Grand Central Oyster Bar image

Grand Central Oyster Bar

Restaurant Bar American restaurant Seafood restaurant Oyster bar restaurant

One of the Most Reviewed Oyster bar restaurants in New York


Address

89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017

Website

www.oysterbarny.com

Contact

(212) 490-6650

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (3.9K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: oysters (68) oyster (28) seafood (27) good (26) restaurant (23) Central (22) service (22) Grand (21) great (20) Oyster (19)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 ReedH 8 months ago on Google • 388 reviews
    I used to make a pilgrimage here on my annual layovers through the city, and have wanted to get back here since moving here a couple years ago. Sadly they were closed during the pandemic and now only open during weekdays, making it difficult. Happily I was finally able get over here last week though. The oysters are good and they have a nice variety though prices have gone up a lot since my last visit. The clam chowder is also a must. It was nice for the nostalgia though and the architecture is iconic. A good place to bring any out of town guests that are oyster lovers.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Andrew G. 2 years ago on Google
    Came year after 15 years to enjoy the oysters again. Some changes to the oyster bar but largely intact. Chives are not as many oyster types as it used to be due to Covid. More cooked food selections and have probably 8 different types of oyster to offer. Oyster ranges from $2.85 to $3.85 per piece. From east to west coast , I prefer the New Brunswick and the Washington coast . Briny and lots of sea water mineral taste . Wine selection are quite a range with selection of many American wines . I ordered the clam but it was not great. Sitting on the 50s type of chair to enjoy a simple oyster lunch! Yummy …
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jason V. 2 years ago on Google
    Great selection of east coast oysters! I prefer east coast because they are less briny. New England clam chowder and calamari were also great dishes. Not the best I’ve had but the calamari had a very light and crispy batter. Located downstairs in grand central in the dining concourse Service was attentive and fast. Don’t think I’d come back though as it wasn’t memorable enough for me!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Stay C. 3 months ago on Google • 549 reviews New
    Unsere Erfahrung in der Grand Central Oyster Bar begann holprig. Trotz verfügbarer Plätze erhielten wir anfangs keinen Tisch für zwei Personen. Stattdessen wurde uns in der Markthalle ein Platz angeboten, wo uns der Kellner jedoch herablassend mitteilte, dass er bald Feierabend macht und uns nicht mehr bedienen wird. Schließlich fanden wir im Saloon einen Platz, wo der Service akzeptabel war. Trotz des anfänglichen Ärgers entschieden wir uns für eine Vielzahl von Speisen, darunter die große Seafood-Platte, die frisch und lecker war – besonders die Austern. Auch die frittierten Shrimps waren erstklassig, während die Beilagen wie Kartoffelbrei und Spinat in Ordnung waren. Besonders empfehlenswert waren die Manhattan Clam Chowder-Suppe und das Bier aus Montauk. Alles in allem war der Besuch nach anfänglichen Schwierigkeiten versöhnlich. Das interessante Ambiente der Oyster Bar trug dazu bei, dass der Abend noch positiv endete. Dennoch hoffen wir, dass der Service zukünftig konstanter und freundlicher sein wird. 🦪🍤🍲🍺🌆

  • 5/5 Matthew F. 10 months ago on Google
    The Grand Central Oyster Bar is epic! If you are in Gran Central Station then this restaurant is a must-go place to have lunch/dinner. The seafood is so fresh and the atmosphere is so unique. Not sure the history but this place feels like it’s been around for many, many decades. I loved it here.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anne D. 6 months ago on Google • 143 reviews
    Essential New York experience. Manhattan Clam Chowder was delicious, Crab Cake was crab-filled and fluffy, and the oysters were fresh. The best seating area is to the left where the bar and circular white tables are.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Vinnie 1. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice to enjoy oysters while at the historic Grand Central Station. Prepare for extremely high prices! They have a great atmosphere with live lobsters, expansive areas of dining, beautiful bar area and many kinds of oysters, she'll fish, meaty fish and non-fish items. Service was good. Overall it was a nice experience but I can't get beyond the prices.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J K. 3 years ago on Google
    I remember when we first time visited New York City in 2015, and I saw this amazing ceiling restaurant in Grand Central, in that time I determined one day gonna give it a try if we have second chance to be back. And luckly, we moved to New York in 2018. And we chose this restaurant to celebrate our marriage first anniversary . The atmosphere was very lively, many people and the waiters was doing very good. Foods were good, oysters were very fresh, however, the first reason to be there just wanna enjoy staying in the restaurant and looked around amazing ceiling. Very special experience in there, the toilets was super cool as old style I guess. Recommen to visitors if you take a trip to New York City. Prices are a little bit high, but surely have special impression there.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Gabrielle T. 3 months ago on Google • 273 reviews New
    Came here specifically for oysters at around lunch time. They had a wide assortment and the servers were helpful in giving advice for which types to choose. Overall our experience was just okay. The oysters were delicious as expected. The mignonette was just okay, and I wish it had more shallots. The shucking was just a little messy and I sometimes had shells in my bite which I know is part of the risk but could be avoided as much as possible. The adductor muscle was also not dislodged so we had to do that part ourselves before slurping down.

