hopefully they fine tune the service and the desserts and this will be an outstanding place. As a comment I had similar bad service if not worse at the Spotted Pig. I am not sure if this single events independent of one another, a NYC thing or something that just happens in Gastro Pubs. -
Review from Danielle S.
Jersey City, NJ
5/21/2012
Tasty bar food for reasonable prices, but the service wasn't very good. We mentioned several times that we had theater tickets, but they were very slow to bring out our meal. The second time I went, service was much better.
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Review from peter r.
Astoria, NY
3/20/2012
we were looking for a Gastropub on our Monday dinner out that my friends and i seem to do now. Once we walked in to Albert Hall Tavern we thought we had found a hidden jem. It is under 42nd street so it's nice if you don't feel like that hellz kitchen area vibe.
We were seated by a very nice hostess and excited about our meal. The vibe is very old school British pub. We had looked on yelp and foursquare for some other folks suggestions for food, The thing that was unfortunate was they had changed the menu about a month ago. Our server was kinda low on knowledge of the beers and the food (maybe it was a language barrier thing)
deviled eggs were not really great on the runny/wet side
Siraca lime wings were just OK too (love the idea but blah)
out of the three ---brisket sandwhich , Albert burger and BLT--- the burger won by a long shot the other two were mediocre.
all in all I'll give it another chance. maybe when the menu changes again.
*pet peeve restaurants that are out of at least two entrees on the menu at one time because it's not a Fri/Sat (i don't care that it's Monday) -
Review from Bill S.
3/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
So this place had a reboot and there is a big sign out front, come in for a free glass of wine with your meal. Great! I step inside to a nice looking "bar".
Its a big, clean space with a long dark wooden bar and crazy looking beers on tap.
After I ate, I'm putting on my coat and I hear a dude say, "Lets see what the Yelpers say". Well guess what Mr. smirky face? I heard what you said and you're gonna get my first real review of your place.
Someone greets me when I walk in the door about 12:30. The place is empty. I mean, no one is here. No bartender, no one in the restaurant?
Finally, the hostess comes around the bar and we start talking wine. I settle on a Cabernet Savignon. Holy Moley! Generous pour? This dude gave me 3/4 full of a really big glass!
I order a $10 burger with gruyere cheese and onions. The burger is brought to me and its really undercooked. I tell the bartender and he orders another burger for me.
A bunch of dudes walk in and they order lunch as well as a few beers.
The guy sitting next to me asked for a refill on his IPA. He's brought back a dark beer? He says, I asked for an IPA, the same one you gave me? The bartender is arguing with him, saying see? Here is the IPA and pours beer in a small cup. (Its dark) The guy says, I'll have another of the same beer that you gave me earlier...
Now my 2nd burger comes out pretty quickly. Thats a damm good burger! And for $10 bucks?! Score 10 for Gryffindor!
So the same bartender give me the bill. He charged me for the free wine?! I say dude, What's happening? He says there is no free wines!
Really?
I take him outside and show him his banner! He says oh, sorry and charged me $10 bucks for a banging burger with a glass of wine that has me buzzed...
I'll be back for the Fish and Chips!
(heh heh.. I spent $10 bucks for lunch and drinks today) -
Review from Amy C.
Brooklyn, NY
4/27/2012
I took a couple out-of-towner friends here, as I was looking for a quick place for brunch in the same area as where I needed to drop one of them off at the bus. There aren't a lot of decent options, but the menu looked good.
We had a good experience! Our food was fresh, and came in perfect sized portions (if you want a crazy big plate you won't get it here, but I'd much rather quality over quantity). And you get a complimentary alcoholic brunch-related beverage, so considering that their prices are really great for a midtown establishment. (I didn't love my mimosa, but I'll chalk that up to them using a champagne that was a bit dry for my taste.)
Our waitress was genuinely British, which is a nice touch. :) More importantly, she was friendly, as was the busboy (or fellow waiter, I couldn't tell). And for a gastropub, I liked the decor and the vibe.
Knowing the rest of this neighborhood, this is definitely a good spot if you want a pub that also has good - not greasy and heavy - food. -
Review from Andy L.
