I absolutely loved this place. It has three floors - the first floor was completely empty, but the tiny 2nd floor bar was pretty full. My date and I managed to grab a table and order some happy hour drinks - nothing spectacular, $5 wines and sangria. Our food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallop and shrimp skewers, and they were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The sauce was so good - tangy and sweet. My date ordered the mushroom ravioli, which was very good, but a very small portion. Our entrees were pretty much the same price ($15-$16) but mine was certainly a better values. Seriously, those shrimps and scallops were MASSIVE. We will be back for sure. I think this is the best $50 dinner we have had yet in Manhattan. I'm not sure why people call it a tourist trap - maybe because it is on Restaurant Row? It's not at all, and the bars on the 2nd and 3rd floor are super cute.
(5)
Bruce C.
Here's why I gave it a five star rating. First, the people who work here are very friendly, accommodating, and honest. Second, the seat we had was outside on the sidewalk on a beautiful early summer day, and it couldn't have been more pleasant. Third, the food was delicious at that price, which was extremely reasonable. Fourth, we had tickets and had to get in and out in a certain amount of time, and our waitress kept us stricly on schedule without appearing pushy or intrusive. She simply did her job on time and as appropriate. Finally, the other patrons were as happy with their meal and experience as we were. So even though this isn't Le Cirque, it's certainly got a much better tasting food for your dollar, and couldn't be a more pleasant experience.
(5)
Jacob T.
I really enjoyed this old-school theater district restaurant! I'd walked by it so many times and their are so many in that area that it never peaked my interest and looked a bit run down. Well, I finally went in to visit a friend bartending upstairs. Teach me to be such a snob. The decor was great, not run down at all. It had real character, and was so different on each floor, but shared a very intriguing menu with a blend of old and new American cuisine. I came back a week later with my husband and no reservation. We were seated immediately, service wasn't especially friendly but was fast and effeceint. I will definitely return.
(4)
Dee A.
My sister and I went here while visiting in New York. My first time to New York celebrating my sister's 60th. We stumbled across Hourglass Tavern in restaurant Row Midtown hoping to find something that we didn't have to wait or have reservations. The food was great!! We ordered the Prix Fixe it came with an appetizer, soup or salad and the main course and dessert. I was excited that they had one of my favorite wine 2007 valpolicella Solane Santi! My Sister had the cobbler and she said it was okay my tiramisu was very good. I'd like to go back next time when I visit. We ate on the third floor it looked like we were in someone's living room my sister asked the server and she politely informed us that it use to be. The whole ambience of the place was great!
(4)
Jennifer C.
Loved it. A friend and I visited the bar on the 2nd floor (the Bettibar) and had some Very Strong Cosmopolitans and a long chat. The place was small and hidden away, which, to me, just added to its charm. It was pretty lively (Friday night), but not super crowded and you could still chat with your party without feeling like your voice was going to give out. I loved the intimate, divey kind of feel...like you're at somebody's houseparty and they have a nice little selection of booze. :) As an aside, I really enjoyed the soundtrack, which consisted of 90s alternative rock (esp. acoustic renditions), and totally took me back to my angsty youth. The food smelled great and looked like it was being demolished pretty quickly. I will definitely be back! The only down side was when we realized it was getting late and asked for the tab to be closed out - the lady obviously had it all ready for us, but instead of just handing me my card and receipt (which she had all printed and ready on the other side of the bar, in plain view) she served drinks to about 4 other people, slowly. My friend had to catch transit so we ended up asking her again to just give us the check, and then she did it...but not very graciously. This made me pretty sad because I was otherwise really happy and excited to come back.
(4)
greg w.
Had the Mexicali omelette and it was very good. Cute atmosphere and excellent service. We sat next to a noisy group of tourists that seemed to be having a good time and all enjoyed the food. Not the largest portions and a little pricey for brunch. I want to come back to dinner very soon.
(5)
Toni F.
We went to Hourglass before a show in Times Square based on the decent reviews on Yelp. It was a beautiful night so we sat in one of the two tables that have on the sidewalk outside. Our server was nice and promptly took our order for a light dinner and a few beverages. The cocktails were good and the soups, salads and sandwiches we ordered were decent too. I ordered a Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Sandwich - it was ok but really nothing more than under-grilled (almost raw) hunks of zucchini with a schmear of soft goat cheese on a crusty roll. The sandwich might have been better if the zucchini were sliced thinner and grilled a bit more. I think there are quite a few options in this area they call "restaurant row" so I'd probably try another spot before I'd return to Hourglass.
(3)
Natalie O.
Food was delicious, but the service was a bit odd. It was a slow night, yet we found ourselves essentially abandoned at our table for about half an hour, with no staff in sight. It turned out the waitress had gotten "distracted" talking to some customers outside.
(3)
Ryan P.
Came here for brunch and ordered the Hourglass Blueberry Belgian Waffle. These were the BEST restaurant Belgian waffles I have ever had. Perfectly textured and tasty since whole blueberries are within it. Four waffles come with the order. The fruit cup was watermelon, which was in season. Amazing, friendly, and attentive staff. I would definitely come back again for these waffles.
(5)
Adam G.
This place is so cool. It's a good late night spot / date night spot. It's not loud, but its still lively and intimate. The food is great and the bartenders and patrons are not pretentious. Every time I've been here I've chatted up with people nearby and with the bartenders. Prices are reasonable too.
(5)
Scott F.
I spent a wonderful Christmas night here some years back. It's not as good as it was--eg salad dressing WAY too sweet, vegetable soup Blah-boring, waitress completely bored/disengaged & resentful to be working. Still steak was good & the ambience better. I just think steamed broccoli is pretty much the most uninspired boring side on the planet & a baked potato would have been infinitely better. I guess I won't be back unless they become more interested in the food. Bar upstairs has actually made things worse not better. Robert Irvine? Gordon Ramsey?
(3)
Ran F.
The ribs they recommended is OVERCOOKED!!! And the crab cake sides with shrimp is salty... However their home baked bread is worth to try although it's free of charge. I think it should be a nice place to have a drink with friends instead of having dinner.
(3)
Mathew T.
Been coming here for awhile now and it is my go to spot pre theater and after. The second floor cocktail lounge is fantastic, always a good vibe and great service. The food is always on point, the crab legs are an absolute must when they are on special.
(5)
Kam T.
Went to dinner before a show. Found it on yelp. What a great find! Historic & cozy location, friendly service, good food & reasonable prices. Definitely going back.
(4)
Magnolia S.
I love this place. It's super cute - set up like an apartment complex kinda. My brunch was delicious and so were my bloody Marty's. I had the potato pancake smoked salmon brunch entree and the poached egg crab cake one ( both shared ) and it was delicious. We also had a side of cheesy grits. It was amazing!
(5)
Matt G.
Good place to meet for a glass of wine and a bite to eat. In a bustling neighborhood but offers a nice ambience. Good wine selection, service, and reasonable prices.
(5)
Jim B.
If you're in Midtown for a show (or really anything for that matter) you might want to check this place out. Well, that is if you like good food (if you don't like good food then read no further). In a city were one could eat out every day and possible not ever eat at the same place twice I'd strongly consider going here again. Although the restaurant was a little cramped the food was mostly outstanding. I started off with the Roasted Beet Salad. It was mostly just beets, and although they threw in some goat cheese and pine nuts the beets overpowered everything else. But then I had the Penne Mascarpone and I forgot all about those beets! That dish had chunks of sausage and gorgonzola in a medium thick marinara cream sauce. It was filling and delicious. I also tried the Bourbon Braised Short Beef Ribs and I would recommend both. Two thumbs way up.
(4)
K G.
A group of us stayed at a nearby AirBnB for a week. Ate here 3 times!! With so many fine restaurants in NYC -- this says a lot! Everyone was so pleased with their food. Their shrimp dishes are devine! Great salads & a pasta with spicy sausage & blue cheese was fabulous. Go fresh cobbler ala mode over the tiramisu if you have room for dessert. The venue has a lot of character, and the outdoor seating allowed for lots of people watching. Very impressed by the wait staff as well - all very attentive & personable. Highly recommend this place!
(5)
Zeenath S.
This is the perfect place to go if: 1. You want to wait 40 minutes for fried eggs and lukewarm hash 2. You want to wait 25 minutes for drinks, most of which aren't what you ordered. 3. Bread and fruit are part of your brunch, but they never bring you fruit and when you ask for bread they tell you they are "out". When you are leaving you see they have more and you ask for some (because its included) and they refuse to give you any. 4. You seem the waitress yelling at a customer because he's asking why his breakfast was ordered 40 minutes ago and still hasn't arrived. 5. Your asparagus is almost raw, while your friend's is overcooked to the point where you don't need to chew it at all.
(1)
K S.
For starters, the staff rocks. Everyone was super friendly and awesome. We were waiting for a table for 8 ppl and while we waited for the previous occupants to wrap up, we enjoyed the super cute bar on the 2nd floor. A few folks (manager?, waiter, another manager?) kept us updated on the table status and made sure we were doing ok- seeing if we were in a rush and if they should push them along. We were enjoying ourselves so it was all good. The bartender was sweet and made great drinks. Our waiter was friendly and fun. Oh, and the food was yummy (big pillow of warm bread, lobster ravioli, beet salad, mashed potatoes). Ambiance is cool with funky decor (obviously hourglasses, also random instruments) and the friendly staff set the tone all around for a great vibe throughout. And if you're cold- sit on the bench on the 3rd floor. You'll sweat. Figuring out how to manage this is the only somewhat negative thing I have to say. I'm sure they try and its the only way to heat the whole bldg of this old, great place. I'll deal :)
(5)
Amanda A.
The wife and I yelped to find a place to go before a show. Came across this little gem. It was really funky with the three floors and the food was good and the service was great. There was one woman who ran the small top floor. She was attentive and very nice. She noticed our table wasn't sturdy and without us even saying anything bent down to fix it. I love when I don't have to ask for things to be corrected. Having some one just do it, is for me great customer service. I had the Penne Mascarpone. It was SO good. Portion was large, couldn't finish it. The sauce was yummy and walnuts on it were a fun touch. Wife had lobster ravioli. She said it was great too. I was able to try a bite and it was very good. There were large chunks of lobster through out. The bread was delicious and the wine wasn't too expensive for a nice bottle. All in all we would recommend this place and also go back again. The 4 stars is because the food took longer than expected. Being we ordered pasta dishes and people who ordered after us were served before, was strange.
(4)
Jenn A.
Review for Betti Bar - Awesome!!! It's upstairs from the Tavern/restaurant. It's small, cozy, and super cool. The waitress was incredibly friendly and chill - almost made me feel like she was my new gal-pal! But obviously not. We chatted up a few other patrons and all were friendly. The drinks were good! The food was not so good. We ordered the grilled cheese with the side of mashed potatoes. Bland on both - just no flavor. So - if come here for the drinks, vibe, and service (and not for the food), you will be happy!
(4)
Hannah M.
We came here for brunch at 12:30, it took an hour and a half to get our food. Service was awful, frankie took 4 orders at a time for a party of 12. We had to go back up to the bar twice for our drinks. Our food all came out at different times- it was awful. He was absolutely so rude, he told us he only had two hands and was super rude. I do have to say after the experience with the server, the owner of the restaurant was very kind. She was apologetic and took good care of us. Thank you Beth, I do apologize for not completing my prior review.
(3)
Kaytee C.
Cute place for before theatre dinner/drinks. It is what seems to be on old home (lots of wood and a quaint feel. We were in a small dining room on the third floor. One of our meals did come out completely incorrect, but they comped the meal to make up for it. The food was good and had large portions. The food/service did take a bit of time, but I think that was due to the pre-show rush and the fact that only one server was working the section doing everything from making drinks to working the register (the place is kinda of small and I don't think 2 servers could even function in the space).
(4)
Vesna G.
Had brunch here on Valentine's day with my boyfriend. It's a small but cute place. We ate upstairs by the bar - I had eggs with short-rib hash and he had the chicken sandwich. Both were so delicious and the menu is unique. Also got a yummy peach bellini!
(5)
Mitch E.
This review is for Betti Bar, located right above the Hourglass Tavern, on the second floor: You ever been in the scenario where It's 7:55 and you want to grab another drink. Happy Hour ends in five minutes. YOU NEED TO GET A DRINK, ORDER SOMETHING OFF THE MENU AND DO IT FAST. You break away from your friend who is telling you some awful story about how they got fired, blah blah blah. Then that guy you don't really know but acts like your best friend gets in your way. Hell bent on desire (and frustration for this weirdo) you throw him out of the way, nicely as possible of course. You then have the bar drunk fall towards you and you quickly cartwheel out of the way. (Catching him would only be enabling his drinking problem) You get to the bar and it's 6:57. Plenty of time to order your drink and some awesome nachos. Oh No! Some yuppie is asking questions to the bartender about the wine. DAMN YOU YUPPIE! Now it's 7:01, you order your drink at full price! At Betti Bar you don't have to worry about such things because Happy Hour last till 10 o'clock every night of the week! (Plus it's not that large so, all those things probably couldn't happen in such a small place. But you got the idea) Located right above Hourglass Tavern on the second floor, Betti Bar is a great spot in Hell's kitchen for some drinks. Maybe you have a show to see later, meeting a friend on the west side of town or just in the mood to get your drink on, whatever the case, good inexpensive drinks happen here. As mentioned, it's not the largest so if you get here and it's packed, you're out of luck. There really isn't standing room, so unless you get one of the booths or a seat at the bar you should probably try another night. I can't say I have ever eaten here, but the last time I was here some gentleman got a pasta dish at the bar. It smelled amazing! So it does tempt me to try the food here in the future, as opposed to drinking beer out of a brown paper bag. (Yes, that happens here) Come by and enjoy this small hidden gem. Just don't ruin it by blabbing about it to everyone...... wait........
(4)
Julie S.
Haven't been here for a while. But went July 5th and was seated on the first floor. The dinner we both had was great. And this is just a cute place with a lot of New York City flavor inside and on your plate.
(4)
Ann Y.
This place is absolutely worth the cringe-worthy hellish seizure-inducing but inevitable walk through Times Square area to get to Hell's Kitchen. Cute and cozy, very attentive service and lovely retro Theatre district decor. The 3 bloody Mary or mimosa brunch deal is definitely worth it, and their baked treats (churros, biscuits, etc) to snack on before your meal is a lovely touch and were incredibly delicious. My crab cake eggs Benedict was delicious and worth the price. A solid and underrated midtown brunch option
(4)
Jen A.
Great, friendly service and delicious food! This is a great place to eat if you have a show but don't want to eat at the crappy, touristy restaurants in Times Square. Nice wine, as well.
(4)
Andrew D.
I've eaten here before and the food was pretty good but tonight we had a reservation for 4 people at 6:30. The man at the door was so off putting that we decided to go elsewhere. We show up at 6:20 and on our way in are "greeted" by a man who asks if he can help us. We had no idea he was working there and he wasn't helpful at all. Quite honestly he was a little bit creepy. The waitress inside asked us to wait at the bar upstairs until 6:30 and then come back down... Which I can understand but it seemed like there wouldn't have been a place to put us anyway. And we shouldn't have to come back down, if we sit at your bar you should come get us when a table is ready. The next person to walk up was "greeted" by this man and she said: oh, do you work here? His response: "sometimes". She asked: Are tables available? He says: well they're pretty full and no one is leaving. She asks: can we put our name down? His response: well I guess you could. Not sure who decided to put him at the door but he waits until you walk up and stands there and then asks if he can help but is really no help at all. Seems like he not even sure if where he is. We decided to leave because we felt uncomfortable.
(1)
Shawn P.
We found the Hourglass Tavern on Yelp and I am glad we did. The service, food, and drinks were great and the second floor bar looked like a fun spot. I would recommend stopping in here to anyone looking for a bite to eat in Hells Kitchen! The only problem one might have is seating. It is rather small but at 6pm on a Saturday we were seated immediately at an outside table which was exactly what we wanted.
(5)
Katherine R.
The beet salad is so yummy. The rest was average. We had the NY strip and the albondigas.
(3)
Vanesha P.
We both wanted brunch food and were not disappointed - we got the mexicali omelet and the eggs & short rib hash, throw in 2 $5 bloody marys and it was awesome. I don't remember our servers name but he was super super sweet and really a great server all around. Would definitely come back!
(5)
Katie A.
This is a small place and is a little tight inside but the food was delicious and the service was exceptionally good. We went for brunch, without reservations and only had to wait a couple minutes for a table.
(4)
Pam L.
Great for happy hour and snacks. We went right after work on a Thursday. Great bartender on the second floor, cool atmosphere, great beer selection. I recommend the sliders.
(5)
Shannon B.
One of my favorite places to grab a drink and grab a bite after work, before a show or just any old time! Mike and Sean and Megan are all excellent bartenders and super friendly! I love their regular of the day concept and the overall neighborhood bar feel of this place in touristy Hell's Kitchen. Their drinks are tasty and their food is really delicious! Some of my faves: Beet Salad, Crab Cake, Cheese & Fruit Plate, Pan Seared Salmon Filet, Grilled 3 Cheese and their Mashed Potatoes. Also, they had a pumpkin ravioli special last week that literally brought tears to my eyes.
(5)
Kevin W.
Solid and quaint little tavern right in the heart of restaurant row. I was surprised I never checked this place out given how close I lived to the restaurant. There is a lovely speakeasy-like bar upstairs that I will most definitely try out in the future. My experience here was generally very positive. The folks here are all very friendly and they were able to accommodate us without reservations on what was a very busy Valentine's evening for them. The ambiance is very warm and romantic. It's a great place to enjoy a meal in a spirited but charming atmosphere. The waiters here were all very friendly, although they were extremely busy and were often running up and down several flights of stairs to bring food up and drinks down from the bar. Despite that we found we didn't wait that long for our food and wine. The food itself was decent. I opted for the usual pre-theater set dinner. The salad was fresh and the house dressing had a nice fruity tang to it. The shrimp fra diavlo was decent though I felt there was too much sauce and it was slightly watered down. The apple/blueberry cobbler dessert was not bad and worked well with the whipped cream. All in all if you're looking for some comfort food in a quaint setting before heading to a Broadway show, this is not a bad place to consider. I enjoyed the overall experience and would go back there again in the future.
(4)
Michele C.
Excellent service and incredible fare. Our waitress was extremely attentive and never missed a beat. It was particularly impressive because the place was extremely busy. the atmosphere of the staff was warm and friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious from the initial chips and salsa to the very tasty dessert. The prices are decent. Try the Brooklyn Flower. Delicious drink!
(5)
Amanda P.
Stopped in after a matinee & so glad we did! Sat upstairs with Toby & took advantage of the reverse HH. The Albondingas and wine were just what we needed to get back to the room. Great end to our day!
(5)
Emily R.
I came here this weekend for dinner, our reservation was early, around 5 because we had plans right after. We ate on the 3rd floor, it was so cozy (literally small but very intimate) they have candles on the tables, it has an antique feel, into it. We got bread to start- carbs = win We shared a salad- the dressing was so good I have no idea what it was but I was dipping the bread in it I had lobster ravioli and my boy had bolognese- both were so yummy! My favorite part was the food came quickly, and was portioned well. Just enough food, we both didn't finish and were stuffed, but not an obnoxious amount (you know when you get so much food you are like WHOA) We had tiramisu (sp?) to finish and it was delicious! Also had a bottle of wine Our server was so great, funny, attentive, and personable ! No lie, we did all this in just over an hour. We didn't feel rushed and we sat and chatted throughout and inbetween courses. Had a wonderful time here! (and our bill was about $70 for two of us..with the wine...)
(5)
Hao L.
Cozy little spot to have brunch before a matinee show. I had the eggs with braised short rib hash - delicious. Came with asparagus & watermelon. Also, $5 cocktails (mimosas, Bloody Mary, etc.) - cheapest drinks I've come across so far. Service was great. Highly recommend.
(5)
Bobby M.
I live in Hell's Kitchen, blocks away from some of the best hidden gem restaurants in New York. The Hourglass Tavern is hands down, my favorite. As a Hell's Kitchen resident, I have my pick of scores of fantastic restaurants. The Hourglass is hands down my favorite. And although I've been there so often that I've practically memorized the menu, last week I decided to mix it up and order something outside of my usual (the short ribs - best in the city). Last week, I had the Lobster Ravioli and my friend had the Pecan Crusted Tilapia for the first time. Both dishes were cooked to order (it's a tiny place - no assembly line kitchen). Both meals were superb. The staff treats you like family. Stop in and say hi to owners Beth and Josh. You'll be back. I guarantee it.
(5)
Jeannie L.
Amazing food! Went with a party of 3 tried the steak, chicken, and shrimp and we all finished our plates.. must say this was the first time I ever had chicken at a restaurant which was soo moist. Same goes with the steak! Cooked perfectly, soo tender and yummy. Shrimp was great, flavorful! Great spices. Had a salad and the dressing was great!! The place is small but cozy and great food! Highly recommend!
(5)
Tianna H.
Ok, so the third floor is a great spot. Quiet, great music soundtrack, chill vibe. Dig it. We went after a show based on the yelp reviews and ordered the lobster ravioli in vodka tomato cream sauce (hurzband) and I had the mushroom ravioli in Marsala jus. Hurzband loved his ravioli (which are all made in house) but I could only eat one of mine. It was salty for me and I had gastric bypass 4 months ago so 1 ravioli in the hearty portion of 4 in the pasta bowl was plenty for me since I wasn't over the moon about it anyway. Wish I had gotten the spinach ravioli instead. It's stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce and I think that would have been more my speed tonight. Great spot after a show, tho. They're open till midnight.
(4)
Thomas F.
Food and desert was amazing and service is super friendly. Absolutely worth a sit down dinner and hang out place
(5)
Curtis H.
Just an all around fantastic place to go. I have never had a bad meal here. From late night drunk snacks, to full on dinners to private dinner cooked by the owner Beth. I never drink the same thing here. Sometimes it's the brown bag special. Sometimes it's manhattan and martinis. They never disappoint. Very reasonably priced. It's also a great spot to celebrity spot and see B'way kids after their shows. It's three levels and each level has it's own style and charm.
(5)
Ellen W.
Great dinner - but be warned this is a very small dining area - we were seated next to the door on a window seat (and there is no way my husband could have gotten up from his seat without having the table pulled out from the wall). Spinach ravioli and tirimisu were excellent. My husband like his strip steak but the crab cake appetizer wasn't very good.
(4)
Jesse G.
I made reservations for 4 people on a Tuesday night at 8:30. I figured we would completely miss the theater crowd, and we definitely did. However, aside from a super cool space, and the place to ourselves, everything else was really disappointing. Our poor server was about 18 years old, and didn't know what it meant to order a "well" or "house" scotch, or that a Manhattan straight up means a martini. She tried to bring a 16 year single malt to the table, since she didn't know what the house was. She couldn't tell me the cost, even with the computer right behind her. They were out of the puffs, which I suppose was our fault for not getting there earlier in the day. If you order the burger, be aware that it is served completely plain. You get bun and burger and that's it. The appetizer of meatballs came after we had finished everything else, and that was honestly the end of an ultimately boring meal. The merlot was interesting, Ca'Donini, and at $6 a glass, I felt that was the best value of the whole evening. We found out later that the Betti bar is much better, but there are too many restaurants in NY, unless the drink specials get you so wasted you don't care what you're eating. I really wanted to like you, Hourglass Tavern. Shame on you for not properly training your staff.
(2)
Augie R.
If I were rating Hourglass just for the food, it would be a three-star restaurant. I was with two others, and none of us were blown away by the entrees. My Penne Bolognese was heavy and not as tasty as others I've tried. My wife's Bourbon Braised Short Ribs of beef was a lot of food but far from the best she's had--she found it a little tasteless and not the best cut of meat. Despite the somewhat disappointing food, the Hourglass is still a four-star experience. The place is intimate and cozy, loaded with old-school charm. The service was spectacular--very friendly and warm. I wouldn't hesitate to come back, but I might opt for "Snacklettes," sliders or sandwiches instead of the entrees, next time.
(4)
Ann M.
Loved it here, our waitress made us feel so comfortable. Not at all touristy and she was great with the kids and parents. Short rib sliders were a great start and the garlic shrimp with polenta was filling even for an appetizer. Veggie soup of the day was very good per the 12.year old critic with us. Close to theaters though that was not our criteria. I felt at home here, like dinner at your favorite aunt's house.
(5)
liz r.
Awesome service, amazing food and owners are truly there to make sure patrons are taking care of! I love this place, I recommend it to all friends and family. I will be an ongoing customer as long as they're open. Beth and Josh help me host my High School fundraiser here, and I am truly grateful for all that they did for us. Thank you!
(5)
Dee M.
We visited the Hourglass Tavern on a Saturday night before a show, the service was excellent and the food was delicious. We also had a few drinks at the bar and the crowd was very friendly. We will be going back very soon!
(5)
Dana W.
Well once again Yelp hooked me up! Was looking for a good place to eat near my hotel, Marriott Marquis Time Square and up popped this little gem! Cute little place, great service, delicious homemade food and excellent prices! What more can you ask for. Had the previously mentioned chicken ms it was divine, roasted in garlic and rosemary with a honey cumin sauce, yumm! Goat cheese salad was fabulous as well as was the homemade tiramisu. Give this place a try!
(5)
Enzo C.
Amazing discovery! It was intimate and the service was exceptional! It was a memorable experience.
(5)
Marci F.
Just ate here after a show at illuminate. Fantastic fresh food! From the door person who greeted us with a smile to the waitress I loved the experience. The food was super fresh. I got the special which was the arugula salad and the hummus. My mom got the spicy pasta and my sister raved about the roasted chicken. The only sad part of the meal was the Bettie bourbon sour. Not so great but it's hard to please a whiskey sour snob. I absolutely recommend this place. Fantastic atmosphere and amazing food.
(4)
Ron M.
Great little pre-theater place to eat and have a few drinks. Food is really good, service is friendly, nice ambiance on both floors.
(4)
A H.
The food was good here. Service is a bit slow, so watch the time if you're here before a show. Great prices for what you get, though. Tons of good, comfort-style food for a good price.
(4)
Leslie S.
What a find! After a long touristy day of sightseeing, we were in the mood for a quiet meal. We found Hourglass on our evening walk. The weather was spectacular and on a nice October evening (10/12/13) we sat at an outside table and enjoyed wine and pasta for what seemed like hours. I had lobster ravioli and my husband had a seafood pasta. Both were wonderful!
(4)
Phil H.
There is just so much win about Bettibar that it astounds me since it's located in the Theater District restaurant row area. Did we just happen to stumble upon a speakeasy type establishment in tourist central? OMG - this place is PURE WIN! As we were proceeding on our night of drinking debauchery and were headed over to Hell's Kitchen to bar hop a bit more and get a bite to eat I saw this hidden gem located next to the Hourglass Tavern. It's actually owned by them. You have to ring the buzzer to be let in and then walk up a narrow flight of stairs to find Bettibar. You get the feeling of a secret little speakeasy that few people know about, and only those "in the know" really realize it's there. I'm so happy to know about it now, since I love spots like this, and I am sure I will be there again soon! You just can't go wrong here. The owners have set up a killer atmosphere with a speakeasy ambiance to it. Dim lighting with candles all around, small chandelier, old hourglasses decorate the walls, small bar area, classic jazz and old school tunes playing quietly in the background, a few turned off tv's, and a few tables with people conversing quietly. As it was a Monday night and Broadway was dark it was not too crowded with only about six other patrons in there. We easily found a great spot at the bar and took a few seats. The bartender, Kelly, welcomed us with a friendly smile and fun conversation. He told us that it does get crowded on show nights with many theater folk, stage hands, and musicians making up the crowd. We picked a good time to come here for our first visit. OK - this might be crazy, but here's my number, so happy hour me maybe? Yessss! Happy hour seven nights a week from 5-10pm. AWESOME! It was already after 9pm and we still got to enjoy this. There is a sign on the wall near the bar with the drink and food specials. What is this I see? $8 MYSTERY BEER IN A BAG AND A SHOT! This is so up my alley. It was a must. Had to be done. What a terrific deal. You actually get served a bartender's choice of a bottled beer and it's placed in a brown paper bag. You can't get more secretive than this. I felt like the place was going to get raided by the police as in the old time prohibition era movies. The beers you get are quality craft styles too. No Bud Light here. We took a few mouthfuls before sneaking a peek into the bags. RJ Rockers Ball Eagle Brown and Bell Ringer, Prohibition, and Shipyard. Good stuff! Also, Kelly hooked us up with delicious shots - vodka, creme de cocoa, triple sec - that tasted like creme soda. We did a few rounds of course! This whole deal is just so much fun!!! Bettiebar is a breath of fresh air among the touristy crowds, mediocre bars, and so-so restaurants in the area. There is nothing more enjoyable than a bar with a speakeasy vibe if done right. To me, Bettiebar hits on all points - terrific happy hour, drink specials, bartender, atmosphere. We finished our drinks before bidding Kelly adieu and heading out into the darkness in search of more libations.
(5)
David J.
We felt fortunate to get a short notice reservation. When we arrived we wound up waiting for half an hour before being seated. The host thanked us for being patient and got our drinks for us. The dining areas are small but they have nice ambiance. Food was very good. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her lobster ravioli. My daughter enjoyed her crab cakes and my NY sirloin was very good. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. A nice experience.
(4)
Betty S.
My fiance and I went here for dinner (6 pm on a Saturday night) and had a wonderful experience! We made reservations through Open Table (highly recommended) and were seated right away on the 3rd floor (if you're given the choice, choose the more intimate 3rd floor not the 1st which gets more foot traffic). The space was small, so expect to dine close to neighbors, but it was totally fine for us given that the crowd was very chill and the historic atmosphere is pretty cool. We ordered 2 hand-crafted cocktails (moscow mezule, brooklyn flower), brisket sliders and the beet salad which was plenty for the 2 of us. The drinks were fabulous (and not skimpy on the liquor), and we enjoyed the sliders and salad. Note that the beet salad is pretty much a ton of beets with a spoonful of goat cheese and sprinkling of pine nuts - I love beets so this was ideal for me, but I can see how it might be a bit much for others. Definitely check this jewel of a restaurant out if you can!
(5)
Krystal G.
My friend and I went there for brunch today based on its 4 star on Yelp. But the experience was absolutely horrible. The old waiter was basically rushing us to finish our brunch. He literally threw a piece of bacon into my plate from another plate which he couldn't wait to take away. It was just around noon and the restaurant was almost empty. We don't understand what's the rush here and why he was so eager to take away the plate that held some pieces of bacon. Then when he gave us the check, we mentioned there's a yelp 15% discount that we want to use (we mentioned it at the beginning to the other waiter), then the old waiter said "WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME EARLIER?". What the hell? First of all, we told the other waiter. Second of all, you don't have any other customer in the restaurant at this moment. Is it really that much trouble to rerun the bill again?? Finally when he brought us the check, he was standing there waiting for us to write down the tip. We really couldn't stand this. So I had to tell him could you please not stand there waiting for us to finish the check? It'll take a few minutes. Thank God, we finally had some peace of mind at the very last in that restaurant. We live in the neighborhood. Def won't come back or recommend anyone to go there.
(1)
Arielle S.
Came here with my mom for dinner pre-theater performance. We were seated in the 3rd floor dining room. I liked the ambiance up there. It kind of felt like a home to me. There were 2 waiters both of whom were very friendly and helpful. It kind of made up for the fact that there was a large group seated up there that were obnoxiously loud making it hard to even think much less carry on your own conversation. My mom ordered spinach ravioli and said it was really really good. I, who almost never ever ever order steak, was somehow craving steak and decided to order it. It came with a side of mashed potatoes and broccoli. The steak was ok but i've had better and probably wouldn't order it here again. The mashed potatoes were really good and probably my favorite part of the meal. The broccoli was boring, it was just steamed broccoli; no butter, no garlic, no seasoning, just plain old healthy broccoli. I would certainly not shy away from returning but don't feel compelled to rush back.
(3)
Kathy D.
I'm new to New York and restaurant row. But not new to braised short ribs and theirs are excellent!!
(4)
Onelia E.
Three story spot with cramped spaces, the furniture was falling apart (I sat upstairs with a large party near on a banquet) and my end of the bench was literally cracked and I was leaning forward with me knees halfway to kneeling. I normally would have made a big stink but there was no other place to seat our party of 8 so I took one for the team and hoped to heaven that the wine would start flowing soon because I had a tough day of travelling. The good news is that the wine menu is superb. The bad news is that everything else on the menu was uninspiring. Pigs in a blanket? I had to double check the menu to make sure I didn't get the kids menu or that I didn't accidentally walk into Hooters on game day. Nope- definitely Pigs in a blanket for $10. Sorry but I was over that quickly after I discovered my first easy bake project with Pillsbury's ready to bake croissant triangles. The hummus was cold, the Tavern salad was drab, and my salmon was just edible. While the service was hospitable and the bartenders were on point, the overall experience left much more to be wanted. The third floor was stuffy- smelled of musty old wood and cooked food, mixed with the hot breath of patrons coming in from the cold. Note to management: please close the bathroom doors that lead into the third floor dining room. The last thing a patron wants to see when they walk up the stairs and are being seated is a wide open view to the toilet (and bathtub!).
(2)
Michael P.
A couple of friends and I were having a great time next door at The Ritz the Saturday after Halloween and we needed a place to sit and talk and have some good food and conversation. We planted ourselves inside and was greeted by a very nice server, Maria. The night was already rocky for a couple of us and once we got in the inviting space, Maria made us feel incredibly safe and was quick to pick up on our drama and insisted to make matters better. By her charm and hospitality, she turned what might have been a night of drama to a safe haven of good food and service. I'm from LA and never been here before however the graciousness that she put forth prompted me to write my first yelp review. If anything, please go there, ask for Maria...what a fantastic asset this place has...you won't be disappointed if Maria takes care of you!
(5)
Matic J.
I feel sorry to give only 2 stars as I feel this place could get 4-5. It started of fine with a nice welcome chat and round of beers. We ordered and were full of expectations for what tasty treats we will get. Then the waiter got us the burgers - picture uploaded - burned!! I asked the waiter if he could give me some ketchup as the burger is BURNED - he made a strange face and got the ketchup. So I just cut the burger round and round to get the burned layer off and ate the rest. I pointed the issue to the waiter and asked if we can make a deal with a dessert - his reaction was very disturbing. Since then it all went downhill. He treated us like it was our fault that he gave us burned food. Well we got 1 lava cake for free which is nice, but the guy could have taken it less personal and be more understanding. If you go there - don't take the burger.
(2)
Kristen M.
On our first trip to NYC we wanted to get away from anything chain related and try all the great food we'd heard so much about. If we hadn't seen positive reviews we might have walked by this small restaurant. On the first floor is the main dining area with only about 5 tables. On the second floor there is a bar (but we didn't venture up there). The menu had many choices from seafood to burgers. I had the salmon fillet with garlic mashed potatoes and my husband has the "big ass burger" (yes, the actual name ). The fish was fresh and a great portion. My husband raved about the hollowed bun that allowed for more condiments on the burger without having to unhinge his jaw. Overall, a cute restaurant with quality food at reasonable prices. A win-win!
(5)
Sydney L.
Great food.
(4)
Kristen J.
Looked adorable, got good yelp reviews but quite frankly didn't deliver......both our meals (short ribs and ravioli) were awful and inedible. Our waiter was very colorful and entertaining - he was the best part of the experience here.
(2)
D L.
This is great little place right on Restaurant Row. I don't go to the theater that often, but I like to come here right after the shows start at 8 PM because you can come in an relax and enjoy the friendliness and eat your food without any rush. Everything is delicious and ample. Scott the server is warm and friendly and makes the experience great. Alternative to eating is just going to one of the bars on the upper floors. Again the cozy size makes for conversation starters. After the shows close the crowds can return and even later you might bump into a "name" or two among the drinkers. Josh and Beth the owners are always around and make it super friendly.
(4)
Paul S.
Had to give it a 5, our meal was awesome. Table on the street, what a show Hell's Kitchen can be, skip the overpriced theater and go here. Had the leg of lamb, cooked perfectly. The pre fixe menu was very nice and quite the bargain for NY.
(5)
Brian M.
I wouldn't have gone into this place if not for the positive reviews. It's unprepossessing, almost dumpy, but the food was simple, excellently prepared and portioned generously, the wine inexpensive, and the service was friendly and good. The prices are very reasonable -- dinner for three with tax, tip and a bottle of wine was $120. One of us ordered from the prix fixe menu. A homey kind of place I look forward to going back to.
(4)
Paris C.
During a recent trip to NYC, went to Hourglass on two occassions, once to the upstairs Betti Bar and another night to dinner downstairs at the restaurant. The owner, Beth, is a very nice and funny woman. Bartenders were friendly and mixed great drinks. Loved the atmosphere of the Bettibar. It was intimate, comfortable and inviting. The restaurant was good, but cannot think of anything memorable, either good or bad. It is quite small and dark, with a very tiny kitchen. Reasonable selection of food, a blend of Italian and Mediteranean. Warm loaf of bread to start was delicious as was the spanakopitas, which were not flaky but more pastry like. I tried bites of the shrimp pesto pasta, which was rather ordinary. Overall we had a nice dinner downstairs but a GREAT time at the upstairs bar the night before. I do believe they have recently acquired this restaurant, which I think will get much better as it seasons.
(4)
Kayleena T.
good food and drinks. nice people. fun idea. i like it.
(4)
Lizzy B.
JUST EAT THAT HOMEMADE CRAB CAKE AND YOU'LL LOVE IT! Working to your preferences 24/7. Always an amazing atmosphere... small, cozy and a perfect getaway for anyone. Can meet so many new and accepting people, best for making new friends and cool connections. The bartenders try hard for creative cocktails with special promotions.
(5)
Laura A.
Small, unique restaurant with only a few tables in the main dining area (1st floor). I have been twice and loved what I ordered both times - they have absolutely delicious lobster ravioli and spanakopita. They have three tiers of prix fixe dinner options, tiered based on prices. The restaurant is located in a great row of restaurants right by Times Square and makes for a great pre- or post-theater dinner spot! Having been twice already, I would definitely return!
(4)
Ellen H.
I was looking for a restaurant for a pre theater dinner that got an A rating from the health department and found the Hourglass Tavern. It had lots of menu options for all types of diners, seafood, vegetarian, light, heavy whatever. A perfect choice and good wine by the glass, not to mention the killer fruit cobbler! If they'd only turned down the music a bit (why do restaurants think they need that?).
(4)
Hannah C.
Great service and a vast menu, but the food is a bland, not a lot of taste.
(3)
Christopher Thomas B.
Had dinner for 2 at the Hourglass after a show----about 1045pm. We dressed appropriately for Broadway and were a little uncomfortable in the unairconditioned space as it was a muggy evening. We ordered the spinach/ricotta and lobster ravioli which were made in-house. The flavors were average---in fact they tasted similar to frozen bag pastas I've had before. The bread was also baked in house and tasted fresh. Visually, I think the restaurant has a nice romantic aesthetic, but the food, while reasonable, isn't very memorable.
(3)
Jaymie C.
Our first night in NY we discovered Hourglass Tavern. We had a wonderful meal and were waited on by Beth, one of the owners. She was the greatest. We even went back a second time!
(5)
Sara R.
Great Sliders! Good WIne! Great lil space upstairs for events. I had a great time here with the Apple Consultant Network. If you're looking for a place to entertain 20 people I'd inquire here.
(4)
Nancy C.
Great funky place for uncomplicated American food. We had drinks in Bettibar and then dined on the third floor. Good service, great food, awesome happy hour drink specials - $5 beers, wine and well drinks. Don't miss it for pre-theater dinner. We had the chicken fetuccine and shrimp catalina and both were well prepared and tasty.
(4)
Taryn N.
Great place! Excellent food, service and prices and a cool, friendly, funky atmosphere. The grilled tilapia, steak and mashed potatoes were delicious and the chicken alfredo looked really yummy. Love that you can get a nice glass of wine for under $10! I would recommend and will be going back.
(4)
Melissa I.
Very average. We went here because of the good rating on yelp. It's a cute place. Very tiny. The food was just average though. I was very disappointed to go here for my night out in NYC.
(3)
J. J.
My husband I went here while visiting in New York. Never been to the city and we wandered the area for a place to eat and stumbled across the Hourglass. It was fabulous! The food was hot, delicious and the friendly staff was amazing. For the price fix you got a ton of food and we didnt leave hungry in the least. If you go, order the home made chicken soup- wonderful! The new owner of the Tavern Beth even came out and chatted with us and was talking to passer's by about their specials. She even gave us suggestions of what to see and do in NYC. A very homey, warm and fun place. We sat outside and listened to the romantic music play and people watched on the streets. Great food for the money and the atmosphere was spectacular. Next time we are in NYC we plan to visit the Hourglass again.
(5)
Samantha D.
The food and service was awesome!
(4)
Dana S.
Tiny, tiny little place. We went only for dessert and got great service and very large glasses of wine. The desserts were decent, but not amazing. Overall it was pretty good.
(3)
Kristen F.
My family and I squeezed into this place after a show last Thursday night. It's a tiny space, probably better for couples, but the waitress was very accommodating and set up a table for the 5 of us. She was there by herself, yet was still able to run the whole dining area. The service was speedy and fun... she was able to roll with the corny jokes and teasing my uncle was giving her. We ordered late night appetizers, desserts, and wine. The chocolate cake... OMG, if I hadn't been with my family I would have exploded if you know what I mean ;-) Super cute place, that's very relaxed with scrumptious eats. Perfect for late night post theater.
(4)
Elizabeth W.
Very prompt and friendly. Food was excellent. Fun atmosphere .
(5)
Nathalie B.
Love this place ! I was looking for a place to celebrate my birthday and I came across this one when I added "unpretentious" to the search. And that was exactly what I was looking for, we (about 12/14 people) had dinner at the top floor and it felt like having dinner served at my dinning room, very cozy, casual and down to earth, the food was very good too. The middle floor, the bar can get too crowded but it also has a great vibe. I'm coming back again and again :)
(4)
David D.
We (3 in all) were lured to this place from Time square for their 'Mediterranean' food listing ( as per Yelp search on Iphone.) At first - we couldn't find the place ( elec. sign was off ) There is nothing 'Mediterranean' about it. a regular mixture of dishes. The food was nothing special. Service is OK. The place is small and you have to climb over other eaters - or climb narrow stairs to the second floor. Not for the overweight...and not when the cold wind blows....
(2)
Gloria K.
I absolutely loved this little place. When you first walk in, you get a bohemian 1920's Parisian feel which makes it intimate and romantic. I had the prixe fixe which had some really good bread, salad, an entree and dessert. They have a lot of different beers too and a pretty good wine list. I had the spinach ravioli which was homemade and super good and fruit cobbler which was amazing! It was warm and gooey and creamy all in 1 bite! My friend tells me her tiramisu was really good too. I'm definitely coming back for a date or something!
(4)
Rosie H.
As other reviewers have said, the menu is not inventive and there are probably more interesting places to go. However, this place delivered everything we were looking for: solid food, great drinks, convenient location, ability to make a reservation online, and speedy service. The atmosphere was stylish and cozy and the place was not (contrary to what others have said) filled with tourists, except for us.
(4)
Cory G.
The idea of this place is to have a quiet, romantic dinner, for two, and to leave within an hour. Sounds sweet but... don't go in here if there is a table of 6 people squeezed into the little space and expect to have a romantic night of it! This place is not about the food as the meals all taste like they are from the frozen food isle from the Price Chopper. It's the ambience! And if the place has 5 or 6 tourists sitting around one table yammering on and you're smashed against the wall in the other corner and your wasting your time and money. I like this place. I like what the idea is behind it but while they try to accommodate larger parties it leaves very little ambience for anyone else.
(3)
Penny W.
So glad we found this place. We were in town for NY Marathon weekend. We wanted something quiet and with good food. This place was a lot of fun. We ate at Hourglass Tavern which is on the bottom floor of the brownstone. There were seven tables and one waiter. The waiter was friendly and helpful. We were not rushed at all. We had fun watching the chef deliver all the food for our floor and the two above out of a kitchen the size of a shoebox. The food was OK, but the wine and service were great. We'll be back the next time we are in NYC.
(4)
Lauren B.
I gave this place 4 stars even though it probably should only get 3 in terms of food. The extra star was for the kind staff. My boyfriend and I used to go here from time to time when he lived right on 46th. The food was alright. Its like stuff my mom would make at home. But with most of the meals they give you a retarded amount of grub. A loaf of bread, appetizers, salad, entree, and dessert/coffee. Plus the wine list is decent with good prices. The thing I loved the most about this place though was the decor. 3 floors in an old brownstone apt, which felt like you were eating in your aunt's living room. So cute. Super friendly staff. Try it.
(4)
Lindsay F.
how this restaurant had 4 stars when i was looking for a place to dine before "In the Heights" last night is beyond me. B.E.Y.O.N.D. ME. The establishment itself was charming and small, so i felt comfortable walking in expecting decent food. to say the least, the place was a complete tourist trap, the food was awful, and the sangria tasted like grape juice. to make matters worst, the menu is prix-fix for $21 to $25 and $17 if you want an entree a la carte. i NEVER would have paid $10 for the quality of ravioli i ordered, not to mention $17! so, my sister and i opted to split a prix-fix dinner since we weren't starving and could tell this place was a rip. then the bill came: they charged an extra $4 for a small slice of spanikopita (which would have come with the prix fix) and a $3 plate fee! i left the worst tip of my life just because of the plain absurdity that i had spent money there to begin with. a horrible pre-play destination. do yourself a favor and walk past this place.
(1)
Augusto L.
M girlfriend and I went to this place for a late dinner and everything was great. The place is small but the esthetics are perfect. The exposed brick, cool decorations, and music to set the mood. The lights were dim but not so much that you could not see the person across from you. We were also lucky enough to attend when there were not a lot of people. Since it is a small restaurant, I can imagine it being a bit cramped when all of the tables are full. Food: Pork Dish with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus - The curry sauce was just the right sweetness with a bit of a spicy kick, the pork was soft and moist and the mashed potatoes were just the right consistency! Soup: Homemade Chicken Soup - This was perfect for the cold weather we were battling that night. The broth was very tasty and there was just the right amount of chicken and vegetables in the soup. Bread - Awesome, no other word for it. It was soft, warm, and tasted so damn good! If your a fan of bread, ask the waitress to keep it coming!!! Rib Eye Steak 10 oz with Mashed Potatoes & Asparagus - The steak was ordered medium and that;s exactly how it was served. The meat was tender and super juicy, The potatoes, again, perfect consistency. Asparagus at first appeared to be undercooked but after the first bite, I realized it was perfect! 3 Dollar Sangrias! - One review said that they tasted like grape juice but let me assure you that this was not the case when we went. The Sangria was tasty and had a nice kick. After about 3.5, I was feeling pretty dang good and this is coming from a person that usually has two shots in his hands. My girlfriend is a bit of lightweight and she was feeling very good after the second round. For 3 dollars, you need to give them a shot! Shrimp - The night we went they actually had a special on the Rib Eye plate and you also received a side of 3 large shrimp and dinner for $33! Well the shrimp were very tasty. The lemon seasoning exploded in your mouth and they were cooked to perfection. Dessert - Cobbler - The fruit and crust pieces tasted amazing! The cream was a nice touch but if I had to pick at something about this dish, I would suggest that it be served with ice cream. That would have completed the dessert dish!!! Service - The waitress was very sweet and fast. The only gripe I had was towards the end of the dinner, she seemed a bit pre-occupied with her cell phone and then disappeared for a bit upstairs. I had to ask her for the check. I'll be nice and not knock off a star for such a little thing. Overall, I would highly recommend this place. The entire night ended up costing about $85, not including the tip. That got us 2 main courses, dessert, 6 Sangrias, a small appetizer, and soup. I am rather new to NYC, but I would have to say this was one of the more reasonably priced places that I have been to, I enjoyed the environment, got a nice buzz, and left nice and full!
(5)
Aileen M.
What a wonderful little gem in the midst of all the Broadway chaos! Best 5$ I've ever spent on a happy hour sangria. The pastas are full of flavor and the portions are just perfect and more. Three floors of the tavern to explore, definitely cozy and intimidate. The service is friendly and welcoming, a sure "go back" for me.
(4)
Katie H.
Grabbed dinner here before a show after reading the reviews and we were very happy we found it! It was intimate but not crowded on the first floor. The food was amazing and the waitress was beyond kind and had a great personality. Overall it was a great experience!
(5)
David S.
We went to Hourglass on the recommendation of another friend... It definitely didn't disappoint... from answering our reservation request (same day!) via email to finding us a small table in the window, it was beautiful. We got there early due to theater... it wasn't busy. Service was great... very prompt, funny and great recommendations. The chicken and steaks were wonderful. Wines were good. We were in and out in about 1.5 hours which gave us a TON of time for the show. Thanks!
(4)
Sam F.