  • 5/5 manny m. 2 months ago on Google • 32 reviews New
    Dinner? Reserve a table in the “Saloon” room. Love oysters but don’t know the difference between east and west coast shells? Order the chef’s medley. The servers are extremely knowledgeable- you’ll learn about bumpy and flat edge oysters. Hadn’t been here in a while and can’t recall exactly why I don’t come here more often. This place is not just for commuters. Beer on tap, freshest sea food, great service and an apres work buzz that is quintessential NY. Don’t yell at me please but I had the eggs Benedict over smoked salmon on English muffin🤤….for dinner, yum. Key lime pie is legendary. Next visit, lobster roll. Enjoy
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aniko M. 5 years ago on Google
    From 1913 To Today. A New york Institution. For over 100 years the Grand Central Oyster Bar has been serving the freshest oysters and seafood in New York City.That place is popular for its large variety of oysters. The menu is online available to , take look! Its located on the ;1 floor on Grand Central Station. You can either sit at the bar or wait to be seated at the restaurant for a full meal. The bar and had some oysters and a crab salad roll. Simple but very fresh. WiFi is working and nice bathrooms very close to Metro North travels or Subway Station, Shuttle
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marion N. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is FINALLY open! The opus yet option is not as much but this place is rocking again! Delicious oysters for sure!!! Definitely highly visit now!! Who knew that there was more than one kind of oysters! If you love oysters you have to come to this place. They have so many to choose from. I preferably like to start with their New England Clam chowder which is just ok but not bad followed by a variety of West Coast oysters. I prefer West Coast oysters they’re creamier and less salty in my opinion. The staff is a NYC experience you’re definitely not getting the southern charm. The space is amazing as you can see in the pictures. Almost reminds me of the Sydney Opera house roof. The entrance to the restaurant is right in front of the whispering gallery in Grand Central Station
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex da C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great ambience, lovely decor, huge history and to top it all off, fresh oysters in the heart of the city. If you like oysters and fresh seafood then this is an easy recommendation. They've got a wide selection of drinks as well so you're set for a luxurious meal, no matter the time of day. I'd advise to sit at the counter for a more authentic experience. It makes sense to ask the staff what's best and what their favourites are as they know their stuff.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ivan P. 2 years ago on Google
    Definitely an authentic place. Seems to be a true New Yorker hanging out spot. Quite a selection of various oysters and fish. I would not say it is a wow experience in terms of the taste and presentation, it is quite average. I had higher expectations. But hey, probably worth checking out for yourself once.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James A. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic food and service. The place was packed when there on a Tues early December '21. Had the fried clams appetizer and blackened grouper. Terrific! Our server was able to seat us relatively quickly without a reservation and a full house. Always great seafood. Thumbs way up.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashley 2 months ago on Google • 233 reviews New
    A very interesting place in the ground or underground level of Grand Central Station. Tried to go for cocktails at another place, but it was full. Oysters were great, went with chefs choice. Many to select from. Had a listing of cocktail options but we went with a general Negroni. Service was just OK. But would recommend, really cool looking place.