New York, NY
2/19/2012
This review is from november 2011; I've been informed that Albert Hall Tavern has changed it's MGMT since this review was written so it may not reflect the current experience;
If you're a food person don't bother. TGIFriday's caliber food posing as a place with a few michelin stars on the wall...
The atmosphere is fine - music was a really nice touch (live band, very good fit) - but the food is super weak - service was OK - They kinda market it as a "gastro" pub - implying the are into for the food - BUT the food was super bland... uninspired and the meat wasn't the highest quality - the menu is defiantly trying to convince you this is high end food -but the taste and presentation are a far cry from high end food. (wilted lettuce, gross onion and a tomato stump on the burger - overall presentation looked like a 5 year old threw it together)
not worth the money for dinner - probably a lovely spot for drinks - but if you want to eat there are numerous alternatives in this area(mostly above 41st in hells kitchen proper) that serve much better food...
Oh I will say, they nailed the french fries. Very nicely done fries. -
Review from Devon D.
Brooklyn, NY
2/28/2012
Delicious food and yummy beers!!! I went here first for the Superbowl and was sad to have to leave to attend prior engagements.
I will be returning soon to bask in the ambiance of the very cute and assertive hostesses and lovely bartender, plus eat as if no one was looking! In that fated day I had their mussels, calamari and sliders and was sold!! Can't wait to go back soon and try more of their savory rich menu!! -
Review from Dan K.
Boston, MA
1/29/2012
What a fan I am of Albert Hall Tavern. I just enjoyed every minute of the time I spend at AHT. The bar, service, menu, ambiance, I just love it. Differentiated draft beer menu (always love to try something new (especially on tap)(who doesn't?)) and a dinner menu that will have me coming back. The kind of menu where you struggle to choose 1 of a few very appetizing options, and probably enlist waiter assistance.
I'll be baaack -
Review from Richard L.
Sarasota, FL
4/3/2012
Walking down to Santa's workshop I stumbled in here for lunch. Fish and chips, and they were the 2nd best I've ever had. (Best were in Halifax, NS). Light, crispy batter and completely fresh fish. I just wish there'd been 3 pieces instead of 2. My order looked JUST LIKE THE PICTURE. Yummy. The red haired lass who helped me was delightful. If I lived here I'd be in at least once a week.
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Review from Keeley-Ann H.
3/27/2012
I really liked the atmosphere in this place, its was pretty intimate and the decor is really cool. Now the martinis are made strong and delish and the food was unreal. It was the first time i had ever had BONE MARROW :O and i actually loved it. it was so unreal. We had such an amazing time here, the drinks were flowing the service was absolutely impecable and the ambiance was incredible. I will for sure be going back to visit when im in New york!
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Review from Andie H.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 4/2/2012
The manager did reach out to me regarding my experience there and offered to make good on it. Given the sheer number of places in the city, I don't think I'll be heading back anytime soon but do appreciate the offer and will change my review to two stars.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/22/2012
I came here with a Thrillist Rewards deal that was $25 for four beers, four cocktails and four… Read more »
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Review from Jocy C.
11/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Albert Hall Tavern is a gastropub located in Hell's Kitchen. We were brought here via a LivingSocial coupon.
For a table of six, we ordered the following for dinner:
- Raw Littleneck Clams
- Raw Malpeque Oysters
- Bone Marrow with Deviled Beef and Pickled Beets - YUM!
- Roast Whole Branzino with Meyer Lemon and Garlic
- Seafood Angel Hair Pasta with Wilted Arugula, Whipped Potatoes, and Tomato Citrus Vinaigrette
- Roasted Half Chicken with Potato Gratin and Mushroom Gravy
- Skillet Burger with Fontina Cheese
- Sauteed Broccoli Rabe
- French Fries with Duck Fat and Truffle - MUST GET!
Drinks:
- Prohibition Amber Ale
- Delirium Tremens Belgian Golden Ale
- Gavroche French Red Ale
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Line 39 2007, California
Overall, dinner was pretty good. Bone Marrow is WORTH A TRY. French Fries with Duck Fat and Truffle Oil is a MUST GET. Atmosphere and ambiance a plus.