Hidden Gem!! First of all, this is not a tavern or bar, but rather a cozy and delectable family owned restaurant. It's something between Italian, Greek and Middle-eastern. I really enjoyed the cozy 2nd floor. It felt like we were in someone's living room (probably because it used to be just that). Service was very fast, and friendly! As soon as we sat down, we had warm spinach pie type things at our table. Warm, flaky crusts, and fresh filling. Who just gives something like that away? Stick with the colorful papers in the middle of the menu (the specials), by far the best deal. You'll pay around $20 for a four course meal. You can't beat that price in the city. After the aforementioned spinach pie, I had a house salad. For my entre, I chose the blue fish, which was a bit spicy for my liking. However, I really enjoyed everything that my friends got! The lamb chops were phenomenal. Five succulent chops, done right! Both penne dishes, their names escape me, were also very tasty. Lastly, I had the tiramisu for dessert, which was much sweater than usual. We got the cheapest pinot grigio for the table, and were very happy. I'll be back, I just hope they still have the lamb.
(5)
Marshall R.
Really enjoyed our pre theater dinner here. I tried the spinach ravioli and my wife had the Catalina shrimp and both were very good. The service was very attentive and polite. The wine was good and the cobbler for dessert was very well made. The price was very reasonable and I would dine here again.
(4)
Samantha K.
Found this place to have dinner with my siblings and cousins the other night. it was definitely not what we were expecting when we walked in, and felt like we were in another city or country. We were on the third floor and after 7:00 the place was empty and they had a music playlist playing Dean Martin and Copa Cabana on repeat. Having said that, the menu is extensive, food was great and not too pricey! I had the grilled cheese on Rosemary bread and my brother in law had the grilled chicken which was amazing!
(4)
Brenda P.
Went for a quick bite before a show. Food and service were very good. I had a flat iron steak, my husband the sirloin and they were great cuts cooked well. My only gripe would be that it was cramped. Many mentioned cozy, which it was; but since it's a smaller place all workers end up frantically running past your table every 2 seconds...a bit distracting and didn't make for a relaxing dinner, but a good one.
(3)
Cassandra S.
I hosted a private event on the third floor with just over 24 hrs. notice and my reservation was taken with no hassle and accommodations were quickly made. When I arrived, I was personally greeted by both of the owners. Our bartender was a delight and did a fantastic job. Having only visited the establishment once prior to the event, I didn't know what to expect and was ultimately blown away. The space perfectly accommodated my 35-40 guests for cocktails (I was told the 3rd floor will seat up to 25 for dinner) and set the perfect atmosphere for the gathering. With a cute bar, and tables around the outside of the room, it was a comfortable place for my guests to mingle and relax. All of my guests were very impressed and incredibly well taken care of. Hourglass Tavern is a gem nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, and I really do look forward to my next visit.
(5)
Laura G.
We went to the Hourglass Tavern before a show on a Friday night based on positive Yelp reviews. It was as good as expected! We were seated right away in a cozy window seat. The bread was delicious and so was my entree- mushroom ravioli. The service was attentive and we made it to the show on time!
(4)
Hazal O.
I went to second floor to bettibar. They have happy hour 5-10 pm which is awesome. Atmosphere was so nice. Almost everybody knows each other except me:)) but i had so much fun.
(5)
Sarah F. H.
I came here in the winter but loved it so much that it's still worth reviewing now. This place is tiny and lovely. Great food, relaxed and competent dinner service (a prize in the theater district), unbelievably good value -- including a four-course $22.95 prix-fix from 4 to 8 pm -- and a delightful atmosphere. I made reservations but didn't need to. Although the place has only seven small tables, two of which are basically expanded windowseats, it didn't get crowded, almost certainly because despite the multiple reviews and awards posted in the windows, people must not know about it. The place is actually three floors tall. On the second floor is Betti Bar, a casually romantic spot for a pre- or post-theater drink with a disproportionately large (but proportionately sweet) bathroom. I didn't venture to the top floor. All the ravioli is home-made, and my spinach ravioli stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce was delicious and not unduly heavy. The menu boasts many sizes of food, from appetizers and entrees to "snacklettes" and "big snackage." There's also a make-your-own option for kids. I would come here with four people maximum, and I would definitely come back. In all my theater-going days, this is one of the best dining experiences I've had -- and it didn't matter, time-wise or service-wise, that my dining partner was 10 minutes late -- despite the hourglass hanging over each table, which, according to old reviews, used to limit each meal to exactly 60 minutes.
(5)
Mark M.
This is my new favorite place in the Theater District. The room is small and cozy, the music is nice, the service is friendly and efficient, and the food was very good. I would have given it 5 stars if the food was amazing. It's rare to find a place that is relaxing during the pre-theater period, but this place nicely fits the bill!
(4)
Denis W.
Comment dis tu "annoying French tourists" in French? because on the day I was there, the place was packed wall-to-wall with them. Came here before our saying goodbye to Rent show (just came to say goodbye..er...forget that). Was in town with the in-laws and wanted to show them a not-overpriced restaurant that was cute. After some reseach, and the suggestions found here, I decided on the Hourglass (better than going to Junior's right?). Maybe it was because of the tourists, but service was spotty and sloppy, and the seating cramped and uncomfortable. I ordered the leg of lamb, in-laws ordered sirlion, and wifey had salmon. The leg of lamb was cooked ok, and tasted pretty good, but had tough and sinewy sections. The vegetables were limp, and mashed potatoes bland. The steaks were functional, but not great. The salmon would have been good if not overcooked. Both the tiramisu and chocolate cake were too sweet, and the filling tasted artificial. Spinach pie was ok, though cold and oily. I wanted to give them a pass because we obviously caught them at a bad night, but there were too many misses. Somewhere between 2.5-3 stars. Will pay more to go to one of the other restuarants next time.
(3)
Jon C.
So mom came into the city to visit and I took here here before we went out for some entertainment. This place I feel had so much potential, but similar to my tax return, left me wanting more. The appitizers we were served had no business ever leaving the kitchen, and the service was medicore even though there was only one other table to wait on. The being said, my lamb chops were possibly the best I've ever had, the were literally so tender I could cut them with my fork, "My fork?" you say, yes my fork, I too was amazed. The desert was ok, but forgettable, I may return if I was in the area, but wouldn't plan an evening around it. This place could've easily gotten 4 or 5 stars from me, but the app + bad service are two serious strikes that I can't overlook when we were practically the only ones there.
(3)
Mark G.
Terrific little, and I mean little pub on Restaurant Row that's friendly, reasonably priced with real good food. Yes, it is on Restaurant Row!
(4)
Amalia M.
Love this place! Many happy memories here, eating dinner after a show. Food is simple, but very good. Really friendly, family run place.
(4)
M W.
Prix Fixe menu at 24.95 great value. Appetizer, salad or soup, choice of several entrees (I had v good chicken breast) plus dessert. My husband had steak off the regular menu which was very tasty. Service was extremely pleasant for NYC.
(4)
Maria T.
amazing!!! the food is crazy delicious...the price is typical new york prices..wine was great...and service was awesome. The owners are the sweetest and most humble people you will ever meet. Been here a few times, considering its right across the street, but I will definitely be coming back... check out this place. Cute decor, nice service, and delicious food!
(4)
Michele R.
How I loathe to write a negative review but here I go. And why? Because honestly, this put such a damper on the already rainy evening and I do want to spare some other poor shnook a dismal experience. Firstly, it feels OLD, but not in a well preserved way, in a musty odor kind of manner. Still, hope springs eternal which is why they call it hope but this was soon dashed by a piece of steak I would not feed to my neighbor's dog let alone my dinner companion. It was more fat than anything and for the first time in our dining jaunts, it was sent back! Now I am sure my fellow yelpers can rightly understand that truly dashed any chance of a satisying dining experience prior to the theatre. To top it all off, the soda was flat and we were informed by our less than happy to see us waiter, that this was just the way the soda was; sorry folks. If the guy wanted a decent tip if any and yes we did leave him one regardless,( it was the cook we really wanted to boil in oil) ; he woud have hightailed it over to corner bodega for two cans of cola and behold, we would have had at the very least a little fizz instead of a dinner that so totally fizzled out. So in short, the Hourglass Tavern is so aptly named as it felt like it was HOURS before we could say "Sayonara" and we shall NOT return. Oh, I had the lobster ravioli and to be fair, next to the steak, it was at least edible. I guess REVENGE is a dish best served cold which is what the Hourglass Tavern leaves you feeling.
(1)
Steve S.
Hourglass Tavern is a restaurant row eatery with a variety of prix-fixe options for the pre-Theater crowd. In fact, there were so many options on the menu that it made ordering a quite difficult. We enjoyed the homey feel of being able to eat right in the kitchen. The service, however, was slow and the food was simply not that good. I ordered the steak from the prix fixe. It was serviceable but had no flavor. My friend was similarly not impressed by the soft-shell crab. We ordered a bottle of wine (don't remember what it was) for $17 and it was almost undrinkable. I'm giving it three stars because the food was not terrible, but just nothing to write home about. In short, there are better choices along restaurant row for pre-Theater dining.
(3)
Gretchen W.
I can't say enough good about this restaurant. It's perfect for anyone going to the theater. The owners are usually there and are friendly and casual. Food was great; reasonably priced. They are open until the wee hours so you can make reservations to go for dinner or drinks after the theater also. The spinach ravioli is fantastic!
(4)
Michael J.
One of my favorite local spots for drinks and socializing. The food is decent and the atmosphere is fun yet intimate.
(5)
Karisa G.
I thought I loved this place before I even arrived. However I was greatly disappointed. I could have cooked and seasoned the food better myself, I got shrimp and scallops Aka fishy tasting over cooked crap. The broccoli that it came with was raw and unseasoned. My boyfriend got the pork which was tiny and dried up over gross mashed. Our bill came to $ 42...$7 for iced tea and a sprite. I couldn't be too mad b/c of the nice waitress and cozyness of the place. But I am still very disappointed at the waste of money this meal was.
(2)
Lawrence F.
I have been going to the Hourglass Tavern for years but I will never eat there again. I went last evening with a dear friend prior to seeing a Broadway show and there was only seating at the upstairs bar (no problem there). We sat down and there was a VERY LOUD and drunk group of 3 ( 2 girls and one guy) kids there. We asked them very kindly if they could lower their voices. This only stirred their intoxicated brains and they began to bang on the tables and became even more boisterous. The staff there was simply clueless. Other patrons were also very agitated with their behavior. Before anyone got hurt (and it wasn't going to be me) we decided to leave. As we were leaving they once again started banging on the tables like neanderthals. As we walked out we came across more kids who too were drunk (6pm), it was a pathetic site. Restaurant Row has indeed gone down-hill. I cannot eat in an establishment that cannot control or do something about drunkard patrons.
(1)
Nobody M.
Nothing here was bad...the food, the service, the cute little rooms-all of it was good, but I wasn't blown away by anything. If your typical meals consist of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and/or other chain restaurants, cruise buffets or church potlucks, you'll be blown away by the food here. But if you're a bit more discretionary, you might be a little disappointed. Hourglass' menu consisted of a lot of "specials" which were each xerox'd hand-written full page descriptions....it was a little irritating shifting through a half a ream of colored paper. I'm sure it's all part of their system, but it was jankey. If I lived around here, it might be a place I'd frequent due to the reasonable prices and lack of tourists, but when you only have a few days in NYC, consider a few more options first.
(3)
charley s.
Pedestrian food. Passed off a brand X drink for a Baileys. Seated pre - theatre Sat. nite table for 2 in second floor room with group of 12 including young children. Granny put out because no chocolate milk. Must have thought it was Chucky Cheese. If for low prices would be a 2 not a 3. Overall meh.
(3)
Foster K.
I brought my parents to the famed "Restaurant Row" hoping to find a place that didn't gouge out-of-towners, and thankfully we chose the Hourglass Tavern. The restaurant is really cozy, lots of dark wood and we practically climbed over tables to get to our spot in a corner on the second floor. This was a good thing - it really reminded me of restaurants in Montmartre. We ordered a bottle of wine, and then each of us chose one of the seemingly endless meal choices. I had lobster ravioli (they just don't make it on the left coast!), and Mam and Dad had trout and lamb. Let's not forget that these included soup or salad, dessert, and coffee! All the entrees were great, and Mam said that the Tiramisu was the BEST she'd ever had. This is no small feat - my Mother has turned over every rock in Boston's Little Italy looking for the best Tiramisu, so she knows what she's talking about! As if the food wasn't shockingly good enough, the bill came to a grand total of $78! What a deal! I'd say it's likely we'll be back here!!
(5)
Mary Beth K.
Great little restaurant & bar on Restaurant Row. All homemade pasta & wonderful wait staff. I had the Lobster Ravioli, my husband has the Chicken Alfredo & my niece had the Spinach Ravioli. I liked the Alfredo best because it had a bite to it. Make sure to make a reservation as I think there are only 4 tables in the whole spot! We will be back.
(4)
Caitlyn S.
It's small. Like tiny hallway small, but unless you have a ton of people with you I wouldn't let that stop you from hitting up Hourglass late night! They have a few different rooms and we happened to be in the main bar area most of the time. We had a blast. The event planner even gave me a tour of the private bar room where a certain celeb was hanging out at the time. It was a really cool place and the bartenders and rest of the staff were so accommodating. I can't wait to go back when I'm in town!
(5)
Richard H.
OK, it's not bad. It's a tiny, charming place with prompt, friendly service. But it really does taste like something you could make at home. I am not convinced that was fresh broccoli, and was that Vigo Spanish rice?
(2)
Martin D.
This place was not our first choice, but it turned out to be a great one. Although Maria, the waitress who seems to know every patron by first name is extremely friendly, she is a tad bit slow. This sub-par service did not hinder the outstanding food this fine establishment offers. Open well over 10 years, they have daily specials that include appetizer, dessert, etc. I had the fettuccini with olive oil, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and smoked gouda. This dish is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. My dessert was a flourless chocolate cake that was also over the top. I almost forgot the sangria. At $3 a glass, this stuff was world class. Although there are 1000 restaurants within a couple blocks, this would be a good choice for anyone! Enjoy.
(4)
Whitney W.
We stopped by for dessert and drinks. The food was really good! We got a chocolate cake and a pear apple pie. It had a more homemade touch rather then fancy shmancy. It isn't up at the professional level cooking, but still very good. I LOVE the atmosphere here. The woman who served us had a nice quirky personality rather then just strait up business. She treats her customers like long time friends. Very Refreshing.
(4)
Scott R.
Solid choice for pre-show with good prices and food. Pre fix gets you wide selection of entree with vege spanikopte (sp?) and salad or soup. We had lobster raviolli (rich, creamy, filled with real lobster) and salmon with mashed potatoes (delicious, homemade and buttery). Desert was limited but a wonderful chocalate biscotti freshly made (actually our server said she prepared it!). Prompt service, they are sensitive to getting you out for your show.
(3)
Court W.
The tiny restaurant on the ground floor is lovely, but a bit boisterous and crowded, especially with the pre-theater crowd. Upstairs is a GEM of a quiet bar, something all too rare in the midtown Theater District. The place is spotless and the service fantastic. Always calm, kind, respectful, friendly, funny, and courteous. The bar only has a few tables. There is a nice selection of wine, all affordably priced. There is a tasty bar menu, but the full restaurant menu is also available. A great place to meet friends for a quiet drink after work. Love it!
(5)
Ama B.
Great food and drinks!! The bar staff/owners are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Go for food and drinks before a show, after, or even better when the shows are on and you won't have to share the attention of the staff with anyone. Love it!!! Short ribs to die for!
(5)
MS K.
One of my favorite cities is NYC. I enjoy the diversity. The interior design of this restaurant looks like my grandma's living room. Seriously, as soon as I walked in, I felt like my grandma would be cooking in the kitchen. Very old-fashioned cozy. The homemade bread is fantastic. I remember having seafood pasta that I liked. The restaurant has got two floors but tables and chairs were close together so I felt I was actually sitting on the neighbors table. I really liked the Polish waitress. She was so nice and friendly. I'd like to go back next time when I visit.
(5)
Russ L.
Small and cozy but great food and good service. So many choices on the menu, and great wine deals. If you are looking to change it up a bit and try something fun and interesting this place is for you. If you are a rich snob then stay at your phony overpriced restaurants on the east side.
(4)
Billy A.
It's like eating at my grandparents, if my grandparents were sort of Italian-Greek, loved cooking and hosting, made everything from scratch, doted on us at the table, insisted on serving dessert, and were happy to see us come and sad to see us leave. A pleasure to eat here.
(5)
Stacy T.
The service is amazing and the food is even better. This place is terrific, the owners are also truly amazing.. I have been to Hourglass Tavern several times for dinner and I love it more every time. We also had a private party there and they did such an amazing job with the set up, food and service.. I suggest everyone go there and try this amazing restaurant.
(5)
Citizen Cliff G.
Was walking around looking for a drink before a play, and the waitress vigorously waved us in. We looked at each other, looked at her, she waved some more, we shrugged and went in. The bar was upstairs -- kinda odd and intriguing. Funny little space, the patrons were real Broadway types, singing show tunes, discussing shows, etc. My wife had a piece of cake brought out and everyone sang Happy Birthday (really well and very animated). We had a blast and went back after the show.
(4)
victoria o.
No matter when you go to the Hourglass Tavern, your bound to have a great experience. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Business are run from the Top down, and this one is Tops!! GO to the Hourglass and enjoy your experience, your belly will!
(5)
anni b.
Great place to eat while in midtown, among so many mediocre choices along restaurant row. Very homey, almost cluttered atmosphere, very old fashioned - kind of like eating dinner in your British grandmother's apartment, 50 years ago. Although I believe the owners are Greek. The food is nothing fancy, but very good and fresh. Entrees are generally choice of meat or fish, with potato and veg. Also, kind of like your Grandma just cooked you dinner. And it's a great deal - appetizer, entree, and dessert for a set price; somewhere between $18-22 (plus tax and tip). Adding to the experience is the kindly worded, shoddily constructed, always changing handwritten menu. Truly one of the only real mom-and-pop type places left in Midtown. Worth a visit or two.
(4)
michael k.
great small restaurant vibe. i just came for drinks and dessert but the woman waiting on the tables on the ground floor restaurant was the perfect combination of attentive and non-existent. she took our order and checked in with us from time to time but didn't hound us to get more drinks or get us to wrap up and leave. perfect for conversation to take place. my friend and i easily were there for 2+ hours. there is a cool looking upstairs bar too but only saw it while heading into the restroom. definitely worth going back to.
(4)
Antonella P.
True the atmosphere is homey but the food is very mundane. We had steak and halibut to find both quite boring. The pinot noir, boring, the pre-meal spinach filo pie, boring and the tiramisu, yea - boring. Spending $70 for 2 people and you can do much, much better elsewhere.
(2)
John F.
We were taken to this Litte Restaurant by a friend while visiting New York. What a deal! Three course meal (I had first-rate fish) with an extra complimentary appetizer for $18. Friendly and polite service and very near theaters.
(5)
Nermis R.
I came here for brunch yesterday and I'm sure to be back. I like I like I like. The dishes are just amazing and different if you are looking to move away from your typical brunch offerings. I had the HG Florentine and wow, they were the best eggs Florentine I've ever had (I'm also a huge fan of foccacia bread which made quite a different to me)..The short ribs hash was unbelievable, I ate all of it! Small cozy place. There is a bar/more dining area on the second floor which I look forward to trying out. Highly recommend for brunch.
(4)
Karen M.
Ambience, service (courtesy of Greg our server), prices, convenience to theaters, all worthy of praise. Seems all in my party were happy with their meals. I ordered the pasta veggie dish on the fixed price menu and it was kind of blah. I think they forgot the seasonings. All in all a delightful meal and restaurant. I wouldn't hesitate to return but would definitely order something else.
(4)
Irena N.
We had a fantastic brunch here on my mother's birthday. This place looks like someone's very old house - small and narrow and full of stuff, but still charming. We sat on the third floor and it was a bit tight, but still comfortable. Definitely not the place to go with a large group, but perfect for an intimate meal. What a nice experience! We loved the warm little pastries we got at the start of the meal, our drinks (bloody marys and mimosas) were delicious, the food was scrumptious (potato pancakes, eggs and short rib hash, omelettes etc.), and the prices were very reasonable. Our server was friendly, attentive, and hilarious. I'd love to come back.
(5)
Maggie A.
Was looking for a place a bit off the beaten path from the craziness of Midtown (I think Times Square is the WORST) that my tourist parents could enjoy before a show. We went in for Sunday brunch. The ambiance is a little hectic--small seating areas that are crammed together and the decor was a bit disheveled for my taste. However, our waitress was lovely and thoughtful. The $5 brunch happy hour was fantastic--I loved the sangria. I was a little disappointed and underwhelmed in my dish, but both my parents enjoyed theirs. Bathrooms were a train wreck, so I avoided. A good place to go before a show with decent brunch. Definitely much quieter than any other restaurant I've been to in that area, which is a huge plus for me!
(3)
Alexandria U.
Okay where do I start ! The pictures are so deceiving. This restaurant is a hole in a wall ! Everything about it is so unappealing. There's this one lady that greeted us and seemed to be overly pushy for customers which turned us off even more. We didn't even enter the restaurant and she came outside and grabbed my friend Leroy to come on in. We glanced at the menu but something was too shady going on so we left. Worst thing, we were the only customers on a SATURDAY NIGHT! If that's not a tell tell sign , then I don't know what else to say. Definitely not giving this place a chance anymore !
(1)
Jason L.
Came here for a late brunch. Surprising that we were seated right away. They have 3 levels of seating. We were famished and happy to see the food came out so quickly. We had hourglass blueberry belgian waffle with a side of cheese grits and hg florentine with a side of potato pancake. The waffle was crisp and filled with blueberry. The hg florentine was big and tasty. The short rib hash it came with was flavorful and not as salty as your normal hash. The potato pancake tasted just like a crabcake but with out the crab and was really good. The cheese grits was the only disappointing part. I thought the cheese was somehow going to be incorporated into the grits but no. It was just on the top layer. We also had their mimosa and paloma drink. It was a happy hour special for drinks and was pretty satisfied with it Overall the service was friendly and fast. Food was good quality. Would love to come back here to try their dinner menu.
(4)
Sarah Z.
Stopped in before a 2pm play. It's a great option near a lot of theaters! We had a reservation for 11:45, and were seated as soon as we got there. We sat on the third floor. Seating was spacious and we got there early so we had the room almost to ourselves, it was great! I opted for the potato pancakes, they were so good. They were fluffy and not too heavy. The dill sour cream on the side complimented the salmon and potato really well. I was happy with my choice. My grandparents split the waffles and jumbo. They loved them both! Careful, the jumbo has a kick so steer clear of you don't like spice. This restaurant is a great pre theater option. The ambiance is wonderful and unique too. I love th hourglass theme. Will definitely be recommending to anyone who is looking for a place to eat around the theater district!
(4)
Zhichun L.
Decided to go for a Sunday brunch. I ordered a waffle. It arrived 25 mins later which is soooo dry and hard to chew. The plate came with four pieces of waffles and I can't even finish one. I complaint to the waiter that it is obviously overdone and he simply said" oh okay" and kept being cool. Later when we asked for check, my friend complaint again about the waffle so the waiter "nicely" offered us 15% off( which is always there on yelp). Not a good customer experience.
(1)
Alexandra C.
The food and service is wonderful! This is my go-to before a show. Make a reservation, try to sit on the 2nd floor bar area. The specials on drinks are so great for the Theatre District. My favorite midtown restaurant!
(5)
Ashley A.
A cute Italian place, aka my favorite kinda place. They had a nice menu, friendly staff, and neat environment. Everything I require. This is more of a date night, or night out with friends environment. Not that they wouldn't be lovely to children, but it's very small and could be a little tight for smaller parties. Hint: get the spinach ravioli!!!
(4)
Grace Y.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday afternoon before heading to an art show by the pier. Can't say much about the decor because we sat in the outdoor partition; it was really sunny that day and there was a portable heater by the table which our server promptly turned up to the max. I felt fine because I guess I was sitting in the sun but my friend was still a little chilled. Regardless the seating wasn't a problem. Took a little wiggling of chair but not a big deal. Patrons would come in and out (I sat right by the door) but I didn't really find that disruptive. The only downside was that my coffee went cold in like 10 minutes... Now the food... I got the HG Florentine (poached eggs and spinach on foccacia with salad and short rib hash) and friend got the potato pancakes with salmon and dill cream. I was 100% satisfied with my food, pretty much shaved off my plate. The eggs were done just right, the Hollandaise luxurious, and the hash savory in its own category. For a lack of pedantic food-critic jargon, everything was so yummy my palate was held in rapture (does that even make sense??). I had a taste of friend's dish and I'd just toss in a comment about the potato pancakes - they were super fleshy and firm, delicious on their own without the dill cream. Staff were attentive, friendly, and accommodating. Frequently checking to see if we were warm enough. Quick to serve me another glass of water after I pointed out there was something unidentifiable in the initial glass. Could've just been a flake of potato pancakes that made its way out of their plate, but no questions were asked. Also, FYI the restroom is upstairs by the Bettibar. On a completely unrelated note, a cute guy traveling from LA struck up a conversation (which I wish lasted longer than 30 seconds) with me while we were waiting for the restroom. It was one of the more pleasant restroom waiting experience I've had. (Dear LA with an Armenian accent, if you're reading this - I hope you and your friend had a good time in NYC! Sorry I couldn't give you touristy tips, if you needed any.)
(4)
Tracy P.
Great food! Super friendly service! Can't wait to come back! Fun atmosphere, and the Bettibar is a blast and the happy hour is WAY MORE THAN HAPPY!
(5)
Courtney L.
My favorite happy hour in mid-town, Bettibar is nothing like the Disneyfied area that surrounds it. On the second floor of the Hourglass Tavern, Bettibar has happy hour everyday from 5pm-10pm. Yes, you did read that correctly. Everyday until 10pm. Selections include $5 wine and bottled beer, and a specialty cocktail for $9. They also have an amazing deal for the more adventurous of us out there: $8 for a shot and a mystery beer. Mystery beer comes in a paper bag and everything. Perfect casual but classy atmosphere. Great for a date, drinks with a colleague, catching up with friends, or really any other occasion you can think of.
Came for a late night snack. Had the brisket sliders...meh. My wife had the salmon, it was tasty. The hummus plate was ok, the olives were small, pita was fine. Maybe better for brunch. Maybe I was tired. Eh.
(3)
L L.
So we stumble upon this gem after spotting a sign for $5 drinks.. Palomas / Mimosas / Bloody Mary's / Bellini... as you can surely believe our group stops and sets up shop outside. The owner Betti was such a treat! The menu is easy.. something for everyone and price is more than fair. She sold us on this delicious fig and goat cheese salad in addition to our brunch items. The building offers a bar on the 2nd floor and additional seating on the 3rd. The venue has this old charm and history. Check if out and if you are lucky you get to experience Betti which is better then any dessert special they have on the menu !!
(4)
Bella B.
Excellent !!! Excellent !! Service was beyond expectations !!! Beth was so professional and with a heart of gold and our waitress Maria the best of the best !! We will be going back there after our Broadway Play !!
(5)
David Z.
Caught them at the rush on a Sunday. Kitchen was a little slow, but the atmosphere on the second floor bar drowned that out. The penne mascarpone is excellent!
(4)
Bill J.
this is a nice place, it is very small and dining areas are tight. We were 8 minutes late for our reservation and the waitress/ manager gave us a hard time about it. Asked us if we wanted to sit outside at 6pm on a hot sticky New York evening, the answer was no. Made us wait 15 minutes and then brought us to a table on the 3rd floor, where many table were open. Food was decent, nothing over the top the waitress was pleasant and service levels were average. You can do much worse in the theater district that is for sure
(3)
Paul M.
Perfectly adequate meal and service in a tiny footprint of a restaurant on the west side. Nothing outstanding but no complaints either, a decent value for the dollar.
(3)
Brandon E.
We came here the other night before going to see Drunk Shakespeare. We've been wanting to give it a try but couldn't get a reservation, but because this was 5:45 dinner had no problem. I won't discuss the space issue, it's small, that's it. I was kind of underwhelmed. I read all the reviews about the service, etc. The service wasn't bad, but it wasn't outstanding either. We felt rushed the entire time. We received our check as soon as our desserts were placed in front of us, for a nicer restaurant that is kind of a no no for me. I know you need to flip tables, but not just slam my check down before I'm even done eating, this wasn't the lunch rush. The timing of all the apps, entrees and dessert were fine but it was just kind of dropped off. Again, not bad, but not amazing. The prices are all really decent for restaurant row. The prefixe theater menu was nice. My wife ordered that, and I ordered it with the $10 up-charge to get the short ribs. The vegetable soup was delicious, had a decent spice to it, my wife didn't like it that much because of it. I thought it was great. The bread they give you is also fantastic. The ribs were OK, just that. They needed a bit more seasoning, or a sauce or something. There was just something missing. The mashed potatoes were meh. I had to add Parmesan cheese and salt to give it a little flavor. The dessert was ok, the cobbler was the better option. I got the tiramisu, as other's have said, it really isn't tiramisu, it's more a mousse with a small lady finger attached, it was ok too. The house wines are really decently priced at $6, so no complaints there. I just thought it was AOK, just kind of average. I don't know if I'd come back, but I might to try the sliders or something a little simpler.
(3)
Thomas M.
Good food at a solid price, the Hourglass Tavern has charm that only an old brownstone can bring. And I do mean old. It's most likely one of the older buildings in Manhattan that isn't deliberately preserved by some historic act. The food is plenty good with big portions at a great price. A steak can be had here for $18 and that's really hard to beat. It didn't come with much sauce though, but I'm sure you can ask for extra gravy (it's really good). The mash is also tasty here with hints of garlic. Nice spot if you're ever in this part of town. I also caught a glimpse of the second floor bar and while small, it had a great cozy feel. The entire building is unique because it does feel like someone's house transformed into an old timey restaurant/bar.
(4)
C W.
Great Bloody Mary, very cool atmosphere, the food is very good. Our waiter, Joe's was awesome made us feel very welcome. With all the choices on Restaurant Row, this is a pretty good bet.
(4)
Michelle L.
What a great place on restaurant row. Making our first night out in the city perfect. Unique, historical, fun and delicious. Beautiful beet salad, savory Shrimp Catalina and to die for blueberry and apple cobbler. Definitely going back before I leave NYC.
(5)
Patrick B.
Excellent food for all five of us at our table. Honestly best food we had in NYC. I am attaching all the pictures if our meals. Seriously stop here - enjoy a drink and dinner . We ate outside - only issue the have is that they need to extend the drip hose off the AC unit . Was getting splashed as I was sitting up against building.
(5)
Doug M.
We went with a group of 8 for pre-theater. Went upstairs to the cozy dining room. Really friendly service checking in downstairs and by our waitress upstairs ('try this drink, if you don't like it it's free and I'll drink it"). The food was very tasty, better in many ways than you would think from the outside of the place. The soft shell crab special was a hit with 2 of us, as was the crusted tilapia and veal chop. I had the short rib -- a different cut of short rib than I've had before but still tender and flavorful. Four negatives almost brought it down to a 3-star review: * It worked out to $65 per person, a bit on the steep side for what we ordered and the limited drinks we had. I would encourage you to try the prix frix menu. * Served with our main course was large hunks of boiled broccoli. No salt, butter, bread crumbs, roasting, etc. Just giant hunks of boiled broccoli lol. Not what I'd expect for $65. * Double butter mashed potatoes tasted neither of salt or much butter, and were grainy (not lumpy which I don't actually mind, just a bit mealy like they used the wrong kind of potato). * A few people got the fruit cobbler with their meal for dessert. Not a nice texture or flavor profile -- more like a hot cup of melted fruit. I'm sticking with 4 stars though because everyone really did like the main food and the service was really very nice. Just try out the prix fixe for your first time.
(4)
Maria F.
The Hourglass is a friendly local joint, on the far side of the restaurant row strip. Always friendly, always quirky, totally geared toward comfort food, it is a great choice when you want more local color than tourism, and are looking for simple but well prepared, large portion entrees. It is VERY reasonable, especially in comparison to the other choices on the strip (check out the Prix Fixe options). I guarantee you will find yourself chatting amiably with other New Yorkers (or lucky tourists) about anything and everything. Always fun, entertaining and reliable. Worth a visit--- you'll be back!
(3)
Cindy C.
It's a quirky place with better than average food! Most of its customers go right before the theater, so there are hourglasses on the wall to time the meal to make sure customers don't miss their show. Cute! Bread is a free starter and it was super oily.... but tastes great! We ordered BBQ beef sliders and spinach ravioli. Both were delicious!! In all, it's a nice hole-in-the-wall for something quick. This place is between 3- and 4-stars, and I settled on 3 because it's out of the way for me to go to and isn't on my top 3 if I'm in the area.
(3)
L S.
My husband and I went to NYC for our honeymoon and this was the BEST bar that we found. We didn't eat, but went upstairs to the speakeasy bar, which is amazing and cheap. Really cool vibe. The bartender was sweet and really attentive. We met some wonderful locals who were happy to talk to us. Note: we are theatre people and that's the type of people we met. On Saturday night, they had a mystery shot + beer for $10. That's an amazing price for a bar in New York.
(5)
Brian C.
I'll be honest -- I stepped in here not knowing what to expect, fearing that Hourglass Tavern would turn out to be a tourist trap. Tourist trap or not, the food was excellent! We dined upstairs, and the decor was pretty eclectic. It was very interesting how the restaurant was built into old/original tenement housing, and I thought that added to the charm of the establishment. We had a very friendly and very accommodating waitress that made sure we had a great dining experience. The menu is large and has plenty of options to satisfy the pickiest of people. All the food descriptions sounded so good that it was hard to choose just one dish. I ended up going with the lobster ravioli, which I was reluctant about because of how skimpy ravioli dishes can be, but I gave it a shot anyway because it came with a rave review from our waitress, and she also mentioned that they're made in-house. It turns out that this lobster ravioli would become the best lobster ravioli dish I'd ever had, and the portion was hearty and filling as well. The raviolis were large and stuffed with cheese and lobster bits, and the pink sauce that came with it was really, REALLY good. It may seem kind of odd for me to recommend this place for a seafood pasta dish, but seriously, come to Hourglass Tavern for the lobster ravioli and casual ambiance!
(5)
Nicole D.
Best Brunch Ever! Joe the server is my new favorite dude. Everything about my experience I am in love with. Will come back again and again. I had the crab cake Benny. My friend had the hash. Just wonderful. And so much love to mother there!
(5)
Roane B.
I had a friend in town and we were walking around and decided we needed to stop in for brunch. We went to the 3rd floor and had a great server who took good care of us. Its a small place but the feeling of it is excellent. It had a lot of jazz themes on the walls and the music was very classic. It gave a good old fashioned southern type of feel. All it needed was a band and a dance floor and I'd be there every night. The food was very good and my 2 friends and I split our meals. If I am in the area again it would be worth trying for a few more dishes to see if they are just as good.
(5)
Joseph A.
Went there for a relaxed sunday brunch before a 3pm show. We had a 1pm reservation. The service was great and the staff very attentive. I had the chicken club sandwich with roasted potatoes. The food took a while to prepare as the kitchen was very small but it was served hot and fresh. There is limited outside seating and the ground floor only has a few tables but there are more levels with additional seating. Overall the experience was very pleasant and I would reccommend it for a before or after theater dining experience, just allow a 1/2 hour extra time for food preparation. The menu is simple and not too complicated. I am sure there is something for everyone.
(4)
Emily O.
So so. I had chicken soup which tasted store bought. My boyfriend had crab cakes which he said were tasty. I thought the bread was a little bland as well. Would definitely go back to try brunch...but probably not dinner again.
(3)
Tre F.
To put it simply, one of the best meals I have ever had in NYC. My sister and I stopped in after catching a show. My sister was looking a little crazy because the restaurant was not "nice" in her opinion. For me, I found the place to be full of charm. We were seated on the 3rd floor which is a small room, but the instruments on the wall made the decor eye catching. Ok, the best part. We both ordered a drink called a Brooklyn flower. Awesome drink. It's so smooth, which could be a slight problem because I was really taking them down. Not a drunk, but man was it good. My sister and I split the crab cake and shrimp appetizer. Truly amazing. I didn't try the shrimp, but it won my sister over. The crab cake was superb. For my entree, I had the veal chop with mashed potatoes and the spinach. So good. The food was excellent all the way around. Made Jen really happy. The other aspect that was amazing was the service. Our bar tender/waitress was extremely friendly. Great service by her. The place was not too busy, so she took a lot of time with us. Maybe, if there were more people, i would not have felt so cared for. Regardless, she was great. Food was great. Love this place.
(5)
Edmund M.
Interesting little place. Great for an intimate get together but not much of a scene. Reminds me of an East Village dive. Food was good but not great. Service was good. I'd go back but not my first choice in the area...
(3)
Giacomo C.
2.5 stars. The 3-story setting is interesting, and so is the interior. They make their own bread, and it is delicious. Polenta: just ok; the sauce was flavorful, but the polenta could have been warmer. Burger: asked medium-rare, it was brought almost well done; not a fun of the patty's quality either, but the excellent bun kinda made up for it. Tiramisu: it was a mousse, not a tiramisu, and it was just a bite. Overall, it's a cute spot with professional service and decent American dishes, but nothing to rave about. I didn't have bad food, but nothing I had stood up to be particularly good. They have a good pre-theater price fix for $22, though.
(2)
Jennifer R.
Wonderful birthday brunch!!! Staff and owner made the experience extra special. Frankie the waiter was delicious too. Would definitely return for more great food and yummy drinks.
(5)
Adwoa B.
The Hourglass Tavern is a quaint spot with awesome food. The ambience of the restaurant is great- dim lighting, small, and awesome service. Our waiter, Phil was very engaging and friendly... He made sure we had everything we need and was very understanding about us being late for our reservation and waiting for another person in our party. The food was awesome. My table ordered the crab cakes, the lobster ravioli, the braised short rib, and the grilled cheese. Everyone finished every single piece of food on their plate. It was that good. The only thing I would change about my experience would be to have a more concrete dessert menu. Other than that, this place is fantastic. The pricing is also great compared to many other restaurants in that area.
(4)
Natasha B.
I came here with friends after wandering around Hell's Kitchen trying to find a chill, not crowded bar around 10 pm. We walked upstairs to the bar, and there was no room. They welcomed us to sit on the ground floor in the restaurant, which was nice. We got two rounds of beers and a couple entrees. I got a grilled cheese, which was the best damn grilled cheese I've ever had. It was salty and buttery, on some magical kind of bread. The service was also awesome! The woman serving us was very cool, and she didn't mind when we had an extra person show up unannounced and just claim his own small table. This place is small, but I think it'd be worth it to try a full meal here.
(4)
Mark M.
LOVE this place!!! I work in the area and go there all the time after work not only is the food amazing the staff and service is top notch. Make sure you get the short ribs they are my favorite oh yeah check out the second floor bar awesome atmosphere.
(5)
Jennifer J.
Cute location and friendly service. The menu had a little something for everyone in our diverse group and we all enjoyed our food, from BBQ sliders to ravioli and salmon. I would definitely go there again.
(4)
Betsy B.
Tried the Hourglass tavern for a pre-theater dinner. The place is tiny and a bit disorganized. We wandered through all three stories before finding a staff person to check in with. But the visit got better after that. We had a window seat on the first floor, and to say this restaurant is funky is an understatement. Tables seem squished in wherever possible. A combination of odd little antiques and ephemera adorns the walls. There's something about the place that gives you the feeling you've just gotten in to a 1920's/1930's secret speakeasy. The food was very reasonably priced, generously portioned and very tasty. My friend and I both started with the small Hourglass Salad, which had mixed baby greens, dried cranberries, whipped goat cheese and a house made cider vinaigrette. My friend had the strip steak and said it was very good. I had the Mascarpone Penne which had a creamy tomato sauce, Gorgonzola, sausage, walnuts, and mascarpone obviously. Delicious. The waitress was great - attentive, helpful with suggestions, and accommodating of our time constraints. This was a great find.
(4)
Kristen A.
Delicious food with a great atmosphere. The service was exceptional. So glad we stopped in here! Brunch was amazingly tasty and the menu had its own great flair!
(5)
Michelle A.
Place is a bit hard to find, but it is definitely a hidden gem. Great service, great food, great drinks.
(4)
Tracy M.
We had dinner for 4 Saturday night. The food was delicious! We had the shrimp dish, ravioli, steak and spaghetti and meatballs for our little guy. All cooked perfectly! I agree Mike at the front door was a little intimidating at first, he was actually very nice friendly. We also were asked to wait at the bar upstairs where we were greeted with friendly service and a few adult beverages. The place was great, all around, our waitress was friendly and accommodating, the ambiance was NYC perfect! I will come back the next time I'm in town.
(5)
April M.
The place is very cute and cozy. The waitress was VERY nice and she was quick on her feet. My mom and I got the pre fixed meals, such a tasty meal while still being priced so cheap. The salad with their special house dressing was delicious! I had the chicken alfredo, the blackened chicken was soooo flavorful and the pasta was perfectly al dente. The fruit cobbler of the night was blueberry and apple, which was alright. I would definitely come again!
(4)
Caroline B.
This review is for Bettibar: After we went to B. Smith's for his birthday dinner, my boyfriend told me he wanted to take me to a speakeasy across the street. I wasn't sure what to expect and was surprised that there would be such a place on Restaurant Row, but sure enough, an older man sitting outside told us to walk up a flight of stairs which led us to our destination. It was dimly lit and felt somewhat clandestine despite the fact that the chances of the place getting raided by the police are pretty slim in this day and age. The happy hour special of a beer in a brown bag and a shot cracked me up, and I love how committed Bettibar is to its theme. The atmosphere was very sexy and I loved it. The other patrons seemed to be theater people but being there, I forgot that I was mere feet away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square. Bettibar is a gem and I hope to be back soon.
(5)
Lily P.
3 levels! resturant, bar area, and upper floor you can have private parties. Logistics: bathrooms on 2nd and 3rd floor not on first..sorta weird. TV is on the 2nd and so we watched the NBA playoffs from there. they have a theater app, main, and dessert special for 22.95. We got this even though it ended at 8pm and we went way after. The pork chop was great, salad was standard, and then the dessert was very chocolate and dense.
(3)
Stacy B.
Terrible new waitress made silly and expensive mistakes that we ended up having to pay for. The dishes were portioned and (over)cooked completely different from our last dining experience. Disappointing all around.
(2)
Sheila T.
We were here last week. We arrived for our 6:00 reservation to be told that an earlier party was lingering over their coffee, so they apologized profusely while telling us to have a seat upstairs at the bar. They were very conscientious about checking in with us as the previous party continued to linger, ordering second coffees. We had left plenty of time before the theater, so weren't worried at all, but they continued to be very apologetic and even paid for our drinks. A table finally opened up upstairs, and we continued to receive the best treatment. Dinner arrived quickly and the burgers were delicious. Despite the probably half-hour or so wait for a table, we were out in plenty of time! The customer service was simply over and above anything we expected. We will definitely be back!!
(5)
Sonia M.
Great find! My family and I were looking for a place to grab dinner before a show and the Hourglass was able to accommodate the four of us without a reservation! The service was a bit slow to start, but there seemed to be some sort of problem with their computer system. The crab cakes were excellent and my husband raved about the leg of lamb. My two kiddos chose pasta from the kids menu ($11.95 each), and the portions were ample. Nice atmosphere and great location!
(4)
Anya B.
The food is just OK, nothing special, but not awful either. The Bitti bar upstairs has a lot of character which is more than I can say about the happy hour Sangrias served there. Pretty watered down if you ask me, but I suppose for $5 you can't complain. The service is great and the building itself is worth the visit. There are still glimpses of old NYC in the decor and layout of the place. Interestingly enough, there is third floor with a dining room that looks like a very nice and cozy place to have a private dinner party. You wouldn't even know it's there unless you go visit the tiny upstairs bathroom. Overall, not terrible, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. OK, maybe to the bar upstairs, because it's just so darn cute.
(3)
Julia R.
Warm and friendly staff, very converstaional, excellent brunch (we sat on the second floor). So happy we stumbled upon it!
(5)
Amanda L.
All I can say is Meh...hit or miss meals and hit or miss service I presume. Wouldn't go again, not a horrible experience....but not worth going again. If you need to eat, and are easy to please....try it if you want...
(3)
Josh B.
Dined here with friends from out of town. The food was good but the service was spectacular. My friend's mother was not feeling too well and the entire wait staff went out of their way to do anything to help her feel better. I've never seen such genuine concern from a staff at a place before. These guys are going into the regular rotation for both a decent meal and exceptional service!
(5)
Sara S.
Solid food great service. I had the sliders and they were juicy, well cooked and overall pretty tasty. What really stood out for me was how cool the staff was. I ended up having a 3 hour meal with my friend here and they didn't give us any crap about it. Super fast with food and drinks and refills. Ambiance was cool too, I could talk to my friend without having to shout, even at peak hours.
(4)
Karen A.
Found this place on Yelp after looking for something near our theater with a menu suitable for both of us. I love the fact that it looks old and charming. It has lots of character. The service was just wonderful, both friendly and professional. They were very obliging with all our requests and the prices didn't break the bank. The food was good. The soup tasted very home made and the bread was delicious.We were fortunate to have the table on the first floor, right by the window, so I don't know about the other two floors' noise levels or comfort. I certainly will be a regular here any time I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)
Holly S.
We went before going to a show. It was a Tuesday night so not super busy. We had the pre-fixe dinner. First they served us the BEST homemade loaf of bread. I could have just ate the bread and salad all night! Next came the salad. The house dressing was excellent. The salad was a spring mix. I ended up eating half of my daughters because she didn't like "all those greens" her loss was my gain. Next came the entree. I had ordered the pork chop. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli. One of the best pork chops I've ever had. Perfectly cooked, well seasoned. Loved every bite. Potatoes were sooo good too. Not sure what they do to them but they were really good. I'm only giving them 4 stars because of the dessert. The fixed menu came with only two choices of dessert. Apple/blueberry cobbler or tiramisu. My mom and I went for the cobbler while my daughter went for the tiramisu. The tiramisu wasn't bad, just ok. No lady fingers though. The cobbler went mostly uneaten by both of us however. The apples were unpeeled and most of them were way undercooked. There didn't seem to be any sweetness to the dish at all. I was disappointed after everything else I had been presented. My daughter had the Penne Bolognese and that was very good. It was very meaty. The menu said it was made with wine and I had asked the waitress how strong the wine would be and she said "not at all, it cooks out". I did not find that to be the case when I tasted her pasta. I was glad I didn't order it. My mom ordered the grilled chicken (can't remember the name) and that was very good as well. I liked the pork chop the best though. Our waitress was awesome. I didn't catch her name but she had quite a few tables and she was hustling it. We never lacked for anything and she came to check on us often. She also manned the phones. I highly recommend the Hourglass Tavern!
(4)
Gary D.
Three times to the hourglass and it just keeps getting better! Service is #1 and the food is just delicious. Can't wait for my next time there and I'm bringing anyone who is interested in eating short ribs.
(5)
Krissi D.
Betti Bar. I love this place. My brother and I have been coming here for years and we are never disspointed. It's our favorite spot to have a cocktail and dinner before a show. Beyond the delicious drinks and food, the service can't be beat. The owners and bartenders are so friendly, it's not surprising that there are so many regulars that keep coming back for more!
(5)
Daniel E.
This is a tiny place situated on restaurant row. We made reservations for 5, which is a must since this place doesn't have a big area to sit people. The service was great, very friendly, which seems to be a rarity in the city. The food was pretty amazing too! I had the short ribs which were fall off the bone. Everyone in the group loved the food they had. I would recommend this place based off 2 major things...the service and the food! Thank you for being so amazingly nice to us!
(4)
Kay W.
Hourglass / Betti Bar is always a great stop. My friends and I will often come here at the end of the night for a cozy last drink. All the staff I've encountered are friendly and polite. There is a small room on the third floor that you can reserve for groups. My friends and I have hosted several events there, and it is PERFECT for a low-key, intimate gathering. The staff at Betti Bar is wonderful about working with you to get the food and drinks you'd like, even reserving food for you if you're due to arrive after their kitchen closes. I would definitely recommend Betti Bar to anyone looking for a nice drink with friends or planning a birthday party.
(5)
Kraig B.
SOLID. Hands down Solid food and drink and I'll be back. Totally agree with the other reviews which led me here. Big groups... not sure but never saw the 3rd floor. 4 stars all day.
(4)
Renata P.
Absolutely amazing place. The food was fantastic, the wait staff was friendly, and the decor was charming. We came with a large party and rescheduled three times due to the lateness of all people involved (my family is not known for its punctuality) and they were incredibly accommodating. I had the special (lamb shank) was was tasty and the portions were generous. My mother had the chicken alfredo which was executed perfectly. My sister had the beet salad with a side of salmon, and that was the only dish that wasn't great. Otherwise, A+!
(5)
Laurel S.
Went to Hourglass Tavern before a show one night. Sat outside as the weather was great which is good because inside was small and stuffy. The food was great and very reasonably priced. I had the chicken meatball sliders and my daughter had the grilled cheese. We weren't really in the mood for a big heavy dinner so these were perfect and our bill was only about $22!
(4)
Regina D.