  • 2/5 G E. 4 months ago on Google • 72 reviews
    I’m leaving this in real time because yeah… so to start the waiter was absolutely lovely 1 star but that doesn’t make up for the lack the food was. His oyster selection for the table was solid. So 1 star the other food was okay or nothing to write home about. The lobster roll is the saddest thing I’ve ever had in my life: the bread was good but what they called a pound of meat for nearly a $40 roll was lack there of. I’ve had better rolls in the city. The muscles, don’t even bother. It taste like they were cooked in water with a hint of wine and whatever pinches of seasoning. It took all of my will power to not send food back out of respect for my family visiting us. This was the most over priced disappointing experience. Stick to the New England clam chowder. The food has seriously gone downhill. Also the fact that we asked if we can sub onion rings for fries being a big deal is pretty sad and instead he brought us what is considered a side of onion rings for $10 🥴 this whole situation deserves this emoji 🥴🥴🥴 Kicking myself for not taking a picture of the sad lobster roll. But here we are. Good luck.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebecca K. 5 months ago on Google • 25 reviews
    Iconic for a reason! We needed to take the train north of Manhattan and wished for delicious seafood. After walking from the Tenement Museum to Grand Central station, we were hungry…The Oyster Bar was perfect! Start with oysters Rockefeller and order anything on the menu because it’s going to be some of the best food you’ve ever had. We had shrimp linguine (amazing!) and jumbo fried shrimp platter (incredible!) Key lime pie is a fabulous finish! Great service and atmosphere and central location.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 L L. 4 years ago on Google
    Fresh and tasty oysters
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lauren W. 2 years ago on Google
    Thank you, Oyster Bar team, for yet another wonderful evening! We are so very happy to see you back in operation after the pandemic closure, and can’t wait to celebrate with you when every seat is full again. We live far away but treasure our visits from 25+ years. The menu and service tonight were as good as ever, and the beautiful, bustling location can’t be beat! Love you guys.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John H. 2 years ago on Google
    A wonderful dinner in a beautiful setting. We had 2 different types of oysters, West coast and east coast. Both were very good but we decided that west coast was a little bit better. Linda and I both had the shrimp scampi with linguini and Julie had the pan fried lemon sole with truffle sauce. Delicious!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 L S. 1 year ago on Google
    I don’t have a ton of experience with oysters so I can’t speak with that context but I loved everything I had! The seafood platter was great and a good size for two (although I could’ve eaten it by myself tbh). The chef chose 4 (two East Coast, two West Coast) types of raw oysters for it. It also came with two shrimp that were super thicc 🤌🏽 The steamed and buttered potatoes were tied for my fav, with perfect salted skins. My other fav was the Oyster Rockefeller, which was with creamed spinach and cheese, I think? I honestly have no idea but it was perfection ✨ The calamari was cute, the coleslaw was giving a little something, and the cosmo was super strong for no reason.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amarjit D. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent food snd service. The oysters were deliciously fresh. Fried calamari was amazing and so was the new England clam chowder. But the star of the meal was the sole filet. This is highly recommended. Unfortunately the shrimp cocktail was not worth the price.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mauricio R. 1 year ago on Google
    Really traditional oyster bar and restaurant. Located underground at Grand Central Station. Choose between the oyster bar and the restaurant as you enter. Both are great places to sit. We love the oysters, New England clam chowder, Maryland crab cakes and the lobster. Don't miss this NYC landmark!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Gina J. 1 year ago on Google
    Well, what can I say- the food was good, but not sure for the price. The oyster Rockefeller was tasty, but clearly just their creamed spinach added on top of the oyster along with a bit of cheese. Still good though. Giving it 4 stars because the service was extremely slow. Took 20 minutes just to get bread, another 20 for appetizers, and another 30 for entre.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Junghoon s. 1 year ago on Google
    An absolute must visit while you’re in New York. They have the freshest and best tasting oyster on the island and the selection to choose from is crazy. The server we had was a lady who had worked there for several years and was able to help us pick which oysters to choose to get a good range of flavours and textures. Service was amazing and was such a coincidence that she had served a famous Korean actor in a show I watched to discover the place. I’ve never had such creamy or sweet or briny oyster before. I went to an oyster bar near the Hudson River later while I was in New York and it wasn’t nearly as good. My favourite oyster here was the belon Maine oyster. Perfect balance between sweet and salty. Not to mention you can’t really find them sold anywhere in the UK. I’d recommend you queue before it opens as once it gets busy your oyster order will take longer to arrive as the place is massive.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jason L. (. 9 months ago on Google
    This is not a pretentious snooty type of restaurant. This is a beautiful historic landmark underneath another historic landmark. It seems like a wonderfully maintained facility that serves up fresh quality seafood. Lobster, oysters, fish, clams, shrimp, etc, is all available to diners delight. We tried an array of east coast oyster varieties and enjoyed every bite. Additionally, my wife got a lobster roll and I ordered a oyster po'boy sandwich. If you've never had a lobster roll from Maine, this is the best lobster roll you'll ever have.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Jan Klein P. 5 years ago on Google
    Good oysters, busy restaurant and staff. Honestly I like this place. It breathes tradition and the venue is very beautiful. Unfortunately it gets so busy that the attention for customers get somewhat lost in the process. I found the staff rushed and not very informative after asking for recommendations. When I got the bill I left a small tip. Then I was friendly reminded that tipping 18% was recommended and was requested to increase my tip. I'm more than happy to do so when the service is good, but not when it is lacking. Oh by the way: oysters are great (although weirdly supplemented by ketchup). Would not order fried food here again, only oysters.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lara Star M. 5 years ago on Google
    This place is a N.Y. GEM. It’s a slice of nostalgia, and it has stood the test of time. This adorable seafood place has a Saloon, which is their bar area, right from the 70’s. They haven’t changed their decor in decades. Same with the bar in the central area, with their vintage white chairs under their dark wood tables. The place is bustling, loud, and incredibly delicious. I couldn’t even finish my raw bar sampler- and it was just 8 oysters, 2 clams, 2 mussels, and a couple shrimp! The ceiling is gorgeous with their vaulted herringbone tile (to match the rest of the station). The food is top quality, the experience is one of a kind, and it’s a NY tradition to experience. The only downside is the bathrooms- haven’t been renovated in forever, but I’ll give them that.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian F. 4 years ago on Google
    Iconic. If you’re there during happy hour head back to the saloon and get some great food and drinks at a reasonable price. Do not only come during happy hour though - food is top notch. Don’t forget people... you’re in the city - enter this place, find a seat at the bar, and order all with confidence - this isn’t Red Lobster!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kamil P. 5 months ago on Google • 119 reviews
    One of the coolest places in all of Manhattan. Fantastic oyster and seafood bar hidden under a grand Central Station with a menu that changes every day to highlight the fresh deliveries. Choose between a super casual counter seating area, a saloon or a fancy section. Tons of choice and honestly rather cheap for NYC.