Food Rating: 3.5Listed in: Discounted!
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Review from Ken C.
Astoria, Queens, NY
3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
Great service, friendly staff, fantastic tap selection, and a truly ridiculous burger. Take it from a local, this bar is a winner.
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Review from Erica M.
New York, NY
3/29/2012
This is the best fucking bar in town: friendliest people, great craft beer menu (even for a beer snob like me), delectable food, and an amazing and knowledgable staff. i would absolutely never go elsewhere.
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Review from Peter D.
11/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
With a lively bar scene and better than average food, Albert Hall is an excellent alternative to the 347 Thai restaurants on 9th Ave. We wandered in on a Friday evening, and although they were 3 patrons deep at the bar, there was many an open table in the cozy dining room in the back.
The host seemed slightly offended that I didn't laugh at his [admittedly lame] joke. If you're out there sir, I'm sorry. I had a long day, and I just needed a drink. I do appreciate the levity, and the excellent service that you and your staff provided.
I would have gladly made a meal of their appetizer offerings (a trio of sliders never seems like a bad idea), but we opted only for the bone marrow and the artichoke dip. The latter was nice and artichokey (this is absolutely a word), a pleasant departure from the usual spinach/cheese concoction. The rich and mellow marrow came atop a bed of salt; an attractive presentation, but one that can result in mouth-puckering disaster if the garnish happens to melt into the pickled beets on the side. Both the dip and the rich marrow were accompanied by rock-hard crostini that nonetheless did the trick.
Our entrees were well executed, but seemed slightly stingy at the price point. Perhaps they could've offered a better bangers to mash ratio, but dipped in the accompanying gravy, with a bit of caramelized onion, each bite was bliss. My companion rarely bypasses fish and chips on a menu, and here was no exception. The portion was a bit skimpy (at $17), but the tartar was homemade and quite good, pairing well with both the fish and the fries.
The food certainly seems solid at Albert Hall, although I've had bigger and better for a bit less cash. But such is life. Such is Manhattan.Listed in: the west side.
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Review from Sissie p.
Middlesex, MA
3/11/2012
Call that 4 1/2 starts. We found this place looking for decent dinner within walking distance of our hotel near Port Authority. WOW! Now we have a place to go when we get in to the city a little late.
The service was outstanding, the ambience really nice and every one at the table, all 5 of us, thoroughly enjoyed our meal. We had the Calamari -- it could have used some banana pepper rings, but was very tender and spicy.
The bread they brought was really good (and I bake all my own, so I"m fussy) and the olive oil for dipping was really tasty -- providing you like garlic as we all do.
Among us we had the lamb shanks (I tasted those and they were delicious and ample), the fish and chips, the beef brisket and the smoked trout. Every single dish was tasty, ample in serving and as described.
Their bar is extensive, and there were enough good beers and wines by the glass to appease everyone in the group.
WE will be back -- probably every time we go to NYC from now on. -
Review from Charm C.
Southwest, Las Vegas, NV
3/10/2012
All you can drink mimosas on the weekend and a B.E.L.T (bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato) sums up a brunch that will satisfy your belly's brunchy needs! this place is cool, plus the staff is super friendly! :)
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Review from Gloria D.
11/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
I work around the block from this joint, but have only been there once.
First, I was here for lunch and with great, hilarious company, so some of this review may be tainted by that fact...
Walked in, and we were seated in a booth in the back. Upon sliding into the booth, I was unpleasantly surprised by a very wet ass. Apparently, the ceiling was leaking. The dude knew that, but sat us there anyway. I was a little irritated, but my very tall and intimidating company gave the guy shit for it.
We were reseated, and I ordered a salad, which was very salty, but tasty. He ordered... hmmmm, I don't remember exactly, I was probably distracted by the conversation and not really paying attention to what he actually shoved into his foodhole, plus I was super tired.
The service was prompt, somewhat friendly. I'd like to return for a happy hour some night, and will.
In short, it was aiiiight. It wasn't GREAT, it was "meh" -
Review from george t.
Long Island City, NY
10/7/2011
I came here with the living social deal with was 2 courses for 2 and a bottle. We were giving 4 choices each for apps and entree and some of them were not what was advertised with the LS deal. Which was fine, unless the food totally sucked.
