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Grand Central Oyster Bar is a historic seafood restaurant located in New York City's Grand Central Terminal. While it offers a wide selection of fresh oysters and seafood dishes, reviews indicate a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many patrons praise the freshness of the oysters and the unique ambiance, but some express concerns about service quality and pricing.

Grand Central Oyster Bar: A Historic Seafood Gem in The Heart of Manhattan

Nestled beneath the iconic Grand Central Terminal at 89 East 42nd Street, the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant offers an unforgettable dive into New York City’s rich culinary history. With over a century of tradition, this legendary seafood spot is renowned for its vaulted, tiled interior and an extensive selection of fresh oysters that attract food lovers and tourists alike.

What Makes Grand Central Oyster Bar Unique?

The restaurant stands out with its vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, blending old-school American charm with the daily hustle of Grand Central Station. Guests enjoy a variety of oyster options, from classic New England varieties to unique West Coast flavors. Signature dishes include the famed oyster pan roast and the creamy New England clam chowder, alongside specialties like calamari, octopus appetizers with risotto, and linguini with shrimp. Whether you're here for a casual lunch meeting or a lively dinner, the Oyster Bar delivers a tasty experience wrapped in historic allure.

Reviews reflect a lively, bustling environment with a mix of praise and constructive feedback. Many diners appreciate the freshness of the oysters and the charm of the historic setting, especially during quieter morning hours before the crowds swell. Service quality varies, with some guests noting attentive, professional staff, while others mention slower service during busy times. The seating ranges from classic bench seats to more comfortable chairs, contributing to the overall inviting vibe.

Arrive early to enjoy a quieter atmosphere before the lunchtime rush.

 Crowds build quickly, especially midday and evenings.

Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.

Consider public transportation, as parking is limited nearby.

What are the operating hours of Grand Central Oyster Bar?

 The restaurant operates Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM and is closed on weekends.

Is there a dress code at Grand Central Oyster Bar?

 The restaurant maintains a casual dress code perfect for both business lunches and relaxed dinners.

Does Grand Central Oyster Bar accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations can be made conveniently through OpenTable.

Is there parking available near Grand Central Oyster Bar?

 Parking is limited; using public transit is recommended for easier access.

Does Grand Central Oyster Bar offer takeout?

 Yes, takeout is available by calling the restaurant directly.

Grand Central Oyster Bar is a must-visit destination for seafood aficionados and travelers seeking a taste of New York's historic charm. While experiences may vary, its blend of fresh oysters, classic dishes, and vibrant ambiance make it an iconic stop in Manhattan's culinary landscape.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, at 89 E 42nd St, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is a culinary gem that has been delighting seafood lovers for over a century. This iconic eatery, located beneath the magnificent arches of Grand Central Terminal, offers a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of New York City. With its bustling energy and rich history, it’s a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The Grand Central Oyster Bar is renowned for its **fresh oysters**, sourced from both the East and West coasts. Guests can indulge in a variety of preparations, from classic raw oysters served on the half shell to the rich and creamy Oyster Pan Roast, a signature dish that combines plump oysters with a savory broth, creating a comforting yet elegant experience. Another standout is the New England Clam Chowder, a creamy delight that warms the soul, perfectly seasoned and served with a side of crusty bread.

The ambiance of the Oyster Bar is as captivating as its menu. The interior, adorned with colorful tiles and vintage decor, transports diners back in time. A fun fact: the restaurant has been a staple since 1913, making it a historic landmark in New York City. The lively atmosphere is complemented by the sound of shucking oysters and the chatter of satisfied patrons, creating a unique dining experience.

Conveniently located in Grand Central Terminal, the Oyster Bar is surrounded by some of New York's most iconic attractions. Just a short walk away, you can explore the majestic Chrysler Building, the New York Public Library, and the vibrant streets of Midtown Manhattan. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch before catching a train or enjoying a leisurely dinner after a day of sightseeing, this restaurant is perfectly positioned to enhance your New York experience.

What is the Grand Central Oyster Bar known for?

It is renowned for its fresh oysters and classic seafood dishes, particularly the Oyster Pan Roast and New England Clam Chowder.

The restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a historic setting, making it a perfect spot for seafood lovers and tourists.

The Oyster Bar is open daily for lunch and dinner, making it accessible for various dining occasions.

Don't miss out on this iconic dining experience in New York City. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the Grand Central Oyster Bar promises a delightful culinary journey that will leave you wanting more.

Join us at the Grand Central Oyster Bar for a memorable meal that showcases the best of seafood in a historic setting. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, savor the flavors, and create lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming you!

Venerated, iconic eatery serving raw oysters, pan roasts & chowders in a bustling, vaulted setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2NDV2elZBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR9legAFZwokRa1s5gcFXPZw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2NDV2elZBEAE

Delicious oysters, good food as expected for a place like this— staff were fast, but service was a bit slow, and more so when it got busy, but really enjoyed the morning right as it opened, when the place was still quiet. The crowds build up fast though, so keep that in mind.
Cozy atmosphere, plenty of choices for oysters, conveniently situated and easy to find under Grand Central. Great for a lunch meeting situation.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzdUp2QmpnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR9legAFZwokRa1s5gcFXPZw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzdUp2QmpnRRAB

Food overall was quite mid. One thing to note was that the salad was decent. The prawn was plump and had a bouncy, tasty texture to it.

The New England clam chowder was quite salty and honestly, it tasted very similar to a canned clam chowder from the grocery store.

For the stores most popular item, the oyster pan roast, it tasted exactly the same as the clam chowder but less salty. It had 3 oysters in it and honestly, the meal felt too creamy when both the New England clam chowder and the pan roast are ordered. The pan roast didn’t taste like anything special and didn’t have a good wow factor to me.

Moving onto the service, our server didn’t seem very attentive. We got our water filled maybe 2 times throughout the whole meal and we were left with no water quite often.

Overall, it seemed like Grand Central Oyster Bar is a place with a great atmosphere, though it really fits the needs of a tourist which is a nice vibe and cool location. Wouldn’t fully recommend the food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dm95dWVBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR9legAFZwokRa1s5gcFXPZw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dm95dWVBEAE

Slow down and try this place. Excellent food, service and atmosphere. Lively place with great options and patience to waiter who was happy to help. Id always wanted to eat there but never took the time. I took that train every day for 3 years and walked right past. So glad we tried it. Oyster selection was amazing. Lobster Excellent. New England clam chowder perfect without any additional seasoning. Calamari really good. Octopus appetizer with risotto was really special. Linguini with shrimp was great. Loved our waiter. A real professional. Will go back. Thanks.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIeDYzVlh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR9legAFZwokRa1s5gcFXPZw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIeDYzVlh3EAE

September 2024:Several years ago we had an incredible dinner here, but for some reason it did not quite live up to the memories. The New England clam chowder was good but not great. Last time I loved the Washington State oysters. They had three varieties of them here on this visit, they definitely had a distinct flavor from New England oysters but not quite the blow away flavor I remembered from last time. The service was fast and efficient, but the bench seats were so worn out that they were uncomfortable. The chairs were much better.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYLTVhdmVBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR9legAFZwokRa1s5gcFXPZw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYLTVhdmVBEAE

Located inside Grand Central
Station, the gateway to Manhattan, the legendary oyster bar 'Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant' boasts over 100 years of history. Although there is a branch in Japan, I finally made it to the original. From opening to closing, the place is always bustling with energy. As for the oysters, no words are needed. They were absolutely delicious!! We even tried raw clams for the first time, and they were incredible!

The interior, with its extensive use of tiles, exudes the charm of old-school America. To top it off, the spaghetti alle vongole was amazing too. I left with a full stomach and total satisfaction.

Grand Central Oyster Bar: Iconic Seafood Dining in NYC

Established in 1913, Grand Central Oyster Bar is a historic seafood restaurant located in New York City's Grand Central Terminal. It has been serving fresh oysters and seafood dishes for over a century, making it a beloved institution in the city.

Grand Central Oyster Bar History and Legacy in New York City Harboring over a century of rich tradition and maritime flavors, the Grand Central Oyster Bar stands as a timeless gem within New York City's Grand Central Terminal.