  • 5/5 Juliana “Mrs. Lo” L. 4 months ago on Google • 93 reviews
    Iconic! This visit, we had the Seafood platter with oysters, clams, shrimp and lobster. Delish! Also: grilled octopus, lump crabmeat, and cerviche. Everything was super fresh and delicious. The Oyster Bar never disappoints!!

  • 4/5 Maria B. 1 month ago on Google • 65 reviews New
    This place is a NY institution — I haven’t been back in about 15 years and I swear nothing has changed! From the lunch counter, to the menu, the waiters, the Saloon and those crazy leather mitt chairs near the bathroom. I love the fact that when you come here you are immediately transported back in time.

  • 4/5 Jenna P. 6 months ago on Google • 44 reviews
    Definitely a bit of a touristy spot but it is worth trying out. Already it is meaningful that we can grab a glass of wine and seafood in the historical restaurant. Don't expect great service, amazing foods or anything, but if we could enjoy the hustling bustling atmosphere and beautiful architecture of the space, then that'd be enough.

  • 5/5 Dotan H. 8 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    This is a true gem. It's a large place with interesting architecture under the entrance to the grand station. I loved the large selection of oysters. So fresh. Yummm. The kitchen is open and I was sitting on the bar so I have seen the cook prepare their signature soup right in front of me. The soul was creamy, rich and full of sea food. Absolutely loved it. I also had the crab cake which was soft and full of flavor. The waiters serving the bar were nice but I wanted more of their attention I would go there any time I am near.