To be fair we did enjoy the appetizers. The muscles especially was quite tasty, the broth was good enough to drink. Bone marrow was also very good but why in the world do they put a big lump of salt under the bone? Its a messy dish and if you happen to accidentally scoop up some of the salt it becomes inedible. For entrees I had the half roasted chicken and my partner had the sausages and mash. The chicken was extremely dry to the point that I could only finish half of it. The sausages were passable but as an entree its just boring and underwhelming.
And then the bill came and we were charged an extra 7.99 billed as "Open Food". Which the server uncomfortably explained was the added cost of using the living social coupon. I said nothing and paid. I mean.."open food"... really? if you don't like the agreement you set with living social then don't run it in the first place. You will only end up screwing the customers you are trying to attract. -
Review from Russ L.
Boston, MA
12/9/2011
Terrible! I'd give it zero stars if I could. Three if us went there for lunch today about 12:15. We were the only ones there. About five minutes later another table of three arrived. Then a larger party about fifteen minutes later.
Our orders were taken fairly quickly, all thrre of us ordered the lunch cheeseburger. At 1:00, however, no food had arrived. This was going on 45 minutes after we got there. The other table of three had also not been served. The big group did get food.
In the meantime, no one came over to refill water glasses. No one checked on us. No one came over to apologize fit the delay. So we left.
On the way out, I asked to speak to the manager. Apparently no manager was there.
My recommendation: don't ever go to this place. -
Review from Nova A.
Manhattan, NY
11/2/2011
This place is a hidden gem. I was drawn in by the music of a jazz band playing there last Sunday afternoon.
I had a Bee's Knees cocktail, a delicious drink that involves lemon and honey, and I had some very tasty pancakes. My friend had a perfectly spiced Bloody Mary and the duck fat fries, which were awesome.
The atmosphere was nice and cosy, the staff was nice... I had the best Sunday late brunch I've had in a very long while.
The music was great and the band played at a very enjoyable volume. The singer is pretty amazing, she's this young vintagy chic Parisian girl.
I will probably be back next week. And the week after that... -
Review from Melanie R.
Manhattan, NY
3/1/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Tried his place on a whim and man it was tastey! I had the Deviled eggs which I liked very much and their Veggie burger is sooo good! It had a lovely grilled taste! Tried The Beerhatten which rocked!! Wasnt a fan of there Margerita which my girlfirend had. Brought 2 more friends the second time for drinks bartender was very sweet. Try it out!
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Review from Benson Y.
8/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Being the jaded New Yorker that I am, I have a tendency to walk by bar/pub/restaurant places and ignore them since they're a dime a dozen in Manhattan. This is especially true in the area around midtown on the West Side. I would have probably never gone to Albert Hall Tavern on my own, but I was invited to a little get together there last week and boy, I may have to rethink my jaded self with these types of places!
I have generally found these places to be super loud, crowded and uncomfortable. Albert Hall was almost the exact opposite. It was spacious, relatively quiet, comfortable temperature-wise and the setting was really nice. It looked like something out of an old Victorian Era novel, with ornate items on the walls, pages of old books used as an elaborate wallpaper in one section, wood booths and amber lighting which created an awesome ambience. Another nice touch: a live jazz band playing at a nice volume in the background.
The bartender (I didn't catch her name) was very sweet and mixed some good drinks for us. She was kind enough to mix up something I had just found online and I had one of the tastiest Riesling wines I've had in ages there. This alone is awesome, but the food is what truly made this experience great.
Much of the menu is not your typical "wings and things" type menu. Case in point? The dishes we ordered:
FRENCH FRIES
What's the big deal? It's fries, right? Well, yeah...except they're cooked in *duck fat* with some *truffle oil* on top! These things were so incredibly tasty it was clear it was a heart attack in a dish. These things are dangerously addicting and had a wonderfully decadent and earthy flavor. The texture was crisp on the outside, and most on the inside. Brilliant!