Went last night for a double date, the place is very cute and all the staff is very nice. We started out at the Bettibar, very cute and small. They offer happy hour, so we had a Sangria, it was just ok. Not very strong and there were only apples in the glass. After that we went downstairs for dinner, I think it depends what you having. My friends ordered shrimp entree and she said it was good and her husband seemed to enjoy his lobster ravioli, I ordered zucchini sandwich with mash potatoes and my hubby had Salmon Salad. The salad was bit old in my side and on my husbands plate. Portions are good size and prices are very moderate for the area. I would say it was ok meal, I would come back but would not go out of my way.
(3)
Tommy K.
Go upstairs to Betti bar. Mystery beers and shots. Nice place to chat with your friend(s) or strangers. Small place.
(4)
Vincent P.
Food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I was very impressed by this restaurant. Also the service was lightning fast!
(5)
Josh G.
This place was a surprise! It's a bit hidden away in Manhattan's Theatre District, so you need to keep your eyes open or you may miss it! The service was very prompt and friendly and the food was delicious! I ordered the chicken alfredo and it ranks as some of the best chicken I've ever had. Perfect in every way. The alfredo and noodles left a little to be desired, but that was forgivable.
(4)
Jay L.
It was OK, we went after a show on a Tuesday...so the place wasn't hopping. Food was pretty tasty, but the overall experience was just so-so. Waiters were less interested in us that they seemed to be in the upper floors, and the table was just a little too close to the kitchen. I got the impression it had a lot of potential, but we were not thereto see it at it's best. Food deserved 4 stars, service and atmosphere bring it down to a three. I won't be back, too many other places to experience in NYC
(3)
Kourtney L.
Tiny little space, but definitely a distinct atmosphere. Had the hummus platter and sliders with a friends and both were pretty good.
(3)
Hanne P.
Food was just okay, but the service was incredibly slow and rude. We got shuffled between floors a couple of times, and once we were finally seated our wait really didn't seem to want us to be there.
(2)
John C.
Enjoyed an early dinner following an afternoon matinee. Most pleased with the location, service, prices and food quality. Nice wine selection, but no draft beer. The Hourglass will definitely be on our must return list.
(4)
Genie M.
We didn't stay. After waiting a while for the waiter, in addition to the smell of cleaning products, it didn't seem worth the time or money to actually have a meal.
(1)
Ze W.
AMAZING burger!!! in a fresh boule, dug out and stuffed w fresh greens. YUM! Also had a nice bottle of cabernet. Cozy interior w wonderful, friendly service. Late night dinner OK! The desserts also looked amazing. Next time!
(5)
Jane B.
The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a warm goat cheese and fig salad. ( this was so good we wound up ordering it again instead of dessert or a cheese course). Then we ate very sweet and fresh shrimp served over grilled polenta. Honestly, these were the sweetest tastiest shrimp I've had in years. As a finale we had house made mushroom ravioli. These were also very good. The house made bread was delicious and we (2 of us) polished off 2 loaves. The wine selection was small but quite adequate. I had a yummy Syrah rose and Sauvignon blanc. Both were delicious. Go here! It is great bang for the buck and truly good food! Don't be put off, as some diners seemed to be, by the narrow dining room. It is in an 1895 brownstone...they're narrow. Also, service was great. We ate on the 3rd floor and the server was smart, attentive and charming. The owner came to say hello and it was nice to see my money going to such caring hard working people. This is a must for avant or après theater and just a great spot for any time. It is very " New York! "
(4)
Larry J.
Been here many times,always great food,great service. Nice variety on menu & great bar choices with happy hour until 10:00. Prices very reasonable!
(5)
Olga K.
came here before a show for dinner and was overall impressed. Most restaurants in the theater district are too touristy and just mediocre and this was neither. It is small and quaint but with a European charm about it. There pre fix menu is a bargain, you get fresh home made food for such a reasonable price. Get here early because it is a size of a shoebox so it gets filled up quickly. We will def be back next time we are in the area.
(4)
Michael F.
We four friends often have dinner before going to the Signature Theatre near 10th Ave and 42nd. A little out of the regular theatre district restaurant area. So it is always terrific to find a new place nearby. Hourglass was our latest try. Nice set up with dining rooms on first and third floors and bar / cafe on the second where we got into pre-dinner drinks. We found it so comfortable - and Josh the co-owner and bartender so amiable - that we had our dinner at the bar too. Excellent! Two of us had the prix fixe meal, others ordered a la carte. The pastas (we tried three different ones in our group, mine being the nicely spicy fettucini Fra Diavolo) and the lamb) were all superb. As were the salads and desserts. Nothing but good things to say. The Hourglass is definitely on our "regular place" list in this area.
(5)
Jake S.
The Hourglass is the best place to go before a show, after a show, or when there's no show! I love the hourglass. Each of the three floors has it's own character and special purpose. Just go. Eat drink and enjoy this awesome NYC tavern with great food, friendly staff, cool decor, and just all around good energy. One of a kind New York find!
(5)
Manfred H.
The restaurant goes over three stories and has actually a cool and a little nostalgic ambiente. We had dinner at a Saturday evening with a party of 7. The food starting with salads, which did not look fresh, was mediocre family restaurant quality. My wife actually liked the crab cakes though. The other dishes were pork chops with mashed potatoes and spinach. The pork chop was less than 1" thick and chargrilled dry. So was the chicken with the Fettucini Alfredo. The strip steaks had just about the right size about 12oz but were not grilled to the doness as desired. Also stay away from the sliders. Rather go for the big a___ burger and share it. Those sliders are just tasteless. We were hungry so we ate what we could. All in all a disappointing culinary experience. I informed our waiter about the food experience. He informed the management or owner and we received a considerable deduction form the bill and free desert. This was certainly a surprising but welcome apology. The staff actually is very friendly and customer oriented. Too bad that the kitchen quality does not match up. We don't feel going back since there are way better choices in NYC.
(2)
Stephanie M.
A solid choice for pre-theatre dining. They have multiple floors and nice servers. The menu has a great variety, so there is something for everyone. Considering the neighborhood, it's even priced well. The downstairs is a bit tight, but in midtown what isn't?
(4)
Briana H.
I first happened into Bettibar for a post-theater drink. I decided to take my mom and strictly meat-and-potatoes stepdad to the Hourglass for a pre-theater dinner this weekend, and it ended up being a perfect choice. The menu is pretty standard and not exactly hip, but we all found something we wanted easily, and the prices aren't bad. I did the prix-fixe with a salad, orechiette, and chocolate cake. I really liked the citrus-y dressing and didn't mind the old school mesclun mix. The pasta was a little too oily, but otherwise quite pleasing. The cake was tinged with amaretto and Grand Marnier, and my stepdad particularly enjoyed it. Everyone was happy and the turnover was quick enough to get us to the theater with time to spare. Our doting server made the place feel very homey. My one complaint was that the air was a little smokey and garlicky sitting next to the kitchen, but it's a tiny place, so what can you do? You'll probably need a reservation if you're going before a show. Upstairs, Bettibar is a perfect spot for a cozy drink. It's tiny and gets packed easily, so you might want to have a Plan B if you're making a date here, but if you just happen to be in the area during their generous happy hours, I would definitely stop in and see if there's room. I have successfully taken a party of four here on a Saturday night and we snagged a seat, but we had to wait about twenty minutes. I'm a fan of French 75s, so their French 77s are a treat. If you like surprises, order the beer in a bag & mystery shot.
(4)
Joshua Q.
This review is about Bettibar. I don't know anything about the first-floor restaurant or the third-floor lounge. I first came here for a going away party that my friend was having. Walking up the steps to bar, I wasn't sure how I was going to like the place, but what a great surprise! The bar is so cozy! We had it reserved for a couple hours for the party, so it was nice to have it to ourselves. The hand-food that we had was good, and the drinks were strong. I came back with a friend on Saturday night and it was busy, but we were able to get a seat at one of the small tables. We only intended to stay for one drink, but ended up staying the entire night! The crowd is great and most people are super friendly. The bartender (a woman, but I don't know her name!) is really a gem. I don't think tourists know about this place. I hope it stays that way!
(5)
Dakota L.
Have been here twice for meals before going to see a show. Both times the meals were good, and the atmosphere was friendly. The last time we came, however, the service was pretty slow, so slow that we ended up being late for our show.
(3)
Brian G.
Cozy little place. A bit cramped on first of their 3 floors. Food was quite good. I had the bolognese. There was fresh bread and the service was attentive. Good for those eating before plays as the food and service was quick. Bar on second floor. Request to sit away from the door as tables by door are very cramped. Bathroom on second floor.
(3)
Lauren I.
Drinks were OK. Food was kind of bland but OK. It was rather quiet and calm which was a nice change of pace for NYC. Bartender/server (two in one) was very personable. Bathroom very tiny and kinda dirty.
(3)
Kimberly Y.
See a show and then go to the Hourglass Tavern for some cheap, juicy chicken! Probably the best chicken I've ever had in a restaurant... And I eat out a lot. And order chicken a lot. I was craving chicken and was worried since breast is usually too dry for me. I have NO idea how Hourglass does it, but the breast is juicy and tender, as if each bite were cut from right next to the bone. The cumin sauce adds great flavor to an already juicy chicken. The double butter mashed potatoes are indeed buttery, but amazingly fluffy. The broccoli wasn't too memorable; I'm just glad the dish had some vegetables. I found the portions to be perfect (if you're hungry, get an appetizer or dessert), and the prices are extremely reasonable! My boyfriend had the salmon and wasn't too pleased with it. He tried my chicken and was instantly jealous! (Don't worry, I shared.) The Tavern is more of a restaurant on the bottom floor, with the BettiBar upstairs. There aren't too many tables downstairs, but it can still be a little cramped. The servers are extremely friendly, though they didn't necessarily come by as often as I wanted. I will definitely be back every time I see a Broadway or Comedy Central show in the area!
(5)
Kirk M.
Home cooking! Tasty food, friendly, warm environment and big on Pre-Fixe in the heart of the Broadway Theater district. I have been coming here for 17 years! Low on seating so have a reservation, this place is always a hit, whereas the show I go to see after, well, not so much.
(4)
Mike Z.
It's a New York staple to hit up before going down the street to see a Broadway show, hence the hourglass by your table when you walk in. Very small and quaint with tons of people walking by - it's what you expect of New York. The service is fast but friendly. They are so busy yet this still take time to throw a witty joke in there while you wait for your food to show up. Prices are very reasonable and the food is nothing adventurous by any means but they put out a great product. It's comforting and simple. Just do it well and everyone is happy - and they do that, so the people are happy. I'd come back because it kind of has a sentimental factor to it for me now but regardless, it's worth a stop in for a traditional type dinner restaurant. Grab a bottle of wine too, it's cheaper than grabbing a couple glasses.
(4)
Joe O.
Went there for Brunch on Saturday. Great greeting by staff and owner. Ushered to third floor dining area. Great setting. The place has charm and character but not a place to go if looking for modern. We loved it. Food was fantastic. Potato Pancakes with salmon was incredible as was chicken club my partner had. Great drinks. We enjoyed the place so much came back for drinks and dessert after theater. Had the same great experience. It is classic NYC charm.
(4)
Johnny B.
Found this place on Yelp searching for Happy Hour deals. It lived up to my expectations. FYI that the bar is actually upstairs and it looks like it is next door. Also there are some dudes (patrons) always sitting outside that are chatty and want to ask you how you're doing and where you're going. A little intimidating, but they (appear to) mean no harm. The service was great and attentive, and the food was delicious.
(4)
Tara C.
One of my new favorites in NYC, and if I were a local, I'd be here constantly. I was here for a party thrown by a friend, and we PACKED the place. I felt bad for anyone who was trying to get into the mid-level bar. Charlie was our bartender, and he did a fantastic job of keeping everyone supplied and happy. As people started to trickle out to dinner, there were about 8-10 of us still milling out and still hungry. As we debated area restaurants to try out, Charlie kindly offered to set us up upstairs and take advantage of their restaurant. I'm so glad he did that for us. The service upstairs with Kelly (sp? sorry!) was fantastic, and the food was delivered with great timing and delicious to boot. Everyone was helpful, accommodating (to a varied group of very loud people) and when were done, they pointed us to O'Flaherty's that also took great care of us. Overall, a fantastic experience.
(4)
Mashel R.
We loved introducing Beth to the Moscow Mule. May have been the first one she ever made but it was dang perfect. Leaving a touch of Pittsburgh at the Bettie Bar leaves us feeling all special and stuff. We plan on being a regular for years to come.
(5)
Jenna M.
Coming here was a major disappointment! Based on the other really complimentary reviews, I chose this restaurant for a pre-show dinner with friends. Was extremely underwhelmed by my experience. Pros: -good/ friendly service -convenient location to many theaters -reasonably priced Cons: -the food lacked flavor and any excitement. Edible, but you're better off spending more at another restaurant for something good. Every member of my party agreed with this... It was not just one bland entree. -lacked any sort of ambiance. I ate on the first floor and it was very narrow and dark (I'm aware that there's at least one other floor above the entry level, but I did not take the dark skinny staircase up to see it). I would never recommend this restaurant and would never return. I've never written a yelp review, but I was compelled to do so just to clear up the misconception that this place is worthwhile!
(1)
Lb G.
well priced, good simple food. Will be back
(4)
Bonnie H.
Four of us ate here after a Sunday matinee. The food was very good. Everyone was satisfied with their choice. I plan to go back here the next time I am in NYC.
(4)
Nilson S.
Went there for a later-than-usual dinner as its kitchen is open until later than some of the other restaurants and really liked it. The price is fair for NYC, but the price fix menu doesn't seem worth it. Instead, we only ordered two entrees (which also come with the free and delicious just-out-of-the-oven bread). I ordered the pork chop and my girlfriend ordered the lobster ravioli, which were both delicious. The ravioli is a small portion, though it was enough for her, it wouldn't be enough for someone who eats a lot. It was a bit weird as we were on the first floor all alone, so the waitress would just stay there looking at us (as the place is fairly small and basically there was nowhere else to look at). It seems the bar upstairs is where all the fun really goes on, but we just wanted to have a nice dinner and go back to our hotel. Maybe New Yorkers won't enjoy this place, but we loved it. And the price is definitely fair. PS: we're Brazilian tourists in New York
(4)
Billy C.
Had the shrimp, nice flavor sauce. The rice was good, a little dry. The broccoli was slightly under cooked. Good to try it out once.
(3)
scott s.
First off, I ordered a whiskey and sour. Which apparently used real lemon and lime and was undrinkable The bartender was kind enough to water it down and then give me a beer instead Not a big space, but kinda cozy
(4)
Angela V.
Love this find! The waitress / owner made me my ideal dish of spicy shrimp, spinach, and garlic mash. It was as though she'd read my mind. Drinks were great. Nice neighborhood feel. I will definitely be back here next time I'm in NY! Thanks Beth!!!
(5)
Chris B.
If you're in Midtown looking for a break from the touristy/chain fare, look no further. The food is fresh and well prepared, the ambiance is quaint and fun and the prices reasonable. The service we had was typical NYC, which is to say, barely there. If the food were just a little more adventurous and the server didn't seem like we were bothering her, I'd give it four stars, and either way would go back if/when I find myself looking for a casual bite in Midtown.
(3)
Alice M.
loved the atmosphere great server the food was ordinary.upstairs bar way cool
(2)
Alan L.
I've been to a lot of tavern's in my day but the Hourglass Tavern is the best by far. There beef short rids were the most tender ribs I've ever eaten.The meat falls off the bone with you just picking at with your folk. They also have great specials every evening. One of the owners ,Beth Sheinis is a great host. She will attend to all of your needs .Even more so if you have young children. When your in the theater district this is your best choice for outstanding food and a great atmosphere. I can't wait to come back!!!!!!
(5)
Olga K.
Food and drinks are killer.
(5)
Ryan G.
This is a hard review to write, asI have family members I would sacrifice to save this place from a fire. A littlewhile back on a dreary winter night I got a craving for a burger, the kind of itch that just needed to be scratched. I'd have jumped on a subway downtown to some 24 hour bodega to get a burger that night... After calling all my local burger options and failing miserably, I was getting more desperate by the second. Not sure what inspired me to think of it that night, but on a few occasions walking by this tiny little homey looking place it always seemed to have a consistent flow of cool local peeps stopping in for drinks and grub late night. I quickly looked it up online and it popped right up... It's kitchen closed 10 minutes ago. ERGG. Being me I called anyway hoping for a doggy bag filled with two life saving burgers. The "waitress" on the phone was extremely sympathetic to my cause and unbelievably insisted we come in for dinner. Never having been inside this place before, we sat at this window table tucked away in the corner and preceded to observe the really cool, kinda antique, kinda trendy, 100% homey restaurant. On the menu loud and clear was "Big Ass 12 oz. Angus Beef Burger" I was so happy I could almost cry. We split that and a salmon entree to get a good feel for the place. We had decent expectations, but not over the top, and when it came to our table, wow. The food seemed as if a loving mother cooked it herself super home-style, my mouth is watering even thinking about it now. We've since tried just about everything on the menu... This place does food right. Our waitress that night turned out to be one of the two owners. Beth wound up sharing hysterical stories and anecdotes about the neighborhood and this building which is apparently 500 years old. This wound up being of the the best nights and experiences we've ever had in a NYC restaurant not being a regular. We didn't know it at the time, but there are two additional floors of awesome. The second floor, my personal favorite, is the bar. I once counted 16 tea light candles in every random place you can imagine just on this floor. It's impossible to not notice the extreme devotion the owners must have gone through to make this place look incredible. From a broken glass mirror to the numerous antique hourglasses on the walls its very nicely done. You are able to order from the full menu on both the second and third floor along with the longest happy hour I've seen in NYC from 5-10pm at night every single day. Next is service, the extremely diverse staff at this establishment consistently go above and beyond to make you feel like this is home. Creating a relaxed, but fun atmosphere where you can always find interesting people and locals mingling. Each bartender is very different, but brings a great vibe into this place. Besides, the drinks here are unbelievable, this is the place to order anything exotic or one of the specialty cocktails. Never a watered down concoction of cheep simple syrupy garbage, they use the good stuff and aren't stingy! This place has charm oozing out all over, including the narrow, uneven stairway which makes the top two floors the opposite of handicap accessible. I'd give em 6 stars if I could and can't wait to be back.
(5)
Gary S.
There is a reason so many people give this place excellent reviews. That's because it's excellent. The prix fixe is extremely reasonable and the food was uniformly well prepared. The short ribs, as noted by others, are terrific and the simple mashed potatoes and al dente steamed broccoli a perfect complement. The penne came with a hearty bolognese that is just slightly spicy. You almost don't notice it at first and then realize it's carefully crafted. There are $6 glasses of wine that were really good - these people clearly know what they're doing. The blueberry/apple cobbler were a bit too sweet for me, but it's probably what most people expect and want. Service was uniformly excellent. They know how to get food done quickly in anticipation of meeting curtain times while still making you feel relaxed and comfortable. This is a small place and if you are looking for something with pizzazz or with modern restaurant buzz and lots of action, this isn't the spot. Don't come expecting that and then complain about it. But if you want excellently prepared food that is reasonably priced with a wonderful and simple ambiance where you'll walk out wanting to come back, then here it is.
(4)
Noel L.
Was at Betti Bar for a cast party of a show I am in close by and we had a great time...we eventually took over all of the seating and it was very comfortable.The bartenders were very inviting and the service was great! I had only come to dinner here one year on Thanksgiving and had no idea about this upstairs bar.It is adorable and the food and menu ,great ,and they were serving dinner at midnight which is very key! The wine was excellent and i cannot say enough great things!I will definitely be back every week while our show is going on!!!!Perfect late night spot near Broadway!
(5)
Kate W.
Came in late so there was no waiting and the food was amazing. So tasty I couldn't stop eating even though I was very full! I don't know what they put in the salad dressing but I would love the recipe. I also had the chicken vegi soup and believe me you've never tasted anything so fresh and flavorful! Great experience. Thank you!
(5)
Gail P.
Delicious brunch food served with $5 cocktails in a funky, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Would certainly go back at other times to try lunch, dinner or just drinks.
(5)
Molly H.
Amazing staff, friendly owners, brunch is delicious, and the mystery beer and shot are really fun.
(5)
Will F.
We just left here, waited over an hour for eggs. The couple next to us, who was seated and ordered at the same time as U.S., got their food and finished eating before the waitress even commented on the status of our. Until we said something to our server about the delay, she didn't acknowledge us at all. I was this close to walking out when she claimed they were plating our dishes. Additionally, in that time they weren't able to bring me the screwdriver I ordered (a 2 ingredient drink!). When we did get our check, our waitress blamed the new chef. Completely unacceptable, will not be coming back.
(1)
Shyanie K.
Food 3/5 Experience 4/5 3 story building in hell's kitchen. We were up on the 3rd floor. Really cute, little hourglass details hidden everywhere. Service was great. Menu was okay. I wasn't blown away by the choices. Our party ordered the lamb special, lobster ravioli, pork chop, pecan crusted tilapia and spicy shrimp. The lamb was not cooked properly, so wasn't as tender as it should have been. But still had great flavor. Lobster ravioli was tasty, sauce was slightly bland. Pork chop was cooked well but the dipping sauce was unimpressive. Pecan crusted tilapia was well balanced and cooked perfectly. Spicy shrimp was also done well, sriracha dipping sauce was unique! For dessert we ordered the molten chocolate cake and the flourless chocolate cake. Both were average! Its a unique intimate place, great for friends catching up or having a casual night.
(3)
Heath T.
Tavern is the perfect combination of casual and formal dining. The quality of the food and it's old-world ambience ensure a memorable dining experience, while the overall atmosphere and friendly service create a warm, relaxing retreat.
(4)
Jeff W.
This restaurant is in the Theatre District--MAKE RESERVATIONS.....and show up on time if you expect to make your curtain. As a New Yorker, I expect a loud, bustling place in the center Hell's Kitchen-- maybe others do not. Chris, our waiter/bartender on the third floor seemed harried by the pre-theatre crowd. While he seemed perfectly capable of handling it, his demeanor was one of frustration. We were amused by this experience as WE were not in a rush....we made our reservations so that we had plently of time to eat and make our curtain. We ordered the lamb and veal-both specials for the evening -and we were not disappointed. Both were excellent. We finished our meal off with espresso and Sambuca. With all of the restaurants in the area, we do not know if we will be back any time soon.
(3)
Elisa B.
I lived in this neighborhood over 20 years ago and returned w/ my husband for a vacation. The Hourglass Tavern is still here and the ambience and food are still cozy and delicious. This is a gem of Restaurant Row and they will flip the hourglass if you need to make an 8 pm curtain, so you can get to the show on time. Great meal, great atmosphere- you cant go wrong with this place!
(5)
Rekha K.
I consider Hourglass Tavern a hidden gem. Though it is located in the heart of the Theatre District, its hidden entrance almost makes you miss it! This quaint bar/restaurant has 3 distinct floors. Bettibar on the 2nd floor has a great atmosphere - a perfect spot to chill for a glass of wine or a simple dinner. The bartender and service was excellent. I will definitely be back and next time will check out floors 1 and 3!
(5)
Alex S.
Wow! Not what I was expecting two and a half steps outside of tourist central. Working in Midtown has its perks, but it definitely has its drawbacks... I'm looking at you Time's Square. Back to Bettibar, an unassuming staircase next to a somewhat ironic 'speakeasy' sign, inviting people upstairs with a way to escape the normal Midtown routine. I knew this place was different as soon as I saw the specials board. One thing stuck out at me: A beer in a bag and a 'mystery shot' for $8. It reminded me of the old Brooklyn special, a PBR can and shot of Jameson for $5...but better. I didn't think that could happen. I had a couple grab bags (you can also get one for $5 sans shot) and they had a good mix - I got Magic Hat and Riverhorse. It was even a Magic Hat I've never tried before. I mean No #9 is good...but we've all had it. Great pick. The shots aren't for the faint of heart. They were...a little...strong. And big. Now, I'm not complaining but I feel like full disclosure on this: If you're with a group of girls, you should probably let them get something else...unless you want them growing a full-on gorilla fur-covered chest. I'm talking the thick stuff. You should probably keep it to one...or two ;) The food was delicious! Apparently they get it from Hourglass Tavern downstairs? We had a dish of meatballs (great - you found our kryptonite) and some kind of polenta with melted mozzarella on top. Both were delicious. To top it all off, the server was awesome. I forget her name (sorry!) but she has bright pink hair and I'm proud to admit I'm the first person to ever make a joke about it being her natural hair color. Ok, so I made that last part up but she was cool enough to laugh. Hopefully it flies under the radar long enough to come back a few times and have some fun!
(5)
Frank B.
Pre theater dinner at this small I.e. narrow restaurant. Quaint place with ok food, nothing spectacular. I had disc shaped pasta primavera without the ricotta. The wife had salmon, and my son had the steak. All dishes were good. No major issues with the service. Our waitress was friendly and helpful. My son had an issue because they did not have steak fries...the waitress said they don't deep fry anything. The price was reasonable for NYC, $140, including tip which included 3 drinks and a dessert.
(3)
Brian S.
The best meal we had in four days in NYC. The Penne Bolognese and the roasted chicken were excellent. Everything came to our table properly prepared and hot. Don't let the name fool you into thinking this is just a tavern.
(5)
Kathy Y.
Smacked in between much flashier restaurants and bars on 46th street, Hourglass Tavern is hard to notice. But that only adds to the cozy and intimate vibe of this place. The dining room on the first floor has about 5-6 two-person tables, and any seat would have felt equally snug and kind of romantic. The food and wine menu was very plain American. My grilled chicken plate with a side of broccoli and mashed potato was unmemorable, but I was much more drawn to the ambience than the food itself anyways - that's what will get me to come back. But when I do, I'll rather go upstairs to the bar on the second floor!
(3)
Matt E.
Yan T said it best when he said "wonderful gem on restaurant row". I saw the name and rating on a Yelp search but hadn't read any reviews, I was expecting an actual tavern but this is definitely a restaurant above all else. It's located in a narrow oddly shaped residential building that was re-purposed decades ago. The first and third floors are dining rooms while the second floor is an intimate bar room that seemed almost like a hidden gem. I came here for dinner and other than a mix up with the order (which a free glass of wine made up for) I was very surprised at the reasonable prices, good service, and the decent quality of the food given it's proximity to Times Square. For an appetizer my girlfriend and I split an order of 3 traditional spanikopita puffs (flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta). She loved them but I found them to be overly salted and a little too oily and flat. We also got a giant roll with butter which seems mundane but was deliciously moist and subtly sweet. Most entrees are under $20, in fact my chicken entree with grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli was only $14. The chicken had a great flame grilled flavor and was cooked perfectly. I was a little disappointed that the rosemary garlic marinade wasn't exactly prevalent and that the steamed broccoli wasn't seasoned or cut up but otherwise was very pleased. I would definitely come back to this unique spot for a nice meal with an intimate setting.
(4)
Anne G.
This restaurant has wonderful ambiance and great service! In an old brownstone mere steps away from the 8th Avenue strip in the heart of the theater district, it is an oasis away from the hustle of that area. The food was of acceptable quality, but nothing special. I had a slightly dry and over cooked pork loin chop. Two members of our party ordered grilled salmon on salads and pronounced it to be good. It is certainly a worthwhile stop before the theatre, especially because it is quiet and pleasant, but the food is only a slight edge above average.
(3)
Danielle H.
The first time I came here I just had drinks at Bettibar, which was nice and had a very cool, laidback environment. However, the restaurant itself was just mediocre. Service was okay and I have to commend them on finding and bringing my gloves down to me when I returned later (I always seem to forget something.) The food was just so-so. I had the the Hearts of Romaine salad to start and I thought that the cheese overpowered the whole dish. Otherwise, I think it would have been much better but there was too much to pick out. For the main course, we shared the spinach ravioli and the shrimp catalina. There was barely any shrimp (maybe 4 pieces) in the dish and the rest was all sauce. The sauce was very good and packed a punch, but sauce isn't a meal. The spinach ravioli was very tasty, but it's something even I could have made at home and I'm not a good cook. It was also very difficult to eat since the raviolis were hidden at the bottom of the bowl under all the sauce. It was a good portion size and good comfort food, but it's not really what you look for when you go out to eat. Go to Bettibar and get food somewhere else. And as others have said, Yelp, make a separate listing for it!
(3)
Chris I.
This place is awesome!! No really it is. I mean I had already thought this place was great after reading the reviews of some trusted Yelper friends of mine.....and to top it off not ten pics in I see Phil H drinking a beer in a bag like an elegant hobo. I call that a recipe for a winner. Turns out this place is more than a tiny bar on the second floor, they are also cooking up some kick ass eats. Me and the GF wanted a place to come after seeing a Broadway show ( yeah I'm cultured like that.....you just learned something new about me , didn't ya? Shame on you for thinking other wise. You now owe me a shot and I expect you to be on the honor system next time you see me! LOL) Any way where was I ? Oh yeah, I looked for a place where we could get decent eats at a late hour and decided on Hourglass tavern. The place is tiny, I mean really tiny but lucky for us the first floor where the restaurant is wasn't too crowded. We were greeted warmly by our waitress and snagged a cool booth right by the from window. Very cozy and romatical ( yup I just dropped a jersey shore phrase on you.) They are a tavern so I was able to get my old standby scotch and the GF got a glass of vino. We started out with the Albondingas, which are chicken meatballs in a red sauce with shaved cheese on top. They were out of this world . Nice and fresh and the sauce was really good. For our main's she got the grilled pork chop and I got one of the specials which was the braised lamb shank. The GF's pork chop was delicious, grilled to perfection and nice and juicy. The honey cumin sauce was awesome. They should bottle that stuff and sell it, they make a fortune. My lamb shank was equally good. It was fall off the bone tender and still nice and juicy. If it's on the menu you should definitely get it. Both dishes came with sauteed veggies that were cooked perfect. We ended the dinner with their flour-less chocolate cake. It was basically fudge cake. Chocolate times a 1000. If you are a chocolate lover then it'll be right up your ally. We really enjoyed our meal there. The bill was really inexpensive given the high quality of food and the area the restaurant is in. You should definitely stop in if you are in the area, it's totally worth it!
What a great place! Atmosphere was interesting in a sea of restaurants that appear to be the same, or try to hard to be different. The staff was friendly and fun. We had 5 adults and 3 children, and everyone loved their food. The homemade ravioli's were a hit, and the sausage pasta was awesome. We will be back.
(5)
Anu P.
I got to New York around 1am on a Wednesday night. After checking in, grabbing dinner and heading to Times Square, we were on the lookout for a bar that wasn't too crowded, touristy or extremely pricey. Luckily my friend came across Hourglass Tavern which is a short walk from Times Square. We arrived around 2:30 am to find it deserted minus a couple people. We walked up to the second floor to enter Bettebar. Cutest bar I've been in! There were nice couches and pillows to sit on as well as regular bar stools. It was very small but given that there were just 4 of us and two bartenders, it was perfect. Our gin & tonics were great. But what I loved the most was the music! They were playing a mix of old 90s pop and rock music and it was so refreshing to be able to enjoy some old favorite songs while also being able to hear the conversation without straining your ears. It was the perfect place to sit down for a few drinks and I would highly recommend it over some of the pricier, louder bars right in Times Square! :)
(5)
Jim S.
We had dinner at the Hourglass Tavern again on Sept. 24th. A late dinner after a show , everything was perfect as usual !!!!! Great food and great service !!!!! You will not be disappointed !!!
(5)
Brian C.
For years living in the neighborhood this has been my go to place. There is nothing like a "Beer in a Bag, with a Shot" to get you home from work, and when you come back later it is the perfect intimate place to relax with friends. While it is a hangout for old regulars there are plenty of first timers wandering in from the theaters making for an eclectic mix that is sure to always give you someone to talk to. Even if you are not hungry enough to eat a meal, the fresh baked bread is worth a trip in its self. With all the food prepared in house the quality is great, and the prices are such that you can afford to come in on a working mans income. Betti Bar on the second level is the place to be, but is often crowded, but if you have the stamina, there is another full bar up on the third floor too! Sure this is a biased review, its my favorite place, but if I like it, you should probably give it a shot too! Cookie.
(5)
Mike T.
You can't go wrong with this restaurant . Food is great service is great. Fun restaurant to go to also the food and price can't be beat.
(5)
Kem W.
This is a very cool place with a long history. It's been an establishment since 1894. Long and narrow, 3 floors, and good food. I had the prix fixe grilled chicken. It was very good with broccoli and mashed potatoes on the side. Loved the bread. Upstairs the bar looked cozy and fun. It was amazing to watch the choreography of all the staff as they moved about this very small restaurant. This is a reasonably priced place that you owe yourself to check out. Definitely glad I came. Recommended.
(4)
Derek W.
This is the go to place for me and my girlfriend! The atmosphere and interior design is charming. The whole restaurant is three floors with the bar on the second floor with a couple of small tables. Most importantly, the food and drinks are great. I highly recommend getting dinner off the prix-fixe menu since it offers soup/salad, entree, and dessert. This place is also famous for their delicious sangrias. The biggest downside of here is the long wait and crammed space. One time we had to wait for over an hour for seats. After being seated, our entrees came before our salad. But the owner of the restaurant was great! She noticed how our food was coming so slow and out of order and offered to take the price of the salad off our bill. She also gave us a free round of drinks! On another occasion, I was sitting on a partially broken chair and their waiter immediately changed the chair for me once he saw how broken it was! Also, when I was paying, I accidentally dropped a 100$ bill on the floor and when we were about to leave, he picked it up for us and told us that we dropped it! Needless to say, this place has phenomenal service, food, and drinks!
(5)
Kate D.
Came here for a girls get together after not having seen everyone in a long time. Was looking forward to seeing everyone and having a good time. Now first looking at the place online, it says it is small. But when you get there they really mean it, the place is tiny. Though there are three levels, all are each just as small as the other and one server per floor. We didnt really mind this at first because it creates a cozy and intimate experience. We started off with the happy hour at the bar on the second level while we waited for our table and then were shown our seats on the third floor. The food is good but does not out way the service that we experienced. My friends and I are between 23-26 years old. We were the youngest people there and as such we were ignored and had to call numerous times to get someones attention. The other tables had no such problem. We asked for the desert menu twice before just giving up and paying for our bill, which also took forever to get. Dont get me wrong, the food was good. But I would not go back just for that. Maybe the bar. If they had more people helping, then perhaps it would be a better time.
(2)
Steve N.
Great experience! Small, intimate and quiet setting with friendly service and a good menu.
(5)
Tiffany S.
Honestly.. I was pleasantly surprised. I came here with a girlfriend for just drinks and wound up staying for 4 hours and had dinner too. There's 3 floors, I believe Hourglass is the first floor and Betti Bar the next two. The waitress was very friendly and never rushed us. I love how they offer a mystery beer in a bag - good beers too.. Blue Point.. River Horse.. I wish I remembered which cocktails we had.. but those were good too. Had the grilled poletna - basically polenta in tomato sauce with melted cheese on top grilled shrimp and polenta - this was pretty good, the sauce was yummy orecchiette primavera - a little greasy but still good Then ordered a fruit cobbler for dessert. She gave us two serving sizes which was nice. I can see why they might have had some to spare though - it was soooooooooo sweet. I felt a coat of sugar on my teeth, kind of like when I drink a Coke. Blegh, I don't like Coke.. Would I come back here? Eh, not too sure. It definitely wasn't a bad place at all, but nothing extraordinary either.
(3)
Gwenn H.
We arrived promptly for our 12:15 brunch reservation. We had tickets for a 2:00 show, which we informed our waitress. We were seated on the third floor and ordered two champagnes and an iced tea. The champagne was terrible. We ordered two eggs florentine and blueberry waffles. At 1:30 we were still waiting for our order! The waitress said she couldn't make the food come out any faster. Every time she had to pick up an order, she had to go down and back up three flights of stairs. She was also the bartender and cashier! Upon leaving, with another unserved party, we complained to the manager. She said it was the first day that the third floor was open and they were very busy. She then said " I did pay for your drinks!" Rushing to the theater, starving, we woofed down a slice of pizza on the street. This was not the four star restaurant i had read about and pizza was not the brunch I was hoping for. Next time you see this place on Restaurant Row, make sure you keep on walking and find somewhere else that might actually serve you food! P.S. We still tipped that poor waitress $10.00!
(1)
Nelly G.
Good thing I made a reservation a few hours before we showed up. At first there was no one on the first floor but within 10 minutes everyone started to show up. Loved that it was a cute little place...not good for large groups. Three floors with a waiting area and some table on the second floor with a bar where all drinks are made. Started with the chicken and sundried tomato albóndigas, marinara sauce and shaved pecorino with crostini. Ssooooo good! My girlfriend had the shrimp Catalina and I had the Bourbon braise short beef ribs. Wished they had roasted potatoes or rice as I can't have mashed potatoes...was very tasty and filling. For drinks my gf had the Mezclan mule which she really loved and I had the Brooklyn Flower. Ended our meal with dessert. My gf had the tirimasu and I had the chocolate molten cake. Food, drinks and service were so good. Would definitely go back.
(4)
Kristy R.
Betti Bar! Above Hourglass Tavern, there is Betti Bar. You go up a narrow flight of stairs, duck into a door on the left, and arrive in a small, cramped bar. There are a couple of booths, maybe a table or two, and a tiny bar. There is also an actual hourglass on the wall, that they flip. The beers they offer are lined up on the wall, including the beer in a bag with a shot. We decided to go with that since it seems to be the "thing" to do while you're there. We each received a different beer, but the same sweet shot. My beer was a Denver something and it was pretty good. One friend had a beer with eyes on the neck of the bottle so it looked creepy coming out of the paper bag. It's kind of cool to drink out of a paper bag, in a "secret" location, with not too many people around. The music selection is also great, it's full of 90s alternative that everyone can sing along to. I really like this place. It isn't loud, it isn't crazy, it isn't crowded, and you get to drink like you're drinking in secret. Very cool spot.
(4)
Joe Y.
Great service, excellent seating outside and nice history. I ordered the Bourbon Braised Short Ribs and have to say they were overcooked however the traditional spanikopita was amazing. Overall a good experience.
(3)
Steve A.
On average, decidedly competent. I brought my family here on a Monday evening. When we arrived at 6:30, we had the 1st floor to ourselves, though others eventually showed up. Service was unquestionably the bright spot. Their claim to fame is an entire meal in under an hour, and they certainly delivered. The waitress was very patient as we slowly pored over the options and assembled our decisions. She stayed attentive throughout the meal and didn't show the least bit of frustration or unhappiness. The atmosphere - typical NY cramped. It's shoehorned in the bottom of an old, narrow multi-story house. The first floor isn't even 10 feet wide. We didn't explore the upper floors, where there may be more space, but my family wasn't interested in the bar and was not going to be climbing up to the 3rd floor if not necessary. Food was hit or miss. I ultimately landed with the short ribs, which were absolutely superb quality. The "twice buttered" mashed potatoes were nothing special, though. No gravy; I mistakenly tried to use salad dressing instead, since I figured there had to be a cup of _something_ on the table. Vegetable was uninspiring asparagus, not even the narrow tender kind. My mom had the spinach ravioli, which she said were understuffed with an overabundance of marinara sauce. (Excellent sauce, though.) My father's grilled cheese was really just "cheeses on a large hunk of bread", and between the giant dinner roll (serves 4) and his bread, Hourglass needs to improve its baking skills. However, my mom's extra marinara sauce turned the grilled cheese from subpar to extraordinary. We recommended to the waitress that it come with a side of the sauce, and she immediately told the chef. Good service, right? Finally, my sister had crab cakes, and was underwhelmed, though I pointed out that it's unfair to compare anything outside Maryland to anything served therein. I thought they were just fine. Desserts - Berry cobbler was fairly good, just blueberries and apples, something I could make myself. My sister had tira misu cake, which she said was too dense/creamy. I think that's in line with other reviews I've read. The interesting intrigue to this place is that you can order gourmet dishes for less than gourmet prices. That said, you need to order carefully to get the gourmet quality. Short ribs, yes. Flourless or lava cakes, maybe. Some of these dishes need work. But if they're truly open to improvement like it seems, then they're worth a look, just a short distance from the theater district and superior to all the chains and tourist traps.
(3)
Tarik M.
We pre-booked a table (with Open Table) for our pre-show dinner when we visited NYC. We were greeted buy a friendly Jamaican guy outside, who took us inside were we immediately shown to our table on the third floor. The place is a little quirky, but that adds to the experience. The staff were all very attentive, the food was great and the atmosphere was upbeat throughout....the sound of people having a good time!!
(5)
Melanie M.
such a great spot with the BEST service. the Bartender who works on Tuesdays is incredible. It seems like a hole in the wall but this place has character and incredible food.
(5)
Pooja C.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday. It's a very small place but apparently they have upstairs seating, as well. We sat outside to enjoy the weather. The service was good despite the place being pretty busy. To start, they give you some small complementary berry muffins with butter; they're really good. I had the Cinnamon Strongman Coffee with Whiskey which was excellent. I had asked if I could get it iced since it was so warm outside, but they ended up not being able to do it. As compensation, we were given a free bloody Mary so that was really nice. We shared the Mexicali Omelet which was simple (filled with cheese, spinach, and topped with tomatillo salsa) yet balanced all the flavors really nicely and wasn't overly filling to where we felt like we were in a food coma afterwards. The roasted potatoes that came with it were delicious; perfectly seasoned. Overall, it was a good experience and we'll definitely be back to try more.
(4)
Don T.
Fantastic service, fantastic food and fantastic atmosphere. I've been here for brunch and dinner and both times were great. The food offerings on both menus were delicious and the portions are generous! Stop into the Bettibar before or after a show and enjoy great friendly service! It's a great place to meet up with your friends and enjoy some excellently poured cocktails!
(5)
Shandar E.
I went here for Brunch and was not disappointed. Service was great and the food was delicious. I will definitely come here again for brunch and even happy hour. A nice little neighborhood gem. Overall experience was great!!!
(4)
Christina V.
Did a great job seating our party of 7 quickly, neat old decor on the third floor. Delicious food, we all enjoyed! They did a great job accommodating my food allergies. Thanks!
Great happy hours and very cozy. The only problem is - it might be hard to find a table, but the place is great.
(5)
Tavo P.
The food was excellent, perfectly-sized portions. We had the spinach ravioli, steak and then the no-flour chocolate cake and it was all excellent. Our server was so friendly it was spooky and he even spoke Spanish for us(we're from Mexico)!!! The space is very small, but it was a perfect chill place for an after-theater dinner. Highly recommend!!!
(5)
Heather S.
Disclaimer: This review is for Betti Bar - not Hourglass Tavern itself. --- I came to Betti Bar around 9 on a recent Saturday night and the tight quarters were already pretty crowded. My group of 6 (which later turned into 9) lucked out when a table near the windows opened up. The bartenders were incredibly friendly - which was certainly a breath of fresh air. They helped me navigate the bourbon choices and did so with genuine interest. More and more I find good service to be a rare commodity in NYC bars, so this gave me more of a buzz than the very affordable sauv blanc. We wound up camping out til nearly closing time because we enjoyed the atmosphere so much. The crowd seemed to be all locals and everyone was cordial - despite the occasional accidental bump. In the end the bill, while long, did not pain me as much as the last shot of the night. So happy Yelpers steered me here and I'm looking forward to coming back!
(5)
Brandon G.
This review is for Betti Bar the upstairs bar to the restaurant. Rapidly becoming my midtown happy hour spot! I'm pretty sure this place can be considered a speakeasy, it has nice vibe, a great bartender (this awesome girl with purple hair), and best of all a 10 PM happy hour!! That's how I found this place by searching late happy hours. It's a pretty standard happy hour of $5 wells, wine, and beer, the also have an $8 mystery beer and shot. I went on a Friday night which was the most packed I've ever seen it,which by NYC standards coulda considered dead, all the chairs were full except for one and I had two other friends coming, but people were moving and leaving at a good rate, I think a lot of people come here for pre theater drinks. I haven't tried the food yet, but I, not rushing to, it seems pretty pricey for food I'm never in the mood for,but in looks good when other people get it. Def going back!
(4)
tamanna r.
5 for service, 5 for food, 5 for atmosphere...what a find. We were wandering, starving, and while this place didn't look like much from outside, inside it was amazing. Three floors of tiny, cozy, well designed rooms that feel like you're a guest at someone's house rather than a restaurant. The lady with curly hair who seemed like the manager was so warm, and welcoming and clearly adept at fitting people into tiny spaces. She bought us drinks because no tables were available yet, and was generally super kind and professional. We were then brought up to the third floor when a table opened up, and just loved our server. She seemed genuinely pleased each time we liked something, like we were eating at her own kitchen or something. I got shrimp fra diavolo and my date got mushroom ravioli. Beyond delicious, definitely far beyond our expectations for wandering into a random place. Truly a hidden gem in this neighborhood! And, very affordable!
(5)
Carl I.
Had dinner prior to a concert on Sat eve. Ate on 3rd. While waiting for table, had a cocktail, on 2nd. Friendly staff, value for money, very nice wait staff, food very good. Will return.
(5)
pamela p.
Convenient for pre theater dinners. I was able to sit outside and could watch all the people pass by. Since I am watching my weight- I had a salad and salmon with veggies. All was prepared nicely and it was tasty. The service was excellent and the prices were what I expected.
(3)
Bruce B.
Was a great little place that we would have never tried of it weren't for YELP. The food was great, and the staff was more than accommodating. The ambiance of the place was off the charts. Loved it. The steak was fantastic, there was something for everyone, teens and adults alike.
(4)
Abbey M.
A total hidden gem! Amazing food and great service in this little hole in the wall!! We will definitely be back!
(5)
Nicholas G.
A few friends and I grabbed last minute reservations for this place the week after Thanksgiving and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. It was small... really small... I've sat at larger tables small... but, the food was amazing. My mother would shoot me if she read this, but their bolognese sauce is the best I've ever had. Just typing this, I'm salivating. All of us loved our meals and we would all love to go again.
(4)
Irene S.
Sat outside to dine before a show. Restaurant is funky and narrow. The dining is on the first floor and I think there are 2 different bars on the 2nd and 3rd floors. It has an old tavern feel. The greeter is very friendly and knows everyone in the neighborhood. The service and food were very good. We were able to have dinner at 6:30 and get to our 8:00 show on time. The ravioli were just delicious! Perfectly seasoned and thin, fresh pasta. I usually don't get ravioli, because I don't like cheese, but their ravioli had no cheese.
(4)
Leslie D.
Ok, so why isn't Betti Bar its own separate Yelp listing?! Anyway, this review is obviously about Betti Bar, the adorable "hidden" bar located in the Theater District above Hourglass Tavern. I came here with my friend Chris after a delicious dinner at Pio Pio 8 to engage in some libations. I had heard of this place from a few Yelpers and was excited to try out this little hot spot. The entrance to Betti Bar is to the right of Hourglass Tavern when facing it. Contrary to what is implied, the doorbell serves no purpose as the door is unlocked. The bartender actually came down the stairs and cordially yelled at us "IT'S NOT LOCKED" after we had rung it a few times. Forgive me if I wanted it to be reminiscent of Milk & Honey! Once inside, you're greeted by a cozy space filled with many tall chairs, a bustling tiny bar, and a huge hourglass mounted on the wall ticking down the seconds (the hourglass was/is used to tell patrons that they have an hour left before they need to leave to catch their show). After scoring a table against the back wall's mirror, we had a chance to peruse the menu and check out the patrons. For drinks, I went with the Champagne Cocktail and he went with the Sweet and Sour Bourbon. The bartender upon hearing my order went to work at lightning speed mixing, cutting, pouring and creating our drinks. I think I am turning into a man as I am coming to the realization I do not enjoy sweet drinks anymore. Still, the drink was perfectly concocted and I sipped on it slowly. He on the other hand seemed to love his bourbon concoction and at $10-$12 a pop, I think his drink was better for the money. I really want to come back to Betti Bar and get the $8 beer and mystery shot in a bag special. That just sounds like the beginning to a night you don't want to (voluntarily) forget. They also have happy hour every day from 5-10pm- just don't tell the alcoholics or you'll never get a spot inside. Sure, the space at Betti Bar is small and the crowd is mostly gay gentlemen (well on Saturday night it sure was), but it's a great spot to kick back, relax with a deliciously crafted drink, and enjoy watching your heterosexual guy friend get visually gang banged by every "Richard" within the vicinity.
(4)
Emma P.
completely thrown by how bad a place with 4 stars was..I had to. We just had pasta, beef sliders , and tiramisu..all were bad.
(1)
Nicole S.
several story restaurant/bar in the theater district. Found this place on yelp a made a reservation that night. Place gets busy due to its proximity to the theaters - staff of the restaurant was very attentive and made sure to get us seated timely. The bar staff seemed to think we were a bit silly as we were celebrating but hopefully we entertained for a bit. It is a tiny bar area- so hard to get situated in the bar area out of everyone's way -but still a cute place and reasonably priced meals especially for NYC.