  • 5/5 Suzette S. 3 years ago on Google
    I’m hoping and praying that the Oyster Bar can safely open again after the virus. I would be devastated if was closed permanently

  • 4/5 Marsyita M. 9 months ago on Google
    The Oyster Bar at Grand Central, NYC provided a truly memorable date night experience. The opulent atmosphere, with its tiled walls and vintage ceiling lights, transported me back to the charming 1950s. I began my meal with a half dozen fresh oysters from Maine, although they were slightly smaller than expected. The gazpacho with lobster pieces was a refreshing and delightful choice. The grilled monkfish, as the special of the day, was juicy, succulent, and bursting with flavor. I couldn't resist sampling my partner's New England-style clam chowder, which was creamy and rich. I look forward to returning for another lovely date night, this time dining at the bar counters and enjoying the experience of watching the skilled shucking of fresh oysters.

  • 5/5 John D. 1 year ago on Google
    You're running thru Grand Central to get home or with the family. Maybe you're headed downstairs to the market. Either case think about one of the great places in the city. The place is an institution. Just look at the photos from some other reviews. The food was fantastic. Why would you go to an Oyster Bar and not try the oysters. Fresh and delicious. We had the lobster rolls, salad, soup bisque. All amazing. To top it off for dessert we had the Key Lime pie which frankly might be the best I've ever had in the city. I took some home.Service was great in a real NYC atmosphere. Enjoy it everyone.

  • 4/5 Melibarn T. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic menu if you like seafood! So many choices, it's insane. Food was good and staff was friendly! Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Chance B. 3 years ago on Google
    Great and flavorful food, I loved the atmosphere the spot has, and the employees were very kind. I will surely come back in the future.

  • 3/5 Ms J. 1 year ago on Google
    ***The star rating is only for the oysters and clam chowder*** If you like oysters and New England clam chowder then this is the place to get them. The only restaurant in NYC that has Belon oysters!! A must if you like a creamy and metallic flavor. They have sweet overtones and a sort of 'coppery' finish which is a delight when it hits your mouth! There are also delicious cherry stone clams and many other oysters you can choose from. The clam chowder has the perfect clam to potato ratio with just the right amount of cream and thickness. If you don't like raw seafood you can also order their lackluster dishes that they offer from the menu.

  • 4/5 K C. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The oysters are a little small. (Original) 牡蠣がちょっと小ぶりですね。

  • 5/5 David Hale S. 1 year ago on Google
    An iconic NYC dining experience. Some of the freshest, most beautiful and delicious oysters you will ever eat. Not a bad seat in the house but I love all the counter and bar seat options. I’ve been a fan since my first work trip to New York City in 1992. Order an oyster pan roast in the winter months and you’ll leave happy. Ask servers and bartenders for recommendations on favorite oysters and other dishes and you’ll be happy guaranteed. Don’t miss the crab cake sandwich and caviar sandwich!

  • 5/5 Kristen 1 year ago on Google
    Although our visit to Grand Central oyster bar was not perfect for a couple reasons, the resolution to the issues from the manager makes me give them five stars. After the visit, I emailed the manager just to let them know about the issues only so it didn’t happen to someone else, and he promptly called me and resolved my issue very generously and kindly. Overall, the food here is really great, the building is beautiful, and it’s definitely a must check out when you’re in the city. I order order oysters quite a lot and these are definitely the best oysters I have ever had. Order the Queenscup! And make sure to check out the whispering gallery outside the main entrance! I can’t wait to return in March *edit. Returned and as promised Mohammad, the manager made right. We had a fantastic meal and everything was perfect.

  • 5/5 Tara T. 1 year ago on Google
    The service was great and staff were attentive. The proportions were large, a bit too much for 1 person, but definitely worth the price and tasty. I would come here with my family. You would not regret going.

  • 5/5 Rachel C. 1 year ago on Google
    This place lives up to the hype. The oysters were so fresh and delicious. They had a great wine selection & the Manhattan clam chowder was fantastic. I also was seated and served very quickly.

  • 5/5 Kyle S. 3 years ago on Google
    Didn’t go here but just updated your google maps to reflect that you are open again. It was listed as “temporarily closed”

  • 4/5 Soni J. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place, fresh seafood. Located in grand Central Station. Nice restaurant (main dining) and also nice bar (separate area). Fresh salad and great oysters. The clam chowder was very good as well.