BANGERS AND MASH
Spicy sausages, carmalized onions on a bed of wonderfully tasty potatoes, what's not to like? When you combined all three of those elements it was awesome. The sausage was spicy and savory, the onions added a sweet element to the mix and then the potatoes provided a neutral canvas for those two flavors to blend. It was wonderful!
Congrats Albert Hall, you've made a jaded life long New Yorker a bit less jaded about one type of foodie experience. That's high praise! -
Review from Lotem B.
10/21/2011
Only poped in for a quick pint of London Pride...
But I must say, this place is a great spot.. I was very impressed with the decor of the place (loved the lighting of course).
I really liked the beer selection here, but mostly, my friend and I enjoyed the company of the barman (Jason?.. J......)
Sorry that I forgot your name... Guess I'll have to go back to NY and pop in again...
sigh... -
Review from Tia A.
Manhattan, NY
8/30/2011
I discovered this place by chance and was really enchanted!
First the decor : what a surprise! I loved the fun haunted mansion atmosphere, the wallpaper entirely made out of pages from old books, the victorian spooky portraits, the lanterns... it's really original and not fake or touristy looking at all.
We went for (very) late brunch with friends and everyone was really happy with the food they got. I had the pancakes, and they were special... I've never had pancakes so light and flavorful before, I was impressed.
Let me tell you, their all-you-can-drink for 14$ is such a good deal, and they have killer Bloody Maries, beautiful, tasty with some spice... perfect.
** Don't miss the awesome LIVE JAZZ on Sundays **
it's a Parisian band I now follow around the city, I'm addicted to the singer's fantastic voice and the violinist got all my girlfriends drooling like crazy. Old French and American jazz songs performed beautifully in that nostalgic setting was truly a memorable experience. -
Review from Joey P K.
10/31/2011 2 Check-ins Here
If you find yourself in the area, it's definitely worth a stop in to this place.
Everything raw bar is pretty fresh and amazing. Decent beer selection too. Always great to see Innus & Gunn on the menu. -
Review from Mark A.
Brooklyn, NY
10/15/2011
Is that Rip Van Winkle waking up over there? How long were we in there?
This poor rating is purely based on the slow service...and a burned duck. The food that I had--which was four mussels, a loaf of bread, and a glass of wine--was pretty good (4 worthy).
Allow me to explain:
Time of Arrival: 7:30PM, Saturday (Rip Van Winkle dozes off)
We had a big party come in and order all sorts of drinks and food. After ordering the drinks, we probably didn't get them for about 15 minutes. During this time, some tables were getting bread. We didn't get any bread. After we got our drinks, we didn't get our waiter to take our order for another 15 minutes. Okay, fine, it's a Saturday. I'll let it pass. You're busy.
Anyway, I ordered the Duck Confit (Special) and the mussels appetizer.
After about 90 minutes we realized our food wasn't coming anytime soon. A few of us asked another waiter (not ours) "what is going on?" We were told he would check on the food and minutes later we were given the bread and plenty of refills on water. More time passed. More bread and water came. More time passed. And yet more bread and water came.
Finally, after TWO hours about 2/3 of the table got their food. My meal and five others, however, were still missing. We complained. We got more bread and water. Finally, SOME of the food came: my mussels (they tasted great, btw). About twenty minutes later, I finally got the duck confit, which was burned to a crisp--which was barely noticeable, since they had turned the lights down minutes before they brought it out (that seriously happened). We ended up sending it back and we never got a replacement, so we canceled the order.
Note: During all of this, two of our friends never received their food and had to leave without eating because they had a party to get to in Brooklyn. They were also told that the kitchen had run out of fish and chips (Christ, not even fish sticks?). So, yeah, I guess it could have been worse.
We were later told that the chef was either on vacation or they were in between chefs. Either way, the food was slow in coming, half of it was burned, and my bread intake could have fed the whole country of Guana for a year (No offense, Guana).
Time of Departure: 11:35PM, Saturday (Rip Van Winkle awakes and is wondering why everyone is grumpy)
Suggestion: (1) don't go here on a busy night; (2) if you do go, get the mussels app or entree and just keep ordering more bread to sop up the delicious sauce; and (3) cancel your evening's plans/your two year old child's bat/bar mitzvah, because you're going to be there a LONG time.