This review is for BettiBar, which is the 2nd floor part of this converted apartment. It's a small cute bar that has a great happy hour and some good old school cocktails as well.I came here with Baby D last week after we ate at Pio Pio. Next time I will be going for a couple of the beer in a bag and shot for $8. The setting is very cozy but I'm sure could get crowded really easy since there is not that many places to sit or stand.
(4)
Michele B.
I was going to dinner and a show with some family and they picked this place on a recommendation. Not wanting to judge a book by its cover, I was going to let the food speak to the place rather than the decor, which is seriously lacking in this oddly shaped and strangely laid out restaurant. Well, we never made it as far as ordering dinner, as a cockroach decided to take residence on our table. I know this is NYC and these things happen, but the waiter didn't make any attempts to kill it. Needless to say, I have no idea what the food is like but I don't plan on finding out.
(1)
Caroline D.
Had a grand time. Went to bettie bar first for a shot an d a beer. Then downstairs for dinner. Had an oldfashioned with dinner, twas pretty tasty. I also had the steak. It was just fine, I would say for the price and the ambiance for being in midtown it doesnt get any better than this place. That said, it can get so much better than this for so much less anywhere else. To sum up, if you are forced to be in midtown, go here.
(4)
J P.
Move on - there are better choices on Restaurant Row. Food was overcooked, slow to come out from the kitchen. Service is fine. One of those places where you say to yourself "I could have made this better at home" And I don't even cook!
(2)
Keith L.
First, I have to say that this review is about Betti Bar (the hidden gem), and not the overall Hourglass Tavern. I've been frequenting Betti ever since I discovered it a little over a year ago. I know, I know - my review is a little late. The ambiance is amazing - decorated like a brothel that you would find in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The bar staff is delightful, the drinks are strong, and their happy hour that lasts for five hours is amazing and playful. A secret "beer in a bag" and a shot? Yes, please! Betti is one of those secret gems that transports you out of the chaos that is Restaurant Row on 46th Street. I was almost hesitant to write a review for fear that more people would discover it. The bar is small and intimate, and a rush of the crowd from Murray Hill that we all loathe would ruin it. You know who I'm talking about... But, if you're a nice person and like a well-crafted cocktail with a neighborhood feel - definitely check it out. I'm sure I'll be sitting on a stool in the corner when you walk in. Say hello!
(5)
Caroline H.
We loved it here. We went here after Carnegie Hall's Vienna Choir Boys concert. I had the pre-theater dinner for $22.85+tax. I had a nice salad, pork chops, and tiramisu. My boyfriend had the penna with bolognese sauce, which he said was very good. The house bread was good. We got two loaves. The bottle of Merlot was great for $21. The Bettibar was packed for a Sunday night. $5 drinks. I looked across the room and the crab cakes and salmon were a hit too.
(5)
Bryan P.
I've been to Bettibar before, and it's a cool spot. A very cramped restaurant, we were pretty fortunate to just walk in and get a seat amid the theater rush. The food was really good. I think we both had pasta dishes, but I don't recall what exactly. They were good. Decent prices, including drinks.
(4)
Sherri H.
There's a speakeasy upstairs. It's charming and cozy. Must try in NYC
(5)
Ashley D.
Lovely place to enjoy a pre-show dinner. They're very quick at turning around large groups pre-show. My favorite dish is the Mushroom Ravioli - all ravioli is made in-house. This dish features an amazingly delicious marsala sauce as opposed to pasta sauce and it is TO DIE FOR. I'll never order anything else :) Plus, they have Clos du Val by the bottle. A-OK in my book!
(4)
Amy P.
We had a terrific per-theater dinner here. The restaurant has three narrow floors and a lot of charm. We sat at the bar on the 2nd floor and ate on the third floor. The service was friendly and attentive. The food was really great. I had a homemade spinach ravioli that was spectacular. The brisket sliders were also amazing. Also at the table we had the pasta bolognese, short ribs and grilled chicken. All were delicious. We will definitely come here again.
(4)
Monique R.
Oh, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly. What have you done to me? ***For BettiBar*** When you ring the doorbell next to the hourglass tavern, you gain access to a secret bar! No shit! Upstairs, grab a booth and rub elbows with some of the cooler people in Manhattan. Cooler because they know about this awesome bar. Kelly, the mixologist, was a great conversationalist. And he can make a serious drink! My enabler, Phil, dragged me to this bar. I entered slightly tipsy and left here clearly intoxicated. The $8 Mystery Beer and Shot is quite the deal. Growing up in the hoodtastic part of williamsburg, sipping a beer from a paper bag made me feel all nostalgic and shit. But how fun is it to drink like a hobo? VERY. Some pretty awesome labels inside the mystery beer. I sipped on a sneaky prohibition beer that tasted like an IPA of sorts. The mystery shot looked like flat coca cola. And if i think really hard, or read my tweets from that inglorious night I can recall the formula. I slurred at some regulars who humored my drunk ass but this bar is the bees knees. Ring the door bell and come on up! Please note that the WATER CLOSET is fancy talk for the Shitter.
(5)
Samantha C.
Small and intimate place to hang out for a quick drink, until it starts to get crowded. Must try their happy hour menu and get the grilled flatiron steak and handmade spinach ravioli. Good portions. Service was decent, but don't expect too much once it gets pretty busy because the bartender was the only one waiting tables and serving drinks. Perfect cosmo and good pinot at reasonable prices during happy hour. Upstairs is the best place to sit.
(4)
Jonathan A.
I really enjoyed the ambiance and the feel if the place, the food was spectacular and I would definitely try any of the wines. The only problem I would say is the actual walk space which is very narrow esp the stairway but besides that I give it 4 stars and will not only come back but will recommend it to all my friends that are looking to go to a nice quiet place for two
(4)
Mary B.
My husband and I took our 2 adult children there after seeing a play on Broadway. We didn't get there till almost 11 pm. We were greeted at the door and seated on the 3rd floor dining room, very small but nice. Ordered dinner, a couple glasses of wine and we were eating a half hour later. Everyone enjoyed their meal, service was good, and we had real food after the show! Not some stupid fast food or chain restaurant garbage. Would recommend this place if you need a good meal late in NYC.
(4)
T E.
I enjoyed the Shrimp Positano, but not enough to go back. The service was lacking. The waitress forgot not only a beer but the entire meal of one of our party. I don't think he'll go back either.
(2)
Catherine R.
Shhh! Don't tell anyone about this space! It's my new neighborhood oasis. It's intimate and and well lit and cozy and everyone smiles and sips. (I guess some gulp.) I just love it here. It's the perfect place to end the night. I hear the food is delicious, but I've never made it to Hourglass before the kitchen's closed (1am). Josh and Beth are the magnanimous proprietor/bartenders, one of whom usually pours until 4am.
(5)
Amber T.
My sister lives on Long Island and I was visiting her from Pittsburgh - we were going to a Sunday evening show on Broadway but needed to find some grub first. So we were walking down restaurant row looking for something interesting to eat pre-theater. I kept stopping to glance at menus, but for whatever reason she kept on walking. Finally at one point she turned around and gave me a look that only sisters can give one another (the "what the hell are you doing, get your butt moving" look) and I started yelling down the street at her the way only sisters can do ("I'm looking at the menus! How the F are you going to know where to eat if you don't look at menus???") - well, fortunately for us, we were having this exchange right in front of the Hourglass Tavern. Their host happened to be standing outside to witness this sisterly love and pulled us aside to try to coerce us to come in. Now, let me tell you, I do not like when people do that - I hate being put on the spot. It was a really, really hard sell and that almost made me tell him to shove it you-know-where and walk away. BUT he was charming and the other staffers hanging out outside were really nice (later I found out one was the former owner and the other was the current owner - they were having a baklava lesson!), so after perusing the menu for a few minutes we decided to go in. Fantastic decision. The menu is large and varied and uses the word "snacklettes" which I love! We went with the Prix-Fixe menu - so we got homemade bread, a spanikopita, a salad, an entree and a dessert. She got the mascarpone penne. I got the shrimp catalina. Both were excellent. The bread was excellent. The salad was phenomenal. The spanikopita was really, really good (and I generally do not like spanikopita that much). I had tiramisu for dessert and it was wonderful. My sister had the cobbler and she said it was very tasty. The Hourglass Tavern is definitely on my list of places to visit again next time I'm in the city. It was delightful.
(5)
Jin C.
The positive but small amount of reviews made me think this would be an undiscovered gem but after dining there, I had a dawning realization that most of the reviews were written by tourists. And indeed, the food the restaurant served made me feel like it was meant for people who wouldn't be coming back. I got the prix fixe menu, which included a soup, a phyllo pastry, an entree and dessert. They also gave a supersized dinner roll to start. It had a yeasty flavor and a chewy texture to it, which I personally liked. The lentil soup kinda reminded me of something I would make in a large quantity and then reheat for dinners. Watery, and the cut vegetables that floated in the soup looked like they've been boiled to death. It tasted fine, I guess. The phyllo pastry was quite small, and also didn't taste like very much. So far, very standard; underwhelming. I got the grilled chicken breast entree, which was again, just okay. It certainly didn't taste as nuanced as the description made it sound: rosemary and garlic marinated, honey cumin sauce, and toasted coconut rice. I personally liked the rice, because it reminded me a coconut rice milk dish called nasi lemak, but the chicken was sort of meh and I wished there were more of the sauce. And my dining partner's blackened tilapia's sauce was the same sauce as mine, even though the menu said it'd be pico de gallo. Dessert was probably the best part of the meal. The tiramisu was good, and the berry cobbler was very warm and the serving was generous. Pros: good service, good dessert Cons: touristy vibe, mediocre food
(3)
Tad B.
This place is AWESOME. We live a few blocks away. Only downside is, they dont deliver. BUT...the food is fresh, very tasty, and moderately priced. All in all, a great deal compared to most places in the neighborhood. Im not sure why somebody would criticize a restaurant in a review for being too small, or cozy, or not being able to accommodate all of the members in a party. If they are at capacity, why should that detract from the overall rating? The restaurant size is what it is. Also, for the price you pay here, the food is very good. I live in the neighborhood, and everything is expensive, so for me, the quality of food at that price point, especially compared to just about every other restaurant in the area, is very very good. The actual restaurant is small, cozy, intimate, great ambience. Everybody that works there is incredibly friendly, accommodating, and recognize us every time we stop in or call. I know this sounds like a ridiculously positive review...but give the place a try. You will understand....
(5)
Betty W.
Came here after the fail at Hudson Terrace on a whim. I had the $5 Sangria (which was a little weak but tasty) and my friend had the $5 white wine. We then got dinner which I had the mini Cuban sandwiches and he got the hamburger w/ mashed potatoes. Everything was pretty good and our bill came to about $38 + tax so it was also a decent price. The server/bartender was friendly and it seemed like there were quite a few regulars which is always a good sign. I loved how cute and romantic the space was though the narrow stairs to get to the bar on the 2nd floor were a little daunting. Overall I'll be back for sure
(4)
Laura M.
Great location for pre-theater dining.. Funky, "old" atmosphere. We sat in front window so great for people watching. Food was good . Prices very reasonable for NYC.
(3)
Katy P.
Always a good experience when I dine here. It's one of the few places in the area that isn't touristy. The food is great, drinks are reasonably priced, and the service is always friendly. The space is an old townhouse which has been redecorated in a shabby chic manner--adorable. It is a little cramped during dinner time, but only because it's a quality place.
(4)
Lindsay T.
I went here with my mom a few weeks ago specifically for the pre-theater menu. The place is small but beautifully decorated, we got seated right away (with reservations) and were greeted by very friendly staff. The homemade bread is delicious and the drinks were amazing, I recommend the "Brooklyn Flower" for a cocktail. The meal was flavorful and filling and more affordable than most places on Restaurant Row. The second floor is the Betti Bar which looked fun but cramped, however they did have really cheap drinks. I would definitely make this a regular stop when I'm in the city.
(5)
Bea B.
Up a flight of stairs and off to the left, Hourglass-a.k.a. Bettibar- has an "in the know" sort of feel to it. Once perched on our bar stools--there are only a few tables on the floor--we were quickly entertained by the bar man on staff. He was affable, friendly, but just a bit too loud and keen on having a monologue rather than a dialogue-again, he was entertaining, so this is not a huge complaint, but rather something to mention-he got us what we wanted without a hitch. For those who wish to nosh, there's also a fairly solid bar menu. Fun bit: affixed to the walls are a couple of vintage-looking hourglasses that patrons may tip to their delight as the sand runs out. Also, there's a gorgeous chandelier that hangs just toward the far end of the room by the windows that overlook 46th St. Note: no soda gun on hand, so tonic, coke, soda and the like are dispensed from cans.
(3)
Quasona C.
Came here with my bff's friends who are Hell Kitchen residents. Great spot for drinks and a quick meal. They have the daily specials listed on the side of the bar, which is located on the 2nd floor. A nice and cozy spot if you're looking for an intimate setting.
(3)
valerie d.
Because of this place, I have a new obsession with short ribs. Eat them.
(5)
Tabitha S.
Cute little place, good food.
(3)
Edna C.
Tiny space, quiet crowd. Can't go wrong with $8 shot & beer.
(3)
Jeremy L.
We had our "see you later New York" dinner/ drink party here. As always, the staff is great, as is the food and drinkage. A REAL place in the middle of the schlock in TS and Restautant Row. You really can't go wrong here.
(4)
Clint S.
We came based in part on reviews on Yelp. We would come back again and again based on the deliciously prepared meals and hospitality of the staff and owners. We enjoyed the pork chop and mashed potatoes, as well as the chicken and rice. Both came with amazing broccoli, and the meat was atop a dollop of sauce that was a combination of honey and cumin. It was nothing short of amazing!! Value, taste, and hospitality that makes you feel like part of a family. If you find yourself in the area, visit. I will be again before we leave manhattan. Second Visit: As good as the first, and our time spent chatting with the staff was also great. Cheers, and we cannot wait to visit again on our next NY trip.
(5)
Kenneth D.
A great gem in Hell's Kitchen. Had the pleasure of dining here late last night and was very impressed. We ventured up to the top level where we enjoyed practically a private dining room as we were the only ones up there until right before we left. Service was incredible and the food was delicious. Definitely will be heading back here.
(4)
Mike B.
we thought we had walked into the wrong place, but as it turns out, no - we discovered a bar made of AWESOME. kudos to Sam for finding it. the restaurant on the ground floor is small. maybe seating for 10 or 12. we stood awkwardly for a minute or two before the waitress asked if we wanted a seat, then we said, "uh, we're here for the bar". she phoned upstairs, confirmed that there was space, and led us to it. I'm not sure if this counts Hourglass Tavern as a speakeasy really, but still awesome! they have happy hour from 5-10 every day? THIS IS RELEVANT TO MY INTERESTS. we wondered why people were drinking from brown paper bags. turns out one of the happy hour deals is a mystery beer in a brown paper bag and a shot, for eight bucks. turns out it's all American brews like Shipyard, Harpoon, River Horse...SWEET! and the shots were Jameson, then Soco & lime (of course we got two rounds)! all three of us got different beers, none of which were bad. atmosphere is killer here: the lighting is really clutch: a small chandelier and real candles, not electric ones. subdued lighting, thanks to the magic of dimmer switches. bartenders were friendly and actually nice to talk to. it's pretty cozy - maybe about 25 people total can fit here. definitely good for a date or a small group of friends. two TVs, neither of which were on jazz music, but not being played too loud, so you can actually have a conversation without shouting it's right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of midtown, yet doesn't feel at all like it. musicians and actors from theater productions seem to make up the bulk of the clientele, which is pretty cool.
(5)
Denise D.
A friend and I were due for some girl talk, and wanted a low key spot that had a late happy hour in the Theater District. Searching around on Yelp I came across Betti Bar, and I was so glad that I did. Though this place isn't technically a speakeasy (there is a large sign out front letting you know it is there), the doorway is unassuming, and looks like the entryway to someone's apartment. You ring a door bell, and enter into a small stairway. I exited the stairway onto the second floor (there is a third floor, which I hear also is a bar, but I can not say anything about that from experience) into the tiniest bar that I have ever been in. It really only had about 4 tables, most of which sat 2, and some bar seating. There were a couple other parties there, which worked out perfectly for us. I read that it got crowded on other nights, but since it was a Monday, it was not. The bar had nice little touches that added to the decor, and gave it a vintage time appeal. The bartender immediately greeted me from behind the bar, and let me know what the happy hour specials were (and that they run until 10pm - Jackpot!). I ordered a glass of wine ($5), and a sangria later (also $5). The sangria was actually really good. There was music playing, but it wasn't very loud, so conducive to easy conversation. Also, when the other two parties had left, the bartender asked if there was anything that we would like to listen to, which is very thoughtful,and cool in my book. My friend and I shared the chicken sliders, and I must say, we gobbled them up quite quick. They were pretty darn tasty. Overall, the vibe is great, the ambiance is great, and service is wonderful, and a definite win in my book. I'll be back!
(4)
Jessica M.
Love the vibe here, the bartenders are super nice. It's a really quaint, unique place with different floors with different ambiances. I've been twice and just had drinks but I loved it both times. They have decent happy hour deals, I think drinks are $5.
(4)
Kerry C.
Hourglass tavern is awesome! It's good food and drink and service with a smile. A great NYC place to eat and drink. It's small and not great for a large crowd on the 1st and 2nd floor.
(5)
Sharone N.
Wonderful, warm and incredibly accommodating. We had NO reservation, competing with the pre-theatre crowd and got a seat quickly. Beth then upgraded us to a window seat without us even having to ask! I had the shrimp entree with polenta(I'm Italian and this was GOOOD polenta!), and my bf had the pork chop. All perfectly seasoned and beautifully presented. Our bill was nothing...I was stunned! Well done friends!
(5)
James K.
I went upstairs to the Betti Bar. It was a small and cute space. A lot of the people there all seem to know each other, so it's probably a neighborhood bar. There's a giant hour glass on the wall that was pretty. My friend and I got the sangria, which was good but not the best I've had. I had a nice time here, though my friend said that she had been before and there was a woman who was running the bar that evening who was more chatty and fun.
(3)
Carol G.
I held a birthday party at the Hourglass Tavern's 3rd floor space for my husband. The intimate space, the delicious food, the wonderful staff and Beth's personal warm attention made it a night to remember. People are still praising the party and the Hourglass Tavern!
(5)
Erin W.
Needed a place near Midtown/Hells Kitchen that would take a group of 5 on short notice and ended up here in one of those "must've been fate"/"count your lucky stars" kind of moments. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel like we were old friends with everyone that worked there. Beth made room for us at the bar while we waited for our #5, even though Bettibar is teeny (adorably so!). Happy Hour is 5-10pm (!!) and we all went for the mystery-beer-and-shot for $8. You really can't beat it, and Beth didn't even mock me when I told her I'd only do it if she could promise the shot would be "girly." It was, and it was delicious. For dinner we moved downstairs to the smaller of the two dining rooms (think 4 tables small) where we kicked things off with two bottles of wine. We asked the (incredibly sweet, charming) waitress for suggestions for entrees and all ended up going with everything she recommended. She didn't steer us wrong, either. Everyone raved about whatever they were eating, from the pork chops, to the handmade mushroom ravioli, to the giant goat cheese and mixed greens salad we got to split as an appetizer. We shared a dessert, leisurely finished our wine, and weren't rushed in the slightest, even as other after-theater diners started coming in. Here's the best part: for two rounds of drinks, two bottles of wine, an appetizer, 5 entrees, a dessert, gratuity and tax included...$225. Under $50 a person for an all around stellar dinner experience. This place is a gem, and even our friends from New York can't wait to go back. Beth also told us about an improv event they do the last Wednesday of every month in the 3rd floor dining room that I'm interested in checking out.
(5)
Leslie W.
Go upstairs to the speakeasy bar - Bettibar! Love this place. Great bartendars, I love the prices, and they have an $8 "Mystery beer in a big + shot" that never fails to put a smile on my face. I take people here all the time!
(4)
Matthew L.
It's a quirky, narrow little place in the theatre district/restaurant row recommended by our guidebook and it's not terribly overpriced - $19.95 for a three course meal + inexpensive Sangria (which tasted inexpensive as well, but that's okay). The prix fixe begins with a spanakopita, which was a pretty standard one - I've had better and worse. The salad and soup were both pretty tasty as well, which came afterward (I had the soup, my wife had the salad - good dressing). While I found my main dish, the lobster ravioli to be delicious, but not spectacularly so, my wife was disappointed in the lack of flavor in her pasta primavera. She felt it was missing tomatoes, at the very least. And when it came to be time to go, it appeared to take at least a half an hour to receive the bill. When you're dining pre-theatre, you don't want to cut it all that close. Of course, they may have delivered the bill more expediently had we made it clear that we were dining pre-theatre at the onset. Of course, my guidebook made me think that we would be forced from our table within an hour, but that rule was probably moot as there were maybe 4 other people in the restaurant at that time.
(2)
Robert T.
Really nice place. Good wait staff
(4)
Lucy R.
Service pretty good, food very uneven. Husband had the vegetable soup (he got the 4 pm - 8 pm prix fixe) which was OK, and the grilled chicken, which he liked. I had the "Lobster Stuffed Ravioli." The menu did say that there was also ricotta cheese in it; what they didn't say was that you really had to look for the tiny bits of lobster in ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Total rip-off. The vodka sauce on the ravioli was pleasant. I also had a side of sauteed spinach, which was acceptable: made fresh and not overcooked. Adult daughter ordered pasta with meat sauce (probably called bolognese or something). It was so salty she could barely eat it, and that was without the parmesan on top. Wine list was miniscule, yet they were still out of one of the two dry(ish) whites they offered. Service was pretty good, nothing special. Initially they tried to seat us upstairs, which one can expect pre-theatre, but be forewarned - it is TWO flights up; the second floor is the bar. I had an issue where I could do one flight of stairs but not two, and they kindly found us a table on the ground floor. Dessert was very odd. We had one fruit cobbler (served in a coffee cup) which was fresh and hot, apparently made in-house. The chocolate mousse cake, on the other hand, was a very small serving of a completely industrial product, sweet with no taste, chocolate or otherwise, and not even fresh - I wouldn't even serve it to a small child. I just can't see why anyone give this place a decent rating. One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of the reviews under the name of this restaurant are actually for the Bettibar on the second floor (something Yelp should fix). For me, next time I'll make a note to call Trecolore earlier in the week.
(2)
E A.
Amazing place. Ate here on my birthday and the service was fantastic. Food was amazing as well. Definitely try the lobster ravioli. Fellow stoma patients out there, there are a variety of options that are safe for you (i.e. no seeds or nuts involved). UC patients, obviously the lack of seeds and nuts and the willingness of the staff to change around menu items to suit particular dietary restrictions is a big plus, but definitely look at the menu beforehand and make sure that you can find foods that suit your particular dietary regime. I would recommend the lobster ravioli (even if you don't have the same dietary restrictions I do, based strictly on the taste). Great place with great food and great service. Will definitely return.
(5)
Stacy Y.
The Hourglass Tavern is a place I like to take friends to that are visiting, staying in the Midtown West/Times Square area, and are looking for something that is not so touristy based on where they are staying but can't go too far b/c they have theatre tickets. Their menu has a good amount of variety to satisfy different likes and dislikes, their waitstaff is friendly and efficient and their prices won't break the bank so you can afford to actually have dinner before your Broadway show and not worry how long it's going to take to pay off the credit card bill.
(3)
Kandi A.
While in NYC for my millionth time, I was looking for something new. Something different. I was traveling with my mom who doesn't frequent the city so I tried to pick places I knew would have good options for anyone. Well, I honestly read about this place in my book and saw it while we were walking around and recognized the name. I was starving and grabbed my mother and dragged her in. We were seated instantly. It was cozy in the downstairs space and by cozy I mean, you can barely move around but I was into it. Me and my mom looked over the menu and decided to get the Pre-fix menu. Great choice! We started with some fresh, baked bread and salad. Both were great ways to start. I had the spinach ravioli as my entree and it was tasty. The pasta was so fresh and the tomato sauce was incredible! I loved mine. But the best part of the meal was the cobbler. It came out nice and warm with a little whipped cream on top. I ate the entire cup. We had plenty of food for the low price of $22 each. It was a steal by any standards. I went home full, happy and with a new favorite place to visit when I come back.
(4)
Lisa C.
Amazing crab cakes! Swift and friendly service! Will make it a must stop next time I visit the area!
(4)
Brad H.
I won't spend too much time on this review because based on my one-time dining experience this was really nothing too special. Regarding the restaurant downstairs (Hourglass Tavern), the food was ok but not great. My wife ordered soup which was marginally better than Campbells, my pork chop was ok but nothing to write home about. The prix fix is a decent value. Service was polite. For area equivalents or for dinner before a show you can do better, at the same price point in my opinion. However... Regarding the bar upstairs (Betti Bar), I was a fan. I has a very chill, laid back atmosphere and some interesting drink options, like a shot with a beer in a bag. The drinks are incredibly well priced for this area of manhattan. I suggest skipping the restaurant downstairs but stopping by the bar above for a drink before your next show.
(2)
Alexander M.
I'm usually a little skeptical of places that have an employee standing on the sidewalk begging you to come in. But in this case I'm pretty sure it's just because it's easy to miss this skinny 3-story bar in the hullabaloo of Restaurant Row. Each floor is progressively more laidback (tablecloths and candles on the bottom, small beer and wine-only bar up top) and it's fun to explore each of the different "scenes." The happy hour specials are good ($5 for wine and sangria, $3 or $4 for beer). My only grievance is no beer on tap. Cute quiet spot for a bottle of red.
(4)
Tim P.
This is for Bettibar. Wife and I had a great time.
(5)
Keith S.
Stopped in here looking for a convenient place to meet some friends. Cozy relaxed atmosphere (a little tight). Good service and a very extensive menu to choose from. My bourbon spare ribs were melt in your mouth awesome! No tap beer but a good selection. For being near the theater district, pricing was a lot better than expected.
(4)
Soup D.
Came here with 3 teens, 9 year old, and 4 adults. We all enjoyed our food, service was great (fun and friendly). We had mushroom, lobster, and pumpkin ravioli, chicken penne, ribs, burger. Everyone had a great meal, great dessert (loved the chocolate lava cake), reasonably priced. Place was hopping on a Saturday night, but we (and other large-ish) groups all got out in plenty of time to make our Broadway shows. Also the restaurant, on three small floors, makes optimal use of the space, which feels cozy but not crowded. Will definitely return!
(4)
Dana L.
We just went for the Betti Bar on the second floor, and it was great. So incredibly chill. Tiny but somehow not cramped. Maybe we just got lucky? We went after a play at around 11pm. The food looked and smelled good, so we will be returning. The bartender was super nice. Someone had ordered some of the stuffed puff things and for some reason had to go, so he gave them to us. They were crazy greasy, but that was really nice! Their happy hour is insane! For the theater district, this truly is a find!
(4)
Carmen M.
This is a charming little place to eat at, nice to sit and look around. The food was o.k. I've definitely had better, I was a bit disappointed. I went for dinner so maybe this place is better for drinks and appetizers.
(2)
Thomas L.
Quirky little place! We were pleasantly squeezed into a window seat. I had the pork chop, which was well prepared. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli. Unfortunately, they ran out of lobster and she chose the mushroom ravioli, which was very good. Excellent sides, like the mashed potatoes and a boatload of brocolli. Great experience and would dine here again!
(5)
Deidra G.
Delicious homemade ravioli! We ate in the restaurant on the bottom floor, and it was so teeny-tiney. You are practically next to the little kitchen, and it was cool to see them prepare the dishes. Our waitress was super friendly and pretty attentive. Very quaint atmosphere; we took a little tour of the second floor (bar) and third floor (overflow for restaurant). Looked like a lot of fun to hang out, but we were catching a show that night and didn't have time. Would definitely return!
(4)
Danielle G.
One of my favorite restaurants in NYC! Just took my in laws for a pre theater meal and it was awesome!!!
(5)
Hui C.
Cute tiny multilevel spot that is really inconspicuous - almost missed it walking past several times. Brunch is really good despite how sketchy it might originally look; would rec the blueberry waffles and the pancakes. Shrimp and grits is very meh, so avoid
(4)
Sarah O.
Great place! Joe was our waiter- he was amazing. Endearing and funny and very kind. Went right before seeing Kinky Boots. Shrimp and grits is the meal to get if you're there for brunch. (I don't eat shrimp nor do I eat grits. However joe convinced me to get and it was great.) Will definitely go back.
(5)
Lisa F.
Alas we had such high hopes for this place after the reviews - we were seated upstairs at the bar. It was busy but not heaving. We were given water & then left to sit for 15 mins without a peep from any server, so.. We left & went across the street to bare burger where we had amazing prompt service & delicious burgers!!
(1)
Seth H.
This place is a restaurant row institution. It's a little crowded, but well worth it. The four stars that I have given are for Betti Bar on the second floor and the Tavern on the first floor. I haven't been to the lounge on the third floor yet so I don't know what it's like. The cocktails are good but I usually order off the happy hour menu. Speaking of the happy hour menu, the Sangria is often a good choice. Best of all, they have a 5 hour happy hour (It's till 10PM)! I would recommend going here during the week, otherwise you can reserve a table on Opentable through yelp. It is very cozy, so don't be surprised if you want to stay and relax. This place is very LGBT friendly, which I find usually means that the bar side conversations are going to rock. Of course like most patrons of restaurant row, you may be going to a show afterwords. That said, they are experts at getting you out the door by 7:45. I hope you find this restaurant row establishment as unique and superior to its neighbors as I have.
(4)
Brett W.
So much to write so I'm going see if I can boil it down. Lobster ravioli was out of this world and the chicken Alfredo was awesome. Very fresh buttery sauce but the chicken was sooo unbelievable. The flavors were amazing very tender and I love the char. However...the short rib was the show stopper. Not too many people can do a short rib. I think most place try to pass off pot roast as short rib. Even fewer cut it like they do. Across 4 ribs. Most do individual ribs. This was phenomenal. If you like short rib you need to have it here The atmosphere is awesome. Quaint 3 story and the service was great!
(5)
Seyoon K.
The place was small and I was seated on the third floor. I ordered short ribs and NY strip. Both were okay but not excellent. I do not recommend wine, however.
(3)
Jemini S.
Happy to have found this place. Went for brunch before a Sunday afternoon show. Great food, music, and drinks!
(5)
Vincent T.
The brunch is excellent. I have tried them all and you can't go wrong with any of them. Ask for Edgar he is the best server. And they serve one of the best bloody mary's in the city.
(5)
Lauren P.
Loved everything about this place--the decor, atmosphere, fresh bread, and meals were delicious. The braised short ribs and bolognese were excellent. The service was quick & made us feel at home. Perfect place to carb load before the Marathon!
(5)
Leah G.
My boyfriend and I grabbed an early dinner here before our 7:00 showing of 'Of Mice and Men'. I know I'm reviewing the restaurant and not the show, but seriously do yourself a favor and just wait for someone to post the show on Youtube. Apart from Chris O'Dowd's stunning performance as Lenny, it was 3/5 stars in my humble opinion (and congrats on that Tony nom, Chris!). Ok yeah... where was I? OH YES the food. I made reservations for 5:15 on that Thursday night. When we got there it was obvious that I didn't need one that early in the day. We basically had a pick of the house. There are three stories to this 1893 charming little building and we went straight up the creaky stairs to the top. Let me tell you, this place is small and not too impressive from the outside, but then again what in Manhattan looks good from the outside? You don't go to a place to stare at the outside of the building. So the top floor has maybe 9 or 10 little tables in it and a quaint little bar immediately to your left as you walk in. The gentleman taking care of us pointed through the empty room to the romantic corner table for two right by the window. I admitted that I wouldn't remember his name and he admitted the same, but insured us that he would remember us by our drink orders, but this guy game the most earnest and welcoming customer service we have ever experienced. Customer service isn't the right word for it..... hospitality. Chris (I did indeed remember his name ^_^) welcomed us frightened tourists off the loud mean Manhattan streets and let us straight into his home. This guy was SERIOUSLY the epitome of NYC hospitality. So both my boyfriend and I were undecided about what we wanted to eat and drink, which can be the most I'm-about-to-slap-you-in-your-face annoying thing to ever say to a waiter, but Chris offered up his personal favorites and perfect wine pairings to go with each respective dish. I got the pork chop with cumin sauce, double-butter mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli paired with the sauvignon blanc and my boyfriend got Chris's #1 favorite, mushroom ravioli with the pinot Noir. I swear my boyfriend got off on that meal. He didn't say one word while he was eating. It was like he was on a date with the damn ravioli instead of me. Don't get me wrong, the pork chop was cooked perfectly and absolutely melted in my mouth, I just wasnt as sexually attracted to my meal as my boyfriend obviously was to his. It did take a little while to get our food, but that is certainly not a complaint. We were the only one's in Chris' room for almost the whole time we were there and I was having a damn good time just chatting it up. He also went down to the kitchen more than once to see how it was coming which I greatly appreciated but, again, that's not a complaint. I enjoyed the entire experience 100% beginning to end. All in all as much as I want to explore and experience new things every time I go to the city, I think I'll definately pay the Hourglass Tavern another visit.
(5)
Sheree D.
Very small place --- the food was good! We had a 5:00 seating and we were rushed through dinner. Our appy came and not soon after our entrees came. We mentioned it to the.owner and he explained that the wait staff was gearing up for the 6:00 theater rush.
(4)
Donald M.
Very small but very nice. Food and service were excellent. Only thing that was a disappointment was the "double butter" mashed potatoes. Sounded good but pretty mediocre in reality.
(4)
Elyse A.
My mom and I had a really awesome pre-theatre dinner here over Easter weekend. I did a bit of research before our trip (we live out of town) and wanted to find a place in the theater district that'd be a simple skip away from the 8pm show. I read the reviews on Yelp and you guys really nailed the whole vibe! Even though I knew what to expect (sort of), I was still very impressed! I know this review is sort of redundant and repeats some points of other reviewers, but this place deserves the praise. Here's the deal with this restaurant: - It's definitely small and a bit cramped. But what do you expect? It's a NYC restaurant just a few blocks away from Times Square. - The service was great. We were greeted immediately and seated fairly soon after. Our waitress was friendly and funny and took great care of us. - I was glad I made reservations! This place was super packed! - We ordered off the prixe fixe menu. I was not expecting much in the way of quality when it came to the food here. I sort of just thought this was going to be a non-offensive cheap meal before the musical we were going to see, but wow. It really impressed me! I ordered the Penne Bolognasse which had a great flavor. And my mom ordered the Orechiette Primavera which was fresh and light and hot and delicious! Who knew the vegetarian option would be the star of the show? The salad was fresh. The tiramisu was great. And the wine we ordered was also rad. What more could we want? A great dinner before the theater in NYC for just about $50? Unheard of. Both my mom and I left feeling very full and very happy. The only downside was that the place looks sort of dingy and outdated. But that said, I'd rather go to an imperfect restaurant with character that knows how to treat its customers and can put out great food, rather than have a place that's shiny and fancy and modern and just mediocre. AMIRITE?
(4)
Steve N.
What a great find in the theater district. From appetizer to coffee, this gem is worthy of trying!
(4)
Yan T.
Wonderful gem on Restaurant Row. I went upstairs to the bar as bidden by Yelp reviews and we had a really nice time in that cozy space (though I didn't get to flip the hourglass...a screw was literally loose). The service was fantastic, from the downstairs waitress to the Betti Bar bartender. They took great care of us and were very accommodating. We both got the orecchiette with a medley of goodies (squash, artichoke, cheese, and lots of olive oil), which was not bad, but somehow the parts were better than the whole. They had a decent selection of beers, including Belhaven ale and porter, and there's a brown bag special that includes a shot for $8 if you want to go the distance.
(4)
Rich F.
We LOVE the Hourglass Tavern. We were there for a quick day trip into the city on a Saturday morning. It was about 11:15am and we were browsing the area knowing we would find a Brunch we could enjoy....Sure enough, Hourglass Tavern came through! Not only did they let us in early to get us out of the cold, but the food and service was fantastic as well. I had the HG Florentine and my wife had the BlueWaffle. I had a little bit of order envy as the eggs were just a tad under-done. But the focaccia and spinach were spot on. I asked for the Hollandaise on the side as I wasn't sure how heavy it was going to be but it was just right. So buttery and creamy! And you can't beat the $5 brunch cocktails. Thank you for the coffee and the Churros! We can't wait to come back. Great for Pre-Theatre matinees!!!
(4)
Irena N.
We had a fantastic brunch here on my mother's birthday. This place looks like someone's very old house - small and narrow and full of stuff, but still charming. We sat on the third floor and it was a bit tight, but still comfortable. Definitely not the place to go with a large group, but perfect for an intimate meal. What a nice experience! We loved the warm little pastries we got at the start of the meal, our drinks (bloody marys and mimosas) were delicious, the food was scrumptious (potato pancakes, eggs and short rib hash, omelettes etc.), and the prices were very reasonable. Our server was friendly, attentive, and hilarious. I'd love to come back.
(5)
Maggie A.
Was looking for a place a bit off the beaten path from the craziness of Midtown (I think Times Square is the WORST) that my tourist parents could enjoy before a show. We went in for Sunday brunch. The ambiance is a little hectic--small seating areas that are crammed together and the decor was a bit disheveled for my taste. However, our waitress was lovely and thoughtful. The $5 brunch happy hour was fantastic--I loved the sangria. I was a little disappointed and underwhelmed in my dish, but both my parents enjoyed theirs. Bathrooms were a train wreck, so I avoided. A good place to go before a show with decent brunch. Definitely much quieter than any other restaurant I've been to in that area, which is a huge plus for me!
(3)
Alexandria U.
Okay where do I start ! The pictures are so deceiving. This restaurant is a hole in a wall ! Everything about it is so unappealing. There's this one lady that greeted us and seemed to be overly pushy for customers which turned us off even more. We didn't even enter the restaurant and she came outside and grabbed my friend Leroy to come on in. We glanced at the menu but something was too shady going on so we left. Worst thing, we were the only customers on a SATURDAY NIGHT! If that's not a tell tell sign , then I don't know what else to say. Definitely not giving this place a chance anymore !
(1)
Nermis R.
I came here for brunch yesterday and I'm sure to be back. I like I like I like. The dishes are just amazing and different if you are looking to move away from your typical brunch offerings. I had the HG Florentine and wow, they were the best eggs Florentine I've ever had (I'm also a huge fan of foccacia bread which made quite a different to me)..The short ribs hash was unbelievable, I ate all of it! Small cozy place. There is a bar/more dining area on the second floor which I look forward to trying out. Highly recommend for brunch.
(4)
Jason L.
Came here for a late brunch. Surprising that we were seated right away. They have 3 levels of seating. We were famished and happy to see the food came out so quickly. We had hourglass blueberry belgian waffle with a side of cheese grits and hg florentine with a side of potato pancake. The waffle was crisp and filled with blueberry. The hg florentine was big and tasty. The short rib hash it came with was flavorful and not as salty as your normal hash. The potato pancake tasted just like a crabcake but with out the crab and was really good. The cheese grits was the only disappointing part. I thought the cheese was somehow going to be incorporated into the grits but no. It was just on the top layer. We also had their mimosa and paloma drink. It was a happy hour special for drinks and was pretty satisfied with it Overall the service was friendly and fast. Food was good quality. Would love to come back here to try their dinner menu.
(4)
Sarah Z.
Stopped in before a 2pm play. It's a great option near a lot of theaters! We had a reservation for 11:45, and were seated as soon as we got there. We sat on the third floor. Seating was spacious and we got there early so we had the room almost to ourselves, it was great! I opted for the potato pancakes, they were so good. They were fluffy and not too heavy. The dill sour cream on the side complimented the salmon and potato really well. I was happy with my choice. My grandparents split the waffles and jumbo. They loved them both! Careful, the jumbo has a kick so steer clear of you don't like spice. This restaurant is a great pre theater option. The ambiance is wonderful and unique too. I love th hourglass theme. Will definitely be recommending to anyone who is looking for a place to eat around the theater district!
(4)
David Z.
Caught them at the rush on a Sunday. Kitchen was a little slow, but the atmosphere on the second floor bar drowned that out. The penne mascarpone is excellent!
(4)
Bill J.
this is a nice place, it is very small and dining areas are tight. We were 8 minutes late for our reservation and the waitress/ manager gave us a hard time about it. Asked us if we wanted to sit outside at 6pm on a hot sticky New York evening, the answer was no. Made us wait 15 minutes and then brought us to a table on the 3rd floor, where many table were open. Food was decent, nothing over the top the waitress was pleasant and service levels were average. You can do much worse in the theater district that is for sure
(3)
Paul M.
Perfectly adequate meal and service in a tiny footprint of a restaurant on the west side. Nothing outstanding but no complaints either, a decent value for the dollar.
(3)
Grace Y.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday afternoon before heading to an art show by the pier. Can't say much about the decor because we sat in the outdoor partition; it was really sunny that day and there was a portable heater by the table which our server promptly turned up to the max. I felt fine because I guess I was sitting in the sun but my friend was still a little chilled. Regardless the seating wasn't a problem. Took a little wiggling of chair but not a big deal. Patrons would come in and out (I sat right by the door) but I didn't really find that disruptive. The only downside was that my coffee went cold in like 10 minutes... Now the food... I got the HG Florentine (poached eggs and spinach on foccacia with salad and short rib hash) and friend got the potato pancakes with salmon and dill cream. I was 100% satisfied with my food, pretty much shaved off my plate. The eggs were done just right, the Hollandaise luxurious, and the hash savory in its own category. For a lack of pedantic food-critic jargon, everything was so yummy my palate was held in rapture (does that even make sense??). I had a taste of friend's dish and I'd just toss in a comment about the potato pancakes - they were super fleshy and firm, delicious on their own without the dill cream. Staff were attentive, friendly, and accommodating. Frequently checking to see if we were warm enough. Quick to serve me another glass of water after I pointed out there was something unidentifiable in the initial glass. Could've just been a flake of potato pancakes that made its way out of their plate, but no questions were asked. Also, FYI the restroom is upstairs by the Bettibar. On a completely unrelated note, a cute guy traveling from LA struck up a conversation (which I wish lasted longer than 30 seconds) with me while we were waiting for the restroom. It was one of the more pleasant restroom waiting experience I've had. (Dear LA with an Armenian accent, if you're reading this - I hope you and your friend had a good time in NYC! Sorry I couldn't give you touristy tips, if you needed any.)
(4)
Tracy P.
Great food! Super friendly service! Can't wait to come back! Fun atmosphere, and the Bettibar is a blast and the happy hour is WAY MORE THAN HAPPY!
(5)
Courtney L.
My favorite happy hour in mid-town, Bettibar is nothing like the Disneyfied area that surrounds it. On the second floor of the Hourglass Tavern, Bettibar has happy hour everyday from 5pm-10pm. Yes, you did read that correctly. Everyday until 10pm. Selections include $5 wine and bottled beer, and a specialty cocktail for $9. They also have an amazing deal for the more adventurous of us out there: $8 for a shot and a mystery beer. Mystery beer comes in a paper bag and everything. Perfect casual but classy atmosphere. Great for a date, drinks with a colleague, catching up with friends, or really any other occasion you can think of.
Came for a late night snack. Had the brisket sliders...meh. My wife had the salmon, it was tasty. The hummus plate was ok, the olives were small, pita was fine. Maybe better for brunch. Maybe I was tired. Eh.
(3)
L L.
So we stumble upon this gem after spotting a sign for $5 drinks.. Palomas / Mimosas / Bloody Mary's / Bellini... as you can surely believe our group stops and sets up shop outside. The owner Betti was such a treat! The menu is easy.. something for everyone and price is more than fair. She sold us on this delicious fig and goat cheese salad in addition to our brunch items. The building offers a bar on the 2nd floor and additional seating on the 3rd. The venue has this old charm and history. Check if out and if you are lucky you get to experience Betti which is better then any dessert special they have on the menu !!
(4)
Bella B.
Excellent !!! Excellent !! Service was beyond expectations !!! Beth was so professional and with a heart of gold and our waitress Maria the best of the best !! We will be going back there after our Broadway Play !!
(5)
Ashley A.
A cute Italian place, aka my favorite kinda place. They had a nice menu, friendly staff, and neat environment. Everything I require. This is more of a date night, or night out with friends environment. Not that they wouldn't be lovely to children, but it's very small and could be a little tight for smaller parties. Hint: get the spinach ravioli!!!
(4)
L S.
My husband and I went to NYC for our honeymoon and this was the BEST bar that we found. We didn't eat, but went upstairs to the speakeasy bar, which is amazing and cheap. Really cool vibe. The bartender was sweet and really attentive. We met some wonderful locals who were happy to talk to us. Note: we are theatre people and that's the type of people we met. On Saturday night, they had a mystery shot + beer for $10. That's an amazing price for a bar in New York.
(5)
Karen M.
Ambience, service (courtesy of Greg our server), prices, convenience to theaters, all worthy of praise. Seems all in my party were happy with their meals. I ordered the pasta veggie dish on the fixed price menu and it was kind of blah. I think they forgot the seasonings. All in all a delightful meal and restaurant. I wouldn't hesitate to return but would definitely order something else.
(4)
Brandon E.
We came here the other night before going to see Drunk Shakespeare. We've been wanting to give it a try but couldn't get a reservation, but because this was 5:45 dinner had no problem. I won't discuss the space issue, it's small, that's it. I was kind of underwhelmed. I read all the reviews about the service, etc. The service wasn't bad, but it wasn't outstanding either. We felt rushed the entire time. We received our check as soon as our desserts were placed in front of us, for a nicer restaurant that is kind of a no no for me. I know you need to flip tables, but not just slam my check down before I'm even done eating, this wasn't the lunch rush. The timing of all the apps, entrees and dessert were fine but it was just kind of dropped off. Again, not bad, but not amazing. The prices are all really decent for restaurant row. The prefixe theater menu was nice. My wife ordered that, and I ordered it with the $10 up-charge to get the short ribs. The vegetable soup was delicious, had a decent spice to it, my wife didn't like it that much because of it. I thought it was great. The bread they give you is also fantastic. The ribs were OK, just that. They needed a bit more seasoning, or a sauce or something. There was just something missing. The mashed potatoes were meh. I had to add Parmesan cheese and salt to give it a little flavor. The dessert was ok, the cobbler was the better option. I got the tiramisu, as other's have said, it really isn't tiramisu, it's more a mousse with a small lady finger attached, it was ok too. The house wines are really decently priced at $6, so no complaints there. I just thought it was AOK, just kind of average. I don't know if I'd come back, but I might to try the sliders or something a little simpler.
(3)
Thomas M.
Good food at a solid price, the Hourglass Tavern has charm that only an old brownstone can bring. And I do mean old. It's most likely one of the older buildings in Manhattan that isn't deliberately preserved by some historic act. The food is plenty good with big portions at a great price. A steak can be had here for $18 and that's really hard to beat. It didn't come with much sauce though, but I'm sure you can ask for extra gravy (it's really good). The mash is also tasty here with hints of garlic. Nice spot if you're ever in this part of town. I also caught a glimpse of the second floor bar and while small, it had a great cozy feel. The entire building is unique because it does feel like someone's house transformed into an old timey restaurant/bar.
(4)
C W.
Great Bloody Mary, very cool atmosphere, the food is very good. Our waiter, Joe's was awesome made us feel very welcome. With all the choices on Restaurant Row, this is a pretty good bet.
(4)
Michelle L.
What a great place on restaurant row. Making our first night out in the city perfect. Unique, historical, fun and delicious. Beautiful beet salad, savory Shrimp Catalina and to die for blueberry and apple cobbler. Definitely going back before I leave NYC.
(5)
Patrick B.
Excellent food for all five of us at our table. Honestly best food we had in NYC. I am attaching all the pictures if our meals. Seriously stop here - enjoy a drink and dinner . We ate outside - only issue the have is that they need to extend the drip hose off the AC unit . Was getting splashed as I was sitting up against building.
(5)
Doug M.
We went with a group of 8 for pre-theater. Went upstairs to the cozy dining room. Really friendly service checking in downstairs and by our waitress upstairs ('try this drink, if you don't like it it's free and I'll drink it"). The food was very tasty, better in many ways than you would think from the outside of the place. The soft shell crab special was a hit with 2 of us, as was the crusted tilapia and veal chop. I had the short rib -- a different cut of short rib than I've had before but still tender and flavorful. Four negatives almost brought it down to a 3-star review: * It worked out to $65 per person, a bit on the steep side for what we ordered and the limited drinks we had. I would encourage you to try the prix frix menu. * Served with our main course was large hunks of boiled broccoli. No salt, butter, bread crumbs, roasting, etc. Just giant hunks of boiled broccoli lol. Not what I'd expect for $65. * Double butter mashed potatoes tasted neither of salt or much butter, and were grainy (not lumpy which I don't actually mind, just a bit mealy like they used the wrong kind of potato). * A few people got the fruit cobbler with their meal for dessert. Not a nice texture or flavor profile -- more like a hot cup of melted fruit. I'm sticking with 4 stars though because everyone really did like the main food and the service was really very nice. Just try out the prix fixe for your first time.
(4)
Maria F.