  • 5/5 Bennett B. 2 years ago on Google
    Wide variety of oysters with excellent taste. Asked to order a sampler pladder and received a wide variety of oysters that was given a description by the waiter. Great cocktails and homemade cheesecake topped off the night.

  • 4/5 Julia A. 9 months ago on Google
    Top food! We really loved it. The best oysters in our opinion were from British Columbia (Fanny Bay) 🤗and we tasted a lot of different ones. Quite an average service: very unfriendly waiters. The atmosphere itself is not that totally nice, very dark to eat.. and waiting times could have been shorter..overall, pricey and not really worth it.

  • 5/5 Evan F. 3 years ago on Google
    I get to eat here a lot since I work close by. I have to say their service is always fantastic and they keep the place clean all the time. Prices are reasonable and they serve large portions.

  • 5/5 Jose E. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Mandatory to discover this site. Many types of oysters .. (Original) Obligatorio descubrir este sitio. Muchos tipos de ostras ..

  • 5/5 さくら芦屋 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I always ate it in New York. It's a New York specialty along with Peter Luger's steak. (Original) ニューヨークでは必ず食べてました。ピータールーガーのステーキと並ぶニューヨークの名物ですね。

  • 5/5 Beckham D. 3 years ago on Google
    Had a excellent experience in this place with my kid. The food arrived quick and the service is just awesome. Prices are convenient.

  • 5/5 Cheri M. 9 months ago on Google
    What a really cool place. Most people would not even know it's there. My friend has eaten here several times and she insisted we had to go, now I see why! She wanted some clam chowder and since it was an oyster bar, I needed to try the Oyster Rockefeller. It was so good. We sat at the bar and the bartender was so nice. They almost ran out of chowder, but he made sure she got her fix. We had some drinks and met some nice people passing through town.

  • 5/5 Focus W. 4 years ago on Google
    Fantastic menu if you like seafood! So many choices, it's insane. Food was good and staff was friendly! Highly recommend!

  • 3/5 Larry L. 5 years ago on Google
    Very busy. The servers looked overworked and had a grumpy and rude attitude. Seating was a disaster. I wanted to leave no tips but then felt sorry for the overworked servers. The oysters took forever (more than 30 minutes) to arrive. Hello owner people come to your restaurant for oysters! Wait 30 minutes for an appetizer? Almost everything we ordered was sold out by 8. The food was fine but wasn’t amazing. And at this price, I would rather go to the Chelsea Market if you want really good seafood.

  • 5/5 Ben S. 6 months ago on Google
    This place is massive. If you get sat at the far end, the trip to the restrooms is a lengthy one, but you get to see how cool it is with all the different sections and types of seating. The food was really good! Well worth going in!

  • 5/5 Jill L. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place! They have everything seafood there. Watching the guy create (insert your favorite shellfish or fish here) bisque was both fascinating and entertaining! We got a dozen oysters on the half shell which were juicy and delicious. This place is definitely a destination site. If you are visiting NYC and love seafood, it's a mandatory must do! And while you're there, check out the famous constellations on the ceiling!

  • 4/5 Shaun H. 4 months ago on Google
    Great food - one of the best NE Clam Chowder I've had. The two options for seating is several bar- style tables, as well as full service. If you do the bar style, expect to wait. You'll wait for the menu. You'll wait for them to take your order,. You'll wait, and wait to pay. So service is a bit longing. But loved the food, so I'll be back - probably on the full service side though.

  • 4/5 Nick B. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely setting and you have to keep on reminding yourself you are fine dining at a New York Railway Station.! Huge seafood selection along with a comprehensive Wine list..

  • 5/5 Paulina O. 1 month ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    Stepping into the Grand Central Oyster Bar is like revisiting cherished memories of previous trips to NYC. With each visit, I'm greeted with a wave of nostalgia that never fails to bring a smile to my face. The oyster selection here is consistently outstanding, a testament to the restaurant's dedication to quality and freshness. From East Coast to West Coast varieties, there's always a diverse array of flavors to explore and enjoy. While the ambiance and layout may not be the fanciest, there's an undeniable charm to the timeless atmosphere of the Oyster Bar. It's a place where history meets culinary excellence, and for me, it's always a must-stop when I visit New York City. Whether you're a seasoned oyster enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in the city's rich culinary heritage, the Grand Central Oyster Bar never disappoints. Here's to many more memorable visits and countless oysters shared in this iconic New York institution.

