Fish, Steak, or Italian on the East Side
Amanda Asks:
“I’m going out tonight with a group of 5 and we are looking for somewhere in the Gramercy/Midtown East area (as long as it is in close proximity to 26th and 3rd ave). The only stipulations I’m getting from the people I’ll be dining with are that it’s either Italian, Steak, or fish, and that it has a great atmosphere. One thing I know is that I’m not looking for your run-of-the-mill Italian restaurant that has a menu full of pasta dishes. Got anything for me, Alex?”
It’s an old standby but I really do love the Grand Central Oyster Bar. Maybe it’s their beautiful old-New York feel but I have a hard time not grabbing some oysters when I’m hungry in the area. While I really can’t vouch for much else on the menu, I’ve always enjoyed their raw bar and the space is really pretty special. The service can definitely be spotty and rushed at times but I still love it… I hear they do a decent steak, too.
For some good, straightforward bistro food (nice steaks) in the area, I like Les Halles on Park Ave. between 28th and 29th (Les Halles Homepage). I was hesitant to try it for a while because of the attention it gets from chef Anthony Bourdain, but the food really does hold up. The atmosphere is classic bistro — warm, although a bit hectic at times and they do a great steak frites along with other classics, all executed very well.
You might also think about the front room at Gramercy Tavern on 20th between Broadway and Park Ave (Website here…). They don’t take reservations for the front room and the prices are a lot more relaxed then they are in the formal dining room but the food is still just as expertly prepared. While I certainly wouldn’t call it a ‘fish’ place, some of their seafood dishes are amongst my favorite in the city. Everything is always fresh, seasonal and classically executed with impeccable but comfortable service.
Hope I was of some help - please don’t hesitate to ask again!
