P.J. Clarke's Lincoln Square

I had a terrible experience with this restaurant yesterday. We had a 5:45pm reservation and watched them seat walk-ins ahead of us. We were continuously told just a couple of minutes for our table and ended up being over 25mins before we were seated. And then, despite telling our server that we were ready to order as we had an event to attend quickly after, we hadn't even been served water before deciding we had to leave. Seems like a normal occurrence as we never got even an apology.

EDIT: I emailed them as they requested below and they didn't even reply..

Atmosphere: 1

Service: 1

I've been coming here for years, and my recent experience makes me think this place has gone downhill. The waiter messed up our order, made it "right" then charged us 2x for the item. When questioned about it, he disappeared and we waited for 20+ minutes until we just gave up. Not worth the time to argue over $12. Also not worth going back, given the circumstances.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 3

As always, a great experience. Since we stayed at Hotel Empire next door, and went to the ballet across the street, we decided to dine at JP Clarke’s. We did not have a reservation but we were able to eat in the downstairs bar. I never knew they even had a downstairs area. The bar attendant was great. We ordered our food and it came out quickly. Very tasty, decently priced. The atmosphere was really good, almost a honkey tonk bohemian vibe. We love coming to JP’s but of course will remember next time make a reservation in advance.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Proper Fish & Chips, Soup, Caesar Salad

Whenever we go to a performance at Lincoln Center, we go to P.J. Clarkes. Perfect location for pre - or post performance meal. The oysters are always amazing, drinks are perfectly crafted, and meals are always done well. Service has always been efficient and warm.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: East Coast Oysters, Cadillac Burger and Fries, Cheesecake

Always great

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lobster Roll

Excellent seafood!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great burgers in a quiet and cozy environment

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Stopped in here for a burger and I ordered the Cadillac burger. It was ok it was just a fancy name for what really is just a bacon cheese burger that you can get anywhere. My waitress was very attentive and friendly and the atmosphere of the place was very old school

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

Always love P.J. Clarke's, especially the staff. My friends from out of town came to visit for Thanksgiving and we had the best service by Richie at the bar downstairs! Definitely made the night special for us.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Proper Fish & Chips

My sister and I had the pleasure of dining at P.J. Clarke's Lincoln Square on Thanksgiving, and I want to personally extend my gratitude to the staff for their kindness and exceptional service. Here are some highlights that deserve applause:

1. Affordable and Inclusive Pre-Fix Thanksgiving Menu
Their Thanksgiving pre-fix menu was fairly priced and catered to all diet types, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

2. ADA Compliance
The restaurant is fully ADA compliant, which was a big plus for us. Navigating with a walker was effortless—something not all establishments can boast.

3. Attentive and Caring Staff
The staff was incredibly attentive. Our server anticipated our needs and ensured we were well taken care of throughout the meal. The manager on duty went above and beyond, personally checking on us at least twice, which was a lovely touch.

4. Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
The environment was cozy and inviting. We never felt rushed, which is crucial on a holiday like Thanksgiving, where diners may have a variety of reasons for eating out—whether unable to cook, far from family, or simply wanting a special experience. P.J. Clarke's succeeded in making us feel right at home.

5. Delicious Food
The food was absolutely delicious!

A big thank you to the team at P.J. Clarke's for making our Thanksgiving memorable. Your attention to detail and warm hospitality truly stood out! We’ll definitely be returning.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Cadillac Burger and Fries

A complete scam for the Thanksgiving meal. Served cold plates, and food tasted horrible. Dirty silverware and bad service. This also happened to the tables next to us, so it wasn't only our experience. The waiters were even complaining to us. This was a miserable dining experience for everyone involved. I am embarrased I paid what i paid for meal, they should be ashamed.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 2

Great food and drink menu.
Great dinner atmosphere.
Great interior decor.
Friendly staff.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: East Coast Oysters, Steak Frites

Wings were crap but the fish & chips were pretty good. Service is horrible and if there is a soccer game on, the bartenders forget there are customers there, they won't serve you unless you hollar at them. Guy literally walked by my empty beer glass 15 times before I said something.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 2

Service: 1

Disappointing Experience at P.J. Clarke’s: As someone who has been to P.J. Clarke’s in Lincoln Square several times, I really wanted to like this bar. The food and drinks are decent, and the location is convenient, but the service, unfortunately, leaves a lot to be desired—especially if you’re not a regular or don’t fit a certain profile.

Repeatedly, as a non-white person, I’ve sat at the bar only to be ignored for 10-15 minutes before even being acknowledged. Orders have been delayed, and the overall attitude from the bartenders has been indifferent at best, sometimes downright dismissive. This includes bartenders of Hispanic background, which adds to the disappointment.

In contrast, I’ve watched wealthy-looking white patrons, regulars, or musicians from the New York Philharmonic or Metropolitan Opera walk in after me and be served almost immediately. It’s hard not to feel like the average New Yorker isn’t welcome here unless they’re flashing money or prestige.

The vibe at the bar often made me feel like I was occupying a space they’d rather save for someone else. If you’re not prepared to tip generously upfront or order expensive items like oysters and fancy cocktails, don’t expect to be treated with much respect.

I hope P.J. Clarke’s takes feedback like this seriously because no one should feel unwelcome based on their appearance or perceived status.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 3

Service: 1