Classified

We decided to give it a try after a couple of invites to see what the hype was about. A bit gimmicky. You walk through the Saison restaurant right next to gate 120 and enter through the blue door at the back. For an "upscale dining space" as United describes it, I shouldn't have to place my order via a QR code with barely there wait staff. Vegetarian options are very limited, prices are high and the food is just okay. I paid $60 (including tip) for a liter of Pellegrino water, truffle Mac and cheese, and cauliflower steak. I would have been much happier ordering from the common folk places for cheaper or even eating for free at the United lounge. Another thing is there were no outlets to charge phones etc. I won't be returning.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 3

Went to the restaurant. You have to go through another restaurant to get to this one. We were told to go to the back and go through a blue door. Someone asked if we had been before and we said no but were told to go to the blue door in the back. We stood at the entrance for 5 minutes and non e showed up to seat us or help us. The lady who asked if we had been there before poked her head out of the kitchen and looked at us and shut the door. My husband went and asked someone for help and was told to go stand at the door and someone will eventually show up.
We left. Very rude to ask for a reservation then have no one there to even seat you. At least 5 servers talked to us about where to go (the blue door). The room was small and cramped and no atmosphere to speak of. We left because I can eat at the Polaris lounge for free and actually get served. Very disappointing experience.

It's nice. Decent food, fun little gimmick. Nothing to write home about

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 3

Recommended dishes: French Onion Soup

It's nice. Decent food, fun little gimmick. Nothing to write home about

Invitation only restaurant inside Saison near gate 120. Only seats about 30. Very nice, quiet, clean atmosphere. Order via QR code when you sit down. Didn’t like being asked for tip before any service done. Ordered French dip, chicken sandwich and sparkling water ($65 after 15% tip). French dip was good but not enough au jus. Chicken sandwich was dry. Order took over 30 minutes from time of order to arrival. The server wasn’t present most of the time so had to grab her when she was in room such as to ask for more au jus. Don’t think I’ll go back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 3

Recommended dishes: Beef Dip

I never thought one of the best burgers I've had all year would be from Newark airport, yet here I am. Glad to have stopped in and look forward to coming back to this little hideaway in terminal C next time I'm back through.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We had a lovely dinner before our flight with a delicious crab cake which was all lump crab, artic char perfectly cooked and a solid French onion soup. It’s a little pricey but the service was lovely and a special shout out to Adriana, thank you for taking such good care of us and for your warm hospitality

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

2024 Review:
Glad to be back: A quiet place tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the airport (or even the crowded United club or Polaris lounges) -- tranquil, relaxing.

Ordered an Alaskan Char (slightly over crisped but otherwise succulent), and an excellent wedge salad.

2018 Review:
Excellent, attentive and efficient service. Glad got an invite and tried their seafood ceviche and pan seared branzino -- both tasted great and were cooked, and served quite well. Once you get an invite and make a reservation in advance, go to the usher at Saison in the Gate 120 are and they will escort to the non-discreet door/entrance to The Classified. Was kinda fun dining in view of my outbound plane, watching SWE/KOR world cup :-)

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

If I could give it minus stars I would. After 20 minutes of using their ridiculous iPad app it refused to take my order and the staff explained their app wouldn't work without a US zip code.

I’m not usually one to write reviews but this has to be the biggest dining disappointments I have ever experienced. After all the hype and exclusivity, my $150 plus meal was barely edible. Don’t waste your time or money on this charade.The 5 star experience went out the window from the moment we arrived. The hostess at Saison pointed us past the bar and told us to “look for the last door on the right”. As we aimlessly looked for this “Classified” restaurant we came upon the manager who was enthralled in his laptop and coffee. Clearly surprised to see us, he asked me to produce the email that stated I had a reservation - what a lovely greeting. From there, we were brought to our table and told about the “exclusive” bathrooms. We were then directed to order from a QR code in the table. Needless to say, I had concerns at this point.We placed our order via the QR code and hoped things would turn in our favor. My wine arrived but we were told that the mocktail my wife ordered was unavailable. We substituted a unsweetened iced tea in place of the missing mocktail. The beverage that arrived was undrinkable - an overwhelming mix of bergamot and watered down tea.We expected the shrimp cocktail appetizer we ordered to be the next item to hit our table but instead we were greeted with our entrees. I questioned the coursing of the meal but our server assured us the shrimp cocktail would be out shortly. Disappointed, we decided to soldier on. The French Dip was pretty descent but the side salad had an overly acidic dressing making it inedible.After a few bites of my sandwich, I heard the server approaching and looked up to see the mind boggling combo of shrimp cocktail and our dessert arriving at our table. Our server attempted to make space for the chocolate and hazelnut pastry amidst the sandwiches and shrimp cocktail. Despite my protests, our dessert remained on the table while we tried to work our way through this mediocre meal. The lemon wedge served with the shrimp was green and dry. The shrimp were far from pleasant and the once-chilled dessert was warm by the time we got around to eating it.After such a terrible meal, we looked forward to trying the “classified-only” bathroom but were met by dirt and empty toiletries.I highly recommend you eat anywhere else at EWR - you can easily find sub-par service and a mediocre meal for half the price.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

"Classified restaurant at Newark Airport is a hidden gem amidst the hustle and bustle of travel. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a world of culinary delight. The ambiance is sophisticated yet inviting, with modern decor and warm lighting setting the perfect mood for a memorable dining experience.The menu at Classified is a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds with a fusion of flavors from around the world. Whether you're craving classic American comfort food or adventurous global cuisine, there's something for everyone here. Each dish is expertly crafted using the freshest ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.The service at Classified is top-notch, with attentive staff who are passionate about providing an exceptional dining experience. From recommendations on wine pairings to accommodating dietary restrictions, they go above and beyond to ensure every guest leaves happy.Whether you're a weary traveler looking for a delicious meal before your flight or a local food enthusiast seeking a new dining destination, Classified restaurant at Newark Airport is a must-visit. It's more than just a restaurant—it's an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave you craving more."

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Veal Milanese, Tomahawk Ribeye

I’ve tried their breakfast and lunch and was disappointed both times. I’d rather have free food in the United lounge.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 2

One of the best perks of United Mileage Plus is access to this hidden gem. No need to visit the United club, use your miles to relax in the serenity of this secretive restaurant

Dietary restrictions: You’ll find what you want on the menu

Kid-friendliness: Only extremely well-behaved and quiet children will be tolerated. Expect a very quiet atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Wagyu Sliders, French Onion Soup, 2 Eggs Any Style Breakfast, Tomahawk Ribeye, French Dip Ultimat

I was very happy with Classified - easily beats all the airport restaurants and lounges I’ve suffered through previously. It was very quiet, maybe all of three parties dining at once, and the food and service were on-point. I had the 28-day dry aged La Frieda burger, cooked to order, and was very pleased to see how thoughtful and prompt the servers were. They were personable, no stinginess over condiments or extras, and just made everything as easy and relaxing as can be when trying to catch a break from the chaos at EWR (shout-out to Myra and Barbara!) Sure, it’s pricy, but I’d gladly pay more just to dodge the hellscape that is the rest of this airport. I really can’t emphasize enough how pleasant every aspect of dining here wound up being, can’t wait to come back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food tasted great. But my wateress never came to check on me after food is served and even when I left. For the price , I would expect better service. Everything is ordered on mobile including tip beforehand. I would like to tip based on their service, so I didn't like that way. Also my order came wrong, but I had no one to tell after she left me with food never came back. I would probably not coming back. Not worth price.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 2