Established in 1913, this iconic seafood restaurant has been delighting New Yorkers and visitors alike with its fresh oysters, pan roasts, and classic chowders. Situated beneath the bustling terminal, the Oyster Bar's vaulted ceilings and distinctive tiled interiors create an atmosphere that captures the charm of old-school America, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and culture seekers.

A century of resilience and revitalization

Since opening its doors in 1913, the Grand Central Oyster Bar quickly became a beloved fixture in New York's dining scene. However, it faced challenges along the way, including a temporary closure in 1972 due to financial difficulties. The restaurant's comeback in 1974 marked a significant rebirth, featuring a renovated interior and a renewed dedication to seafood excellence. This revival solidified its status as a culinary landmark.

More recently, the Oyster Bar experienced a temporary closure during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, reflecting the global challenges faced by the hospitality industry. Demonstrating its enduring spirit, the restaurant reopened in 2021 and resumed normal operations, continuing to welcome guests with its signature seafood offerings and lively ambiance.

The Grand Central Oyster Bar continues to enchant patrons with an expansive oyster selection, fresh New England clam chowder, and classic pan roast dishes. Its lively, vaulted setting under the historic Grand Central Terminal provides a unique dining environment that blends maritime tradition with the vibrant energy of Manhattan. Whether stopping by for a casual lunch meeting or a memorable dinner, guests often remark on the cozy atmosphere and the iconic tiled interior that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

 Grand Central Oyster Bar opens in Grand Central Terminal, establishing itself as a seafood haven.

 Temporary closure due to financial difficulties challenges the establishment.

 Reopening with a renovated interior and renewed culinary focus revitalizes its legacy.

 Temporary closure during the COVID-19 pandemic reflects global hospitality challenges.

 Resumption of normal operations, continuing to serve fresh seafood with vibrant energy.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Grand Central Oyster Bar

A selection of fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, clam chowder, lobster rolls, and more.

Oysters on the Half Shell

New England Clam Chowder

Maine Lobster Roll

Oysters Rockefeller

Oyster Pan Roast

Whole Broiled Flounder

New York Cheesecake

Florida Key Lime Pie

Grand Central Oyster Bar Menu

Nestled within the iconic Grand Central Terminal in New York City, the Grand Central Oyster Bar invites seafood lovers and discerning diners to savor a carefully curated menu that highlights the freshest catches and classic coastal flavors. With over a century of culinary tradition, this legendary eatery offers an inviting atmosphere where every dish tells a story of the sea.

Begin your culinary journey with a selection of tantalizing starters perfect for awakening the palate. Dive into the briny delight of the famous Oysters on the Half Shell, featuring pristine, fresh oysters that embody the essence of the ocean. For a heartier starter, indulge in the creamy New England Clam Chowder, a comforting blend of clams, potatoes, cream, onions, celery, and herbs offering a rich, soothing flavor.

The Oysters Rockefeller is a standout, combining oysters with spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, baked to golden perfection for a savory and textured appetizer that elevates the classic oyster experience.

The mains at Grand Central Oyster Bar showcase an impressive array of seafood classics crafted to satisfy any craving. The Maine Lobster Roll features tender lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise and crisp lettuce, embraced by a buttery lobster roll bun — a true taste of New England’s finest.

For a rich and comforting option, the Oyster Pan Roast blends oysters, cream, clam juice, and Worcestershire sauce, served with toast to soak up every luscious bite. Meanwhile, the Whole Broiled Flounder presents a delicate flounder broiled with butter, lemon, and fresh herbs, delivering a simple yet exquisite dish highlighting the freshest fish.

Conclude your meal on a sweet note with iconic New York desserts. The New York Cheesecake features a creamy filling of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla resting on a graham cracker crust, offering a velvety texture and rich flavor that perfectly balances indulgence and tradition.

Alternatively, the Florida Key Lime Pie brings a zesty twist with tart key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks over a crumbly graham cracker crust — a refreshing complement to your seafood feast.

Complement your dining experience with a curated selection of wines, beers, and expertly crafted cocktails that pair beautifully with the oceanic flavors of the menu. While the restaurant does not serve breakfast, it offers a full range of lunch, brunch, and dinner options to suit any time of day.