  • 1/5 sushi c. 3 years ago on Google
    I went here last year with my boyfriend and they really overcharged half my wallet for three teeny tiny potatos floating in broth in a fist-size plate. Emphasize on plate instead of a bowl. There was hardly anything to eat. The stale crackers they gave before the meal was a little more filling and I was still starving even when we left. Oh yeah, we also waited half an hour for the food.

  • 4/5 조지연 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The taste didn't feel like it and the old-fashioned atmosphere was very good (Original) 맛은 생각같지않았고 고풍스런 분위기는 아주 좋았더

  • 5/5 Oliver W. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely restaurant serving fresh seafood. Menu changes daily. Upscale meals. Not too expensive and perfect for a lovely meal out. High chairs provided

  • 5/5 g m. 4 years ago on Google
    Oysters and clams fresh and delish. A bit of ol school NY

  • 5/5 Cecelia S. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent oysters, friendly service! Such a cool location!!

  • 5/5 SEONGMI S. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing experience here to order the fresh oysters. But the service was little late...

  • 4/5 Rebecca S. 4 years ago on Google
    Everything we had was absolutely amazing except for the seafood pasta. A must-visit in New York!

  • 5/5 Dawn I. 4 years ago on Google
    A true NY icon! Great seafood right in the heart of Grand Central...a must try for tourists and locals!

  • 4/5 tmb 3. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A large restaurant on the premises of Grand Central Station. A good atmosphere including a cluttered feeling. The oyster fries are delicious besides. (Original) グランドセントラル駅の構内にある大規模なレストラン。雑然とした感じも含めて良い雰囲気。カキフライが以外に美味しいです。

  • 5/5 Margaret P. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing historic restaurant with fantastic food and great service! Go here!

  • 5/5 John L. 4 years ago on Google
    A foodie institution serving clam chowder and lobster rolls and everything else you can imagine from under the sea, all served on checkered table cloths with fresh bread. You just can't go wrong at GCOB, and much much better than the touristy eateries and bars that occupy Grand Central's grand hall.

  • 3/5 Amazing T. 4 years ago on Google
    The food is not bad, the service is a bit slow, and the prices are high honestly. I used to go the Oyster Bar alot but it started losing it’s charm and good delicious food. One main issue is the bad smell inside the restaurant.

  • 1/5 Linda B. 4 years ago on Google
    Could not have been worse. The Manhattan clam chowder tasted like Campbell's vegetable soup. Crab claws were not properly cracked so we couldn't get any meat out. All in all a real waste of $300.

  • 5/5 Francisco de Oliveira J. 4 years ago on Google
    I went there in 2001and it was fantastic! When I come back to New York, I will be there again! Great place and food, good memories...

  • 5/5 Jules S. 4 years ago on Google
    A locals favorite in the middle NY's busiest transportation hubs. My favorite bartender Tai is an insanely beautiful human. Love coming here for the company and delicious martinis.

  • 5/5 Erica S. 3 years ago on Google
    The seafood Cesar salad is my favorite

  • 1/5 Olga S. 3 years ago on Google
    I was here on November 8th. I ordered oysters. When I sprayed oysters with lemon, a red fat worm got out of the oyster! it's disgusting! the waiter removed the worm and told me to eat it! no more coming back! The waiters are disrespectful to customers, the menu waited 15 minutes! if you want to feel like а moron come to this place !

  • 5/5 Bram V. 3 years ago on Google
    Ate some oisters here pre-covid situation and it was amazing!

  • 5/5 Khalil B. 3 years ago on Google
    This spot is worth a visit. They have big portions for affordable prices. Regularly neat and with excellent mood. Will come back again.

  • 2/5 Connor T. 2 years ago on Google
    I would never ever recommend this restaurant. We were kindly greeted at the door, but took 10-15 minutes for a server to greet us. Our server was absent from the table and extremely forgetful. We had empty waters almost our entire meal and the food (other than the raw oysters) was nothing to write home about. After dropping the check, our server was at our table more in those last 5 minutes than the entire time we were eating.

