Best Historic Restaurants in Lower East Side

I keep coming back to Essex because it's close to me on the train and the staff never disappoints. I don't remember the name of my server but she is a Black woman with a trucker cap. She has been my server the last two times I was there and she is a phenomenal individual. From her attention to her professionalism to her patience, she has made the experience that much better every time. She da bomb diggity!

We had a really nice time at the piano bar, the Christmas decor was beautiful and went so well with the existing decor, its like stepping back in time to another era. Kudos to whoever hung the garland on the outside columns, so symmetrical and well done, a grand holiday entrance providing a warm festive welcome! The second pianist we heard that evening was absolutely wonderful, he played beautifully and he sang with a light heart. He interacted with the crowd in a non intrusive way that enabled the diners not only to enjoy their food but to make casual musical requests and really enjoy the music as well. I could see that he was reading the room and playing more of the style he saw folks enjoying. I especially loved his riff that gently melded into a beautiful rendition of Let it snow, it made the cold December night sparkle with joy!

Highly, highly recommend this restaurant for a romantic evening out in NYC. My fiancé & I were celebrating our engagement & the staff was so gracious & kind in helping us make this an unforgettable evening. Food & service are impeccable combined with the ambiance & atmosphere (the Christmas decor is absolutely beautiful!). Also is pretty cool that Aaron Burr once lived here!

Absolute perfection! The restaurant is absolutely beautiful. The chairs at our table were some of the most comfortable chairs we have ever sat on during a dinner! For dinner, we had the burrata and shrimp appetizer - YUM! We all got filet mignon and the Caesar salad with filet for main meal and it was truly scrumptious. For dessert, we got the banana split and the cookies with ice cream. Service was impeccable and our teenage kids wanted to go again the next evening.

What an amazing family dinner! We went because I’m an armcherry fan and Dax and Monica did us right! My 19 and 20 year olds enjoyed their EMMY burger and the chicken parm sandwich was a great alternate for people that don’t eat red meat. The vibe was on point and we were cozy as we enjoyed our first NYC family dinner together. The management was very friendly and super friendly and attentive. Oh the cheesy breadsticks were superb! Just go!