Whether you are a devoted oyster aficionado or seeking a vibrant, historic New York dining experience, Grand Central Oyster Bar stands as a premier destination to enjoy fresh seafood classics in a bustling yet inviting setting beneath the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal.

Savor fresh seafood at Grand Central Oyster Bar in NYC! Enjoy a unique dining experience in the heart of Manhattan. Book your table now!

Grand Central Oyster Bar: Fresh Seafood in NYC

New York County

A variety of fresh oysters served on the half shell.

Fresh Oysters

A hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, and cream.

Clam Chowder

Fresh lobster meat served in a toasted roll with mayonnaise.

Lobster Roll

Oysters topped with spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then baked.

A creamy stew featuring oysters, clam juice, and Worcestershire sauce.

A whole flounder broiled with butter and herbs.

A classic cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.

A tangy pie made with key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk.

Grand Central Oyster Bar New York Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled beneath the iconic Grand Central Terminal at 89 East 42nd Street, the Grand Central Oyster Bar offers a legendary seafood dining experience that has thrilled patrons for over a century. This venerable establishment is famous for its vaulted ceilings and old-school American charm, making it a must-visit spot for travelers and food enthusiasts in Manhattan. Perfectly blending historic ambiance with a bustling atmosphere, it caters to both locals and tourists craving authentic New York seafood.

At its heart, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is celebrated for its fresh oysters on the half shell, which come in a variety of types with prices starting at just $3.50 each. This is the perfect treat for oyster aficionados and newcomers alike. Beyond oysters, the menu highlights hearty New England clam chowder — a creamy soup brimming with clams and potatoes priced at $8.50 — a comforting classic that pairs wonderfully with the overall seafood selection.

 Baked oysters topped with spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs for $14.95, an indulgent twist on the classic raw oyster.

 A creamy stew combining oysters, clam juice, and Worcestershire sauce, priced at $24.95, perfect for those craving rich New England flavors.

 Succulent fresh lobster meat served in a toasted roll with mayonnaise for $29.95 — a true taste of coastal luxury in the city.

 A beautifully broiled flounder with butter and herbs for $29.95, showcasing fresh fish in a simple elegant preparation.

After your seafood indulgence, treat yourself to iconic New York desserts that perfectly cap off the meal. The classic New York Cheesecake, available for $8.50, boasts a rich, creamy texture atop a buttery graham cracker crust. For a refreshing tart finish, try the Florida Key Lime Pie, a tangy delight made with real key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk, priced at $7.50. Pair your meal with an expertly crafted cocktail, beer, or carefully selected wine — the Oyster Bar serves an impressive array of beverages to enhance your dining experience.

Stepping into the Grand Central Oyster Bar is like stepping back in time to an era where vaulted ceilings and intricate tile work create an inviting and energetic atmosphere. It's a lively place that buzzes from opening to closing, making it a vibrant spot to enjoy lunch, dinner, or brunch with friends, family, or colleagues. The location inside Grand Central Terminal makes it an easy, convenient destination for commuters and tourists exploring New York City.

With dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options, Grand Central Oyster Bar caters to all preferences, whether you're dining in the classic vaulted setting or enjoying seafood on-the-go. The restaurant is family friendly, offers parking with paid street options, and accepts convenient payment methods including credit, debit, and NFC. While outdoor seating and live music are not available, the cozy interior and attentive professional service highlighted by many guests ensure a delightful visit.

Experience the legendary Grand Central Oyster Bar in NYC's Manhattan, with fresh oysters, clam chowder, and historic ambiance within Grand Central Terminal.

Grand Central Oyster Bar NY - Historic Seafood & Oysters in Manhattan

Enjoy top-quality seafood at Grand Central Oyster Bar in Manhattan, NYC—famous for its oysters, clam chowder, and vibrant ambiance. Reserve now!

Visit Grand Central Oyster Bar, NYC - Top Seafood & Oysters Experience

Discover the rich history of the Grand Central Oyster Bar, a landmark in NYC, serving fresh oysters and classic seafood dishes since 1913.

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