The Hourglass is a friendly local joint, on the far side of the restaurant row strip. Always friendly, always quirky, totally geared toward comfort food, it is a great choice when you want more local color than tourism, and are looking for simple but well prepared, large portion entrees. It is VERY reasonable, especially in comparison to the other choices on the strip (check out the Prix Fixe options). I guarantee you will find yourself chatting amiably with other New Yorkers (or lucky tourists) about anything and everything. Always fun, entertaining and reliable. Worth a visit--- you'll be back!
(3)
Cindy C.
It's a quirky place with better than average food! Most of its customers go right before the theater, so there are hourglasses on the wall to time the meal to make sure customers don't miss their show. Cute! Bread is a free starter and it was super oily.... but tastes great! We ordered BBQ beef sliders and spinach ravioli. Both were delicious!! In all, it's a nice hole-in-the-wall for something quick. This place is between 3- and 4-stars, and I settled on 3 because it's out of the way for me to go to and isn't on my top 3 if I'm in the area.
(3)
Zhichun L.
Decided to go for a Sunday brunch. I ordered a waffle. It arrived 25 mins later which is soooo dry and hard to chew. The plate came with four pieces of waffles and I can't even finish one. I complaint to the waiter that it is obviously overdone and he simply said" oh okay" and kept being cool. Later when we asked for check, my friend complaint again about the waffle so the waiter "nicely" offered us 15% off( which is always there on yelp). Not a good customer experience.
(1)
Alexandra C.
The food and service is wonderful! This is my go-to before a show. Make a reservation, try to sit on the 2nd floor bar area. The specials on drinks are so great for the Theatre District. My favorite midtown restaurant!
(5)
Brian C.
I'll be honest -- I stepped in here not knowing what to expect, fearing that Hourglass Tavern would turn out to be a tourist trap. Tourist trap or not, the food was excellent! We dined upstairs, and the decor was pretty eclectic. It was very interesting how the restaurant was built into old/original tenement housing, and I thought that added to the charm of the establishment. We had a very friendly and very accommodating waitress that made sure we had a great dining experience. The menu is large and has plenty of options to satisfy the pickiest of people. All the food descriptions sounded so good that it was hard to choose just one dish. I ended up going with the lobster ravioli, which I was reluctant about because of how skimpy ravioli dishes can be, but I gave it a shot anyway because it came with a rave review from our waitress, and she also mentioned that they're made in-house. It turns out that this lobster ravioli would become the best lobster ravioli dish I'd ever had, and the portion was hearty and filling as well. The raviolis were large and stuffed with cheese and lobster bits, and the pink sauce that came with it was really, REALLY good. It may seem kind of odd for me to recommend this place for a seafood pasta dish, but seriously, come to Hourglass Tavern for the lobster ravioli and casual ambiance!
(5)
Nicole D.
Best Brunch Ever! Joe the server is my new favorite dude. Everything about my experience I am in love with. Will come back again and again. I had the crab cake Benny. My friend had the hash. Just wonderful. And so much love to mother there!
(5)
Roane B.
I had a friend in town and we were walking around and decided we needed to stop in for brunch. We went to the 3rd floor and had a great server who took good care of us. Its a small place but the feeling of it is excellent. It had a lot of jazz themes on the walls and the music was very classic. It gave a good old fashioned southern type of feel. All it needed was a band and a dance floor and I'd be there every night. The food was very good and my 2 friends and I split our meals. If I am in the area again it would be worth trying for a few more dishes to see if they are just as good.
(5)
Joseph A.
Went there for a relaxed sunday brunch before a 3pm show. We had a 1pm reservation. The service was great and the staff very attentive. I had the chicken club sandwich with roasted potatoes. The food took a while to prepare as the kitchen was very small but it was served hot and fresh. There is limited outside seating and the ground floor only has a few tables but there are more levels with additional seating. Overall the experience was very pleasant and I would reccommend it for a before or after theater dining experience, just allow a 1/2 hour extra time for food preparation. The menu is simple and not too complicated. I am sure there is something for everyone.
(4)
Emily O.
So so. I had chicken soup which tasted store bought. My boyfriend had crab cakes which he said were tasty. I thought the bread was a little bland as well. Would definitely go back to try brunch...but probably not dinner again.
(3)
Tre F.
To put it simply, one of the best meals I have ever had in NYC. My sister and I stopped in after catching a show. My sister was looking a little crazy because the restaurant was not "nice" in her opinion. For me, I found the place to be full of charm. We were seated on the 3rd floor which is a small room, but the instruments on the wall made the decor eye catching. Ok, the best part. We both ordered a drink called a Brooklyn flower. Awesome drink. It's so smooth, which could be a slight problem because I was really taking them down. Not a drunk, but man was it good. My sister and I split the crab cake and shrimp appetizer. Truly amazing. I didn't try the shrimp, but it won my sister over. The crab cake was superb. For my entree, I had the veal chop with mashed potatoes and the spinach. So good. The food was excellent all the way around. Made Jen really happy. The other aspect that was amazing was the service. Our bar tender/waitress was extremely friendly. Great service by her. The place was not too busy, so she took a lot of time with us. Maybe, if there were more people, i would not have felt so cared for. Regardless, she was great. Food was great. Love this place.
(5)
Edmund M.
Interesting little place. Great for an intimate get together but not much of a scene. Reminds me of an East Village dive. Food was good but not great. Service was good. I'd go back but not my first choice in the area...
(3)
Giacomo C.
2.5 stars. The 3-story setting is interesting, and so is the interior. They make their own bread, and it is delicious. Polenta: just ok; the sauce was flavorful, but the polenta could have been warmer. Burger: asked medium-rare, it was brought almost well done; not a fun of the patty's quality either, but the excellent bun kinda made up for it. Tiramisu: it was a mousse, not a tiramisu, and it was just a bite. Overall, it's a cute spot with professional service and decent American dishes, but nothing to rave about. I didn't have bad food, but nothing I had stood up to be particularly good. They have a good pre-theater price fix for $22, though.
(2)
Jennifer R.
Wonderful birthday brunch!!! Staff and owner made the experience extra special. Frankie the waiter was delicious too. Would definitely return for more great food and yummy drinks.
(5)
Adwoa B.
The Hourglass Tavern is a quaint spot with awesome food. The ambience of the restaurant is great- dim lighting, small, and awesome service. Our waiter, Phil was very engaging and friendly... He made sure we had everything we need and was very understanding about us being late for our reservation and waiting for another person in our party. The food was awesome. My table ordered the crab cakes, the lobster ravioli, the braised short rib, and the grilled cheese. Everyone finished every single piece of food on their plate. It was that good. The only thing I would change about my experience would be to have a more concrete dessert menu. Other than that, this place is fantastic. The pricing is also great compared to many other restaurants in that area.
(4)
Lauren I.
Drinks were OK. Food was kind of bland but OK. It was rather quiet and calm which was a nice change of pace for NYC. Bartender/server (two in one) was very personable. Bathroom very tiny and kinda dirty.
(3)
Kimberly Y.
See a show and then go to the Hourglass Tavern for some cheap, juicy chicken! Probably the best chicken I've ever had in a restaurant... And I eat out a lot. And order chicken a lot. I was craving chicken and was worried since breast is usually too dry for me. I have NO idea how Hourglass does it, but the breast is juicy and tender, as if each bite were cut from right next to the bone. The cumin sauce adds great flavor to an already juicy chicken. The double butter mashed potatoes are indeed buttery, but amazingly fluffy. The broccoli wasn't too memorable; I'm just glad the dish had some vegetables. I found the portions to be perfect (if you're hungry, get an appetizer or dessert), and the prices are extremely reasonable! My boyfriend had the salmon and wasn't too pleased with it. He tried my chicken and was instantly jealous! (Don't worry, I shared.) The Tavern is more of a restaurant on the bottom floor, with the BettiBar upstairs. There aren't too many tables downstairs, but it can still be a little cramped. The servers are extremely friendly, though they didn't necessarily come by as often as I wanted. I will definitely be back every time I see a Broadway or Comedy Central show in the area!
(5)
Kirk M.
Home cooking! Tasty food, friendly, warm environment and big on Pre-Fixe in the heart of the Broadway Theater district. I have been coming here for 17 years! Low on seating so have a reservation, this place is always a hit, whereas the show I go to see after, well, not so much.
(4)
Mike Z.
It's a New York staple to hit up before going down the street to see a Broadway show, hence the hourglass by your table when you walk in. Very small and quaint with tons of people walking by - it's what you expect of New York. The service is fast but friendly. They are so busy yet this still take time to throw a witty joke in there while you wait for your food to show up. Prices are very reasonable and the food is nothing adventurous by any means but they put out a great product. It's comforting and simple. Just do it well and everyone is happy - and they do that, so the people are happy. I'd come back because it kind of has a sentimental factor to it for me now but regardless, it's worth a stop in for a traditional type dinner restaurant. Grab a bottle of wine too, it's cheaper than grabbing a couple glasses.
(4)
Joe O.
Went there for Brunch on Saturday. Great greeting by staff and owner. Ushered to third floor dining area. Great setting. The place has charm and character but not a place to go if looking for modern. We loved it. Food was fantastic. Potato Pancakes with salmon was incredible as was chicken club my partner had. Great drinks. We enjoyed the place so much came back for drinks and dessert after theater. Had the same great experience. It is classic NYC charm.
(4)
Johnny B.
Found this place on Yelp searching for Happy Hour deals. It lived up to my expectations. FYI that the bar is actually upstairs and it looks like it is next door. Also there are some dudes (patrons) always sitting outside that are chatty and want to ask you how you're doing and where you're going. A little intimidating, but they (appear to) mean no harm. The service was great and attentive, and the food was delicious.
(4)
Tara C.
One of my new favorites in NYC, and if I were a local, I'd be here constantly. I was here for a party thrown by a friend, and we PACKED the place. I felt bad for anyone who was trying to get into the mid-level bar. Charlie was our bartender, and he did a fantastic job of keeping everyone supplied and happy. As people started to trickle out to dinner, there were about 8-10 of us still milling out and still hungry. As we debated area restaurants to try out, Charlie kindly offered to set us up upstairs and take advantage of their restaurant. I'm so glad he did that for us. The service upstairs with Kelly (sp? sorry!) was fantastic, and the food was delivered with great timing and delicious to boot. Everyone was helpful, accommodating (to a varied group of very loud people) and when were done, they pointed us to O'Flaherty's that also took great care of us. Overall, a fantastic experience.
(4)
Mashel R.
We loved introducing Beth to the Moscow Mule. May have been the first one she ever made but it was dang perfect. Leaving a touch of Pittsburgh at the Bettie Bar leaves us feeling all special and stuff. We plan on being a regular for years to come.
(5)
Jenna M.
Coming here was a major disappointment! Based on the other really complimentary reviews, I chose this restaurant for a pre-show dinner with friends. Was extremely underwhelmed by my experience. Pros: -good/ friendly service -convenient location to many theaters -reasonably priced Cons: -the food lacked flavor and any excitement. Edible, but you're better off spending more at another restaurant for something good. Every member of my party agreed with this... It was not just one bland entree. -lacked any sort of ambiance. I ate on the first floor and it was very narrow and dark (I'm aware that there's at least one other floor above the entry level, but I did not take the dark skinny staircase up to see it). I would never recommend this restaurant and would never return. I've never written a yelp review, but I was compelled to do so just to clear up the misconception that this place is worthwhile!
(1)
Lb G.
well priced, good simple food. Will be back
(4)
Bonnie H.
Four of us ate here after a Sunday matinee. The food was very good. Everyone was satisfied with their choice. I plan to go back here the next time I am in NYC.
(4)
Nilson S.
Went there for a later-than-usual dinner as its kitchen is open until later than some of the other restaurants and really liked it. The price is fair for NYC, but the price fix menu doesn't seem worth it. Instead, we only ordered two entrees (which also come with the free and delicious just-out-of-the-oven bread). I ordered the pork chop and my girlfriend ordered the lobster ravioli, which were both delicious. The ravioli is a small portion, though it was enough for her, it wouldn't be enough for someone who eats a lot. It was a bit weird as we were on the first floor all alone, so the waitress would just stay there looking at us (as the place is fairly small and basically there was nowhere else to look at). It seems the bar upstairs is where all the fun really goes on, but we just wanted to have a nice dinner and go back to our hotel. Maybe New Yorkers won't enjoy this place, but we loved it. And the price is definitely fair. PS: we're Brazilian tourists in New York
(4)
Billy C.
Had the shrimp, nice flavor sauce. The rice was good, a little dry. The broccoli was slightly under cooked. Good to try it out once.
(3)
scott s.
First off, I ordered a whiskey and sour. Which apparently used real lemon and lime and was undrinkable The bartender was kind enough to water it down and then give me a beer instead Not a big space, but kinda cozy
(4)
Angela V.
Love this find! The waitress / owner made me my ideal dish of spicy shrimp, spinach, and garlic mash. It was as though she'd read my mind. Drinks were great. Nice neighborhood feel. I will definitely be back here next time I'm in NY! Thanks Beth!!!
(5)
Chris B.
If you're in Midtown looking for a break from the touristy/chain fare, look no further. The food is fresh and well prepared, the ambiance is quaint and fun and the prices reasonable. The service we had was typical NYC, which is to say, barely there. If the food were just a little more adventurous and the server didn't seem like we were bothering her, I'd give it four stars, and either way would go back if/when I find myself looking for a casual bite in Midtown.
(3)
Alice M.
loved the atmosphere great server the food was ordinary.upstairs bar way cool
(2)
Alan L.
I've been to a lot of tavern's in my day but the Hourglass Tavern is the best by far. There beef short rids were the most tender ribs I've ever eaten.The meat falls off the bone with you just picking at with your folk. They also have great specials every evening. One of the owners ,Beth Sheinis is a great host. She will attend to all of your needs .Even more so if you have young children. When your in the theater district this is your best choice for outstanding food and a great atmosphere. I can't wait to come back!!!!!!
(5)
Olga K.
Food and drinks are killer.
(5)
Ryan G.
This is a hard review to write, asI have family members I would sacrifice to save this place from a fire. A littlewhile back on a dreary winter night I got a craving for a burger, the kind of itch that just needed to be scratched. I'd have jumped on a subway downtown to some 24 hour bodega to get a burger that night... After calling all my local burger options and failing miserably, I was getting more desperate by the second. Not sure what inspired me to think of it that night, but on a few occasions walking by this tiny little homey looking place it always seemed to have a consistent flow of cool local peeps stopping in for drinks and grub late night. I quickly looked it up online and it popped right up... It's kitchen closed 10 minutes ago. ERGG. Being me I called anyway hoping for a doggy bag filled with two life saving burgers. The "waitress" on the phone was extremely sympathetic to my cause and unbelievably insisted we come in for dinner. Never having been inside this place before, we sat at this window table tucked away in the corner and preceded to observe the really cool, kinda antique, kinda trendy, 100% homey restaurant. On the menu loud and clear was "Big Ass 12 oz. Angus Beef Burger" I was so happy I could almost cry. We split that and a salmon entree to get a good feel for the place. We had decent expectations, but not over the top, and when it came to our table, wow. The food seemed as if a loving mother cooked it herself super home-style, my mouth is watering even thinking about it now. We've since tried just about everything on the menu... This place does food right. Our waitress that night turned out to be one of the two owners. Beth wound up sharing hysterical stories and anecdotes about the neighborhood and this building which is apparently 500 years old. This wound up being of the the best nights and experiences we've ever had in a NYC restaurant not being a regular. We didn't know it at the time, but there are two additional floors of awesome. The second floor, my personal favorite, is the bar. I once counted 16 tea light candles in every random place you can imagine just on this floor. It's impossible to not notice the extreme devotion the owners must have gone through to make this place look incredible. From a broken glass mirror to the numerous antique hourglasses on the walls its very nicely done. You are able to order from the full menu on both the second and third floor along with the longest happy hour I've seen in NYC from 5-10pm at night every single day. Next is service, the extremely diverse staff at this establishment consistently go above and beyond to make you feel like this is home. Creating a relaxed, but fun atmosphere where you can always find interesting people and locals mingling. Each bartender is very different, but brings a great vibe into this place. Besides, the drinks here are unbelievable, this is the place to order anything exotic or one of the specialty cocktails. Never a watered down concoction of cheep simple syrupy garbage, they use the good stuff and aren't stingy! This place has charm oozing out all over, including the narrow, uneven stairway which makes the top two floors the opposite of handicap accessible. I'd give em 6 stars if I could and can't wait to be back.
(5)
Thao N.
I absolutely loved this place. It has three floors - the first floor was completely empty, but the tiny 2nd floor bar was pretty full. My date and I managed to grab a table and order some happy hour drinks - nothing spectacular, $5 wines and sangria. Our food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallop and shrimp skewers, and they were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The sauce was so good - tangy and sweet. My date ordered the mushroom ravioli, which was very good, but a very small portion. Our entrees were pretty much the same price ($15-$16) but mine was certainly a better values. Seriously, those shrimps and scallops were MASSIVE. We will be back for sure. I think this is the best $50 dinner we have had yet in Manhattan. I'm not sure why people call it a tourist trap - maybe because it is on Restaurant Row? It's not at all, and the bars on the 2nd and 3rd floor are super cute.
(5)
Bruce C.
Here's why I gave it a five star rating. First, the people who work here are very friendly, accommodating, and honest. Second, the seat we had was outside on the sidewalk on a beautiful early summer day, and it couldn't have been more pleasant. Third, the food was delicious at that price, which was extremely reasonable. Fourth, we had tickets and had to get in and out in a certain amount of time, and our waitress kept us stricly on schedule without appearing pushy or intrusive. She simply did her job on time and as appropriate. Finally, the other patrons were as happy with their meal and experience as we were. So even though this isn't Le Cirque, it's certainly got a much better tasting food for your dollar, and couldn't be a more pleasant experience.
(5)
Jacob T.
I really enjoyed this old-school theater district restaurant! I'd walked by it so many times and their are so many in that area that it never peaked my interest and looked a bit run down. Well, I finally went in to visit a friend bartending upstairs. Teach me to be such a snob. The decor was great, not run down at all. It had real character, and was so different on each floor, but shared a very intriguing menu with a blend of old and new American cuisine. I came back a week later with my husband and no reservation. We were seated immediately, service wasn't especially friendly but was fast and effeceint. I will definitely return.
(4)
Dee A.
My sister and I went here while visiting in New York. My first time to New York celebrating my sister's 60th. We stumbled across Hourglass Tavern in restaurant Row Midtown hoping to find something that we didn't have to wait or have reservations. The food was great!! We ordered the Prix Fixe it came with an appetizer, soup or salad and the main course and dessert. I was excited that they had one of my favorite wine 2007 valpolicella Solane Santi! My Sister had the cobbler and she said it was okay my tiramisu was very good. I'd like to go back next time when I visit. We ate on the third floor it looked like we were in someone's living room my sister asked the server and she politely informed us that it use to be. The whole ambience of the place was great!
(4)
Samantha D.
The food and service was awesome!
(4)
Jennifer C.
Loved it. A friend and I visited the bar on the 2nd floor (the Bettibar) and had some Very Strong Cosmopolitans and a long chat. The place was small and hidden away, which, to me, just added to its charm. It was pretty lively (Friday night), but not super crowded and you could still chat with your party without feeling like your voice was going to give out. I loved the intimate, divey kind of feel...like you're at somebody's houseparty and they have a nice little selection of booze. :) As an aside, I really enjoyed the soundtrack, which consisted of 90s alternative rock (esp. acoustic renditions), and totally took me back to my angsty youth. The food smelled great and looked like it was being demolished pretty quickly. I will definitely be back! The only down side was when we realized it was getting late and asked for the tab to be closed out - the lady obviously had it all ready for us, but instead of just handing me my card and receipt (which she had all printed and ready on the other side of the bar, in plain view) she served drinks to about 4 other people, slowly. My friend had to catch transit so we ended up asking her again to just give us the check, and then she did it...but not very graciously. This made me pretty sad because I was otherwise really happy and excited to come back.
(4)
Kristen M.
On our first trip to NYC we wanted to get away from anything chain related and try all the great food we'd heard so much about. If we hadn't seen positive reviews we might have walked by this small restaurant. On the first floor is the main dining area with only about 5 tables. On the second floor there is a bar (but we didn't venture up there). The menu had many choices from seafood to burgers. I had the salmon fillet with garlic mashed potatoes and my husband has the "big ass burger" (yes, the actual name ). The fish was fresh and a great portion. My husband raved about the hollowed bun that allowed for more condiments on the burger without having to unhinge his jaw. Overall, a cute restaurant with quality food at reasonable prices. A win-win!
(5)
Sydney L.
Great food.
(4)
Kristen J.
Looked adorable, got good yelp reviews but quite frankly didn't deliver......both our meals (short ribs and ravioli) were awful and inedible. Our waiter was very colorful and entertaining - he was the best part of the experience here.
(2)
D L.
This is great little place right on Restaurant Row. I don't go to the theater that often, but I like to come here right after the shows start at 8 PM because you can come in an relax and enjoy the friendliness and eat your food without any rush. Everything is delicious and ample. Scott the server is warm and friendly and makes the experience great. Alternative to eating is just going to one of the bars on the upper floors. Again the cozy size makes for conversation starters. After the shows close the crowds can return and even later you might bump into a "name" or two among the drinkers. Josh and Beth the owners are always around and make it super friendly.
(4)
Paul S.
Had to give it a 5, our meal was awesome. Table on the street, what a show Hell's Kitchen can be, skip the overpriced theater and go here. Had the leg of lamb, cooked perfectly. The pre fixe menu was very nice and quite the bargain for NY.
(5)
Brian M.
I wouldn't have gone into this place if not for the positive reviews. It's unprepossessing, almost dumpy, but the food was simple, excellently prepared and portioned generously, the wine inexpensive, and the service was friendly and good. The prices are very reasonable -- dinner for three with tax, tip and a bottle of wine was $120. One of us ordered from the prix fixe menu. A homey kind of place I look forward to going back to.
(4)
Paris C.
During a recent trip to NYC, went to Hourglass on two occassions, once to the upstairs Betti Bar and another night to dinner downstairs at the restaurant. The owner, Beth, is a very nice and funny woman. Bartenders were friendly and mixed great drinks. Loved the atmosphere of the Bettibar. It was intimate, comfortable and inviting. The restaurant was good, but cannot think of anything memorable, either good or bad. It is quite small and dark, with a very tiny kitchen. Reasonable selection of food, a blend of Italian and Mediteranean. Warm loaf of bread to start was delicious as was the spanakopitas, which were not flaky but more pastry like. I tried bites of the shrimp pesto pasta, which was rather ordinary. Overall we had a nice dinner downstairs but a GREAT time at the upstairs bar the night before. I do believe they have recently acquired this restaurant, which I think will get much better as it seasons.
(4)
Kayleena T.
good food and drinks. nice people. fun idea. i like it.
(4)
Lizzy B.
JUST EAT THAT HOMEMADE CRAB CAKE AND YOU'LL LOVE IT! Working to your preferences 24/7. Always an amazing atmosphere... small, cozy and a perfect getaway for anyone. Can meet so many new and accepting people, best for making new friends and cool connections. The bartenders try hard for creative cocktails with special promotions.
(5)
Laura A.
Small, unique restaurant with only a few tables in the main dining area (1st floor). I have been twice and loved what I ordered both times - they have absolutely delicious lobster ravioli and spanakopita. They have three tiers of prix fixe dinner options, tiered based on prices. The restaurant is located in a great row of restaurants right by Times Square and makes for a great pre- or post-theater dinner spot! Having been twice already, I would definitely return!
(4)
Ellen H.
I was looking for a restaurant for a pre theater dinner that got an A rating from the health department and found the Hourglass Tavern. It had lots of menu options for all types of diners, seafood, vegetarian, light, heavy whatever. A perfect choice and good wine by the glass, not to mention the killer fruit cobbler! If they'd only turned down the music a bit (why do restaurants think they need that?).
(4)
Hannah C.
Great service and a vast menu, but the food is a bland, not a lot of taste.
(3)
Christopher Thomas B.
Had dinner for 2 at the Hourglass after a show----about 1045pm. We dressed appropriately for Broadway and were a little uncomfortable in the unairconditioned space as it was a muggy evening. We ordered the spinach/ricotta and lobster ravioli which were made in-house. The flavors were average---in fact they tasted similar to frozen bag pastas I've had before. The bread was also baked in house and tasted fresh. Visually, I think the restaurant has a nice romantic aesthetic, but the food, while reasonable, isn't very memorable.
(3)
Jaymie C.
Our first night in NY we discovered Hourglass Tavern. We had a wonderful meal and were waited on by Beth, one of the owners. She was the greatest. We even went back a second time!
(5)
Sara R.
Great Sliders! Good WIne! Great lil space upstairs for events. I had a great time here with the Apple Consultant Network. If you're looking for a place to entertain 20 people I'd inquire here.
(4)
Nancy C.
Great funky place for uncomplicated American food. We had drinks in Bettibar and then dined on the third floor. Good service, great food, awesome happy hour drink specials - $5 beers, wine and well drinks. Don't miss it for pre-theater dinner. We had the chicken fetuccine and shrimp catalina and both were well prepared and tasty.
(4)
Taryn N.
Great place! Excellent food, service and prices and a cool, friendly, funky atmosphere. The grilled tilapia, steak and mashed potatoes were delicious and the chicken alfredo looked really yummy. Love that you can get a nice glass of wine for under $10! I would recommend and will be going back.
(4)
Melissa I.
Very average. We went here because of the good rating on yelp. It's a cute place. Very tiny. The food was just average though. I was very disappointed to go here for my night out in NYC.
(3)
J. J.
My husband I went here while visiting in New York. Never been to the city and we wandered the area for a place to eat and stumbled across the Hourglass. It was fabulous! The food was hot, delicious and the friendly staff was amazing. For the price fix you got a ton of food and we didnt leave hungry in the least. If you go, order the home made chicken soup- wonderful! The new owner of the Tavern Beth even came out and chatted with us and was talking to passer's by about their specials. She even gave us suggestions of what to see and do in NYC. A very homey, warm and fun place. We sat outside and listened to the romantic music play and people watched on the streets. Great food for the money and the atmosphere was spectacular. Next time we are in NYC we plan to visit the Hourglass again.
(5)
Kristen F.
My family and I squeezed into this place after a show last Thursday night. It's a tiny space, probably better for couples, but the waitress was very accommodating and set up a table for the 5 of us. She was there by herself, yet was still able to run the whole dining area. The service was speedy and fun... she was able to roll with the corny jokes and teasing my uncle was giving her. We ordered late night appetizers, desserts, and wine. The chocolate cake... OMG, if I hadn't been with my family I would have exploded if you know what I mean ;-) Super cute place, that's very relaxed with scrumptious eats. Perfect for late night post theater.
(4)
Elizabeth W.
Very prompt and friendly. Food was excellent. Fun atmosphere .
(5)
Nathalie B.
Love this place ! I was looking for a place to celebrate my birthday and I came across this one when I added "unpretentious" to the search. And that was exactly what I was looking for, we (about 12/14 people) had dinner at the top floor and it felt like having dinner served at my dinning room, very cozy, casual and down to earth, the food was very good too. The middle floor, the bar can get too crowded but it also has a great vibe. I'm coming back again and again :)
(4)
David D.
We (3 in all) were lured to this place from Time square for their 'Mediterranean' food listing ( as per Yelp search on Iphone.) At first - we couldn't find the place ( elec. sign was off ) There is nothing 'Mediterranean' about it. a regular mixture of dishes. The food was nothing special. Service is OK. The place is small and you have to climb over other eaters - or climb narrow stairs to the second floor. Not for the overweight...and not when the cold wind blows....
(2)
Gloria K.
I absolutely loved this little place. When you first walk in, you get a bohemian 1920's Parisian feel which makes it intimate and romantic. I had the prixe fixe which had some really good bread, salad, an entree and dessert. They have a lot of different beers too and a pretty good wine list. I had the spinach ravioli which was homemade and super good and fruit cobbler which was amazing! It was warm and gooey and creamy all in 1 bite! My friend tells me her tiramisu was really good too. I'm definitely coming back for a date or something!
(4)
Rosie H.
As other reviewers have said, the menu is not inventive and there are probably more interesting places to go. However, this place delivered everything we were looking for: solid food, great drinks, convenient location, ability to make a reservation online, and speedy service. The atmosphere was stylish and cozy and the place was not (contrary to what others have said) filled with tourists, except for us.
(4)
Cory G.
The idea of this place is to have a quiet, romantic dinner, for two, and to leave within an hour. Sounds sweet but... don't go in here if there is a table of 6 people squeezed into the little space and expect to have a romantic night of it! This place is not about the food as the meals all taste like they are from the frozen food isle from the Price Chopper. It's the ambience! And if the place has 5 or 6 tourists sitting around one table yammering on and you're smashed against the wall in the other corner and your wasting your time and money. I like this place. I like what the idea is behind it but while they try to accommodate larger parties it leaves very little ambience for anyone else.
(3)
Penny W.
So glad we found this place. We were in town for NY Marathon weekend. We wanted something quiet and with good food. This place was a lot of fun. We ate at Hourglass Tavern which is on the bottom floor of the brownstone. There were seven tables and one waiter. The waiter was friendly and helpful. We were not rushed at all. We had fun watching the chef deliver all the food for our floor and the two above out of a kitchen the size of a shoebox. The food was OK, but the wine and service were great. We'll be back the next time we are in NYC.
(4)
Lauren B.
I gave this place 4 stars even though it probably should only get 3 in terms of food. The extra star was for the kind staff. My boyfriend and I used to go here from time to time when he lived right on 46th. The food was alright. Its like stuff my mom would make at home. But with most of the meals they give you a retarded amount of grub. A loaf of bread, appetizers, salad, entree, and dessert/coffee. Plus the wine list is decent with good prices. The thing I loved the most about this place though was the decor. 3 floors in an old brownstone apt, which felt like you were eating in your aunt's living room. So cute. Super friendly staff. Try it.
(4)
Lindsay F.
how this restaurant had 4 stars when i was looking for a place to dine before "In the Heights" last night is beyond me. B.E.Y.O.N.D. ME. The establishment itself was charming and small, so i felt comfortable walking in expecting decent food. to say the least, the place was a complete tourist trap, the food was awful, and the sangria tasted like grape juice. to make matters worst, the menu is prix-fix for $21 to $25 and $17 if you want an entree a la carte. i NEVER would have paid $10 for the quality of ravioli i ordered, not to mention $17! so, my sister and i opted to split a prix-fix dinner since we weren't starving and could tell this place was a rip. then the bill came: they charged an extra $4 for a small slice of spanikopita (which would have come with the prix fix) and a $3 plate fee! i left the worst tip of my life just because of the plain absurdity that i had spent money there to begin with. a horrible pre-play destination. do yourself a favor and walk past this place.
(1)
Augusto L.
M girlfriend and I went to this place for a late dinner and everything was great. The place is small but the esthetics are perfect. The exposed brick, cool decorations, and music to set the mood. The lights were dim but not so much that you could not see the person across from you. We were also lucky enough to attend when there were not a lot of people. Since it is a small restaurant, I can imagine it being a bit cramped when all of the tables are full. Food: Pork Dish with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus - The curry sauce was just the right sweetness with a bit of a spicy kick, the pork was soft and moist and the mashed potatoes were just the right consistency! Soup: Homemade Chicken Soup - This was perfect for the cold weather we were battling that night. The broth was very tasty and there was just the right amount of chicken and vegetables in the soup. Bread - Awesome, no other word for it. It was soft, warm, and tasted so damn good! If your a fan of bread, ask the waitress to keep it coming!!! Rib Eye Steak 10 oz with Mashed Potatoes & Asparagus - The steak was ordered medium and that;s exactly how it was served. The meat was tender and super juicy, The potatoes, again, perfect consistency. Asparagus at first appeared to be undercooked but after the first bite, I realized it was perfect! 3 Dollar Sangrias! - One review said that they tasted like grape juice but let me assure you that this was not the case when we went. The Sangria was tasty and had a nice kick. After about 3.5, I was feeling pretty dang good and this is coming from a person that usually has two shots in his hands. My girlfriend is a bit of lightweight and she was feeling very good after the second round. For 3 dollars, you need to give them a shot! Shrimp - The night we went they actually had a special on the Rib Eye plate and you also received a side of 3 large shrimp and dinner for $33! Well the shrimp were very tasty. The lemon seasoning exploded in your mouth and they were cooked to perfection. Dessert - Cobbler - The fruit and crust pieces tasted amazing! The cream was a nice touch but if I had to pick at something about this dish, I would suggest that it be served with ice cream. That would have completed the dessert dish!!! Service - The waitress was very sweet and fast. The only gripe I had was towards the end of the dinner, she seemed a bit pre-occupied with her cell phone and then disappeared for a bit upstairs. I had to ask her for the check. I'll be nice and not knock off a star for such a little thing. Overall, I would highly recommend this place. The entire night ended up costing about $85, not including the tip. That got us 2 main courses, dessert, 6 Sangrias, a small appetizer, and soup. I am rather new to NYC, but I would have to say this was one of the more reasonably priced places that I have been to, I enjoyed the environment, got a nice buzz, and left nice and full!
(5)
Aileen M.
What a wonderful little gem in the midst of all the Broadway chaos! Best 5$ I've ever spent on a happy hour sangria. The pastas are full of flavor and the portions are just perfect and more. Three floors of the tavern to explore, definitely cozy and intimidate. The service is friendly and welcoming, a sure "go back" for me.
(4)
Katie H.
Grabbed dinner here before a show after reading the reviews and we were very happy we found it! It was intimate but not crowded on the first floor. The food was amazing and the waitress was beyond kind and had a great personality. Overall it was a great experience!
(5)
David S.
We went to Hourglass on the recommendation of another friend... It definitely didn't disappoint... from answering our reservation request (same day!) via email to finding us a small table in the window, it was beautiful. We got there early due to theater... it wasn't busy. Service was great... very prompt, funny and great recommendations. The chicken and steaks were wonderful. Wines were good. We were in and out in about 1.5 hours which gave us a TON of time for the show. Thanks!
(4)
Sam F.
Hidden Gem!! First of all, this is not a tavern or bar, but rather a cozy and delectable family owned restaurant. It's something between Italian, Greek and Middle-eastern. I really enjoyed the cozy 2nd floor. It felt like we were in someone's living room (probably because it used to be just that). Service was very fast, and friendly! As soon as we sat down, we had warm spinach pie type things at our table. Warm, flaky crusts, and fresh filling. Who just gives something like that away? Stick with the colorful papers in the middle of the menu (the specials), by far the best deal. You'll pay around $20 for a four course meal. You can't beat that price in the city. After the aforementioned spinach pie, I had a house salad. For my entre, I chose the blue fish, which was a bit spicy for my liking. However, I really enjoyed everything that my friends got! The lamb chops were phenomenal. Five succulent chops, done right! Both penne dishes, their names escape me, were also very tasty. Lastly, I had the tiramisu for dessert, which was much sweater than usual. We got the cheapest pinot grigio for the table, and were very happy. I'll be back, I just hope they still have the lamb.
(5)
Marshall R.
Really enjoyed our pre theater dinner here. I tried the spinach ravioli and my wife had the Catalina shrimp and both were very good. The service was very attentive and polite. The wine was good and the cobbler for dessert was very well made. The price was very reasonable and I would dine here again.
(4)
Samantha K.
Found this place to have dinner with my siblings and cousins the other night. it was definitely not what we were expecting when we walked in, and felt like we were in another city or country. We were on the third floor and after 7:00 the place was empty and they had a music playlist playing Dean Martin and Copa Cabana on repeat. Having said that, the menu is extensive, food was great and not too pricey! I had the grilled cheese on Rosemary bread and my brother in law had the grilled chicken which was amazing!
(4)
Dana S.
Tiny, tiny little place. We went only for dessert and got great service and very large glasses of wine. The desserts were decent, but not amazing. Overall it was pretty good.
(3)
Cassandra S.
I hosted a private event on the third floor with just over 24 hrs. notice and my reservation was taken with no hassle and accommodations were quickly made. When I arrived, I was personally greeted by both of the owners. Our bartender was a delight and did a fantastic job. Having only visited the establishment once prior to the event, I didn't know what to expect and was ultimately blown away. The space perfectly accommodated my 35-40 guests for cocktails (I was told the 3rd floor will seat up to 25 for dinner) and set the perfect atmosphere for the gathering. With a cute bar, and tables around the outside of the room, it was a comfortable place for my guests to mingle and relax. All of my guests were very impressed and incredibly well taken care of. Hourglass Tavern is a gem nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, and I really do look forward to my next visit.
(5)
Laura G.
We went to the Hourglass Tavern before a show on a Friday night based on positive Yelp reviews. It was as good as expected! We were seated right away in a cozy window seat. The bread was delicious and so was my entree- mushroom ravioli. The service was attentive and we made it to the show on time!
(4)
Hazal O.
I went to second floor to bettibar. They have happy hour 5-10 pm which is awesome. Atmosphere was so nice. Almost everybody knows each other except me:)) but i had so much fun.
(5)
Sarah F. H.
I came here in the winter but loved it so much that it's still worth reviewing now. This place is tiny and lovely. Great food, relaxed and competent dinner service (a prize in the theater district), unbelievably good value -- including a four-course $22.95 prix-fix from 4 to 8 pm -- and a delightful atmosphere. I made reservations but didn't need to. Although the place has only seven small tables, two of which are basically expanded windowseats, it didn't get crowded, almost certainly because despite the multiple reviews and awards posted in the windows, people must not know about it. The place is actually three floors tall. On the second floor is Betti Bar, a casually romantic spot for a pre- or post-theater drink with a disproportionately large (but proportionately sweet) bathroom. I didn't venture to the top floor. All the ravioli is home-made, and my spinach ravioli stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce was delicious and not unduly heavy. The menu boasts many sizes of food, from appetizers and entrees to "snacklettes" and "big snackage." There's also a make-your-own option for kids. I would come here with four people maximum, and I would definitely come back. In all my theater-going days, this is one of the best dining experiences I've had -- and it didn't matter, time-wise or service-wise, that my dining partner was 10 minutes late -- despite the hourglass hanging over each table, which, according to old reviews, used to limit each meal to exactly 60 minutes.
(5)
Mark M.
This is my new favorite place in the Theater District. The room is small and cozy, the music is nice, the service is friendly and efficient, and the food was very good. I would have given it 5 stars if the food was amazing. It's rare to find a place that is relaxing during the pre-theater period, but this place nicely fits the bill!
(4)
Denis W.
Comment dis tu "annoying French tourists" in French? because on the day I was there, the place was packed wall-to-wall with them. Came here before our saying goodbye to Rent show (just came to say goodbye..er...forget that). Was in town with the in-laws and wanted to show them a not-overpriced restaurant that was cute. After some reseach, and the suggestions found here, I decided on the Hourglass (better than going to Junior's right?). Maybe it was because of the tourists, but service was spotty and sloppy, and the seating cramped and uncomfortable. I ordered the leg of lamb, in-laws ordered sirlion, and wifey had salmon. The leg of lamb was cooked ok, and tasted pretty good, but had tough and sinewy sections. The vegetables were limp, and mashed potatoes bland. The steaks were functional, but not great. The salmon would have been good if not overcooked. Both the tiramisu and chocolate cake were too sweet, and the filling tasted artificial. Spinach pie was ok, though cold and oily. I wanted to give them a pass because we obviously caught them at a bad night, but there were too many misses. Somewhere between 2.5-3 stars. Will pay more to go to one of the other restuarants next time.
(3)
Jon C.
So mom came into the city to visit and I took here here before we went out for some entertainment. This place I feel had so much potential, but similar to my tax return, left me wanting more. The appitizers we were served had no business ever leaving the kitchen, and the service was medicore even though there was only one other table to wait on. The being said, my lamb chops were possibly the best I've ever had, the were literally so tender I could cut them with my fork, "My fork?" you say, yes my fork, I too was amazed. The desert was ok, but forgettable, I may return if I was in the area, but wouldn't plan an evening around it. This place could've easily gotten 4 or 5 stars from me, but the app + bad service are two serious strikes that I can't overlook when we were practically the only ones there.
(3)
Mark G.
Terrific little, and I mean little pub on Restaurant Row that's friendly, reasonably priced with real good food. Yes, it is on Restaurant Row!
(4)
Amalia M.
Love this place! Many happy memories here, eating dinner after a show. Food is simple, but very good. Really friendly, family run place.
(4)
M W.
Prix Fixe menu at 24.95 great value. Appetizer, salad or soup, choice of several entrees (I had v good chicken breast) plus dessert. My husband had steak off the regular menu which was very tasty. Service was extremely pleasant for NYC.
(4)
Maria T.
amazing!!! the food is crazy delicious...the price is typical new york prices..wine was great...and service was awesome. The owners are the sweetest and most humble people you will ever meet. Been here a few times, considering its right across the street, but I will definitely be coming back... check out this place. Cute decor, nice service, and delicious food!
(4)
Brenda P.
Went for a quick bite before a show. Food and service were very good. I had a flat iron steak, my husband the sirloin and they were great cuts cooked well. My only gripe would be that it was cramped. Many mentioned cozy, which it was; but since it's a smaller place all workers end up frantically running past your table every 2 seconds...a bit distracting and didn't make for a relaxing dinner, but a good one.
(3)
Michele R.
How I loathe to write a negative review but here I go. And why? Because honestly, this put such a damper on the already rainy evening and I do want to spare some other poor shnook a dismal experience. Firstly, it feels OLD, but not in a well preserved way, in a musty odor kind of manner. Still, hope springs eternal which is why they call it hope but this was soon dashed by a piece of steak I would not feed to my neighbor's dog let alone my dinner companion. It was more fat than anything and for the first time in our dining jaunts, it was sent back! Now I am sure my fellow yelpers can rightly understand that truly dashed any chance of a satisying dining experience prior to the theatre. To top it all off, the soda was flat and we were informed by our less than happy to see us waiter, that this was just the way the soda was; sorry folks. If the guy wanted a decent tip if any and yes we did leave him one regardless,( it was the cook we really wanted to boil in oil) ; he woud have hightailed it over to corner bodega for two cans of cola and behold, we would have had at the very least a little fizz instead of a dinner that so totally fizzled out. So in short, the Hourglass Tavern is so aptly named as it felt like it was HOURS before we could say "Sayonara" and we shall NOT return. Oh, I had the lobster ravioli and to be fair, next to the steak, it was at least edible. I guess REVENGE is a dish best served cold which is what the Hourglass Tavern leaves you feeling.
(1)
Steve S.
Hourglass Tavern is a restaurant row eatery with a variety of prix-fixe options for the pre-Theater crowd. In fact, there were so many options on the menu that it made ordering a quite difficult. We enjoyed the homey feel of being able to eat right in the kitchen. The service, however, was slow and the food was simply not that good. I ordered the steak from the prix fixe. It was serviceable but had no flavor. My friend was similarly not impressed by the soft-shell crab. We ordered a bottle of wine (don't remember what it was) for $17 and it was almost undrinkable. I'm giving it three stars because the food was not terrible, but just nothing to write home about. In short, there are better choices along restaurant row for pre-Theater dining.
(3)
Gretchen W.
I can't say enough good about this restaurant. It's perfect for anyone going to the theater. The owners are usually there and are friendly and casual. Food was great; reasonably priced. They are open until the wee hours so you can make reservations to go for dinner or drinks after the theater also. The spinach ravioli is fantastic!
(4)
Michael J.
One of my favorite local spots for drinks and socializing. The food is decent and the atmosphere is fun yet intimate.
(5)
Karisa G.
I thought I loved this place before I even arrived. However I was greatly disappointed. I could have cooked and seasoned the food better myself, I got shrimp and scallops Aka fishy tasting over cooked crap. The broccoli that it came with was raw and unseasoned. My boyfriend got the pork which was tiny and dried up over gross mashed. Our bill came to $ 42...$7 for iced tea and a sprite. I couldn't be too mad b/c of the nice waitress and cozyness of the place. But I am still very disappointed at the waste of money this meal was.
(2)
Lawrence F.
I have been going to the Hourglass Tavern for years but I will never eat there again. I went last evening with a dear friend prior to seeing a Broadway show and there was only seating at the upstairs bar (no problem there). We sat down and there was a VERY LOUD and drunk group of 3 ( 2 girls and one guy) kids there. We asked them very kindly if they could lower their voices. This only stirred their intoxicated brains and they began to bang on the tables and became even more boisterous. The staff there was simply clueless. Other patrons were also very agitated with their behavior. Before anyone got hurt (and it wasn't going to be me) we decided to leave. As we were leaving they once again started banging on the tables like neanderthals. As we walked out we came across more kids who too were drunk (6pm), it was a pathetic site. Restaurant Row has indeed gone down-hill. I cannot eat in an establishment that cannot control or do something about drunkard patrons.
(1)
Nobody M.
Nothing here was bad...the food, the service, the cute little rooms-all of it was good, but I wasn't blown away by anything. If your typical meals consist of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and/or other chain restaurants, cruise buffets or church potlucks, you'll be blown away by the food here. But if you're a bit more discretionary, you might be a little disappointed. Hourglass' menu consisted of a lot of "specials" which were each xerox'd hand-written full page descriptions....it was a little irritating shifting through a half a ream of colored paper. I'm sure it's all part of their system, but it was jankey. If I lived around here, it might be a place I'd frequent due to the reasonable prices and lack of tourists, but when you only have a few days in NYC, consider a few more options first.
(3)
charley s.
Pedestrian food. Passed off a brand X drink for a Baileys. Seated pre - theatre Sat. nite table for 2 in second floor room with group of 12 including young children. Granny put out because no chocolate milk. Must have thought it was Chucky Cheese. If for low prices would be a 2 not a 3. Overall meh.
(3)
Whitney W.
We stopped by for dessert and drinks. The food was really good! We got a chocolate cake and a pear apple pie. It had a more homemade touch rather then fancy shmancy. It isn't up at the professional level cooking, but still very good. I LOVE the atmosphere here. The woman who served us had a nice quirky personality rather then just strait up business. She treats her customers like long time friends. Very Refreshing.
(4)
Foster K.
I brought my parents to the famed "Restaurant Row" hoping to find a place that didn't gouge out-of-towners, and thankfully we chose the Hourglass Tavern. The restaurant is really cozy, lots of dark wood and we practically climbed over tables to get to our spot in a corner on the second floor. This was a good thing - it really reminded me of restaurants in Montmartre. We ordered a bottle of wine, and then each of us chose one of the seemingly endless meal choices. I had lobster ravioli (they just don't make it on the left coast!), and Mam and Dad had trout and lamb. Let's not forget that these included soup or salad, dessert, and coffee! All the entrees were great, and Mam said that the Tiramisu was the BEST she'd ever had. This is no small feat - my Mother has turned over every rock in Boston's Little Italy looking for the best Tiramisu, so she knows what she's talking about! As if the food wasn't shockingly good enough, the bill came to a grand total of $78! What a deal! I'd say it's likely we'll be back here!!
(5)
Mary Beth K.
Great little restaurant & bar on Restaurant Row. All homemade pasta & wonderful wait staff. I had the Lobster Ravioli, my husband has the Chicken Alfredo & my niece had the Spinach Ravioli. I liked the Alfredo best because it had a bite to it. Make sure to make a reservation as I think there are only 4 tables in the whole spot! We will be back.
(4)
Caitlyn S.
It's small. Like tiny hallway small, but unless you have a ton of people with you I wouldn't let that stop you from hitting up Hourglass late night! They have a few different rooms and we happened to be in the main bar area most of the time. We had a blast. The event planner even gave me a tour of the private bar room where a certain celeb was hanging out at the time. It was a really cool place and the bartenders and rest of the staff were so accommodating. I can't wait to go back when I'm in town!
(5)
Richard H.
OK, it's not bad. It's a tiny, charming place with prompt, friendly service. But it really does taste like something you could make at home. I am not convinced that was fresh broccoli, and was that Vigo Spanish rice?
(2)
Martin D.
This place was not our first choice, but it turned out to be a great one. Although Maria, the waitress who seems to know every patron by first name is extremely friendly, she is a tad bit slow. This sub-par service did not hinder the outstanding food this fine establishment offers. Open well over 10 years, they have daily specials that include appetizer, dessert, etc. I had the fettuccini with olive oil, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and smoked gouda. This dish is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. My dessert was a flourless chocolate cake that was also over the top. I almost forgot the sangria. At $3 a glass, this stuff was world class. Although there are 1000 restaurants within a couple blocks, this would be a good choice for anyone! Enjoy.
(4)
Scott R.
Solid choice for pre-show with good prices and food. Pre fix gets you wide selection of entree with vege spanikopte (sp?) and salad or soup. We had lobster raviolli (rich, creamy, filled with real lobster) and salmon with mashed potatoes (delicious, homemade and buttery). Desert was limited but a wonderful chocalate biscotti freshly made (actually our server said she prepared it!). Prompt service, they are sensitive to getting you out for your show.
(3)
Court W.
