Opened in 1913, this Gilded-Age holdover in Grand Central Station has changed very little in nearly a century, and the architecture—a series of swooping, tiled vaults that always remind me of the grand crypts of some European cathedrals—still impresses. Don’t bother going to the restaurant side; you want to be able to see the handwritten menu above the shelling station (on the right as you enter), where the best choices will be laid out. There will be fresh oysters and clams, flown in from all parts of North America; shellfish pan-roasts and stews; and, of course, chowders of all kinds (from $4.75). Ignore the paper menu entirely (for some reason, everything that comes out of the kitchen is overcooked and tepidly sauced); confine yourself to the list of foods that is prepared right at the bar, and you’ll have a real, old-fashioned feast.
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Restaurant
Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant
Lower level, Grand Central Station (42nd St btw. Vanderbilt and Lexington Aves.).
![Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant | Frommer's Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant | Frommer's](/system/media_items/attachments/000/868/550/s980/Frommer's-New-York-City-Grand-Central-Oyster-Bar-1190x768.jpg?1648357475)
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Midtown East & Murray Hill
Hours
Mon–Fri 11:30am–9:30pm
Transportation
Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to Grand Central Station
Phone
212/865-5800
Prices
Average meal $17–$48
Cuisine Type
Seafood
Web site
Oyster Bar and Restaurant
![1 star(s) 1 star rating](/assets/rating/fromm-rating-1star.png)
Map
Lower level, Grand Central Station New York CityNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.