I may consider going back to this place on a slow night and with a small group, but it might be awhile. -
Review from Sara R.
10/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was so pleasantly surprised by this place! I was looking for something on this inbetween-ish section of 9th ave near the Baryshnikov Arts Center where a small group could meet over beer and a little food. We were ferried straight the quieter back section of the narrow saloon-like pub and seated immediately on a few tables pulled together against a long wooden bench/banquet and some chairs.
Not only did we encounter consistently excellent service (despite a relatively low tab on a group of 5), but every single thing we ate was wonderful. The only exception was probably the gratis bread - cold and tough to pull apart - but we came hungry and they never stopped refilling so it became easier and easier to excuse. I took a chance on the roasted cauliflower soup w/Stilton b/c I'm not the hugest blue fan but it was fantastic! Apparently I love stinky blues in the right pairings. Thanks for that life lesson, Albert Hall. Two table-mates went the burger route and raved. Everyone else kept passing their German beers around, creating our own personal tasting. And to think, we were supposed to be "working".... -
Review from Michael B.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
11/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
This review is really 3.5 stars.
We came here again because we had been here a couple times back in January shortly after it opened. It was very close to our hotel, the beer selection was exceptional, the raw bar was great, and the conversation with the oyster guy and the bartender was engaging.
This time, the raw bar was gone (and thus the oyster guy) and the bartender was ok, but seemingly wasn't interested in a long conversation. Apart from that, everything was pretty much as I had liked it before.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere was great. Just loud enough, cool wood furnishings and lighting, a great-looking bar, a few interesting taps, and a couple TVs. The music was different from what I typically listen to, but REALLY enjoyable. Nice mix of Sinatra, Etta James, BB King, etc.
Drink
G had a Lindeman's Framboise Lambic and a Blanche Bruxelles, and I had a Delerium and a Weihenstephan. Everything was from the tap save the Lindeman's.
Food
We were just about to go up to Taboon, but our reservation was for late, so I decided to split the difference and have a wedge salad. Everything's better with bacon, except perhaps a triple-bypass.
Service
The service was good, but not overtly friendly. I'm perhaps a bit harsh because of the contrast against my previous visits.
I'd stop in again, even if only for a couple beers and a snack before going out to dinner! -
Review from Alyvia M.
9/21/2011
Decor- 4 stars: proper lighting makes everyone look more attractive
Music- 5 stars (thanks Kory)
Bartenders- 4 stars, they know their Bourbon/Whiskey
Bathroom- 4 stars, clean as a whistle
Food- 4.5 stars, Cauliflower & blue cheese soup and the duck fat & truffle fries are worth returning for (the ahi sliders are delicious too)
How am I just learning about this joint?
Thanks Yelp! We can't wait to return. -
Review from Aaron R.
Astoria, NY
2/26/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Best Bloody Mary in HK! Hands down! Awesome brunch food too.
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Review from gwen h.
Manhattan, NY
11/30/2011
I've been to Albert Hall Tavern twice and both times were such fun! The oysters and steak tartare were great. The first time I was in I was alone and the bar was full but the host was very kind and sat me alone and chatted to me while I waited for my drink/food. the staff was very friendly and the beer selection was good, a couple out-of-the-ordinary brews that I really dug.
Overall, Good Food, Good Beer, Nice folks! -
Review from Kami H.
6/23/2011
In town for a trade show, we stayed around the corner from this pub, and I suggested it as a dinner spot one night. Bleh. Everyone was pretty unhappy all around - the only bright spots were a wonderfully made Bee's Knees Cocktail and the duck fat fries.
We tried the Bibb lettuce salad that supposedly had "duck cracklings". There wasn't a crackle to be found in what seemed like a greasy crouton. If that was duck... that duck sucked. The Heirloom Tomato and Mozzerella salad was limp and tasteless.
Their Moules Frites were totally overcooked and nearly inedible. The Cast Iron Ribeye had so much fat and gristle that my coworker gave up.
On top of it all, the service was slow and totally unfriendly. My recommendation? Come for a drink, and eat somewhere else.Comment from Albert H. of Albert Hall Tavern 6/25/2011
Hello Kami We apologize for your bad experience this is not… More » -
Review from Thao N.