The tiny restaurant on the ground floor is lovely, but a bit boisterous and crowded, especially with the pre-theater crowd. Upstairs is a GEM of a quiet bar, something all too rare in the midtown Theater District. The place is spotless and the service fantastic. Always calm, kind, respectful, friendly, funny, and courteous. The bar only has a few tables. There is a nice selection of wine, all affordably priced. There is a tasty bar menu, but the full restaurant menu is also available. A great place to meet friends for a quiet drink after work. Love it!
(5)
Ama B.
Great food and drinks!! The bar staff/owners are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Go for food and drinks before a show, after, or even better when the shows are on and you won't have to share the attention of the staff with anyone. Love it!!! Short ribs to die for!
(5)
MS K.
One of my favorite cities is NYC. I enjoy the diversity. The interior design of this restaurant looks like my grandma's living room. Seriously, as soon as I walked in, I felt like my grandma would be cooking in the kitchen. Very old-fashioned cozy. The homemade bread is fantastic. I remember having seafood pasta that I liked. The restaurant has got two floors but tables and chairs were close together so I felt I was actually sitting on the neighbors table. I really liked the Polish waitress. She was so nice and friendly. I'd like to go back next time when I visit.
(5)
Russ L.
Small and cozy but great food and good service. So many choices on the menu, and great wine deals. If you are looking to change it up a bit and try something fun and interesting this place is for you. If you are a rich snob then stay at your phony overpriced restaurants on the east side.
(4)
Billy A.
It's like eating at my grandparents, if my grandparents were sort of Italian-Greek, loved cooking and hosting, made everything from scratch, doted on us at the table, insisted on serving dessert, and were happy to see us come and sad to see us leave. A pleasure to eat here.
(5)
Stacy T.
The service is amazing and the food is even better. This place is terrific, the owners are also truly amazing.. I have been to Hourglass Tavern several times for dinner and I love it more every time. We also had a private party there and they did such an amazing job with the set up, food and service.. I suggest everyone go there and try this amazing restaurant.
(5)
Citizen Cliff G.
Was walking around looking for a drink before a play, and the waitress vigorously waved us in. We looked at each other, looked at her, she waved some more, we shrugged and went in. The bar was upstairs -- kinda odd and intriguing. Funny little space, the patrons were real Broadway types, singing show tunes, discussing shows, etc. My wife had a piece of cake brought out and everyone sang Happy Birthday (really well and very animated). We had a blast and went back after the show.
(4)
victoria o.
No matter when you go to the Hourglass Tavern, your bound to have a great experience. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Business are run from the Top down, and this one is Tops!! GO to the Hourglass and enjoy your experience, your belly will!
(5)
anni b.
Great place to eat while in midtown, among so many mediocre choices along restaurant row. Very homey, almost cluttered atmosphere, very old fashioned - kind of like eating dinner in your British grandmother's apartment, 50 years ago. Although I believe the owners are Greek. The food is nothing fancy, but very good and fresh. Entrees are generally choice of meat or fish, with potato and veg. Also, kind of like your Grandma just cooked you dinner. And it's a great deal - appetizer, entree, and dessert for a set price; somewhere between $18-22 (plus tax and tip). Adding to the experience is the kindly worded, shoddily constructed, always changing handwritten menu. Truly one of the only real mom-and-pop type places left in Midtown. Worth a visit or two.
(4)
michael k.
great small restaurant vibe. i just came for drinks and dessert but the woman waiting on the tables on the ground floor restaurant was the perfect combination of attentive and non-existent. she took our order and checked in with us from time to time but didn't hound us to get more drinks or get us to wrap up and leave. perfect for conversation to take place. my friend and i easily were there for 2+ hours. there is a cool looking upstairs bar too but only saw it while heading into the restroom. definitely worth going back to.
(4)
Antonella P.
True the atmosphere is homey but the food is very mundane. We had steak and halibut to find both quite boring. The pinot noir, boring, the pre-meal spinach filo pie, boring and the tiramisu, yea - boring. Spending $70 for 2 people and you can do much, much better elsewhere.
(2)
John F.
We were taken to this Litte Restaurant by a friend while visiting New York. What a deal! Three course meal (I had first-rate fish) with an extra complimentary appetizer for $18. Friendly and polite service and very near theaters.
(5)
Joe Y.
Great service, excellent seating outside and nice history. I ordered the Bourbon Braised Short Ribs and have to say they were overcooked however the traditional spanikopita was amazing. Overall a good experience.
(3)
Don T.
Fantastic service, fantastic food and fantastic atmosphere. I've been here for brunch and dinner and both times were great. The food offerings on both menus were delicious and the portions are generous! Stop into the Bettibar before or after a show and enjoy great friendly service! It's a great place to meet up with your friends and enjoy some excellently poured cocktails!
(5)
Shandar E.
I went here for Brunch and was not disappointed. Service was great and the food was delicious. I will definitely come here again for brunch and even happy hour. A nice little neighborhood gem. Overall experience was great!!!
(4)
Steve A.
On average, decidedly competent. I brought my family here on a Monday evening. When we arrived at 6:30, we had the 1st floor to ourselves, though others eventually showed up. Service was unquestionably the bright spot. Their claim to fame is an entire meal in under an hour, and they certainly delivered. The waitress was very patient as we slowly pored over the options and assembled our decisions. She stayed attentive throughout the meal and didn't show the least bit of frustration or unhappiness. The atmosphere - typical NY cramped. It's shoehorned in the bottom of an old, narrow multi-story house. The first floor isn't even 10 feet wide. We didn't explore the upper floors, where there may be more space, but my family wasn't interested in the bar and was not going to be climbing up to the 3rd floor if not necessary. Food was hit or miss. I ultimately landed with the short ribs, which were absolutely superb quality. The "twice buttered" mashed potatoes were nothing special, though. No gravy; I mistakenly tried to use salad dressing instead, since I figured there had to be a cup of _something_ on the table. Vegetable was uninspiring asparagus, not even the narrow tender kind. My mom had the spinach ravioli, which she said were understuffed with an overabundance of marinara sauce. (Excellent sauce, though.) My father's grilled cheese was really just "cheeses on a large hunk of bread", and between the giant dinner roll (serves 4) and his bread, Hourglass needs to improve its baking skills. However, my mom's extra marinara sauce turned the grilled cheese from subpar to extraordinary. We recommended to the waitress that it come with a side of the sauce, and she immediately told the chef. Good service, right? Finally, my sister had crab cakes, and was underwhelmed, though I pointed out that it's unfair to compare anything outside Maryland to anything served therein. I thought they were just fine. Desserts - Berry cobbler was fairly good, just blueberries and apples, something I could make myself. My sister had tira misu cake, which she said was too dense/creamy. I think that's in line with other reviews I've read. The interesting intrigue to this place is that you can order gourmet dishes for less than gourmet prices. That said, you need to order carefully to get the gourmet quality. Short ribs, yes. Flourless or lava cakes, maybe. Some of these dishes need work. But if they're truly open to improvement like it seems, then they're worth a look, just a short distance from the theater district and superior to all the chains and tourist traps.
(3)
Pooja C.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday. It's a very small place but apparently they have upstairs seating, as well. We sat outside to enjoy the weather. The service was good despite the place being pretty busy. To start, they give you some small complementary berry muffins with butter; they're really good. I had the Cinnamon Strongman Coffee with Whiskey which was excellent. I had asked if I could get it iced since it was so warm outside, but they ended up not being able to do it. As compensation, we were given a free bloody Mary so that was really nice. We shared the Mexicali Omelet which was simple (filled with cheese, spinach, and topped with tomatillo salsa) yet balanced all the flavors really nicely and wasn't overly filling to where we felt like we were in a food coma afterwards. The roasted potatoes that came with it were delicious; perfectly seasoned. Overall, it was a good experience and we'll definitely be back to try more.
(4)
Christina V.
Did a great job seating our party of 7 quickly, neat old decor on the third floor. Delicious food, we all enjoyed! They did a great job accommodating my food allergies. Thanks!
Great happy hours and very cozy. The only problem is - it might be hard to find a table, but the place is great.
(5)
Heather S.
Disclaimer: This review is for Betti Bar - not Hourglass Tavern itself. --- I came to Betti Bar around 9 on a recent Saturday night and the tight quarters were already pretty crowded. My group of 6 (which later turned into 9) lucked out when a table near the windows opened up. The bartenders were incredibly friendly - which was certainly a breath of fresh air. They helped me navigate the bourbon choices and did so with genuine interest. More and more I find good service to be a rare commodity in NYC bars, so this gave me more of a buzz than the very affordable sauv blanc. We wound up camping out til nearly closing time because we enjoyed the atmosphere so much. The crowd seemed to be all locals and everyone was cordial - despite the occasional accidental bump. In the end the bill, while long, did not pain me as much as the last shot of the night. So happy Yelpers steered me here and I'm looking forward to coming back!
(5)
Brandon G.
This review is for Betti Bar the upstairs bar to the restaurant. Rapidly becoming my midtown happy hour spot! I'm pretty sure this place can be considered a speakeasy, it has nice vibe, a great bartender (this awesome girl with purple hair), and best of all a 10 PM happy hour!! That's how I found this place by searching late happy hours. It's a pretty standard happy hour of $5 wells, wine, and beer, the also have an $8 mystery beer and shot. I went on a Friday night which was the most packed I've ever seen it,which by NYC standards coulda considered dead, all the chairs were full except for one and I had two other friends coming, but people were moving and leaving at a good rate, I think a lot of people come here for pre theater drinks. I haven't tried the food yet, but I, not rushing to, it seems pretty pricey for food I'm never in the mood for,but in looks good when other people get it. Def going back!
(4)
greg w.
Had the Mexicali omelette and it was very good. Cute atmosphere and excellent service. We sat next to a noisy group of tourists that seemed to be having a good time and all enjoyed the food. Not the largest portions and a little pricey for brunch. I want to come back to dinner very soon.
(5)
Toni F.
We went to Hourglass before a show in Times Square based on the decent reviews on Yelp. It was a beautiful night so we sat in one of the two tables that have on the sidewalk outside. Our server was nice and promptly took our order for a light dinner and a few beverages. The cocktails were good and the soups, salads and sandwiches we ordered were decent too. I ordered a Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Sandwich - it was ok but really nothing more than under-grilled (almost raw) hunks of zucchini with a schmear of soft goat cheese on a crusty roll. The sandwich might have been better if the zucchini were sliced thinner and grilled a bit more. I think there are quite a few options in this area they call "restaurant row" so I'd probably try another spot before I'd return to Hourglass.
(3)
Natalie O.
Food was delicious, but the service was a bit odd. It was a slow night, yet we found ourselves essentially abandoned at our table for about half an hour, with no staff in sight. It turned out the waitress had gotten "distracted" talking to some customers outside.
(3)
Tavo P.
The food was excellent, perfectly-sized portions. We had the spinach ravioli, steak and then the no-flour chocolate cake and it was all excellent. Our server was so friendly it was spooky and he even spoke Spanish for us(we're from Mexico)!!! The space is very small, but it was a perfect chill place for an after-theater dinner. Highly recommend!!!
(5)
Tarik M.
We pre-booked a table (with Open Table) for our pre-show dinner when we visited NYC. We were greeted buy a friendly Jamaican guy outside, who took us inside were we immediately shown to our table on the third floor. The place is a little quirky, but that adds to the experience. The staff were all very attentive, the food was great and the atmosphere was upbeat throughout....the sound of people having a good time!!
(5)
Melanie M.
such a great spot with the BEST service. the Bartender who works on Tuesdays is incredible. It seems like a hole in the wall but this place has character and incredible food.
(5)
Ryan P.
Came here for brunch and ordered the Hourglass Blueberry Belgian Waffle. These were the BEST restaurant Belgian waffles I have ever had. Perfectly textured and tasty since whole blueberries are within it. Four waffles come with the order. The fruit cup was watermelon, which was in season. Amazing, friendly, and attentive staff. I would definitely come back again for these waffles.
(5)
Adam G.
This place is so cool. It's a good late night spot / date night spot. It's not loud, but its still lively and intimate. The food is great and the bartenders and patrons are not pretentious. Every time I've been here I've chatted up with people nearby and with the bartenders. Prices are reasonable too.
(5)
Scott F.
I spent a wonderful Christmas night here some years back. It's not as good as it was--eg salad dressing WAY too sweet, vegetable soup Blah-boring, waitress completely bored/disengaged & resentful to be working. Still steak was good & the ambience better. I just think steamed broccoli is pretty much the most uninspired boring side on the planet & a baked potato would have been infinitely better. I guess I won't be back unless they become more interested in the food. Bar upstairs has actually made things worse not better. Robert Irvine? Gordon Ramsey?
(3)
Ran F.
The ribs they recommended is OVERCOOKED!!! And the crab cake sides with shrimp is salty... However their home baked bread is worth to try although it's free of charge. I think it should be a nice place to have a drink with friends instead of having dinner.
(3)
Mathew T.
Been coming here for awhile now and it is my go to spot pre theater and after. The second floor cocktail lounge is fantastic, always a good vibe and great service. The food is always on point, the crab legs are an absolute must when they are on special.
(5)
Kam T.
Went to dinner before a show. Found it on yelp. What a great find! Historic & cozy location, friendly service, good food & reasonable prices. Definitely going back.
(4)
Magnolia S.
I love this place. It's super cute - set up like an apartment complex kinda. My brunch was delicious and so were my bloody Marty's. I had the potato pancake smoked salmon brunch entree and the poached egg crab cake one ( both shared ) and it was delicious. We also had a side of cheesy grits. It was amazing!
(5)
Jim B.
If you're in Midtown for a show (or really anything for that matter) you might want to check this place out. Well, that is if you like good food (if you don't like good food then read no further). In a city were one could eat out every day and possible not ever eat at the same place twice I'd strongly consider going here again. Although the restaurant was a little cramped the food was mostly outstanding. I started off with the Roasted Beet Salad. It was mostly just beets, and although they threw in some goat cheese and pine nuts the beets overpowered everything else. But then I had the Penne Mascarpone and I forgot all about those beets! That dish had chunks of sausage and gorgonzola in a medium thick marinara cream sauce. It was filling and delicious. I also tried the Bourbon Braised Short Beef Ribs and I would recommend both. Two thumbs way up.
(4)
K G.
A group of us stayed at a nearby AirBnB for a week. Ate here 3 times!! With so many fine restaurants in NYC -- this says a lot! Everyone was so pleased with their food. Their shrimp dishes are devine! Great salads & a pasta with spicy sausage & blue cheese was fabulous. Go fresh cobbler ala mode over the tiramisu if you have room for dessert. The venue has a lot of character, and the outdoor seating allowed for lots of people watching. Very impressed by the wait staff as well - all very attentive & personable. Highly recommend this place!
(5)
Zeenath S.
This is the perfect place to go if: 1. You want to wait 40 minutes for fried eggs and lukewarm hash 2. You want to wait 25 minutes for drinks, most of which aren't what you ordered. 3. Bread and fruit are part of your brunch, but they never bring you fruit and when you ask for bread they tell you they are "out". When you are leaving you see they have more and you ask for some (because its included) and they refuse to give you any. 4. You seem the waitress yelling at a customer because he's asking why his breakfast was ordered 40 minutes ago and still hasn't arrived. 5. Your asparagus is almost raw, while your friend's is overcooked to the point where you don't need to chew it at all.
(1)
K S.
For starters, the staff rocks. Everyone was super friendly and awesome. We were waiting for a table for 8 ppl and while we waited for the previous occupants to wrap up, we enjoyed the super cute bar on the 2nd floor. A few folks (manager?, waiter, another manager?) kept us updated on the table status and made sure we were doing ok- seeing if we were in a rush and if they should push them along. We were enjoying ourselves so it was all good. The bartender was sweet and made great drinks. Our waiter was friendly and fun. Oh, and the food was yummy (big pillow of warm bread, lobster ravioli, beet salad, mashed potatoes). Ambiance is cool with funky decor (obviously hourglasses, also random instruments) and the friendly staff set the tone all around for a great vibe throughout. And if you're cold- sit on the bench on the 3rd floor. You'll sweat. Figuring out how to manage this is the only somewhat negative thing I have to say. I'm sure they try and its the only way to heat the whole bldg of this old, great place. I'll deal :)
(5)
Amanda A.
The wife and I yelped to find a place to go before a show. Came across this little gem. It was really funky with the three floors and the food was good and the service was great. There was one woman who ran the small top floor. She was attentive and very nice. She noticed our table wasn't sturdy and without us even saying anything bent down to fix it. I love when I don't have to ask for things to be corrected. Having some one just do it, is for me great customer service. I had the Penne Mascarpone. It was SO good. Portion was large, couldn't finish it. The sauce was yummy and walnuts on it were a fun touch. Wife had lobster ravioli. She said it was great too. I was able to try a bite and it was very good. There were large chunks of lobster through out. The bread was delicious and the wine wasn't too expensive for a nice bottle. All in all we would recommend this place and also go back again. The 4 stars is because the food took longer than expected. Being we ordered pasta dishes and people who ordered after us were served before, was strange.
(4)
Jenn A.
Review for Betti Bar - Awesome!!! It's upstairs from the Tavern/restaurant. It's small, cozy, and super cool. The waitress was incredibly friendly and chill - almost made me feel like she was my new gal-pal! But obviously not. We chatted up a few other patrons and all were friendly. The drinks were good! The food was not so good. We ordered the grilled cheese with the side of mashed potatoes. Bland on both - just no flavor. So - if come here for the drinks, vibe, and service (and not for the food), you will be happy!
(4)
Hannah M.
We came here for brunch at 12:30, it took an hour and a half to get our food. Service was awful, frankie took 4 orders at a time for a party of 12. We had to go back up to the bar twice for our drinks. Our food all came out at different times- it was awful. He was absolutely so rude, he told us he only had two hands and was super rude. I do have to say after the experience with the server, the owner of the restaurant was very kind. She was apologetic and took good care of us. Thank you Beth, I do apologize for not completing my prior review.
(3)
Mitch E.
This review is for Betti Bar, located right above the Hourglass Tavern, on the second floor: You ever been in the scenario where It's 7:55 and you want to grab another drink. Happy Hour ends in five minutes. YOU NEED TO GET A DRINK, ORDER SOMETHING OFF THE MENU AND DO IT FAST. You break away from your friend who is telling you some awful story about how they got fired, blah blah blah. Then that guy you don't really know but acts like your best friend gets in your way. Hell bent on desire (and frustration for this weirdo) you throw him out of the way, nicely as possible of course. You then have the bar drunk fall towards you and you quickly cartwheel out of the way. (Catching him would only be enabling his drinking problem) You get to the bar and it's 6:57. Plenty of time to order your drink and some awesome nachos. Oh No! Some yuppie is asking questions to the bartender about the wine. DAMN YOU YUPPIE! Now it's 7:01, you order your drink at full price! At Betti Bar you don't have to worry about such things because Happy Hour last till 10 o'clock every night of the week! (Plus it's not that large so, all those things probably couldn't happen in such a small place. But you got the idea) Located right above Hourglass Tavern on the second floor, Betti Bar is a great spot in Hell's kitchen for some drinks. Maybe you have a show to see later, meeting a friend on the west side of town or just in the mood to get your drink on, whatever the case, good inexpensive drinks happen here. As mentioned, it's not the largest so if you get here and it's packed, you're out of luck. There really isn't standing room, so unless you get one of the booths or a seat at the bar you should probably try another night. I can't say I have ever eaten here, but the last time I was here some gentleman got a pasta dish at the bar. It smelled amazing! So it does tempt me to try the food here in the future, as opposed to drinking beer out of a brown paper bag. (Yes, that happens here) Come by and enjoy this small hidden gem. Just don't ruin it by blabbing about it to everyone...... wait........
(4)
Julie S.
Haven't been here for a while. But went July 5th and was seated on the first floor. The dinner we both had was great. And this is just a cute place with a lot of New York City flavor inside and on your plate.
(4)
Ann Y.
This place is absolutely worth the cringe-worthy hellish seizure-inducing but inevitable walk through Times Square area to get to Hell's Kitchen. Cute and cozy, very attentive service and lovely retro Theatre district decor. The 3 bloody Mary or mimosa brunch deal is definitely worth it, and their baked treats (churros, biscuits, etc) to snack on before your meal is a lovely touch and were incredibly delicious. My crab cake eggs Benedict was delicious and worth the price. A solid and underrated midtown brunch option
(4)
Andrew D.
I've eaten here before and the food was pretty good but tonight we had a reservation for 4 people at 6:30. The man at the door was so off putting that we decided to go elsewhere. We show up at 6:20 and on our way in are "greeted" by a man who asks if he can help us. We had no idea he was working there and he wasn't helpful at all. Quite honestly he was a little bit creepy. The waitress inside asked us to wait at the bar upstairs until 6:30 and then come back down... Which I can understand but it seemed like there wouldn't have been a place to put us anyway. And we shouldn't have to come back down, if we sit at your bar you should come get us when a table is ready. The next person to walk up was "greeted" by this man and she said: oh, do you work here? His response: "sometimes". She asked: Are tables available? He says: well they're pretty full and no one is leaving. She asks: can we put our name down? His response: well I guess you could. Not sure who decided to put him at the door but he waits until you walk up and stands there and then asks if he can help but is really no help at all. Seems like he not even sure if where he is. We decided to leave because we felt uncomfortable.
(1)
Shawn P.
We found the Hourglass Tavern on Yelp and I am glad we did. The service, food, and drinks were great and the second floor bar looked like a fun spot. I would recommend stopping in here to anyone looking for a bite to eat in Hells Kitchen! The only problem one might have is seating. It is rather small but at 6pm on a Saturday we were seated immediately at an outside table which was exactly what we wanted.
(5)
Katherine R.
The beet salad is so yummy. The rest was average. We had the NY strip and the albondigas.
(3)
Vanesha P.
We both wanted brunch food and were not disappointed - we got the mexicali omelet and the eggs & short rib hash, throw in 2 $5 bloody marys and it was awesome. I don't remember our servers name but he was super super sweet and really a great server all around. Would definitely come back!
(5)
Katie A.
This is a small place and is a little tight inside but the food was delicious and the service was exceptionally good. We went for brunch, without reservations and only had to wait a couple minutes for a table.
(4)
Pam L.
Great for happy hour and snacks. We went right after work on a Thursday. Great bartender on the second floor, cool atmosphere, great beer selection. I recommend the sliders.
(5)
Shannon B.
One of my favorite places to grab a drink and grab a bite after work, before a show or just any old time! Mike and Sean and Megan are all excellent bartenders and super friendly! I love their regular of the day concept and the overall neighborhood bar feel of this place in touristy Hell's Kitchen. Their drinks are tasty and their food is really delicious! Some of my faves: Beet Salad, Crab Cake, Cheese & Fruit Plate, Pan Seared Salmon Filet, Grilled 3 Cheese and their Mashed Potatoes. Also, they had a pumpkin ravioli special last week that literally brought tears to my eyes.
(5)
Matt G.
Good place to meet for a glass of wine and a bite to eat. In a bustling neighborhood but offers a nice ambience. Good wine selection, service, and reasonable prices.
(5)
Kevin W.
Solid and quaint little tavern right in the heart of restaurant row. I was surprised I never checked this place out given how close I lived to the restaurant. There is a lovely speakeasy-like bar upstairs that I will most definitely try out in the future. My experience here was generally very positive. The folks here are all very friendly and they were able to accommodate us without reservations on what was a very busy Valentine's evening for them. The ambiance is very warm and romantic. It's a great place to enjoy a meal in a spirited but charming atmosphere. The waiters here were all very friendly, although they were extremely busy and were often running up and down several flights of stairs to bring food up and drinks down from the bar. Despite that we found we didn't wait that long for our food and wine. The food itself was decent. I opted for the usual pre-theater set dinner. The salad was fresh and the house dressing had a nice fruity tang to it. The shrimp fra diavlo was decent though I felt there was too much sauce and it was slightly watered down. The apple/blueberry cobbler dessert was not bad and worked well with the whipped cream. All in all if you're looking for some comfort food in a quaint setting before heading to a Broadway show, this is not a bad place to consider. I enjoyed the overall experience and would go back there again in the future.
(4)
Michele C.
Excellent service and incredible fare. Our waitress was extremely attentive and never missed a beat. It was particularly impressive because the place was extremely busy. the atmosphere of the staff was warm and friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious from the initial chips and salsa to the very tasty dessert. The prices are decent. Try the Brooklyn Flower. Delicious drink!
(5)
Amanda P.
Stopped in after a matinee & so glad we did! Sat upstairs with Toby & took advantage of the reverse HH. The Albondingas and wine were just what we needed to get back to the room. Great end to our day!
(5)
Emily R.
I came here this weekend for dinner, our reservation was early, around 5 because we had plans right after. We ate on the 3rd floor, it was so cozy (literally small but very intimate) they have candles on the tables, it has an antique feel, into it. We got bread to start- carbs = win We shared a salad- the dressing was so good I have no idea what it was but I was dipping the bread in it I had lobster ravioli and my boy had bolognese- both were so yummy! My favorite part was the food came quickly, and was portioned well. Just enough food, we both didn't finish and were stuffed, but not an obnoxious amount (you know when you get so much food you are like WHOA) We had tiramisu (sp?) to finish and it was delicious! Also had a bottle of wine Our server was so great, funny, attentive, and personable ! No lie, we did all this in just over an hour. We didn't feel rushed and we sat and chatted throughout and inbetween courses. Had a wonderful time here! (and our bill was about $70 for two of us..with the wine...)
(5)
Hao L.
Cozy little spot to have brunch before a matinee show. I had the eggs with braised short rib hash - delicious. Came with asparagus & watermelon. Also, $5 cocktails (mimosas, Bloody Mary, etc.) - cheapest drinks I've come across so far. Service was great. Highly recommend.
(5)
Jen A.
Great, friendly service and delicious food! This is a great place to eat if you have a show but don't want to eat at the crappy, touristy restaurants in Times Square. Nice wine, as well.
(4)
Bobby M.
I live in Hell's Kitchen, blocks away from some of the best hidden gem restaurants in New York. The Hourglass Tavern is hands down, my favorite. As a Hell's Kitchen resident, I have my pick of scores of fantastic restaurants. The Hourglass is hands down my favorite. And although I've been there so often that I've practically memorized the menu, last week I decided to mix it up and order something outside of my usual (the short ribs - best in the city). Last week, I had the Lobster Ravioli and my friend had the Pecan Crusted Tilapia for the first time. Both dishes were cooked to order (it's a tiny place - no assembly line kitchen). Both meals were superb. The staff treats you like family. Stop in and say hi to owners Beth and Josh. You'll be back. I guarantee it.
(5)
Jeannie L.
Amazing food! Went with a party of 3 tried the steak, chicken, and shrimp and we all finished our plates.. must say this was the first time I ever had chicken at a restaurant which was soo moist. Same goes with the steak! Cooked perfectly, soo tender and yummy. Shrimp was great, flavorful! Great spices. Had a salad and the dressing was great!! The place is small but cozy and great food! Highly recommend!
(5)
Tianna H.
Ok, so the third floor is a great spot. Quiet, great music soundtrack, chill vibe. Dig it. We went after a show based on the yelp reviews and ordered the lobster ravioli in vodka tomato cream sauce (hurzband) and I had the mushroom ravioli in Marsala jus. Hurzband loved his ravioli (which are all made in house) but I could only eat one of mine. It was salty for me and I had gastric bypass 4 months ago so 1 ravioli in the hearty portion of 4 in the pasta bowl was plenty for me since I wasn't over the moon about it anyway. Wish I had gotten the spinach ravioli instead. It's stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce and I think that would have been more my speed tonight. Great spot after a show, tho. They're open till midnight.
(4)
Thomas F.
Food and desert was amazing and service is super friendly. Absolutely worth a sit down dinner and hang out place
(5)
Curtis H.
Just an all around fantastic place to go. I have never had a bad meal here. From late night drunk snacks, to full on dinners to private dinner cooked by the owner Beth. I never drink the same thing here. Sometimes it's the brown bag special. Sometimes it's manhattan and martinis. They never disappoint. Very reasonably priced. It's also a great spot to celebrity spot and see B'way kids after their shows. It's three levels and each level has it's own style and charm.
(5)
Ellen W.
Great dinner - but be warned this is a very small dining area - we were seated next to the door on a window seat (and there is no way my husband could have gotten up from his seat without having the table pulled out from the wall). Spinach ravioli and tirimisu were excellent. My husband like his strip steak but the crab cake appetizer wasn't very good.
(4)
Jesse G.
I made reservations for 4 people on a Tuesday night at 8:30. I figured we would completely miss the theater crowd, and we definitely did. However, aside from a super cool space, and the place to ourselves, everything else was really disappointing. Our poor server was about 18 years old, and didn't know what it meant to order a "well" or "house" scotch, or that a Manhattan straight up means a martini. She tried to bring a 16 year single malt to the table, since she didn't know what the house was. She couldn't tell me the cost, even with the computer right behind her. They were out of the puffs, which I suppose was our fault for not getting there earlier in the day. If you order the burger, be aware that it is served completely plain. You get bun and burger and that's it. The appetizer of meatballs came after we had finished everything else, and that was honestly the end of an ultimately boring meal. The merlot was interesting, Ca'Donini, and at $6 a glass, I felt that was the best value of the whole evening. We found out later that the Betti bar is much better, but there are too many restaurants in NY, unless the drink specials get you so wasted you don't care what you're eating. I really wanted to like you, Hourglass Tavern. Shame on you for not properly training your staff.
(2)
Augie R.
If I were rating Hourglass just for the food, it would be a three-star restaurant. I was with two others, and none of us were blown away by the entrees. My Penne Bolognese was heavy and not as tasty as others I've tried. My wife's Bourbon Braised Short Ribs of beef was a lot of food but far from the best she's had--she found it a little tasteless and not the best cut of meat. Despite the somewhat disappointing food, the Hourglass is still a four-star experience. The place is intimate and cozy, loaded with old-school charm. The service was spectacular--very friendly and warm. I wouldn't hesitate to come back, but I might opt for "Snacklettes," sliders or sandwiches instead of the entrees, next time.
(4)
Deidra G.
Delicious homemade ravioli! We ate in the restaurant on the bottom floor, and it was so teeny-tiney. You are practically next to the little kitchen, and it was cool to see them prepare the dishes. Our waitress was super friendly and pretty attentive. Very quaint atmosphere; we took a little tour of the second floor (bar) and third floor (overflow for restaurant). Looked like a lot of fun to hang out, but we were catching a show that night and didn't have time. Would definitely return!
(4)
Danielle G.
One of my favorite restaurants in NYC! Just took my in laws for a pre theater meal and it was awesome!!!
(5)
Hui C.
Cute tiny multilevel spot that is really inconspicuous - almost missed it walking past several times. Brunch is really good despite how sketchy it might originally look; would rec the blueberry waffles and the pancakes. Shrimp and grits is very meh, so avoid
(4)
Sarah O.
Great place! Joe was our waiter- he was amazing. Endearing and funny and very kind. Went right before seeing Kinky Boots. Shrimp and grits is the meal to get if you're there for brunch. (I don't eat shrimp nor do I eat grits. However joe convinced me to get and it was great.) Will definitely go back.
(5)
Kaytee C.
Cute place for before theatre dinner/drinks. It is what seems to be on old home (lots of wood and a quaint feel. We were in a small dining room on the third floor. One of our meals did come out completely incorrect, but they comped the meal to make up for it. The food was good and had large portions. The food/service did take a bit of time, but I think that was due to the pre-show rush and the fact that only one server was working the section doing everything from making drinks to working the register (the place is kinda of small and I don't think 2 servers could even function in the space).
(4)
Vesna G.
Had brunch here on Valentine's day with my boyfriend. It's a small but cute place. We ate upstairs by the bar - I had eggs with short-rib hash and he had the chicken sandwich. Both were so delicious and the menu is unique. Also got a yummy peach bellini!
(5)
Lisa F.
Alas we had such high hopes for this place after the reviews - we were seated upstairs at the bar. It was busy but not heaving. We were given water & then left to sit for 15 mins without a peep from any server, so.. We left & went across the street to bare burger where we had amazing prompt service & delicious burgers!!
(1)
Seth H.
This place is a restaurant row institution. It's a little crowded, but well worth it. The four stars that I have given are for Betti Bar on the second floor and the Tavern on the first floor. I haven't been to the lounge on the third floor yet so I don't know what it's like. The cocktails are good but I usually order off the happy hour menu. Speaking of the happy hour menu, the Sangria is often a good choice. Best of all, they have a 5 hour happy hour (It's till 10PM)! I would recommend going here during the week, otherwise you can reserve a table on Opentable through yelp. It is very cozy, so don't be surprised if you want to stay and relax. This place is very LGBT friendly, which I find usually means that the bar side conversations are going to rock. Of course like most patrons of restaurant row, you may be going to a show afterwords. That said, they are experts at getting you out the door by 7:45. I hope you find this restaurant row establishment as unique and superior to its neighbors as I have.
(4)
Brett W.
So much to write so I'm going see if I can boil it down. Lobster ravioli was out of this world and the chicken Alfredo was awesome. Very fresh buttery sauce but the chicken was sooo unbelievable. The flavors were amazing very tender and I love the char. However...the short rib was the show stopper. Not too many people can do a short rib. I think most place try to pass off pot roast as short rib. Even fewer cut it like they do. Across 4 ribs. Most do individual ribs. This was phenomenal. If you like short rib you need to have it here The atmosphere is awesome. Quaint 3 story and the service was great!
(5)
Seyoon K.
The place was small and I was seated on the third floor. I ordered short ribs and NY strip. Both were okay but not excellent. I do not recommend wine, however.
(3)
Leah G.
My boyfriend and I grabbed an early dinner here before our 7:00 showing of 'Of Mice and Men'. I know I'm reviewing the restaurant and not the show, but seriously do yourself a favor and just wait for someone to post the show on Youtube. Apart from Chris O'Dowd's stunning performance as Lenny, it was 3/5 stars in my humble opinion (and congrats on that Tony nom, Chris!). Ok yeah... where was I? OH YES the food. I made reservations for 5:15 on that Thursday night. When we got there it was obvious that I didn't need one that early in the day. We basically had a pick of the house. There are three stories to this 1893 charming little building and we went straight up the creaky stairs to the top. Let me tell you, this place is small and not too impressive from the outside, but then again what in Manhattan looks good from the outside? You don't go to a place to stare at the outside of the building. So the top floor has maybe 9 or 10 little tables in it and a quaint little bar immediately to your left as you walk in. The gentleman taking care of us pointed through the empty room to the romantic corner table for two right by the window. I admitted that I wouldn't remember his name and he admitted the same, but insured us that he would remember us by our drink orders, but this guy game the most earnest and welcoming customer service we have ever experienced. Customer service isn't the right word for it..... hospitality. Chris (I did indeed remember his name ^_^) welcomed us frightened tourists off the loud mean Manhattan streets and let us straight into his home. This guy was SERIOUSLY the epitome of NYC hospitality. So both my boyfriend and I were undecided about what we wanted to eat and drink, which can be the most I'm-about-to-slap-you-in-your-face annoying thing to ever say to a waiter, but Chris offered up his personal favorites and perfect wine pairings to go with each respective dish. I got the pork chop with cumin sauce, double-butter mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli paired with the sauvignon blanc and my boyfriend got Chris's #1 favorite, mushroom ravioli with the pinot Noir. I swear my boyfriend got off on that meal. He didn't say one word while he was eating. It was like he was on a date with the damn ravioli instead of me. Don't get me wrong, the pork chop was cooked perfectly and absolutely melted in my mouth, I just wasnt as sexually attracted to my meal as my boyfriend obviously was to his. It did take a little while to get our food, but that is certainly not a complaint. We were the only one's in Chris' room for almost the whole time we were there and I was having a damn good time just chatting it up. He also went down to the kitchen more than once to see how it was coming which I greatly appreciated but, again, that's not a complaint. I enjoyed the entire experience 100% beginning to end. All in all as much as I want to explore and experience new things every time I go to the city, I think I'll definately pay the Hourglass Tavern another visit.
(5)
Sheree D.
Very small place --- the food was good! We had a 5:00 seating and we were rushed through dinner. Our appy came and not soon after our entrees came. We mentioned it to the.owner and he explained that the wait staff was gearing up for the 6:00 theater rush.
(4)
Donald M.
Very small but very nice. Food and service were excellent. Only thing that was a disappointment was the "double butter" mashed potatoes. Sounded good but pretty mediocre in reality.
(4)
Jemini S.
Happy to have found this place. Went for brunch before a Sunday afternoon show. Great food, music, and drinks!
(5)
Vincent T.
The brunch is excellent. I have tried them all and you can't go wrong with any of them. Ask for Edgar he is the best server. And they serve one of the best bloody mary's in the city.
(5)
Elyse A.
My mom and I had a really awesome pre-theatre dinner here over Easter weekend. I did a bit of research before our trip (we live out of town) and wanted to find a place in the theater district that'd be a simple skip away from the 8pm show. I read the reviews on Yelp and you guys really nailed the whole vibe! Even though I knew what to expect (sort of), I was still very impressed! I know this review is sort of redundant and repeats some points of other reviewers, but this place deserves the praise. Here's the deal with this restaurant: - It's definitely small and a bit cramped. But what do you expect? It's a NYC restaurant just a few blocks away from Times Square. - The service was great. We were greeted immediately and seated fairly soon after. Our waitress was friendly and funny and took great care of us. - I was glad I made reservations! This place was super packed! - We ordered off the prixe fixe menu. I was not expecting much in the way of quality when it came to the food here. I sort of just thought this was going to be a non-offensive cheap meal before the musical we were going to see, but wow. It really impressed me! I ordered the Penne Bolognasse which had a great flavor. And my mom ordered the Orechiette Primavera which was fresh and light and hot and delicious! Who knew the vegetarian option would be the star of the show? The salad was fresh. The tiramisu was great. And the wine we ordered was also rad. What more could we want? A great dinner before the theater in NYC for just about $50? Unheard of. Both my mom and I left feeling very full and very happy. The only downside was that the place looks sort of dingy and outdated. But that said, I'd rather go to an imperfect restaurant with character that knows how to treat its customers and can put out great food, rather than have a place that's shiny and fancy and modern and just mediocre. AMIRITE?
(4)
Steve N.
What a great find in the theater district. From appetizer to coffee, this gem is worthy of trying!
(4)
Yan T.
Wonderful gem on Restaurant Row. I went upstairs to the bar as bidden by Yelp reviews and we had a really nice time in that cozy space (though I didn't get to flip the hourglass...a screw was literally loose). The service was fantastic, from the downstairs waitress to the Betti Bar bartender. They took great care of us and were very accommodating. We both got the orecchiette with a medley of goodies (squash, artichoke, cheese, and lots of olive oil), which was not bad, but somehow the parts were better than the whole. They had a decent selection of beers, including Belhaven ale and porter, and there's a brown bag special that includes a shot for $8 if you want to go the distance.
(4)
Rich F.
We LOVE the Hourglass Tavern. We were there for a quick day trip into the city on a Saturday morning. It was about 11:15am and we were browsing the area knowing we would find a Brunch we could enjoy....Sure enough, Hourglass Tavern came through! Not only did they let us in early to get us out of the cold, but the food and service was fantastic as well. I had the HG Florentine and my wife had the BlueWaffle. I had a little bit of order envy as the eggs were just a tad under-done. But the focaccia and spinach were spot on. I asked for the Hollandaise on the side as I wasn't sure how heavy it was going to be but it was just right. So buttery and creamy! And you can't beat the $5 brunch cocktails. Thank you for the coffee and the Churros! We can't wait to come back. Great for Pre-Theatre matinees!!!
(4)
Lauren P.
Loved everything about this place--the decor, atmosphere, fresh bread, and meals were delicious. The braised short ribs and bolognese were excellent. The service was quick & made us feel at home. Perfect place to carb load before the Marathon!
(5)
Ann M.
Loved it here, our waitress made us feel so comfortable. Not at all touristy and she was great with the kids and parents. Short rib sliders were a great start and the garlic shrimp with polenta was filling even for an appetizer. Veggie soup of the day was very good per the 12.year old critic with us. Close to theaters though that was not our criteria. I felt at home here, like dinner at your favorite aunt's house.
(5)
liz r.
Awesome service, amazing food and owners are truly there to make sure patrons are taking care of! I love this place, I recommend it to all friends and family. I will be an ongoing customer as long as they're open. Beth and Josh help me host my High School fundraiser here, and I am truly grateful for all that they did for us. Thank you!
(5)
Dee M.
We visited the Hourglass Tavern on a Saturday night before a show, the service was excellent and the food was delicious. We also had a few drinks at the bar and the crowd was very friendly. We will be going back very soon!
(5)
Dana W.
Well once again Yelp hooked me up! Was looking for a good place to eat near my hotel, Marriott Marquis Time Square and up popped this little gem! Cute little place, great service, delicious homemade food and excellent prices! What more can you ask for. Had the previously mentioned chicken ms it was divine, roasted in garlic and rosemary with a honey cumin sauce, yumm! Goat cheese salad was fabulous as well as was the homemade tiramisu. Give this place a try!
(5)
Enzo C.
Amazing discovery! It was intimate and the service was exceptional! It was a memorable experience.
(5)
Phil H.
There is just so much win about Bettibar that it astounds me since it's located in the Theater District restaurant row area. Did we just happen to stumble upon a speakeasy type establishment in tourist central? OMG - this place is PURE WIN! As we were proceeding on our night of drinking debauchery and were headed over to Hell's Kitchen to bar hop a bit more and get a bite to eat I saw this hidden gem located next to the Hourglass Tavern. It's actually owned by them. You have to ring the buzzer to be let in and then walk up a narrow flight of stairs to find Bettibar. You get the feeling of a secret little speakeasy that few people know about, and only those "in the know" really realize it's there. I'm so happy to know about it now, since I love spots like this, and I am sure I will be there again soon! You just can't go wrong here. The owners have set up a killer atmosphere with a speakeasy ambiance to it. Dim lighting with candles all around, small chandelier, old hourglasses decorate the walls, small bar area, classic jazz and old school tunes playing quietly in the background, a few turned off tv's, and a few tables with people conversing quietly. As it was a Monday night and Broadway was dark it was not too crowded with only about six other patrons in there. We easily found a great spot at the bar and took a few seats. The bartender, Kelly, welcomed us with a friendly smile and fun conversation. He told us that it does get crowded on show nights with many theater folk, stage hands, and musicians making up the crowd. We picked a good time to come here for our first visit. OK - this might be crazy, but here's my number, so happy hour me maybe? Yessss! Happy hour seven nights a week from 5-10pm. AWESOME! It was already after 9pm and we still got to enjoy this. There is a sign on the wall near the bar with the drink and food specials. What is this I see? $8 MYSTERY BEER IN A BAG AND A SHOT! This is so up my alley. It was a must. Had to be done. What a terrific deal. You actually get served a bartender's choice of a bottled beer and it's placed in a brown paper bag. You can't get more secretive than this. I felt like the place was going to get raided by the police as in the old time prohibition era movies. The beers you get are quality craft styles too. No Bud Light here. We took a few mouthfuls before sneaking a peek into the bags. RJ Rockers Ball Eagle Brown and Bell Ringer, Prohibition, and Shipyard. Good stuff! Also, Kelly hooked us up with delicious shots - vodka, creme de cocoa, triple sec - that tasted like creme soda. We did a few rounds of course! This whole deal is just so much fun!!! Bettiebar is a breath of fresh air among the touristy crowds, mediocre bars, and so-so restaurants in the area. There is nothing more enjoyable than a bar with a speakeasy vibe if done right. To me, Bettiebar hits on all points - terrific happy hour, drink specials, bartender, atmosphere. We finished our drinks before bidding Kelly adieu and heading out into the darkness in search of more libations.
(5)
David J.
We felt fortunate to get a short notice reservation. When we arrived we wound up waiting for half an hour before being seated. The host thanked us for being patient and got our drinks for us. The dining areas are small but they have nice ambiance. Food was very good. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her lobster ravioli. My daughter enjoyed her crab cakes and my NY sirloin was very good. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. A nice experience.
(4)
Betty S.
My fiance and I went here for dinner (6 pm on a Saturday night) and had a wonderful experience! We made reservations through Open Table (highly recommended) and were seated right away on the 3rd floor (if you're given the choice, choose the more intimate 3rd floor not the 1st which gets more foot traffic). The space was small, so expect to dine close to neighbors, but it was totally fine for us given that the crowd was very chill and the historic atmosphere is pretty cool. We ordered 2 hand-crafted cocktails (moscow mezule, brooklyn flower), brisket sliders and the beet salad which was plenty for the 2 of us. The drinks were fabulous (and not skimpy on the liquor), and we enjoyed the sliders and salad. Note that the beet salad is pretty much a ton of beets with a spoonful of goat cheese and sprinkling of pine nuts - I love beets so this was ideal for me, but I can see how it might be a bit much for others. Definitely check this jewel of a restaurant out if you can!
(5)
Krystal G.
My friend and I went there for brunch today based on its 4 star on Yelp. But the experience was absolutely horrible. The old waiter was basically rushing us to finish our brunch. He literally threw a piece of bacon into my plate from another plate which he couldn't wait to take away. It was just around noon and the restaurant was almost empty. We don't understand what's the rush here and why he was so eager to take away the plate that held some pieces of bacon. Then when he gave us the check, we mentioned there's a yelp 15% discount that we want to use (we mentioned it at the beginning to the other waiter), then the old waiter said "WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME EARLIER?". What the hell? First of all, we told the other waiter. Second of all, you don't have any other customer in the restaurant at this moment. Is it really that much trouble to rerun the bill again?? Finally when he brought us the check, he was standing there waiting for us to write down the tip. We really couldn't stand this. So I had to tell him could you please not stand there waiting for us to finish the check? It'll take a few minutes. Thank God, we finally had some peace of mind at the very last in that restaurant. We live in the neighborhood. Def won't come back or recommend anyone to go there.
(1)
Arielle S.
Came here with my mom for dinner pre-theater performance. We were seated in the 3rd floor dining room. I liked the ambiance up there. It kind of felt like a home to me. There were 2 waiters both of whom were very friendly and helpful. It kind of made up for the fact that there was a large group seated up there that were obnoxiously loud making it hard to even think much less carry on your own conversation. My mom ordered spinach ravioli and said it was really really good. I, who almost never ever ever order steak, was somehow craving steak and decided to order it. It came with a side of mashed potatoes and broccoli. The steak was ok but i've had better and probably wouldn't order it here again. The mashed potatoes were really good and probably my favorite part of the meal. The broccoli was boring, it was just steamed broccoli; no butter, no garlic, no seasoning, just plain old healthy broccoli. I would certainly not shy away from returning but don't feel compelled to rush back.
(3)
Kathy D.
I'm new to New York and restaurant row. But not new to braised short ribs and theirs are excellent!!
(4)
Onelia E.
Three story spot with cramped spaces, the furniture was falling apart (I sat upstairs with a large party near on a banquet) and my end of the bench was literally cracked and I was leaning forward with me knees halfway to kneeling. I normally would have made a big stink but there was no other place to seat our party of 8 so I took one for the team and hoped to heaven that the wine would start flowing soon because I had a tough day of travelling. The good news is that the wine menu is superb. The bad news is that everything else on the menu was uninspiring. Pigs in a blanket? I had to double check the menu to make sure I didn't get the kids menu or that I didn't accidentally walk into Hooters on game day. Nope- definitely Pigs in a blanket for $10. Sorry but I was over that quickly after I discovered my first easy bake project with Pillsbury's ready to bake croissant triangles. The hummus was cold, the Tavern salad was drab, and my salmon was just edible. While the service was hospitable and the bartenders were on point, the overall experience left much more to be wanted. The third floor was stuffy- smelled of musty old wood and cooked food, mixed with the hot breath of patrons coming in from the cold. Note to management: please close the bathroom doors that lead into the third floor dining room. The last thing a patron wants to see when they walk up the stairs and are being seated is a wide open view to the toilet (and bathtub!).
(2)
Michael P.
A couple of friends and I were having a great time next door at The Ritz the Saturday after Halloween and we needed a place to sit and talk and have some good food and conversation. We planted ourselves inside and was greeted by a very nice server, Maria. The night was already rocky for a couple of us and once we got in the inviting space, Maria made us feel incredibly safe and was quick to pick up on our drama and insisted to make matters better. By her charm and hospitality, she turned what might have been a night of drama to a safe haven of good food and service. I'm from LA and never been here before however the graciousness that she put forth prompted me to write my first yelp review. If anything, please go there, ask for Maria...what a fantastic asset this place has...you won't be disappointed if Maria takes care of you!
(5)
Matic J.
I feel sorry to give only 2 stars as I feel this place could get 4-5. It started of fine with a nice welcome chat and round of beers. We ordered and were full of expectations for what tasty treats we will get. Then the waiter got us the burgers - picture uploaded - burned!! I asked the waiter if he could give me some ketchup as the burger is BURNED - he made a strange face and got the ketchup. So I just cut the burger round and round to get the burned layer off and ate the rest. I pointed the issue to the waiter and asked if we can make a deal with a dessert - his reaction was very disturbing. Since then it all went downhill. He treated us like it was our fault that he gave us burned food. Well we got 1 lava cake for free which is nice, but the guy could have taken it less personal and be more understanding. If you go there - don't take the burger.
