I came here yesterday with my mom and sister before going to see a show at Lincoln Center. We were worried about finding a place to eat- since we had no reservation. But we walked past- and thought weβd try it out. And I am so glad that we did! We were able to be seated right away. Our waitress (I think her name is Lisa) was fantastic. I ordered the French toast, and my mom and sister both ordered burgers. All three of us ate every bite of the meal. My French toast was so good. The Carmel drizzle was perfection. My momβs burger was cooked perfectly, and she said that it was really good. We were so full- that we werenβt hungry for dinner. We will definitely come back when in the city!
Overview
If you're searching for a classic New York dining experience, P.J. Clarke's Lincoln Square is a must-visit. Located at 44 W 63rd St, New York, NY, this iconic spot has been serving up delicious comfort food in a relaxed, nostalgic setting for decades. Whether you're a local or a visitor to the city, this place offers a unique atmosphere that blends tradition with the modern hustle of New York.
Upon walking in, you're greeted by the warm, vintage vibe of the diner. The dark wood paneling and cozy booths create a sense of timelessness, making it easy to imagine this restaurant bustling with regulars for generations. P.J. Clarke's has become a New York institution, and its location in the heart of Lincoln Square, just steps from Broadway, makes it a great spot to unwind before or after a theater performance.
The menu is a well-curated mix of classic American diner fare. From the iconic burgers, which are known for their juicy, tender patties, to the seafood platters and hearty salads, there's something for everyone. For many, the standout item is the famous "P.J.'s Burger" - a simple yet flavorful creation that has earned a dedicated following. It's cooked to perfection with all the right toppings, and paired with crispy fries, it's the ultimate comfort food. If you're a seafood lover, the clam chowder is a hit, rich and creamy with a burst of fresh flavor in every spoonful.
But it's not just about the food; it's the experience that sets P.J. Clarke's apart. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to recommend the perfect drink to complement your meal. Whether you're in the mood for a craft beer or a classic cocktail, the drink menu offers a great variety. The βOld Fashionedβ is particularly well-loved by patrons, delivering a balanced, smooth taste that never disappoints.
P.J. Clarke's also offers an impressive selection of wines, featuring both well-known labels and unique finds that elevate the dining experience. The restaurantβs commitment to providing quality ingredients shines through in both the food and drinks, making it clear why so many people return time and time again.
The location is another perk. Situated near some of the city's best cultural attractions, like the Lincoln Center and Central Park, P.J. Clarke's offers a perfect pitstop after a day of sightseeing or a pre-theater meal. It's one of those places that invites you to linger a little longer, savoring the food and the atmosphere.
The ambiance at P.J. Clarke's is perfectly suited for any occasion. Whether you're meeting friends for a casual meal, grabbing a bite before a show, or enjoying a quiet dinner with family, the space accommodates all kinds of gatherings. The balance of old-school charm and modern comforts ensures that everyone feels at home.
The reviews speak for themselves - customers rave about the consistently high-quality food, great service, and inviting atmosphere. Many mention the nostalgic feel of the place, which transports them back to a simpler time, even in the midst of the bustling city. It's not just the food that keeps people coming back, but the sense of belonging that the restaurant fosters.
If you're thinking about stopping by, keep in mind that P.J. Clarke's can get busy, especially during peak hours. However, the wait is always worth it. The restaurant has managed to maintain its reputation as a local favorite, while also attracting tourists who want to experience a piece of authentic New York dining.
Whether you're craving a burger, a hearty bowl of chowder, or just a place to relax with friends, P.J. Clarke's Lincoln Square offers a dining experience that's both satisfying and memorable. It's a true New York gem, offering delicious food, excellent service, and a comforting atmosphere that makes it stand out among the many dining options in the city. So, the next time youβre in the area, make sure to pay a visit - you wonβt regret it.
Good to know
Service options
β Outdoor seating β No-contact delivery β Delivery β Takeaway β Dine-inHighlights
β Fast service β Great beer selection β Great cocktails β Great dessert β Great wine list β Serves local specialtyPopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Happy-hour drinks β Late-night food β Private dining room β Small plates β Spirits β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β Gender-neutral toilets β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Family friendly β Groups β LGBTQ+ friendly β Tourists β Transgender safe spacePlanning
β Brunch reservations recommended β Dinner reservations recommended β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile payments β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Paid parking lot β Paid street parking β ParkingPets
β Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
This is a classic tavern located right by the Lincoln Center. So we were able to catch a show at the Met right after a delicious meal including fish and chips (like the red vinegar dip) fresh oysters and mussels, signature 1884 burger, buttery soft pretzel bites, warm and inviting bread pudding, rich espresso martini, and a bottle of Pino Noir! It was hard to stay awake during the show This meal was served by a wonderful attentive waiter and his name is βPrinceβ!
Restaurant has an old school charm to it. Picnic red table clothes, red booths with Americana style food. There are plenty of options for family style sharing and for the kids. There are wooden high chairs available if needed. They have upstairs and also downstairs dining. Recommend making resos on the weekend as it does get very busy. Located just across the street from Lincoln Center, expect long waits as itβs a popular place for those grabbing a bite before a show. They provided crayons and activity sheet for our toddler. They also have kids cups (plastic cup either straw). Very kid-friendly. Changing table is located upstairs by the check-in desk. Food was pretty decent for a chain restaurant. We got the fish and chips and also the lobster roll. Lobster roll probably needs a bit more flavor. It felt like they forgot to salt the lobster. Fish was fried well and crispy. You need to ask for ketchup as they donβt generally provide it with the dish. We had to wait awhile for food as we arrived during peak lunch hours. Waitress was curt and didnβt feel too friendly. She wasnβt too happy to exchange our water when our toddler stuck his crayon in the cup. Didnβt come back to top off water.
Was going to a show at the Lincoln center and this restaurant was right across the street so we decided to check it out on a recommendation from a friend. I'm so glad I did because everything about this place was phenomenal!!! I made a reservation online and we were seated as soon as we walked in the door. Our waitress came over immediately. Brought us water told us about the menu and that they were known for their burgers. So obviously that's what we had to try! It was absolutely cooked too perfection and the fries are shoestring fries and we're absolutely delicious. We started with a couple of cocktails and I was obsessed with the little old school red and white tablecloths they had as well. Every single person we encountered on this staff was friendly and helpful and wonderful. I cannot recommend this place enough. Prices were very average for New York but the atmosphere puts this place over the top!!! I will definitely go back!
We were nearby and visiting a friend, and decided to grab some dinner. The restaurant was quite busy and we were seated downstairs. The area was bustling and a bit noisy. Our service was decent and the food was good.
Walked- in for dinner because I was craving short ribs happened to be nearby and was very happy with my decision, my boyfriend and I had the Cheese steak egg rolls and Clam casino as appetizers 10/10 and for main. I had the short rib with mashed potatoes and root veggies 10/10. My boyfriend had the Newport steak frites with Parmesan truffle French fries he said it was 8/10. We ordered 3 wines and the total was about $240.00 loved it will be back!