Manhattan, NY
5/28/2011
I went here with the PopSugar deal, which was $50 worth of food and drink for $25. We sat at the bar and ordered drinks and fries, which were pretty tasty. The service was fine up to this point.
Then we tried paying.
The bartender tried to tell me that the deal was only for $25 off - when I asked him to see the voucher, he gave it back to me and I pointed to the "$50 worth of food and drink." He just looked at me and asked me how much I paid for it. I told him $25, then he asked me why he should take off more than $25 if I only paid $25 for it.
I asked for a manager, who arrived quickly, and seemed really helpful. He said that he would take care of it and promptly dropped off our new check. He took off 50%, which only was a $20 discount. I told him that the voucher was for $50, not 50%, and he seemed really annoyed and told me that he canceled the PopSugar deal and that I got a credit for it from PopSugar. I told him I didn't receive any such credit and he seemed really annoyed and took back the bill and finally took off the $50 - which we only spent $45 of.
It was a sweet place, but I'm over crappy service. Too many bars in the area to come back to a place that either can't add or doesn't want to honor coupons.
Lesson of the day: Don't offer coupons if you get pissed when people try to use them. -
Review from Billy M.
Monument Beach, MA
3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
I don't know why anyone would give this place less than 5 stars. One of the best burgers in Manhattan, a stellar crew that is great with their service, it seems to get better every time I come. With Jordan at the bar, you can expect a scholar and a gentleman, with a killer American Micro-brew list to boot. They had Stone Old Guardian on tap!!!!! One of the best gastropubs in the city, I cannot say enough about this place, except come in, order a brew, or one of Jordan's great mixologist cocktails, and enjoy!
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Review from Takako T.
New York, NY
Updated - 6/20/2011 9 photos
Update for new menu trial. The last time I came here, tried water melon salad and soft shell crab, which I heard their new addition(I usually order my favorite tar tar and didn't really noticed the menu is renewed..). And the soft shell crab turned to be my new favorite!
The watermelon salad was delicious with the hint of basil and lemon, somewhat goes well with beer too. But the most memorable for that night was soft shell crab, which was so delicious with really soft meat/shell with flavorful batter outside. Highly recommended!
Although I come here all year round(since it's in my neighborhood), like this place especially during summer time. With beer, summer breeze, and the long sunset, I can totally be refreshed after work...!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/17/2011
After Kovo(the bar used to be at the same place) closed, this tavern showed up with the similar… Read more »
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Review from michael c.
New York, NY
12/21/2011
this place is a nice and cozy place. the ambiance is nice, music not too loud, service is pretty on point. this place is a solid choice if you need a place to eat, have a drink and just relax. the food there is okay, i dont think its anything too crazy. the burger is solid, nothing fancy, cooked well. wings were nice and flavorful. the fish and chips tho...not a fan. the breading was greasy and the fish wasnt too flavorful. the fries were nice, they have duck fat and truffle. yes please. c'mon now.
overall, this place is just solid and cant really complain too much. personally id steer away form the fish and chips but other than that, should be good to go. -
Review from Ayanna F.
New York, NY
5/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here with my Living Social deal expecting greatness based on the Yelp reviews. Sigh...
For starters, the waitress told us we could only share an appetizer with the deal, but based on other LS reviews here, apparently we got cheated!! Anyway, we shared the bone marrow, which was outrageously delicious. It was my first taste of it, and just melts in your mouth. If you come here, this is a must buy!!!
I then got the duck confit, and the blood sausage was great, but the rest of it was inedible! The duck was OVERCOOKED, as if they "slow" cooked it at full temp. Dry dry dry. The beans tasted like they were out of a can- not the good beans out of a can either, but the Brand X beans you'd buy if you couldn't afford shelter and begged for money. Ugh.
He got the burger and fries, and he enjoyed the burger. We tasted the fries... Tasted again... And again... Yep, inedible. They weren't overcooked, they just tasted terrible.
Service was great, although as the place got packed with Living Social diners they seemed a bit overwhelmed. Afterward, we got some edible food at Shorty's up the street.