(2)
Marci F.
Just ate here after a show at illuminate. Fantastic fresh food! From the door person who greeted us with a smile to the waitress I loved the experience. The food was super fresh. I got the special which was the arugula salad and the hummus. My mom got the spicy pasta and my sister raved about the roasted chicken. The only sad part of the meal was the Bettie bourbon sour. Not so great but it's hard to please a whiskey sour snob. I absolutely recommend this place. Fantastic atmosphere and amazing food.
(4)
Gary S.
There is a reason so many people give this place excellent reviews. That's because it's excellent. The prix fixe is extremely reasonable and the food was uniformly well prepared. The short ribs, as noted by others, are terrific and the simple mashed potatoes and al dente steamed broccoli a perfect complement. The penne came with a hearty bolognese that is just slightly spicy. You almost don't notice it at first and then realize it's carefully crafted. There are $6 glasses of wine that were really good - these people clearly know what they're doing. The blueberry/apple cobbler were a bit too sweet for me, but it's probably what most people expect and want. Service was uniformly excellent. They know how to get food done quickly in anticipation of meeting curtain times while still making you feel relaxed and comfortable. This is a small place and if you are looking for something with pizzazz or with modern restaurant buzz and lots of action, this isn't the spot. Don't come expecting that and then complain about it. But if you want excellently prepared food that is reasonably priced with a wonderful and simple ambiance where you'll walk out wanting to come back, then here it is.
(4)
Noel L.
Was at Betti Bar for a cast party of a show I am in close by and we had a great time...we eventually took over all of the seating and it was very comfortable.The bartenders were very inviting and the service was great! I had only come to dinner here one year on Thanksgiving and had no idea about this upstairs bar.It is adorable and the food and menu ,great ,and they were serving dinner at midnight which is very key! The wine was excellent and i cannot say enough great things!I will definitely be back every week while our show is going on!!!!Perfect late night spot near Broadway!
(5)
Kate W.
Came in late so there was no waiting and the food was amazing. So tasty I couldn't stop eating even though I was very full! I don't know what they put in the salad dressing but I would love the recipe. I also had the chicken vegi soup and believe me you've never tasted anything so fresh and flavorful! Great experience. Thank you!
(5)
Gail P.
Delicious brunch food served with $5 cocktails in a funky, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Would certainly go back at other times to try lunch, dinner or just drinks.
(5)
Molly H.
Amazing staff, friendly owners, brunch is delicious, and the mystery beer and shot are really fun.
(5)
Will F.
We just left here, waited over an hour for eggs. The couple next to us, who was seated and ordered at the same time as U.S., got their food and finished eating before the waitress even commented on the status of our. Until we said something to our server about the delay, she didn't acknowledge us at all. I was this close to walking out when she claimed they were plating our dishes. Additionally, in that time they weren't able to bring me the screwdriver I ordered (a 2 ingredient drink!). When we did get our check, our waitress blamed the new chef. Completely unacceptable, will not be coming back.
(1)
Ron M.
Great little pre-theater place to eat and have a few drinks. Food is really good, service is friendly, nice ambiance on both floors.
(4)
A H.
The food was good here. Service is a bit slow, so watch the time if you're here before a show. Great prices for what you get, though. Tons of good, comfort-style food for a good price.
(4)
Leslie S.
What a find! After a long touristy day of sightseeing, we were in the mood for a quiet meal. We found Hourglass on our evening walk. The weather was spectacular and on a nice October evening (10/12/13) we sat at an outside table and enjoyed wine and pasta for what seemed like hours. I had lobster ravioli and my husband had a seafood pasta. Both were wonderful!
(4)
Shyanie K.
Food 3/5 Experience 4/5 3 story building in hell's kitchen. We were up on the 3rd floor. Really cute, little hourglass details hidden everywhere. Service was great. Menu was okay. I wasn't blown away by the choices. Our party ordered the lamb special, lobster ravioli, pork chop, pecan crusted tilapia and spicy shrimp. The lamb was not cooked properly, so wasn't as tender as it should have been. But still had great flavor. Lobster ravioli was tasty, sauce was slightly bland. Pork chop was cooked well but the dipping sauce was unimpressive. Pecan crusted tilapia was well balanced and cooked perfectly. Spicy shrimp was also done well, sriracha dipping sauce was unique! For dessert we ordered the molten chocolate cake and the flourless chocolate cake. Both were average! Its a unique intimate place, great for friends catching up or having a casual night.
(3)
Heath T.
Tavern is the perfect combination of casual and formal dining. The quality of the food and it's old-world ambience ensure a memorable dining experience, while the overall atmosphere and friendly service create a warm, relaxing retreat.
(4)
Brian S.
The best meal we had in four days in NYC. The Penne Bolognese and the roasted chicken were excellent. Everything came to our table properly prepared and hot. Don't let the name fool you into thinking this is just a tavern.
(5)
Jeff W.
This restaurant is in the Theatre District--MAKE RESERVATIONS.....and show up on time if you expect to make your curtain. As a New Yorker, I expect a loud, bustling place in the center Hell's Kitchen-- maybe others do not. Chris, our waiter/bartender on the third floor seemed harried by the pre-theatre crowd. While he seemed perfectly capable of handling it, his demeanor was one of frustration. We were amused by this experience as WE were not in a rush....we made our reservations so that we had plently of time to eat and make our curtain. We ordered the lamb and veal-both specials for the evening -and we were not disappointed. Both were excellent. We finished our meal off with espresso and Sambuca. With all of the restaurants in the area, we do not know if we will be back any time soon.
(3)
Elisa B.
I lived in this neighborhood over 20 years ago and returned w/ my husband for a vacation. The Hourglass Tavern is still here and the ambience and food are still cozy and delicious. This is a gem of Restaurant Row and they will flip the hourglass if you need to make an 8 pm curtain, so you can get to the show on time. Great meal, great atmosphere- you cant go wrong with this place!
(5)
Alex S.
Wow! Not what I was expecting two and a half steps outside of tourist central. Working in Midtown has its perks, but it definitely has its drawbacks... I'm looking at you Time's Square. Back to Bettibar, an unassuming staircase next to a somewhat ironic 'speakeasy' sign, inviting people upstairs with a way to escape the normal Midtown routine. I knew this place was different as soon as I saw the specials board. One thing stuck out at me: A beer in a bag and a 'mystery shot' for $8. It reminded me of the old Brooklyn special, a PBR can and shot of Jameson for $5...but better. I didn't think that could happen. I had a couple grab bags (you can also get one for $5 sans shot) and they had a good mix - I got Magic Hat and Riverhorse. It was even a Magic Hat I've never tried before. I mean No #9 is good...but we've all had it. Great pick. The shots aren't for the faint of heart. They were...a little...strong. And big. Now, I'm not complaining but I feel like full disclosure on this: If you're with a group of girls, you should probably let them get something else...unless you want them growing a full-on gorilla fur-covered chest. I'm talking the thick stuff. You should probably keep it to one...or two ;) The food was delicious! Apparently they get it from Hourglass Tavern downstairs? We had a dish of meatballs (great - you found our kryptonite) and some kind of polenta with melted mozzarella on top. Both were delicious. To top it all off, the server was awesome. I forget her name (sorry!) but she has bright pink hair and I'm proud to admit I'm the first person to ever make a joke about it being her natural hair color. Ok, so I made that last part up but she was cool enough to laugh. Hopefully it flies under the radar long enough to come back a few times and have some fun!
(5)
Frank B.
Pre theater dinner at this small I.e. narrow restaurant. Quaint place with ok food, nothing spectacular. I had disc shaped pasta primavera without the ricotta. The wife had salmon, and my son had the steak. All dishes were good. No major issues with the service. Our waitress was friendly and helpful. My son had an issue because they did not have steak fries...the waitress said they don't deep fry anything. The price was reasonable for NYC, $140, including tip which included 3 drinks and a dessert.
(3)
Matt E.
Yan T said it best when he said "wonderful gem on restaurant row". I saw the name and rating on a Yelp search but hadn't read any reviews, I was expecting an actual tavern but this is definitely a restaurant above all else. It's located in a narrow oddly shaped residential building that was re-purposed decades ago. The first and third floors are dining rooms while the second floor is an intimate bar room that seemed almost like a hidden gem. I came here for dinner and other than a mix up with the order (which a free glass of wine made up for) I was very surprised at the reasonable prices, good service, and the decent quality of the food given it's proximity to Times Square. For an appetizer my girlfriend and I split an order of 3 traditional spanikopita puffs (flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta). She loved them but I found them to be overly salted and a little too oily and flat. We also got a giant roll with butter which seems mundane but was deliciously moist and subtly sweet. Most entrees are under $20, in fact my chicken entree with grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli was only $14. The chicken had a great flame grilled flavor and was cooked perfectly. I was a little disappointed that the rosemary garlic marinade wasn't exactly prevalent and that the steamed broccoli wasn't seasoned or cut up but otherwise was very pleased. I would definitely come back to this unique spot for a nice meal with an intimate setting.
(4)
Anne G.
This restaurant has wonderful ambiance and great service! In an old brownstone mere steps away from the 8th Avenue strip in the heart of the theater district, it is an oasis away from the hustle of that area. The food was of acceptable quality, but nothing special. I had a slightly dry and over cooked pork loin chop. Two members of our party ordered grilled salmon on salads and pronounced it to be good. It is certainly a worthwhile stop before the theatre, especially because it is quiet and pleasant, but the food is only a slight edge above average.
(3)
Danielle H.
The first time I came here I just had drinks at Bettibar, which was nice and had a very cool, laidback environment. However, the restaurant itself was just mediocre. Service was okay and I have to commend them on finding and bringing my gloves down to me when I returned later (I always seem to forget something.) The food was just so-so. I had the the Hearts of Romaine salad to start and I thought that the cheese overpowered the whole dish. Otherwise, I think it would have been much better but there was too much to pick out. For the main course, we shared the spinach ravioli and the shrimp catalina. There was barely any shrimp (maybe 4 pieces) in the dish and the rest was all sauce. The sauce was very good and packed a punch, but sauce isn't a meal. The spinach ravioli was very tasty, but it's something even I could have made at home and I'm not a good cook. It was also very difficult to eat since the raviolis were hidden at the bottom of the bowl under all the sauce. It was a good portion size and good comfort food, but it's not really what you look for when you go out to eat. Go to Bettibar and get food somewhere else. And as others have said, Yelp, make a separate listing for it!
(3)
Kathy Y.
Smacked in between much flashier restaurants and bars on 46th street, Hourglass Tavern is hard to notice. But that only adds to the cozy and intimate vibe of this place. The dining room on the first floor has about 5-6 two-person tables, and any seat would have felt equally snug and kind of romantic. The food and wine menu was very plain American. My grilled chicken plate with a side of broccoli and mashed potato was unmemorable, but I was much more drawn to the ambience than the food itself anyways - that's what will get me to come back. But when I do, I'll rather go upstairs to the bar on the second floor!
(3)
Rekha K.
I consider Hourglass Tavern a hidden gem. Though it is located in the heart of the Theatre District, its hidden entrance almost makes you miss it! This quaint bar/restaurant has 3 distinct floors. Bettibar on the 2nd floor has a great atmosphere - a perfect spot to chill for a glass of wine or a simple dinner. The bartender and service was excellent. I will definitely be back and next time will check out floors 1 and 3!
(5)
Chris I.
This place is awesome!! No really it is. I mean I had already thought this place was great after reading the reviews of some trusted Yelper friends of mine.....and to top it off not ten pics in I see Phil H drinking a beer in a bag like an elegant hobo. I call that a recipe for a winner. Turns out this place is more than a tiny bar on the second floor, they are also cooking up some kick ass eats. Me and the GF wanted a place to come after seeing a Broadway show ( yeah I'm cultured like that.....you just learned something new about me , didn't ya? Shame on you for thinking other wise. You now owe me a shot and I expect you to be on the honor system next time you see me! LOL) Any way where was I ? Oh yeah, I looked for a place where we could get decent eats at a late hour and decided on Hourglass tavern. The place is tiny, I mean really tiny but lucky for us the first floor where the restaurant is wasn't too crowded. We were greeted warmly by our waitress and snagged a cool booth right by the from window. Very cozy and romatical ( yup I just dropped a jersey shore phrase on you.) They are a tavern so I was able to get my old standby scotch and the GF got a glass of vino. We started out with the Albondingas, which are chicken meatballs in a red sauce with shaved cheese on top. They were out of this world . Nice and fresh and the sauce was really good. For our main's she got the grilled pork chop and I got one of the specials which was the braised lamb shank. The GF's pork chop was delicious, grilled to perfection and nice and juicy. The honey cumin sauce was awesome. They should bottle that stuff and sell it, they make a fortune. My lamb shank was equally good. It was fall off the bone tender and still nice and juicy. If it's on the menu you should definitely get it. Both dishes came with sauteed veggies that were cooked perfect. We ended the dinner with their flour-less chocolate cake. It was basically fudge cake. Chocolate times a 1000. If you are a chocolate lover then it'll be right up your ally. We really enjoyed our meal there. The bill was really inexpensive given the high quality of food and the area the restaurant is in. You should definitely stop in if you are in the area, it's totally worth it!
What a great place! Atmosphere was interesting in a sea of restaurants that appear to be the same, or try to hard to be different. The staff was friendly and fun. We had 5 adults and 3 children, and everyone loved their food. The homemade ravioli's were a hit, and the sausage pasta was awesome. We will be back.
(5)
Anu P.
I got to New York around 1am on a Wednesday night. After checking in, grabbing dinner and heading to Times Square, we were on the lookout for a bar that wasn't too crowded, touristy or extremely pricey. Luckily my friend came across Hourglass Tavern which is a short walk from Times Square. We arrived around 2:30 am to find it deserted minus a couple people. We walked up to the second floor to enter Bettebar. Cutest bar I've been in! There were nice couches and pillows to sit on as well as regular bar stools. It was very small but given that there were just 4 of us and two bartenders, it was perfect. Our gin & tonics were great. But what I loved the most was the music! They were playing a mix of old 90s pop and rock music and it was so refreshing to be able to enjoy some old favorite songs while also being able to hear the conversation without straining your ears. It was the perfect place to sit down for a few drinks and I would highly recommend it over some of the pricier, louder bars right in Times Square! :)
(5)
Jim S.
We had dinner at the Hourglass Tavern again on Sept. 24th. A late dinner after a show , everything was perfect as usual !!!!! Great food and great service !!!!! You will not be disappointed !!!
(5)
Renata P.
Absolutely amazing place. The food was fantastic, the wait staff was friendly, and the decor was charming. We came with a large party and rescheduled three times due to the lateness of all people involved (my family is not known for its punctuality) and they were incredibly accommodating. I had the special (lamb shank) was was tasty and the portions were generous. My mother had the chicken alfredo which was executed perfectly. My sister had the beet salad with a side of salmon, and that was the only dish that wasn't great. Otherwise, A+!
(5)
Brian C.
For years living in the neighborhood this has been my go to place. There is nothing like a "Beer in a Bag, with a Shot" to get you home from work, and when you come back later it is the perfect intimate place to relax with friends. While it is a hangout for old regulars there are plenty of first timers wandering in from the theaters making for an eclectic mix that is sure to always give you someone to talk to. Even if you are not hungry enough to eat a meal, the fresh baked bread is worth a trip in its self. With all the food prepared in house the quality is great, and the prices are such that you can afford to come in on a working mans income. Betti Bar on the second level is the place to be, but is often crowded, but if you have the stamina, there is another full bar up on the third floor too! Sure this is a biased review, its my favorite place, but if I like it, you should probably give it a shot too! Cookie.
(5)
Mike T.
You can't go wrong with this restaurant . Food is great service is great. Fun restaurant to go to also the food and price can't be beat.
(5)
Kem W.
This is a very cool place with a long history. It's been an establishment since 1894. Long and narrow, 3 floors, and good food. I had the prix fixe grilled chicken. It was very good with broccoli and mashed potatoes on the side. Loved the bread. Upstairs the bar looked cozy and fun. It was amazing to watch the choreography of all the staff as they moved about this very small restaurant. This is a reasonably priced place that you owe yourself to check out. Definitely glad I came. Recommended.
(4)
Derek W.
This is the go to place for me and my girlfriend! The atmosphere and interior design is charming. The whole restaurant is three floors with the bar on the second floor with a couple of small tables. Most importantly, the food and drinks are great. I highly recommend getting dinner off the prix-fixe menu since it offers soup/salad, entree, and dessert. This place is also famous for their delicious sangrias. The biggest downside of here is the long wait and crammed space. One time we had to wait for over an hour for seats. After being seated, our entrees came before our salad. But the owner of the restaurant was great! She noticed how our food was coming so slow and out of order and offered to take the price of the salad off our bill. She also gave us a free round of drinks! On another occasion, I was sitting on a partially broken chair and their waiter immediately changed the chair for me once he saw how broken it was! Also, when I was paying, I accidentally dropped a 100$ bill on the floor and when we were about to leave, he picked it up for us and told us that we dropped it! Needless to say, this place has phenomenal service, food, and drinks!
(5)
Kate D.
Came here for a girls get together after not having seen everyone in a long time. Was looking forward to seeing everyone and having a good time. Now first looking at the place online, it says it is small. But when you get there they really mean it, the place is tiny. Though there are three levels, all are each just as small as the other and one server per floor. We didnt really mind this at first because it creates a cozy and intimate experience. We started off with the happy hour at the bar on the second level while we waited for our table and then were shown our seats on the third floor. The food is good but does not out way the service that we experienced. My friends and I are between 23-26 years old. We were the youngest people there and as such we were ignored and had to call numerous times to get someones attention. The other tables had no such problem. We asked for the desert menu twice before just giving up and paying for our bill, which also took forever to get. Dont get me wrong, the food was good. But I would not go back just for that. Maybe the bar. If they had more people helping, then perhaps it would be a better time.
(2)
Steve N.
Great experience! Small, intimate and quiet setting with friendly service and a good menu.
(5)
Tiffany S.
Honestly.. I was pleasantly surprised. I came here with a girlfriend for just drinks and wound up staying for 4 hours and had dinner too. There's 3 floors, I believe Hourglass is the first floor and Betti Bar the next two. The waitress was very friendly and never rushed us. I love how they offer a mystery beer in a bag - good beers too.. Blue Point.. River Horse.. I wish I remembered which cocktails we had.. but those were good too. Had the grilled poletna - basically polenta in tomato sauce with melted cheese on top grilled shrimp and polenta - this was pretty good, the sauce was yummy orecchiette primavera - a little greasy but still good Then ordered a fruit cobbler for dessert. She gave us two serving sizes which was nice. I can see why they might have had some to spare though - it was soooooooooo sweet. I felt a coat of sugar on my teeth, kind of like when I drink a Coke. Blegh, I don't like Coke.. Would I come back here? Eh, not too sure. It definitely wasn't a bad place at all, but nothing extraordinary either.
(3)
Gwenn H.
We arrived promptly for our 12:15 brunch reservation. We had tickets for a 2:00 show, which we informed our waitress. We were seated on the third floor and ordered two champagnes and an iced tea. The champagne was terrible. We ordered two eggs florentine and blueberry waffles. At 1:30 we were still waiting for our order! The waitress said she couldn't make the food come out any faster. Every time she had to pick up an order, she had to go down and back up three flights of stairs. She was also the bartender and cashier! Upon leaving, with another unserved party, we complained to the manager. She said it was the first day that the third floor was open and they were very busy. She then said " I did pay for your drinks!" Rushing to the theater, starving, we woofed down a slice of pizza on the street. This was not the four star restaurant i had read about and pizza was not the brunch I was hoping for. Next time you see this place on Restaurant Row, make sure you keep on walking and find somewhere else that might actually serve you food! P.S. We still tipped that poor waitress $10.00!
(1)
Nelly G.
Good thing I made a reservation a few hours before we showed up. At first there was no one on the first floor but within 10 minutes everyone started to show up. Loved that it was a cute little place...not good for large groups. Three floors with a waiting area and some table on the second floor with a bar where all drinks are made. Started with the chicken and sundried tomato albóndigas, marinara sauce and shaved pecorino with crostini. Ssooooo good! My girlfriend had the shrimp Catalina and I had the Bourbon braise short beef ribs. Wished they had roasted potatoes or rice as I can't have mashed potatoes...was very tasty and filling. For drinks my gf had the Mezclan mule which she really loved and I had the Brooklyn Flower. Ended our meal with dessert. My gf had the tirimasu and I had the chocolate molten cake. Food, drinks and service were so good. Would definitely go back.
(4)
Kristy R.
Betti Bar! Above Hourglass Tavern, there is Betti Bar. You go up a narrow flight of stairs, duck into a door on the left, and arrive in a small, cramped bar. There are a couple of booths, maybe a table or two, and a tiny bar. There is also an actual hourglass on the wall, that they flip. The beers they offer are lined up on the wall, including the beer in a bag with a shot. We decided to go with that since it seems to be the "thing" to do while you're there. We each received a different beer, but the same sweet shot. My beer was a Denver something and it was pretty good. One friend had a beer with eyes on the neck of the bottle so it looked creepy coming out of the paper bag. It's kind of cool to drink out of a paper bag, in a "secret" location, with not too many people around. The music selection is also great, it's full of 90s alternative that everyone can sing along to. I really like this place. It isn't loud, it isn't crazy, it isn't crowded, and you get to drink like you're drinking in secret. Very cool spot.
(4)
Natasha B.
I came here with friends after wandering around Hell's Kitchen trying to find a chill, not crowded bar around 10 pm. We walked upstairs to the bar, and there was no room. They welcomed us to sit on the ground floor in the restaurant, which was nice. We got two rounds of beers and a couple entrees. I got a grilled cheese, which was the best damn grilled cheese I've ever had. It was salty and buttery, on some magical kind of bread. The service was also awesome! The woman serving us was very cool, and she didn't mind when we had an extra person show up unannounced and just claim his own small table. This place is small, but I think it'd be worth it to try a full meal here.
(4)
Mark M.
LOVE this place!!! I work in the area and go there all the time after work not only is the food amazing the staff and service is top notch. Make sure you get the short ribs they are my favorite oh yeah check out the second floor bar awesome atmosphere.
(5)
Jennifer J.
Cute location and friendly service. The menu had a little something for everyone in our diverse group and we all enjoyed our food, from BBQ sliders to ravioli and salmon. I would definitely go there again.
(4)
Betsy B.
Tried the Hourglass tavern for a pre-theater dinner. The place is tiny and a bit disorganized. We wandered through all three stories before finding a staff person to check in with. But the visit got better after that. We had a window seat on the first floor, and to say this restaurant is funky is an understatement. Tables seem squished in wherever possible. A combination of odd little antiques and ephemera adorns the walls. There's something about the place that gives you the feeling you've just gotten in to a 1920's/1930's secret speakeasy. The food was very reasonably priced, generously portioned and very tasty. My friend and I both started with the small Hourglass Salad, which had mixed baby greens, dried cranberries, whipped goat cheese and a house made cider vinaigrette. My friend had the strip steak and said it was very good. I had the Mascarpone Penne which had a creamy tomato sauce, Gorgonzola, sausage, walnuts, and mascarpone obviously. Delicious. The waitress was great - attentive, helpful with suggestions, and accommodating of our time constraints. This was a great find.
(4)
Kristen A.
Delicious food with a great atmosphere. The service was exceptional. So glad we stopped in here! Brunch was amazingly tasty and the menu had its own great flair!
(5)
Michelle A.
Place is a bit hard to find, but it is definitely a hidden gem. Great service, great food, great drinks.
(4)
Tracy M.
We had dinner for 4 Saturday night. The food was delicious! We had the shrimp dish, ravioli, steak and spaghetti and meatballs for our little guy. All cooked perfectly! I agree Mike at the front door was a little intimidating at first, he was actually very nice friendly. We also were asked to wait at the bar upstairs where we were greeted with friendly service and a few adult beverages. The place was great, all around, our waitress was friendly and accommodating, the ambiance was NYC perfect! I will come back the next time I'm in town.
(5)
April M.
The place is very cute and cozy. The waitress was VERY nice and she was quick on her feet. My mom and I got the pre fixed meals, such a tasty meal while still being priced so cheap. The salad with their special house dressing was delicious! I had the chicken alfredo, the blackened chicken was soooo flavorful and the pasta was perfectly al dente. The fruit cobbler of the night was blueberry and apple, which was alright. I would definitely come again!
(4)
Karen A.
Found this place on Yelp after looking for something near our theater with a menu suitable for both of us. I love the fact that it looks old and charming. It has lots of character. The service was just wonderful, both friendly and professional. They were very obliging with all our requests and the prices didn't break the bank. The food was good. The soup tasted very home made and the bread was delicious.We were fortunate to have the table on the first floor, right by the window, so I don't know about the other two floors' noise levels or comfort. I certainly will be a regular here any time I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)
Caroline B.
This review is for Bettibar: After we went to B. Smith's for his birthday dinner, my boyfriend told me he wanted to take me to a speakeasy across the street. I wasn't sure what to expect and was surprised that there would be such a place on Restaurant Row, but sure enough, an older man sitting outside told us to walk up a flight of stairs which led us to our destination. It was dimly lit and felt somewhat clandestine despite the fact that the chances of the place getting raided by the police are pretty slim in this day and age. The happy hour special of a beer in a brown bag and a shot cracked me up, and I love how committed Bettibar is to its theme. The atmosphere was very sexy and I loved it. The other patrons seemed to be theater people but being there, I forgot that I was mere feet away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square. Bettibar is a gem and I hope to be back soon.
(5)
Lily P.
3 levels! resturant, bar area, and upper floor you can have private parties. Logistics: bathrooms on 2nd and 3rd floor not on first..sorta weird. TV is on the 2nd and so we watched the NBA playoffs from there. they have a theater app, main, and dessert special for 22.95. We got this even though it ended at 8pm and we went way after. The pork chop was great, salad was standard, and then the dessert was very chocolate and dense.
(3)
Stacy B.
Terrible new waitress made silly and expensive mistakes that we ended up having to pay for. The dishes were portioned and (over)cooked completely different from our last dining experience. Disappointing all around.
(2)
Sheila T.
We were here last week. We arrived for our 6:00 reservation to be told that an earlier party was lingering over their coffee, so they apologized profusely while telling us to have a seat upstairs at the bar. They were very conscientious about checking in with us as the previous party continued to linger, ordering second coffees. We had left plenty of time before the theater, so weren't worried at all, but they continued to be very apologetic and even paid for our drinks. A table finally opened up upstairs, and we continued to receive the best treatment. Dinner arrived quickly and the burgers were delicious. Despite the probably half-hour or so wait for a table, we were out in plenty of time! The customer service was simply over and above anything we expected. We will definitely be back!!
(5)
Sonia M.
Great find! My family and I were looking for a place to grab dinner before a show and the Hourglass was able to accommodate the four of us without a reservation! The service was a bit slow to start, but there seemed to be some sort of problem with their computer system. The crab cakes were excellent and my husband raved about the leg of lamb. My two kiddos chose pasta from the kids menu ($11.95 each), and the portions were ample. Nice atmosphere and great location!
(4)
Anya B.
The food is just OK, nothing special, but not awful either. The Bitti bar upstairs has a lot of character which is more than I can say about the happy hour Sangrias served there. Pretty watered down if you ask me, but I suppose for $5 you can't complain. The service is great and the building itself is worth the visit. There are still glimpses of old NYC in the decor and layout of the place. Interestingly enough, there is third floor with a dining room that looks like a very nice and cozy place to have a private dinner party. You wouldn't even know it's there unless you go visit the tiny upstairs bathroom. Overall, not terrible, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. OK, maybe to the bar upstairs, because it's just so darn cute.
(3)
Julia R.
Warm and friendly staff, very converstaional, excellent brunch (we sat on the second floor). So happy we stumbled upon it!
(5)
Amanda L.
All I can say is Meh...hit or miss meals and hit or miss service I presume. Wouldn't go again, not a horrible experience....but not worth going again. If you need to eat, and are easy to please....try it if you want...
(3)
Josh B.
Dined here with friends from out of town. The food was good but the service was spectacular. My friend's mother was not feeling too well and the entire wait staff went out of their way to do anything to help her feel better. I've never seen such genuine concern from a staff at a place before. These guys are going into the regular rotation for both a decent meal and exceptional service!
(5)
Sara S.
Solid food great service. I had the sliders and they were juicy, well cooked and overall pretty tasty. What really stood out for me was how cool the staff was. I ended up having a 3 hour meal with my friend here and they didn't give us any crap about it. Super fast with food and drinks and refills. Ambiance was cool too, I could talk to my friend without having to shout, even at peak hours.
(4)
Kay W.
Hourglass / Betti Bar is always a great stop. My friends and I will often come here at the end of the night for a cozy last drink. All the staff I've encountered are friendly and polite. There is a small room on the third floor that you can reserve for groups. My friends and I have hosted several events there, and it is PERFECT for a low-key, intimate gathering. The staff at Betti Bar is wonderful about working with you to get the food and drinks you'd like, even reserving food for you if you're due to arrive after their kitchen closes. I would definitely recommend Betti Bar to anyone looking for a nice drink with friends or planning a birthday party.
(5)
Kraig B.
SOLID. Hands down Solid food and drink and I'll be back. Totally agree with the other reviews which led me here. Big groups... not sure but never saw the 3rd floor. 4 stars all day.
(4)
Holly S.
We went before going to a show. It was a Tuesday night so not super busy. We had the pre-fixe dinner. First they served us the BEST homemade loaf of bread. I could have just ate the bread and salad all night! Next came the salad. The house dressing was excellent. The salad was a spring mix. I ended up eating half of my daughters because she didn't like "all those greens" her loss was my gain. Next came the entree. I had ordered the pork chop. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli. One of the best pork chops I've ever had. Perfectly cooked, well seasoned. Loved every bite. Potatoes were sooo good too. Not sure what they do to them but they were really good. I'm only giving them 4 stars because of the dessert. The fixed menu came with only two choices of dessert. Apple/blueberry cobbler or tiramisu. My mom and I went for the cobbler while my daughter went for the tiramisu. The tiramisu wasn't bad, just ok. No lady fingers though. The cobbler went mostly uneaten by both of us however. The apples were unpeeled and most of them were way undercooked. There didn't seem to be any sweetness to the dish at all. I was disappointed after everything else I had been presented. My daughter had the Penne Bolognese and that was very good. It was very meaty. The menu said it was made with wine and I had asked the waitress how strong the wine would be and she said "not at all, it cooks out". I did not find that to be the case when I tasted her pasta. I was glad I didn't order it. My mom ordered the grilled chicken (can't remember the name) and that was very good as well. I liked the pork chop the best though. Our waitress was awesome. I didn't catch her name but she had quite a few tables and she was hustling it. We never lacked for anything and she came to check on us often. She also manned the phones. I highly recommend the Hourglass Tavern!
(4)
Gary D.
Three times to the hourglass and it just keeps getting better! Service is #1 and the food is just delicious. Can't wait for my next time there and I'm bringing anyone who is interested in eating short ribs.
(5)
Krissi D.
Betti Bar. I love this place. My brother and I have been coming here for years and we are never disspointed. It's our favorite spot to have a cocktail and dinner before a show. Beyond the delicious drinks and food, the service can't be beat. The owners and bartenders are so friendly, it's not surprising that there are so many regulars that keep coming back for more!
(5)
Daniel E.
This is a tiny place situated on restaurant row. We made reservations for 5, which is a must since this place doesn't have a big area to sit people. The service was great, very friendly, which seems to be a rarity in the city. The food was pretty amazing too! I had the short ribs which were fall off the bone. Everyone in the group loved the food they had. I would recommend this place based off 2 major things...the service and the food! Thank you for being so amazingly nice to us!
(4)
Laurel S.
Went to Hourglass Tavern before a show one night. Sat outside as the weather was great which is good because inside was small and stuffy. The food was great and very reasonably priced. I had the chicken meatball sliders and my daughter had the grilled cheese. We weren't really in the mood for a big heavy dinner so these were perfect and our bill was only about $22!
(4)
Regina D.
Went last night for a double date, the place is very cute and all the staff is very nice. We started out at the Bettibar, very cute and small. They offer happy hour, so we had a Sangria, it was just ok. Not very strong and there were only apples in the glass. After that we went downstairs for dinner, I think it depends what you having. My friends ordered shrimp entree and she said it was good and her husband seemed to enjoy his lobster ravioli, I ordered zucchini sandwich with mash potatoes and my hubby had Salmon Salad. The salad was bit old in my side and on my husbands plate. Portions are good size and prices are very moderate for the area. I would say it was ok meal, I would come back but would not go out of my way.
(3)
Tommy K.
Go upstairs to Betti bar. Mystery beers and shots. Nice place to chat with your friend(s) or strangers. Small place.
(4)
Vincent P.
Food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I was very impressed by this restaurant. Also the service was lightning fast!
(5)
Josh G.
This place was a surprise! It's a bit hidden away in Manhattan's Theatre District, so you need to keep your eyes open or you may miss it! The service was very prompt and friendly and the food was delicious! I ordered the chicken alfredo and it ranks as some of the best chicken I've ever had. Perfect in every way. The alfredo and noodles left a little to be desired, but that was forgivable.
(4)
Jay L.
It was OK, we went after a show on a Tuesday...so the place wasn't hopping. Food was pretty tasty, but the overall experience was just so-so. Waiters were less interested in us that they seemed to be in the upper floors, and the table was just a little too close to the kitchen. I got the impression it had a lot of potential, but we were not thereto see it at it's best. Food deserved 4 stars, service and atmosphere bring it down to a three. I won't be back, too many other places to experience in NYC
(3)
Kourtney L.
Tiny little space, but definitely a distinct atmosphere. Had the hummus platter and sliders with a friends and both were pretty good.
(3)
Hanne P.
Food was just okay, but the service was incredibly slow and rude. We got shuffled between floors a couple of times, and once we were finally seated our wait really didn't seem to want us to be there.
(2)
John C.
Enjoyed an early dinner following an afternoon matinee. Most pleased with the location, service, prices and food quality. Nice wine selection, but no draft beer. The Hourglass will definitely be on our must return list.
(4)
Genie M.
We didn't stay. After waiting a while for the waiter, in addition to the smell of cleaning products, it didn't seem worth the time or money to actually have a meal.
(1)
Ze W.
AMAZING burger!!! in a fresh boule, dug out and stuffed w fresh greens. YUM! Also had a nice bottle of cabernet. Cozy interior w wonderful, friendly service. Late night dinner OK! The desserts also looked amazing. Next time!
(5)
Jane B.
The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a warm goat cheese and fig salad. ( this was so good we wound up ordering it again instead of dessert or a cheese course). Then we ate very sweet and fresh shrimp served over grilled polenta. Honestly, these were the sweetest tastiest shrimp I've had in years. As a finale we had house made mushroom ravioli. These were also very good. The house made bread was delicious and we (2 of us) polished off 2 loaves. The wine selection was small but quite adequate. I had a yummy Syrah rose and Sauvignon blanc. Both were delicious. Go here! It is great bang for the buck and truly good food! Don't be put off, as some diners seemed to be, by the narrow dining room. It is in an 1895 brownstone...they're narrow. Also, service was great. We ate on the 3rd floor and the server was smart, attentive and charming. The owner came to say hello and it was nice to see my money going to such caring hard working people. This is a must for avant or après theater and just a great spot for any time. It is very " New York! "
(4)
Larry J.
Been here many times,always great food,great service. Nice variety on menu & great bar choices with happy hour until 10:00. Prices very reasonable!
(5)
Olga K.
came here before a show for dinner and was overall impressed. Most restaurants in the theater district are too touristy and just mediocre and this was neither. It is small and quaint but with a European charm about it. There pre fix menu is a bargain, you get fresh home made food for such a reasonable price. Get here early because it is a size of a shoebox so it gets filled up quickly. We will def be back next time we are in the area.
(4)
Michael F.
We four friends often have dinner before going to the Signature Theatre near 10th Ave and 42nd. A little out of the regular theatre district restaurant area. So it is always terrific to find a new place nearby. Hourglass was our latest try. Nice set up with dining rooms on first and third floors and bar / cafe on the second where we got into pre-dinner drinks. We found it so comfortable - and Josh the co-owner and bartender so amiable - that we had our dinner at the bar too. Excellent! Two of us had the prix fixe meal, others ordered a la carte. The pastas (we tried three different ones in our group, mine being the nicely spicy fettucini Fra Diavolo) and the lamb) were all superb. As were the salads and desserts. Nothing but good things to say. The Hourglass is definitely on our "regular place" list in this area.
(5)
Jake S.
The Hourglass is the best place to go before a show, after a show, or when there's no show! I love the hourglass. Each of the three floors has it's own character and special purpose. Just go. Eat drink and enjoy this awesome NYC tavern with great food, friendly staff, cool decor, and just all around good energy. One of a kind New York find!
(5)
Manfred H.
The restaurant goes over three stories and has actually a cool and a little nostalgic ambiente. We had dinner at a Saturday evening with a party of 7. The food starting with salads, which did not look fresh, was mediocre family restaurant quality. My wife actually liked the crab cakes though. The other dishes were pork chops with mashed potatoes and spinach. The pork chop was less than 1" thick and chargrilled dry. So was the chicken with the Fettucini Alfredo. The strip steaks had just about the right size about 12oz but were not grilled to the doness as desired. Also stay away from the sliders. Rather go for the big a___ burger and share it. Those sliders are just tasteless. We were hungry so we ate what we could. All in all a disappointing culinary experience. I informed our waiter about the food experience. He informed the management or owner and we received a considerable deduction form the bill and free desert. This was certainly a surprising but welcome apology. The staff actually is very friendly and customer oriented. Too bad that the kitchen quality does not match up. We don't feel going back since there are way better choices in NYC.
(2)
Stephanie M.
A solid choice for pre-theatre dining. They have multiple floors and nice servers. The menu has a great variety, so there is something for everyone. Considering the neighborhood, it's even priced well. The downstairs is a bit tight, but in midtown what isn't?
(4)
Briana H.
I first happened into Bettibar for a post-theater drink. I decided to take my mom and strictly meat-and-potatoes stepdad to the Hourglass for a pre-theater dinner this weekend, and it ended up being a perfect choice. The menu is pretty standard and not exactly hip, but we all found something we wanted easily, and the prices aren't bad. I did the prix-fixe with a salad, orechiette, and chocolate cake. I really liked the citrus-y dressing and didn't mind the old school mesclun mix. The pasta was a little too oily, but otherwise quite pleasing. The cake was tinged with amaretto and Grand Marnier, and my stepdad particularly enjoyed it. Everyone was happy and the turnover was quick enough to get us to the theater with time to spare. Our doting server made the place feel very homey. My one complaint was that the air was a little smokey and garlicky sitting next to the kitchen, but it's a tiny place, so what can you do? You'll probably need a reservation if you're going before a show. Upstairs, Bettibar is a perfect spot for a cozy drink. It's tiny and gets packed easily, so you might want to have a Plan B if you're making a date here, but if you just happen to be in the area during their generous happy hours, I would definitely stop in and see if there's room. I have successfully taken a party of four here on a Saturday night and we snagged a seat, but we had to wait about twenty minutes. I'm a fan of French 75s, so their French 77s are a treat. If you like surprises, order the beer in a bag & mystery shot.
(4)
Joshua Q.
This review is about Bettibar. I don't know anything about the first-floor restaurant or the third-floor lounge. I first came here for a going away party that my friend was having. Walking up the steps to bar, I wasn't sure how I was going to like the place, but what a great surprise! The bar is so cozy! We had it reserved for a couple hours for the party, so it was nice to have it to ourselves. The hand-food that we had was good, and the drinks were strong. I came back with a friend on Saturday night and it was busy, but we were able to get a seat at one of the small tables. We only intended to stay for one drink, but ended up staying the entire night! The crowd is great and most people are super friendly. The bartender (a woman, but I don't know her name!) is really a gem. I don't think tourists know about this place. I hope it stays that way!
(5)
Dakota L.
Have been here twice for meals before going to see a show. Both times the meals were good, and the atmosphere was friendly. The last time we came, however, the service was pretty slow, so slow that we ended up being late for our show.
(3)
Brian G.
Cozy little place. A bit cramped on first of their 3 floors. Food was quite good. I had the bolognese. There was fresh bread and the service was attentive. Good for those eating before plays as the food and service was quick. Bar on second floor. Request to sit away from the door as tables by door are very cramped. Bathroom on second floor.
(3)
tamanna r.
5 for service, 5 for food, 5 for atmosphere...what a find. We were wandering, starving, and while this place didn't look like much from outside, inside it was amazing. Three floors of tiny, cozy, well designed rooms that feel like you're a guest at someone's house rather than a restaurant. The lady with curly hair who seemed like the manager was so warm, and welcoming and clearly adept at fitting people into tiny spaces. She bought us drinks because no tables were available yet, and was generally super kind and professional. We were then brought up to the third floor when a table opened up, and just loved our server. She seemed genuinely pleased each time we liked something, like we were eating at her own kitchen or something. I got shrimp fra diavolo and my date got mushroom ravioli. Beyond delicious, definitely far beyond our expectations for wandering into a random place. Truly a hidden gem in this neighborhood! And, very affordable!
(5)
Carl I.
Had dinner prior to a concert on Sat eve. Ate on 3rd. While waiting for table, had a cocktail, on 2nd. Friendly staff, value for money, very nice wait staff, food very good. Will return.
(5)
pamela p.
Convenient for pre theater dinners. I was able to sit outside and could watch all the people pass by. Since I am watching my weight- I had a salad and salmon with veggies. All was prepared nicely and it was tasty. The service was excellent and the prices were what I expected.
(3)
Robert T.
Really nice place. Good wait staff
(4)
Bruce B.
Was a great little place that we would have never tried of it weren't for YELP. The food was great, and the staff was more than accommodating. The ambiance of the place was off the charts. Loved it. The steak was fantastic, there was something for everyone, teens and adults alike.
(4)
Abbey M.
A total hidden gem! Amazing food and great service in this little hole in the wall!! We will definitely be back!
(5)
Nicholas G.
A few friends and I grabbed last minute reservations for this place the week after Thanksgiving and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. It was small... really small... I've sat at larger tables small... but, the food was amazing. My mother would shoot me if she read this, but their bolognese sauce is the best I've ever had. Just typing this, I'm salivating. All of us loved our meals and we would all love to go again.
(4)
Leslie D.
Ok, so why isn't Betti Bar its own separate Yelp listing?! Anyway, this review is obviously about Betti Bar, the adorable "hidden" bar located in the Theater District above Hourglass Tavern. I came here with my friend Chris after a delicious dinner at Pio Pio 8 to engage in some libations. I had heard of this place from a few Yelpers and was excited to try out this little hot spot. The entrance to Betti Bar is to the right of Hourglass Tavern when facing it. Contrary to what is implied, the doorbell serves no purpose as the door is unlocked. The bartender actually came down the stairs and cordially yelled at us "IT'S NOT LOCKED" after we had rung it a few times. Forgive me if I wanted it to be reminiscent of Milk & Honey! Once inside, you're greeted by a cozy space filled with many tall chairs, a bustling tiny bar, and a huge hourglass mounted on the wall ticking down the seconds (the hourglass was/is used to tell patrons that they have an hour left before they need to leave to catch their show). After scoring a table against the back wall's mirror, we had a chance to peruse the menu and check out the patrons. For drinks, I went with the Champagne Cocktail and he went with the Sweet and Sour Bourbon. The bartender upon hearing my order went to work at lightning speed mixing, cutting, pouring and creating our drinks. I think I am turning into a man as I am coming to the realization I do not enjoy sweet drinks anymore. Still, the drink was perfectly concocted and I sipped on it slowly. He on the other hand seemed to love his bourbon concoction and at $10-$12 a pop, I think his drink was better for the money. I really want to come back to Betti Bar and get the $8 beer and mystery shot in a bag special. That just sounds like the beginning to a night you don't want to (voluntarily) forget. They also have happy hour every day from 5-10pm- just don't tell the alcoholics or you'll never get a spot inside. Sure, the space at Betti Bar is small and the crowd is mostly gay gentlemen (well on Saturday night it sure was), but it's a great spot to kick back, relax with a deliciously crafted drink, and enjoy watching your heterosexual guy friend get visually gang banged by every "Richard" within the vicinity.
(4)
Emma P.
completely thrown by how bad a place with 4 stars was..I had to. We just had pasta, beef sliders , and tiramisu..all were bad.
(1)
Nicole S.
several story restaurant/bar in the theater district. Found this place on yelp a made a reservation that night. Place gets busy due to its proximity to the theaters - staff of the restaurant was very attentive and made sure to get us seated timely. The bar staff seemed to think we were a bit silly as we were celebrating but hopefully we entertained for a bit. It is a tiny bar area- so hard to get situated in the bar area out of everyone's way -but still a cute place and reasonably priced meals especially for NYC.
This review is for BettiBar, which is the 2nd floor part of this converted apartment. It's a small cute bar that has a great happy hour and some good old school cocktails as well.I came here with Baby D last week after we ate at Pio Pio. Next time I will be going for a couple of the beer in a bag and shot for $8. The setting is very cozy but I'm sure could get crowded really easy since there is not that many places to sit or stand.
(4)
Michele B.
I was going to dinner and a show with some family and they picked this place on a recommendation. Not wanting to judge a book by its cover, I was going to let the food speak to the place rather than the decor, which is seriously lacking in this oddly shaped and strangely laid out restaurant. Well, we never made it as far as ordering dinner, as a cockroach decided to take residence on our table. I know this is NYC and these things happen, but the waiter didn't make any attempts to kill it. Needless to say, I have no idea what the food is like but I don't plan on finding out.
(1)
Caroline D.
Had a grand time. Went to bettie bar first for a shot an d a beer. Then downstairs for dinner. Had an oldfashioned with dinner, twas pretty tasty. I also had the steak. It was just fine, I would say for the price and the ambiance for being in midtown it doesnt get any better than this place. That said, it can get so much better than this for so much less anywhere else. To sum up, if you are forced to be in midtown, go here.
(4)
J P.
Move on - there are better choices on Restaurant Row. Food was overcooked, slow to come out from the kitchen. Service is fine. One of those places where you say to yourself "I could have made this better at home" And I don't even cook!
(2)
Keith L.
First, I have to say that this review is about Betti Bar (the hidden gem), and not the overall Hourglass Tavern. I've been frequenting Betti ever since I discovered it a little over a year ago. I know, I know - my review is a little late. The ambiance is amazing - decorated like a brothel that you would find in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The bar staff is delightful, the drinks are strong, and their happy hour that lasts for five hours is amazing and playful. A secret "beer in a bag" and a shot? Yes, please! Betti is one of those secret gems that transports you out of the chaos that is Restaurant Row on 46th Street. I was almost hesitant to write a review for fear that more people would discover it. The bar is small and intimate, and a rush of the crowd from Murray Hill that we all loathe would ruin it. You know who I'm talking about... But, if you're a nice person and like a well-crafted cocktail with a neighborhood feel - definitely check it out. I'm sure I'll be sitting on a stool in the corner when you walk in. Say hello!
(5)
Caroline H.
We loved it here. We went here after Carnegie Hall's Vienna Choir Boys concert. I had the pre-theater dinner for $22.85+tax. I had a nice salad, pork chops, and tiramisu. My boyfriend had the penna with bolognese sauce, which he said was very good. The house bread was good. We got two loaves. The bottle of Merlot was great for $21. The Bettibar was packed for a Sunday night. $5 drinks. I looked across the room and the crab cakes and salmon were a hit too.
(5)
Bryan P.
I've been to Bettibar before, and it's a cool spot. A very cramped restaurant, we were pretty fortunate to just walk in and get a seat amid the theater rush. The food was really good. I think we both had pasta dishes, but I don't recall what exactly. They were good. Decent prices, including drinks.
(4)
Sherri H.
There's a speakeasy upstairs. It's charming and cozy. Must try in NYC
(5)
Ashley D.
Lovely place to enjoy a pre-show dinner. They're very quick at turning around large groups pre-show. My favorite dish is the Mushroom Ravioli - all ravioli is made in-house. This dish features an amazingly delicious marsala sauce as opposed to pasta sauce and it is TO DIE FOR. I'll never order anything else :) Plus, they have Clos du Val by the bottle. A-OK in my book!
(4)
Amy P.
We had a terrific per-theater dinner here. The restaurant has three narrow floors and a lot of charm. We sat at the bar on the 2nd floor and ate on the third floor. The service was friendly and attentive. The food was really great. I had a homemade spinach ravioli that was spectacular. The brisket sliders were also amazing. Also at the table we had the pasta bolognese, short ribs and grilled chicken. All were delicious. We will definitely come here again.
(4)
Monique R.