  • 3/5 Hunter K. 2 years ago on Google
    The seafood was nice but it's def a place you go to for the atmosphere, not the food. I enjoyed the oysters and the shrimp I had, would not recommend the dessert (cheesecake)

  • 4/5 Jackie G. 3 years ago on Google
    Hidden gems in the east bay! Love their Salmon and their selection of drinks. You have to try this place.

  • 5/5 Amber R. 2 years ago on Google
    I found this little gem underneath Grand Central Station. The architecture is beautiful and it’s a huge restaurant with a main dining area, bar, and then smaller more intimate’Saloon’ area. If you love seafood, this is a place to go! It has an extensive oyster selection (I asked the waiter to choose for me which ones to try). Seafood pasta dishes are available as well so you don’t have to be an oyster lover to eat here (but it certainly helps!). There’s so much to explore at Grand Central Station and this restaurant should be on your list!

  • 5/5 Gigi De c. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) What an atmosphere !! Large choice of oysters .. And other seafood. Not to be missed .. The place, the station itself is superb (Original) Quelle ambiance !! Grand choix d'huîtres.. Et autres fruits de mer. A ne pas rater.. Le lieu, la gare elle même est superbe

  • 4/5 Ashlyn 3 years ago on Google
    Went here pre-COVID. Only had the oysters and some drinks, both were great. It’s a super busy place, but they work fast enough that you aren’t waiting too long!

  • 4/5 Airbus380 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Blue Point, Piconic Gold, (Original) 블루포인트 , 피코닉 골드,

  • 5/5 David P. 3 years ago on Google
    I go to this superb place once a month as I like the special air that is outline this restaurant. The personel is extremely friendly and qualified. The service is extraordinarily rapid. Also, the food they prepare is outstanding. I came more than once and I was always happy. The cost is reasobable. I highly suggest this place to my friends and family.

  • 1/5 Elizabeth K. 2 years ago on Google
    My husband and I ate there on 108/21: Awful, awful experience. Food is inedible and service is disastrous. Skip the Oyster Bar for at least a year until they get their acts together!!! They never gave me back my credit card and I called multiple times and no one answered the phone. I went there on 10/9/21 to get my credit card back and they were closed and no one knew why!!! If the restaurant manager is reading this review please call me back. I left my phone number multiple times!!!!! Elizabeth

  • 4/5 たか 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I went because it is a sacred place for BANANA FISH. It was delicious. It is wide. (Original) BANANAFISHの聖地なので行きました。美味しかったです。広いです。

  • 5/5 philip d. 2 years ago on Google
    Stopped for the she-crab soup at the to-go window, but no luck. Chef said it'll be coming back soon. I've always loved GCOB, never disappoints. I had to settle for the excellent New England Clam Chowder 😉 Oysters and raw bar next time... Missed you Oyster Bar

  • 5/5 PHAM Quang V. 2 years ago on Google
    Great foods and great services.

  • 5/5 Steven F. 2 years ago on Google
    I've always loved this place. Oysters were the best appetizers and followed by the pan roast makes it unique and wonderfully. You fall in love with historic atmosphere. I love the after dinner drink to top it off. Forever coming back.

  • 4/5 Ilkka T. 5 years ago on Google
    Excellent seafood! Well worth a visit if you’re around. And like seafood ofc.

  • 4/5 gamerboyeric13 3 years ago on Google
    A good place to have food with different dishes.

  • 4/5 Laurens 4 years ago on Google
    Great place. Always busy and noisy, but a must visit when in NY.

  • 4/5 Xavier V. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A New York classic. Enjoying oysters and a Sancerre under the turns of Gustavino is a unique experience. The food is very good and the service efficient. The place is lively, but without being noisy. (Original) Un clàssic de Nova York. Poder gaudir d'unes ostres i un Sancerre sota les voltes de Gustavino és una experiència única. El menjar és molt bo i el servei eficient. El lloc és animat, però sense ser sorollós.


Call (212) 490-6650 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Quick bite
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Curbside pickup
    • ✓️ No-contact delivery

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