Oh, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly. What have you done to me? ***For BettiBar*** When you ring the doorbell next to the hourglass tavern, you gain access to a secret bar! No shit! Upstairs, grab a booth and rub elbows with some of the cooler people in Manhattan. Cooler because they know about this awesome bar. Kelly, the mixologist, was a great conversationalist. And he can make a serious drink! My enabler, Phil, dragged me to this bar. I entered slightly tipsy and left here clearly intoxicated. The $8 Mystery Beer and Shot is quite the deal. Growing up in the hoodtastic part of williamsburg, sipping a beer from a paper bag made me feel all nostalgic and shit. But how fun is it to drink like a hobo? VERY. Some pretty awesome labels inside the mystery beer. I sipped on a sneaky prohibition beer that tasted like an IPA of sorts. The mystery shot looked like flat coca cola. And if i think really hard, or read my tweets from that inglorious night I can recall the formula. I slurred at some regulars who humored my drunk ass but this bar is the bees knees. Ring the door bell and come on up! Please note that the WATER CLOSET is fancy talk for the Shitter.
(5)
Samantha C.
Small and intimate place to hang out for a quick drink, until it starts to get crowded. Must try their happy hour menu and get the grilled flatiron steak and handmade spinach ravioli. Good portions. Service was decent, but don't expect too much once it gets pretty busy because the bartender was the only one waiting tables and serving drinks. Perfect cosmo and good pinot at reasonable prices during happy hour. Upstairs is the best place to sit.
(4)
Jonathan A.
I really enjoyed the ambiance and the feel if the place, the food was spectacular and I would definitely try any of the wines. The only problem I would say is the actual walk space which is very narrow esp the stairway but besides that I give it 4 stars and will not only come back but will recommend it to all my friends that are looking to go to a nice quiet place for two
(4)
Mary B.
My husband and I took our 2 adult children there after seeing a play on Broadway. We didn't get there till almost 11 pm. We were greeted at the door and seated on the 3rd floor dining room, very small but nice. Ordered dinner, a couple glasses of wine and we were eating a half hour later. Everyone enjoyed their meal, service was good, and we had real food after the show! Not some stupid fast food or chain restaurant garbage. Would recommend this place if you need a good meal late in NYC.
(4)
Amber T.
My sister lives on Long Island and I was visiting her from Pittsburgh - we were going to a Sunday evening show on Broadway but needed to find some grub first. So we were walking down restaurant row looking for something interesting to eat pre-theater. I kept stopping to glance at menus, but for whatever reason she kept on walking. Finally at one point she turned around and gave me a look that only sisters can give one another (the "what the hell are you doing, get your butt moving" look) and I started yelling down the street at her the way only sisters can do ("I'm looking at the menus! How the F are you going to know where to eat if you don't look at menus???") - well, fortunately for us, we were having this exchange right in front of the Hourglass Tavern. Their host happened to be standing outside to witness this sisterly love and pulled us aside to try to coerce us to come in. Now, let me tell you, I do not like when people do that - I hate being put on the spot. It was a really, really hard sell and that almost made me tell him to shove it you-know-where and walk away. BUT he was charming and the other staffers hanging out outside were really nice (later I found out one was the former owner and the other was the current owner - they were having a baklava lesson!), so after perusing the menu for a few minutes we decided to go in. Fantastic decision. The menu is large and varied and uses the word "snacklettes" which I love! We went with the Prix-Fixe menu - so we got homemade bread, a spanikopita, a salad, an entree and a dessert. She got the mascarpone penne. I got the shrimp catalina. Both were excellent. The bread was excellent. The salad was phenomenal. The spanikopita was really, really good (and I generally do not like spanikopita that much). I had tiramisu for dessert and it was wonderful. My sister had the cobbler and she said it was very tasty. The Hourglass Tavern is definitely on my list of places to visit again next time I'm in the city. It was delightful.
(5)
Jin C.
The positive but small amount of reviews made me think this would be an undiscovered gem but after dining there, I had a dawning realization that most of the reviews were written by tourists. And indeed, the food the restaurant served made me feel like it was meant for people who wouldn't be coming back. I got the prix fixe menu, which included a soup, a phyllo pastry, an entree and dessert. They also gave a supersized dinner roll to start. It had a yeasty flavor and a chewy texture to it, which I personally liked. The lentil soup kinda reminded me of something I would make in a large quantity and then reheat for dinners. Watery, and the cut vegetables that floated in the soup looked like they've been boiled to death. It tasted fine, I guess. The phyllo pastry was quite small, and also didn't taste like very much. So far, very standard; underwhelming. I got the grilled chicken breast entree, which was again, just okay. It certainly didn't taste as nuanced as the description made it sound: rosemary and garlic marinated, honey cumin sauce, and toasted coconut rice. I personally liked the rice, because it reminded me a coconut rice milk dish called nasi lemak, but the chicken was sort of meh and I wished there were more of the sauce. And my dining partner's blackened tilapia's sauce was the same sauce as mine, even though the menu said it'd be pico de gallo. Dessert was probably the best part of the meal. The tiramisu was good, and the berry cobbler was very warm and the serving was generous. Pros: good service, good dessert Cons: touristy vibe, mediocre food
(3)
Tad B.
This place is AWESOME. We live a few blocks away. Only downside is, they dont deliver. BUT...the food is fresh, very tasty, and moderately priced. All in all, a great deal compared to most places in the neighborhood. Im not sure why somebody would criticize a restaurant in a review for being too small, or cozy, or not being able to accommodate all of the members in a party. If they are at capacity, why should that detract from the overall rating? The restaurant size is what it is. Also, for the price you pay here, the food is very good. I live in the neighborhood, and everything is expensive, so for me, the quality of food at that price point, especially compared to just about every other restaurant in the area, is very very good. The actual restaurant is small, cozy, intimate, great ambience. Everybody that works there is incredibly friendly, accommodating, and recognize us every time we stop in or call. I know this sounds like a ridiculously positive review...but give the place a try. You will understand....
(5)
Betty W.
Came here after the fail at Hudson Terrace on a whim. I had the $5 Sangria (which was a little weak but tasty) and my friend had the $5 white wine. We then got dinner which I had the mini Cuban sandwiches and he got the hamburger w/ mashed potatoes. Everything was pretty good and our bill came to about $38 + tax so it was also a decent price. The server/bartender was friendly and it seemed like there were quite a few regulars which is always a good sign. I loved how cute and romantic the space was though the narrow stairs to get to the bar on the 2nd floor were a little daunting. Overall I'll be back for sure
(4)
Laura M.
Great location for pre-theater dining.. Funky, "old" atmosphere. We sat in front window so great for people watching. Food was good . Prices very reasonable for NYC.
(3)
Katy P.
Always a good experience when I dine here. It's one of the few places in the area that isn't touristy. The food is great, drinks are reasonably priced, and the service is always friendly. The space is an old townhouse which has been redecorated in a shabby chic manner--adorable. It is a little cramped during dinner time, but only because it's a quality place.
(4)
Lindsay T.
I went here with my mom a few weeks ago specifically for the pre-theater menu. The place is small but beautifully decorated, we got seated right away (with reservations) and were greeted by very friendly staff. The homemade bread is delicious and the drinks were amazing, I recommend the "Brooklyn Flower" for a cocktail. The meal was flavorful and filling and more affordable than most places on Restaurant Row. The second floor is the Betti Bar which looked fun but cramped, however they did have really cheap drinks. I would definitely make this a regular stop when I'm in the city.
(5)
Bea B.
Up a flight of stairs and off to the left, Hourglass-a.k.a. Bettibar- has an "in the know" sort of feel to it. Once perched on our bar stools--there are only a few tables on the floor--we were quickly entertained by the bar man on staff. He was affable, friendly, but just a bit too loud and keen on having a monologue rather than a dialogue-again, he was entertaining, so this is not a huge complaint, but rather something to mention-he got us what we wanted without a hitch. For those who wish to nosh, there's also a fairly solid bar menu. Fun bit: affixed to the walls are a couple of vintage-looking hourglasses that patrons may tip to their delight as the sand runs out. Also, there's a gorgeous chandelier that hangs just toward the far end of the room by the windows that overlook 46th St. Note: no soda gun on hand, so tonic, coke, soda and the like are dispensed from cans.
(3)
Quasona C.
Came here with my bff's friends who are Hell Kitchen residents. Great spot for drinks and a quick meal. They have the daily specials listed on the side of the bar, which is located on the 2nd floor. A nice and cozy spot if you're looking for an intimate setting.
(3)
valerie d.
Because of this place, I have a new obsession with short ribs. Eat them.
(5)
Tabitha S.
Cute little place, good food.
(3)
Edna C.
Tiny space, quiet crowd. Can't go wrong with $8 shot & beer.
(3)
Jeremy L.
We had our "see you later New York" dinner/ drink party here. As always, the staff is great, as is the food and drinkage. A REAL place in the middle of the schlock in TS and Restautant Row. You really can't go wrong here.
(4)
Clint S.
We came based in part on reviews on Yelp. We would come back again and again based on the deliciously prepared meals and hospitality of the staff and owners. We enjoyed the pork chop and mashed potatoes, as well as the chicken and rice. Both came with amazing broccoli, and the meat was atop a dollop of sauce that was a combination of honey and cumin. It was nothing short of amazing!! Value, taste, and hospitality that makes you feel like part of a family. If you find yourself in the area, visit. I will be again before we leave manhattan. Second Visit: As good as the first, and our time spent chatting with the staff was also great. Cheers, and we cannot wait to visit again on our next NY trip.
(5)
Kenneth D.
A great gem in Hell's Kitchen. Had the pleasure of dining here late last night and was very impressed. We ventured up to the top level where we enjoyed practically a private dining room as we were the only ones up there until right before we left. Service was incredible and the food was delicious. Definitely will be heading back here.
(4)
Irene S.
Sat outside to dine before a show. Restaurant is funky and narrow. The dining is on the first floor and I think there are 2 different bars on the 2nd and 3rd floors. It has an old tavern feel. The greeter is very friendly and knows everyone in the neighborhood. The service and food were very good. We were able to have dinner at 6:30 and get to our 8:00 show on time. The ravioli were just delicious! Perfectly seasoned and thin, fresh pasta. I usually don't get ravioli, because I don't like cheese, but their ravioli had no cheese.
(4)
T E.
I enjoyed the Shrimp Positano, but not enough to go back. The service was lacking. The waitress forgot not only a beer but the entire meal of one of our party. I don't think he'll go back either.
(2)
Catherine R.
Shhh! Don't tell anyone about this space! It's my new neighborhood oasis. It's intimate and and well lit and cozy and everyone smiles and sips. (I guess some gulp.) I just love it here. It's the perfect place to end the night. I hear the food is delicious, but I've never made it to Hourglass before the kitchen's closed (1am). Josh and Beth are the magnanimous proprietor/bartenders, one of whom usually pours until 4am.
(5)
Mike B.
we thought we had walked into the wrong place, but as it turns out, no - we discovered a bar made of AWESOME. kudos to Sam for finding it. the restaurant on the ground floor is small. maybe seating for 10 or 12. we stood awkwardly for a minute or two before the waitress asked if we wanted a seat, then we said, "uh, we're here for the bar". she phoned upstairs, confirmed that there was space, and led us to it. I'm not sure if this counts Hourglass Tavern as a speakeasy really, but still awesome! they have happy hour from 5-10 every day? THIS IS RELEVANT TO MY INTERESTS. we wondered why people were drinking from brown paper bags. turns out one of the happy hour deals is a mystery beer in a brown paper bag and a shot, for eight bucks. turns out it's all American brews like Shipyard, Harpoon, River Horse...SWEET! and the shots were Jameson, then Soco & lime (of course we got two rounds)! all three of us got different beers, none of which were bad. atmosphere is killer here: the lighting is really clutch: a small chandelier and real candles, not electric ones. subdued lighting, thanks to the magic of dimmer switches. bartenders were friendly and actually nice to talk to. it's pretty cozy - maybe about 25 people total can fit here. definitely good for a date or a small group of friends. two TVs, neither of which were on jazz music, but not being played too loud, so you can actually have a conversation without shouting it's right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of midtown, yet doesn't feel at all like it. musicians and actors from theater productions seem to make up the bulk of the clientele, which is pretty cool.
(5)
Denise D.
A friend and I were due for some girl talk, and wanted a low key spot that had a late happy hour in the Theater District. Searching around on Yelp I came across Betti Bar, and I was so glad that I did. Though this place isn't technically a speakeasy (there is a large sign out front letting you know it is there), the doorway is unassuming, and looks like the entryway to someone's apartment. You ring a door bell, and enter into a small stairway. I exited the stairway onto the second floor (there is a third floor, which I hear also is a bar, but I can not say anything about that from experience) into the tiniest bar that I have ever been in. It really only had about 4 tables, most of which sat 2, and some bar seating. There were a couple other parties there, which worked out perfectly for us. I read that it got crowded on other nights, but since it was a Monday, it was not. The bar had nice little touches that added to the decor, and gave it a vintage time appeal. The bartender immediately greeted me from behind the bar, and let me know what the happy hour specials were (and that they run until 10pm - Jackpot!). I ordered a glass of wine ($5), and a sangria later (also $5). The sangria was actually really good. There was music playing, but it wasn't very loud, so conducive to easy conversation. Also, when the other two parties had left, the bartender asked if there was anything that we would like to listen to, which is very thoughtful,and cool in my book. My friend and I shared the chicken sliders, and I must say, we gobbled them up quite quick. They were pretty darn tasty. Overall, the vibe is great, the ambiance is great, and service is wonderful, and a definite win in my book. I'll be back!
(4)
Jessica M.
Love the vibe here, the bartenders are super nice. It's a really quaint, unique place with different floors with different ambiances. I've been twice and just had drinks but I loved it both times. They have decent happy hour deals, I think drinks are $5.
(4)
Kerry C.
Hourglass tavern is awesome! It's good food and drink and service with a smile. A great NYC place to eat and drink. It's small and not great for a large crowd on the 1st and 2nd floor.
(5)
Sharone N.
Wonderful, warm and incredibly accommodating. We had NO reservation, competing with the pre-theatre crowd and got a seat quickly. Beth then upgraded us to a window seat without us even having to ask! I had the shrimp entree with polenta(I'm Italian and this was GOOOD polenta!), and my bf had the pork chop. All perfectly seasoned and beautifully presented. Our bill was nothing...I was stunned! Well done friends!
(5)
James K.
I went upstairs to the Betti Bar. It was a small and cute space. A lot of the people there all seem to know each other, so it's probably a neighborhood bar. There's a giant hour glass on the wall that was pretty. My friend and I got the sangria, which was good but not the best I've had. I had a nice time here, though my friend said that she had been before and there was a woman who was running the bar that evening who was more chatty and fun.
(3)
Carol G.
I held a birthday party at the Hourglass Tavern's 3rd floor space for my husband. The intimate space, the delicious food, the wonderful staff and Beth's personal warm attention made it a night to remember. People are still praising the party and the Hourglass Tavern!
(5)
Erin W.
Needed a place near Midtown/Hells Kitchen that would take a group of 5 on short notice and ended up here in one of those "must've been fate"/"count your lucky stars" kind of moments. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel like we were old friends with everyone that worked there. Beth made room for us at the bar while we waited for our #5, even though Bettibar is teeny (adorably so!). Happy Hour is 5-10pm (!!) and we all went for the mystery-beer-and-shot for $8. You really can't beat it, and Beth didn't even mock me when I told her I'd only do it if she could promise the shot would be "girly." It was, and it was delicious. For dinner we moved downstairs to the smaller of the two dining rooms (think 4 tables small) where we kicked things off with two bottles of wine. We asked the (incredibly sweet, charming) waitress for suggestions for entrees and all ended up going with everything she recommended. She didn't steer us wrong, either. Everyone raved about whatever they were eating, from the pork chops, to the handmade mushroom ravioli, to the giant goat cheese and mixed greens salad we got to split as an appetizer. We shared a dessert, leisurely finished our wine, and weren't rushed in the slightest, even as other after-theater diners started coming in. Here's the best part: for two rounds of drinks, two bottles of wine, an appetizer, 5 entrees, a dessert, gratuity and tax included...$225. Under $50 a person for an all around stellar dinner experience. This place is a gem, and even our friends from New York can't wait to go back. Beth also told us about an improv event they do the last Wednesday of every month in the 3rd floor dining room that I'm interested in checking out.
(5)
Leslie W.
Go upstairs to the speakeasy bar - Bettibar! Love this place. Great bartendars, I love the prices, and they have an $8 "Mystery beer in a big + shot" that never fails to put a smile on my face. I take people here all the time!
(4)
Matthew L.
It's a quirky, narrow little place in the theatre district/restaurant row recommended by our guidebook and it's not terribly overpriced - $19.95 for a three course meal + inexpensive Sangria (which tasted inexpensive as well, but that's okay). The prix fixe begins with a spanakopita, which was a pretty standard one - I've had better and worse. The salad and soup were both pretty tasty as well, which came afterward (I had the soup, my wife had the salad - good dressing). While I found my main dish, the lobster ravioli to be delicious, but not spectacularly so, my wife was disappointed in the lack of flavor in her pasta primavera. She felt it was missing tomatoes, at the very least. And when it came to be time to go, it appeared to take at least a half an hour to receive the bill. When you're dining pre-theatre, you don't want to cut it all that close. Of course, they may have delivered the bill more expediently had we made it clear that we were dining pre-theatre at the onset. Of course, my guidebook made me think that we would be forced from our table within an hour, but that rule was probably moot as there were maybe 4 other people in the restaurant at that time.
(2)
Lucy R.
Service pretty good, food very uneven. Husband had the vegetable soup (he got the 4 pm - 8 pm prix fixe) which was OK, and the grilled chicken, which he liked. I had the "Lobster Stuffed Ravioli." The menu did say that there was also ricotta cheese in it; what they didn't say was that you really had to look for the tiny bits of lobster in ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Total rip-off. The vodka sauce on the ravioli was pleasant. I also had a side of sauteed spinach, which was acceptable: made fresh and not overcooked. Adult daughter ordered pasta with meat sauce (probably called bolognese or something). It was so salty she could barely eat it, and that was without the parmesan on top. Wine list was miniscule, yet they were still out of one of the two dry(ish) whites they offered. Service was pretty good, nothing special. Initially they tried to seat us upstairs, which one can expect pre-theatre, but be forewarned - it is TWO flights up; the second floor is the bar. I had an issue where I could do one flight of stairs but not two, and they kindly found us a table on the ground floor. Dessert was very odd. We had one fruit cobbler (served in a coffee cup) which was fresh and hot, apparently made in-house. The chocolate mousse cake, on the other hand, was a very small serving of a completely industrial product, sweet with no taste, chocolate or otherwise, and not even fresh - I wouldn't even serve it to a small child. I just can't see why anyone give this place a decent rating. One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of the reviews under the name of this restaurant are actually for the Bettibar on the second floor (something Yelp should fix). For me, next time I'll make a note to call Trecolore earlier in the week.
(2)
E A.
Amazing place. Ate here on my birthday and the service was fantastic. Food was amazing as well. Definitely try the lobster ravioli. Fellow stoma patients out there, there are a variety of options that are safe for you (i.e. no seeds or nuts involved). UC patients, obviously the lack of seeds and nuts and the willingness of the staff to change around menu items to suit particular dietary restrictions is a big plus, but definitely look at the menu beforehand and make sure that you can find foods that suit your particular dietary regime. I would recommend the lobster ravioli (even if you don't have the same dietary restrictions I do, based strictly on the taste). Great place with great food and great service. Will definitely return.
(5)
Stacy Y.
The Hourglass Tavern is a place I like to take friends to that are visiting, staying in the Midtown West/Times Square area, and are looking for something that is not so touristy based on where they are staying but can't go too far b/c they have theatre tickets. Their menu has a good amount of variety to satisfy different likes and dislikes, their waitstaff is friendly and efficient and their prices won't break the bank so you can afford to actually have dinner before your Broadway show and not worry how long it's going to take to pay off the credit card bill.
(3)
Kandi A.
While in NYC for my millionth time, I was looking for something new. Something different. I was traveling with my mom who doesn't frequent the city so I tried to pick places I knew would have good options for anyone. Well, I honestly read about this place in my book and saw it while we were walking around and recognized the name. I was starving and grabbed my mother and dragged her in. We were seated instantly. It was cozy in the downstairs space and by cozy I mean, you can barely move around but I was into it. Me and my mom looked over the menu and decided to get the Pre-fix menu. Great choice! We started with some fresh, baked bread and salad. Both were great ways to start. I had the spinach ravioli as my entree and it was tasty. The pasta was so fresh and the tomato sauce was incredible! I loved mine. But the best part of the meal was the cobbler. It came out nice and warm with a little whipped cream on top. I ate the entire cup. We had plenty of food for the low price of $22 each. It was a steal by any standards. I went home full, happy and with a new favorite place to visit when I come back.
(4)
Lisa C.
Amazing crab cakes! Swift and friendly service! Will make it a must stop next time I visit the area!
(4)
Brad H.
I won't spend too much time on this review because based on my one-time dining experience this was really nothing too special. Regarding the restaurant downstairs (Hourglass Tavern), the food was ok but not great. My wife ordered soup which was marginally better than Campbells, my pork chop was ok but nothing to write home about. The prix fix is a decent value. Service was polite. For area equivalents or for dinner before a show you can do better, at the same price point in my opinion. However... Regarding the bar upstairs (Betti Bar), I was a fan. I has a very chill, laid back atmosphere and some interesting drink options, like a shot with a beer in a bag. The drinks are incredibly well priced for this area of manhattan. I suggest skipping the restaurant downstairs but stopping by the bar above for a drink before your next show.
(2)
Alexander M.
I'm usually a little skeptical of places that have an employee standing on the sidewalk begging you to come in. But in this case I'm pretty sure it's just because it's easy to miss this skinny 3-story bar in the hullabaloo of Restaurant Row. Each floor is progressively more laidback (tablecloths and candles on the bottom, small beer and wine-only bar up top) and it's fun to explore each of the different "scenes." The happy hour specials are good ($5 for wine and sangria, $3 or $4 for beer). My only grievance is no beer on tap. Cute quiet spot for a bottle of red.
(4)
Tim P.
This is for Bettibar. Wife and I had a great time.
(5)
Keith S.
Stopped in here looking for a convenient place to meet some friends. Cozy relaxed atmosphere (a little tight). Good service and a very extensive menu to choose from. My bourbon spare ribs were melt in your mouth awesome! No tap beer but a good selection. For being near the theater district, pricing was a lot better than expected.
(4)
Soup D.
Came here with 3 teens, 9 year old, and 4 adults. We all enjoyed our food, service was great (fun and friendly). We had mushroom, lobster, and pumpkin ravioli, chicken penne, ribs, burger. Everyone had a great meal, great dessert (loved the chocolate lava cake), reasonably priced. Place was hopping on a Saturday night, but we (and other large-ish) groups all got out in plenty of time to make our Broadway shows. Also the restaurant, on three small floors, makes optimal use of the space, which feels cozy but not crowded. Will definitely return!
(4)
Dana L.
We just went for the Betti Bar on the second floor, and it was great. So incredibly chill. Tiny but somehow not cramped. Maybe we just got lucky? We went after a play at around 11pm. The food looked and smelled good, so we will be returning. The bartender was super nice. Someone had ordered some of the stuffed puff things and for some reason had to go, so he gave them to us. They were crazy greasy, but that was really nice! Their happy hour is insane! For the theater district, this truly is a find!
(4)
Carmen M.
This is a charming little place to eat at, nice to sit and look around. The food was o.k. I've definitely had better, I was a bit disappointed. I went for dinner so maybe this place is better for drinks and appetizers.
(2)
Thomas L.
Quirky little place! We were pleasantly squeezed into a window seat. I had the pork chop, which was well prepared. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli. Unfortunately, they ran out of lobster and she chose the mushroom ravioli, which was very good. Excellent sides, like the mashed potatoes and a boatload of brocolli. Great experience and would dine here again!
Thao N.
I absolutely loved this place. It has three floors - the first floor was completely empty, but the tiny 2nd floor bar was pretty full. My date and I managed to grab a table and order some happy hour drinks - nothing spectacular, $5 wines and sangria. Our food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallop and shrimp skewers, and they were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The sauce was so good - tangy and sweet. My date ordered the mushroom ravioli, which was very good, but a very small portion. Our entrees were pretty much the same price ($15-$16) but mine was certainly a better values. Seriously, those shrimps and scallops were MASSIVE. We will be back for sure. I think this is the best $50 dinner we have had yet in Manhattan. I'm not sure why people call it a tourist trap - maybe because it is on Restaurant Row? It's not at all, and the bars on the 2nd and 3rd floor are super cute.
(5)Bruce C.
Here's why I gave it a five star rating. First, the people who work here are very friendly, accommodating, and honest. Second, the seat we had was outside on the sidewalk on a beautiful early summer day, and it couldn't have been more pleasant. Third, the food was delicious at that price, which was extremely reasonable. Fourth, we had tickets and had to get in and out in a certain amount of time, and our waitress kept us stricly on schedule without appearing pushy or intrusive. She simply did her job on time and as appropriate. Finally, the other patrons were as happy with their meal and experience as we were. So even though this isn't Le Cirque, it's certainly got a much better tasting food for your dollar, and couldn't be a more pleasant experience.
(5)Jacob T.
I really enjoyed this old-school theater district restaurant! I'd walked by it so many times and their are so many in that area that it never peaked my interest and looked a bit run down. Well, I finally went in to visit a friend bartending upstairs. Teach me to be such a snob. The decor was great, not run down at all. It had real character, and was so different on each floor, but shared a very intriguing menu with a blend of old and new American cuisine. I came back a week later with my husband and no reservation. We were seated immediately, service wasn't especially friendly but was fast and effeceint. I will definitely return.
(4)Dee A.
My sister and I went here while visiting in New York. My first time to New York celebrating my sister's 60th. We stumbled across Hourglass Tavern in restaurant Row Midtown hoping to find something that we didn't have to wait or have reservations. The food was great!! We ordered the Prix Fixe it came with an appetizer, soup or salad and the main course and dessert. I was excited that they had one of my favorite wine 2007 valpolicella Solane Santi! My Sister had the cobbler and she said it was okay my tiramisu was very good. I'd like to go back next time when I visit. We ate on the third floor it looked like we were in someone's living room my sister asked the server and she politely informed us that it use to be. The whole ambience of the place was great!
(4)Jennifer C.
Loved it. A friend and I visited the bar on the 2nd floor (the Bettibar) and had some Very Strong Cosmopolitans and a long chat. The place was small and hidden away, which, to me, just added to its charm. It was pretty lively (Friday night), but not super crowded and you could still chat with your party without feeling like your voice was going to give out. I loved the intimate, divey kind of feel...like you're at somebody's houseparty and they have a nice little selection of booze. :) As an aside, I really enjoyed the soundtrack, which consisted of 90s alternative rock (esp. acoustic renditions), and totally took me back to my angsty youth. The food smelled great and looked like it was being demolished pretty quickly. I will definitely be back! The only down side was when we realized it was getting late and asked for the tab to be closed out - the lady obviously had it all ready for us, but instead of just handing me my card and receipt (which she had all printed and ready on the other side of the bar, in plain view) she served drinks to about 4 other people, slowly. My friend had to catch transit so we ended up asking her again to just give us the check, and then she did it...but not very graciously. This made me pretty sad because I was otherwise really happy and excited to come back.
(4)greg w.
Had the Mexicali omelette and it was very good. Cute atmosphere and excellent service. We sat next to a noisy group of tourists that seemed to be having a good time and all enjoyed the food. Not the largest portions and a little pricey for brunch. I want to come back to dinner very soon.
(5)Toni F.
We went to Hourglass before a show in Times Square based on the decent reviews on Yelp. It was a beautiful night so we sat in one of the two tables that have on the sidewalk outside. Our server was nice and promptly took our order for a light dinner and a few beverages. The cocktails were good and the soups, salads and sandwiches we ordered were decent too. I ordered a Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Sandwich - it was ok but really nothing more than under-grilled (almost raw) hunks of zucchini with a schmear of soft goat cheese on a crusty roll. The sandwich might have been better if the zucchini were sliced thinner and grilled a bit more. I think there are quite a few options in this area they call "restaurant row" so I'd probably try another spot before I'd return to Hourglass.
(3)Natalie O.
Food was delicious, but the service was a bit odd. It was a slow night, yet we found ourselves essentially abandoned at our table for about half an hour, with no staff in sight. It turned out the waitress had gotten "distracted" talking to some customers outside.
(3)Ryan P.
Came here for brunch and ordered the Hourglass Blueberry Belgian Waffle. These were the BEST restaurant Belgian waffles I have ever had. Perfectly textured and tasty since whole blueberries are within it. Four waffles come with the order. The fruit cup was watermelon, which was in season. Amazing, friendly, and attentive staff. I would definitely come back again for these waffles.
(5)Adam G.
This place is so cool. It's a good late night spot / date night spot. It's not loud, but its still lively and intimate. The food is great and the bartenders and patrons are not pretentious. Every time I've been here I've chatted up with people nearby and with the bartenders. Prices are reasonable too.
(5)Scott F.
I spent a wonderful Christmas night here some years back. It's not as good as it was--eg salad dressing WAY too sweet, vegetable soup Blah-boring, waitress completely bored/disengaged & resentful to be working. Still steak was good & the ambience better. I just think steamed broccoli is pretty much the most uninspired boring side on the planet & a baked potato would have been infinitely better. I guess I won't be back unless they become more interested in the food. Bar upstairs has actually made things worse not better. Robert Irvine? Gordon Ramsey?
(3)Ran F.
The ribs they recommended is OVERCOOKED!!! And the crab cake sides with shrimp is salty... However their home baked bread is worth to try although it's free of charge. I think it should be a nice place to have a drink with friends instead of having dinner.
(3)Mathew T.
Been coming here for awhile now and it is my go to spot pre theater and after. The second floor cocktail lounge is fantastic, always a good vibe and great service. The food is always on point, the crab legs are an absolute must when they are on special.
(5)Kam T.
Went to dinner before a show. Found it on yelp. What a great find! Historic & cozy location, friendly service, good food & reasonable prices. Definitely going back.
(4)Magnolia S.
I love this place. It's super cute - set up like an apartment complex kinda. My brunch was delicious and so were my bloody Marty's. I had the potato pancake smoked salmon brunch entree and the poached egg crab cake one ( both shared ) and it was delicious. We also had a side of cheesy grits. It was amazing!
(5)Matt G.
Good place to meet for a glass of wine and a bite to eat. In a bustling neighborhood but offers a nice ambience. Good wine selection, service, and reasonable prices.
(5)Jim B.
If you're in Midtown for a show (or really anything for that matter) you might want to check this place out. Well, that is if you like good food (if you don't like good food then read no further). In a city were one could eat out every day and possible not ever eat at the same place twice I'd strongly consider going here again. Although the restaurant was a little cramped the food was mostly outstanding. I started off with the Roasted Beet Salad. It was mostly just beets, and although they threw in some goat cheese and pine nuts the beets overpowered everything else. But then I had the Penne Mascarpone and I forgot all about those beets! That dish had chunks of sausage and gorgonzola in a medium thick marinara cream sauce. It was filling and delicious. I also tried the Bourbon Braised Short Beef Ribs and I would recommend both. Two thumbs way up.
(4)K G.
A group of us stayed at a nearby AirBnB for a week. Ate here 3 times!! With so many fine restaurants in NYC -- this says a lot! Everyone was so pleased with their food. Their shrimp dishes are devine! Great salads & a pasta with spicy sausage & blue cheese was fabulous. Go fresh cobbler ala mode over the tiramisu if you have room for dessert. The venue has a lot of character, and the outdoor seating allowed for lots of people watching. Very impressed by the wait staff as well - all very attentive & personable. Highly recommend this place!
(5)Zeenath S.
This is the perfect place to go if: 1. You want to wait 40 minutes for fried eggs and lukewarm hash 2. You want to wait 25 minutes for drinks, most of which aren't what you ordered. 3. Bread and fruit are part of your brunch, but they never bring you fruit and when you ask for bread they tell you they are "out". When you are leaving you see they have more and you ask for some (because its included) and they refuse to give you any. 4. You seem the waitress yelling at a customer because he's asking why his breakfast was ordered 40 minutes ago and still hasn't arrived. 5. Your asparagus is almost raw, while your friend's is overcooked to the point where you don't need to chew it at all.
(1)K S.
For starters, the staff rocks. Everyone was super friendly and awesome. We were waiting for a table for 8 ppl and while we waited for the previous occupants to wrap up, we enjoyed the super cute bar on the 2nd floor. A few folks (manager?, waiter, another manager?) kept us updated on the table status and made sure we were doing ok- seeing if we were in a rush and if they should push them along. We were enjoying ourselves so it was all good. The bartender was sweet and made great drinks. Our waiter was friendly and fun. Oh, and the food was yummy (big pillow of warm bread, lobster ravioli, beet salad, mashed potatoes). Ambiance is cool with funky decor (obviously hourglasses, also random instruments) and the friendly staff set the tone all around for a great vibe throughout. And if you're cold- sit on the bench on the 3rd floor. You'll sweat. Figuring out how to manage this is the only somewhat negative thing I have to say. I'm sure they try and its the only way to heat the whole bldg of this old, great place. I'll deal :)
(5)Amanda A.
The wife and I yelped to find a place to go before a show. Came across this little gem. It was really funky with the three floors and the food was good and the service was great. There was one woman who ran the small top floor. She was attentive and very nice. She noticed our table wasn't sturdy and without us even saying anything bent down to fix it. I love when I don't have to ask for things to be corrected. Having some one just do it, is for me great customer service. I had the Penne Mascarpone. It was SO good. Portion was large, couldn't finish it. The sauce was yummy and walnuts on it were a fun touch. Wife had lobster ravioli. She said it was great too. I was able to try a bite and it was very good. There were large chunks of lobster through out. The bread was delicious and the wine wasn't too expensive for a nice bottle. All in all we would recommend this place and also go back again. The 4 stars is because the food took longer than expected. Being we ordered pasta dishes and people who ordered after us were served before, was strange.
(4)Jenn A.
Review for Betti Bar - Awesome!!! It's upstairs from the Tavern/restaurant. It's small, cozy, and super cool. The waitress was incredibly friendly and chill - almost made me feel like she was my new gal-pal! But obviously not. We chatted up a few other patrons and all were friendly. The drinks were good! The food was not so good. We ordered the grilled cheese with the side of mashed potatoes. Bland on both - just no flavor. So - if come here for the drinks, vibe, and service (and not for the food), you will be happy!
(4)Hannah M.
We came here for brunch at 12:30, it took an hour and a half to get our food. Service was awful, frankie took 4 orders at a time for a party of 12. We had to go back up to the bar twice for our drinks. Our food all came out at different times- it was awful. He was absolutely so rude, he told us he only had two hands and was super rude. I do have to say after the experience with the server, the owner of the restaurant was very kind. She was apologetic and took good care of us. Thank you Beth, I do apologize for not completing my prior review.
(3)Kaytee C.
Cute place for before theatre dinner/drinks. It is what seems to be on old home (lots of wood and a quaint feel. We were in a small dining room on the third floor. One of our meals did come out completely incorrect, but they comped the meal to make up for it. The food was good and had large portions. The food/service did take a bit of time, but I think that was due to the pre-show rush and the fact that only one server was working the section doing everything from making drinks to working the register (the place is kinda of small and I don't think 2 servers could even function in the space).
(4)Vesna G.
Had brunch here on Valentine's day with my boyfriend. It's a small but cute place. We ate upstairs by the bar - I had eggs with short-rib hash and he had the chicken sandwich. Both were so delicious and the menu is unique. Also got a yummy peach bellini!
(5)Mitch E.
This review is for Betti Bar, located right above the Hourglass Tavern, on the second floor: You ever been in the scenario where It's 7:55 and you want to grab another drink. Happy Hour ends in five minutes. YOU NEED TO GET A DRINK, ORDER SOMETHING OFF THE MENU AND DO IT FAST. You break away from your friend who is telling you some awful story about how they got fired, blah blah blah. Then that guy you don't really know but acts like your best friend gets in your way. Hell bent on desire (and frustration for this weirdo) you throw him out of the way, nicely as possible of course. You then have the bar drunk fall towards you and you quickly cartwheel out of the way. (Catching him would only be enabling his drinking problem) You get to the bar and it's 6:57. Plenty of time to order your drink and some awesome nachos. Oh No! Some yuppie is asking questions to the bartender about the wine. DAMN YOU YUPPIE! Now it's 7:01, you order your drink at full price! At Betti Bar you don't have to worry about such things because Happy Hour last till 10 o'clock every night of the week! (Plus it's not that large so, all those things probably couldn't happen in such a small place. But you got the idea) Located right above Hourglass Tavern on the second floor, Betti Bar is a great spot in Hell's kitchen for some drinks. Maybe you have a show to see later, meeting a friend on the west side of town or just in the mood to get your drink on, whatever the case, good inexpensive drinks happen here. As mentioned, it's not the largest so if you get here and it's packed, you're out of luck. There really isn't standing room, so unless you get one of the booths or a seat at the bar you should probably try another night. I can't say I have ever eaten here, but the last time I was here some gentleman got a pasta dish at the bar. It smelled amazing! So it does tempt me to try the food here in the future, as opposed to drinking beer out of a brown paper bag. (Yes, that happens here) Come by and enjoy this small hidden gem. Just don't ruin it by blabbing about it to everyone...... wait........
(4)Julie S.
Haven't been here for a while. But went July 5th and was seated on the first floor. The dinner we both had was great. And this is just a cute place with a lot of New York City flavor inside and on your plate.
(4)Ann Y.
This place is absolutely worth the cringe-worthy hellish seizure-inducing but inevitable walk through Times Square area to get to Hell's Kitchen. Cute and cozy, very attentive service and lovely retro Theatre district decor. The 3 bloody Mary or mimosa brunch deal is definitely worth it, and their baked treats (churros, biscuits, etc) to snack on before your meal is a lovely touch and were incredibly delicious. My crab cake eggs Benedict was delicious and worth the price. A solid and underrated midtown brunch option
(4)Jen A.
Great, friendly service and delicious food! This is a great place to eat if you have a show but don't want to eat at the crappy, touristy restaurants in Times Square. Nice wine, as well.
(4)Andrew D.
I've eaten here before and the food was pretty good but tonight we had a reservation for 4 people at 6:30. The man at the door was so off putting that we decided to go elsewhere. We show up at 6:20 and on our way in are "greeted" by a man who asks if he can help us. We had no idea he was working there and he wasn't helpful at all. Quite honestly he was a little bit creepy. The waitress inside asked us to wait at the bar upstairs until 6:30 and then come back down... Which I can understand but it seemed like there wouldn't have been a place to put us anyway. And we shouldn't have to come back down, if we sit at your bar you should come get us when a table is ready. The next person to walk up was "greeted" by this man and she said: oh, do you work here? His response: "sometimes". She asked: Are tables available? He says: well they're pretty full and no one is leaving. She asks: can we put our name down? His response: well I guess you could. Not sure who decided to put him at the door but he waits until you walk up and stands there and then asks if he can help but is really no help at all. Seems like he not even sure if where he is. We decided to leave because we felt uncomfortable.
(1)Shawn P.
We found the Hourglass Tavern on Yelp and I am glad we did. The service, food, and drinks were great and the second floor bar looked like a fun spot. I would recommend stopping in here to anyone looking for a bite to eat in Hells Kitchen! The only problem one might have is seating. It is rather small but at 6pm on a Saturday we were seated immediately at an outside table which was exactly what we wanted.
(5)Katherine R.
The beet salad is so yummy. The rest was average. We had the NY strip and the albondigas.
(3)Vanesha P.
We both wanted brunch food and were not disappointed - we got the mexicali omelet and the eggs & short rib hash, throw in 2 $5 bloody marys and it was awesome. I don't remember our servers name but he was super super sweet and really a great server all around. Would definitely come back!
(5)Katie A.
This is a small place and is a little tight inside but the food was delicious and the service was exceptionally good. We went for brunch, without reservations and only had to wait a couple minutes for a table.
(4)Pam L.
Great for happy hour and snacks. We went right after work on a Thursday. Great bartender on the second floor, cool atmosphere, great beer selection. I recommend the sliders.
(5)Shannon B.
One of my favorite places to grab a drink and grab a bite after work, before a show or just any old time! Mike and Sean and Megan are all excellent bartenders and super friendly! I love their regular of the day concept and the overall neighborhood bar feel of this place in touristy Hell's Kitchen. Their drinks are tasty and their food is really delicious! Some of my faves: Beet Salad, Crab Cake, Cheese & Fruit Plate, Pan Seared Salmon Filet, Grilled 3 Cheese and their Mashed Potatoes. Also, they had a pumpkin ravioli special last week that literally brought tears to my eyes.
(5)Kevin W.
Solid and quaint little tavern right in the heart of restaurant row. I was surprised I never checked this place out given how close I lived to the restaurant. There is a lovely speakeasy-like bar upstairs that I will most definitely try out in the future. My experience here was generally very positive. The folks here are all very friendly and they were able to accommodate us without reservations on what was a very busy Valentine's evening for them. The ambiance is very warm and romantic. It's a great place to enjoy a meal in a spirited but charming atmosphere. The waiters here were all very friendly, although they were extremely busy and were often running up and down several flights of stairs to bring food up and drinks down from the bar. Despite that we found we didn't wait that long for our food and wine. The food itself was decent. I opted for the usual pre-theater set dinner. The salad was fresh and the house dressing had a nice fruity tang to it. The shrimp fra diavlo was decent though I felt there was too much sauce and it was slightly watered down. The apple/blueberry cobbler dessert was not bad and worked well with the whipped cream. All in all if you're looking for some comfort food in a quaint setting before heading to a Broadway show, this is not a bad place to consider. I enjoyed the overall experience and would go back there again in the future.
(4)Michele C.
Excellent service and incredible fare. Our waitress was extremely attentive and never missed a beat. It was particularly impressive because the place was extremely busy. the atmosphere of the staff was warm and friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious from the initial chips and salsa to the very tasty dessert. The prices are decent. Try the Brooklyn Flower. Delicious drink!
(5)Amanda P.
Stopped in after a matinee & so glad we did! Sat upstairs with Toby & took advantage of the reverse HH. The Albondingas and wine were just what we needed to get back to the room. Great end to our day!
(5)Emily R.
I came here this weekend for dinner, our reservation was early, around 5 because we had plans right after. We ate on the 3rd floor, it was so cozy (literally small but very intimate) they have candles on the tables, it has an antique feel, into it. We got bread to start- carbs = win We shared a salad- the dressing was so good I have no idea what it was but I was dipping the bread in it I had lobster ravioli and my boy had bolognese- both were so yummy! My favorite part was the food came quickly, and was portioned well. Just enough food, we both didn't finish and were stuffed, but not an obnoxious amount (you know when you get so much food you are like WHOA) We had tiramisu (sp?) to finish and it was delicious! Also had a bottle of wine Our server was so great, funny, attentive, and personable ! No lie, we did all this in just over an hour. We didn't feel rushed and we sat and chatted throughout and inbetween courses. Had a wonderful time here! (and our bill was about $70 for two of us..with the wine...)
(5)Hao L.
Cozy little spot to have brunch before a matinee show. I had the eggs with braised short rib hash - delicious. Came with asparagus & watermelon. Also, $5 cocktails (mimosas, Bloody Mary, etc.) - cheapest drinks I've come across so far. Service was great. Highly recommend.
(5)Bobby M.
I live in Hell's Kitchen, blocks away from some of the best hidden gem restaurants in New York. The Hourglass Tavern is hands down, my favorite. As a Hell's Kitchen resident, I have my pick of scores of fantastic restaurants. The Hourglass is hands down my favorite. And although I've been there so often that I've practically memorized the menu, last week I decided to mix it up and order something outside of my usual (the short ribs - best in the city). Last week, I had the Lobster Ravioli and my friend had the Pecan Crusted Tilapia for the first time. Both dishes were cooked to order (it's a tiny place - no assembly line kitchen). Both meals were superb. The staff treats you like family. Stop in and say hi to owners Beth and Josh. You'll be back. I guarantee it.
(5)Jeannie L.
Amazing food! Went with a party of 3 tried the steak, chicken, and shrimp and we all finished our plates.. must say this was the first time I ever had chicken at a restaurant which was soo moist. Same goes with the steak! Cooked perfectly, soo tender and yummy. Shrimp was great, flavorful! Great spices. Had a salad and the dressing was great!! The place is small but cozy and great food! Highly recommend!
(5)Tianna H.
Ok, so the third floor is a great spot. Quiet, great music soundtrack, chill vibe. Dig it. We went after a show based on the yelp reviews and ordered the lobster ravioli in vodka tomato cream sauce (hurzband) and I had the mushroom ravioli in Marsala jus. Hurzband loved his ravioli (which are all made in house) but I could only eat one of mine. It was salty for me and I had gastric bypass 4 months ago so 1 ravioli in the hearty portion of 4 in the pasta bowl was plenty for me since I wasn't over the moon about it anyway. Wish I had gotten the spinach ravioli instead. It's stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce and I think that would have been more my speed tonight. Great spot after a show, tho. They're open till midnight.
(4)Thomas F.
Food and desert was amazing and service is super friendly. Absolutely worth a sit down dinner and hang out place
(5)Curtis H.
Just an all around fantastic place to go. I have never had a bad meal here. From late night drunk snacks, to full on dinners to private dinner cooked by the owner Beth. I never drink the same thing here. Sometimes it's the brown bag special. Sometimes it's manhattan and martinis. They never disappoint. Very reasonably priced. It's also a great spot to celebrity spot and see B'way kids after their shows. It's three levels and each level has it's own style and charm.
(5)Ellen W.
Great dinner - but be warned this is a very small dining area - we were seated next to the door on a window seat (and there is no way my husband could have gotten up from his seat without having the table pulled out from the wall). Spinach ravioli and tirimisu were excellent. My husband like his strip steak but the crab cake appetizer wasn't very good.
(4)Jesse G.
I made reservations for 4 people on a Tuesday night at 8:30. I figured we would completely miss the theater crowd, and we definitely did. However, aside from a super cool space, and the place to ourselves, everything else was really disappointing. Our poor server was about 18 years old, and didn't know what it meant to order a "well" or "house" scotch, or that a Manhattan straight up means a martini. She tried to bring a 16 year single malt to the table, since she didn't know what the house was. She couldn't tell me the cost, even with the computer right behind her. They were out of the puffs, which I suppose was our fault for not getting there earlier in the day. If you order the burger, be aware that it is served completely plain. You get bun and burger and that's it. The appetizer of meatballs came after we had finished everything else, and that was honestly the end of an ultimately boring meal. The merlot was interesting, Ca'Donini, and at $6 a glass, I felt that was the best value of the whole evening. We found out later that the Betti bar is much better, but there are too many restaurants in NY, unless the drink specials get you so wasted you don't care what you're eating. I really wanted to like you, Hourglass Tavern. Shame on you for not properly training your staff.
(2)Augie R.
If I were rating Hourglass just for the food, it would be a three-star restaurant. I was with two others, and none of us were blown away by the entrees. My Penne Bolognese was heavy and not as tasty as others I've tried. My wife's Bourbon Braised Short Ribs of beef was a lot of food but far from the best she's had--she found it a little tasteless and not the best cut of meat. Despite the somewhat disappointing food, the Hourglass is still a four-star experience. The place is intimate and cozy, loaded with old-school charm. The service was spectacular--very friendly and warm. I wouldn't hesitate to come back, but I might opt for "Snacklettes," sliders or sandwiches instead of the entrees, next time.
(4)Ann M.
Loved it here, our waitress made us feel so comfortable. Not at all touristy and she was great with the kids and parents. Short rib sliders were a great start and the garlic shrimp with polenta was filling even for an appetizer. Veggie soup of the day was very good per the 12.year old critic with us. Close to theaters though that was not our criteria. I felt at home here, like dinner at your favorite aunt's house.
(5)liz r.
Awesome service, amazing food and owners are truly there to make sure patrons are taking care of! I love this place, I recommend it to all friends and family. I will be an ongoing customer as long as they're open. Beth and Josh help me host my High School fundraiser here, and I am truly grateful for all that they did for us. Thank you!
(5)Dee M.
We visited the Hourglass Tavern on a Saturday night before a show, the service was excellent and the food was delicious. We also had a few drinks at the bar and the crowd was very friendly. We will be going back very soon!
(5)Dana W.
Well once again Yelp hooked me up! Was looking for a good place to eat near my hotel, Marriott Marquis Time Square and up popped this little gem! Cute little place, great service, delicious homemade food and excellent prices! What more can you ask for. Had the previously mentioned chicken ms it was divine, roasted in garlic and rosemary with a honey cumin sauce, yumm! Goat cheese salad was fabulous as well as was the homemade tiramisu. Give this place a try!
(5)Enzo C.
Amazing discovery! It was intimate and the service was exceptional! It was a memorable experience.
(5)Marci F.
Just ate here after a show at illuminate. Fantastic fresh food! From the door person who greeted us with a smile to the waitress I loved the experience. The food was super fresh. I got the special which was the arugula salad and the hummus. My mom got the spicy pasta and my sister raved about the roasted chicken. The only sad part of the meal was the Bettie bourbon sour. Not so great but it's hard to please a whiskey sour snob. I absolutely recommend this place. Fantastic atmosphere and amazing food.
(4)Ron M.
Great little pre-theater place to eat and have a few drinks. Food is really good, service is friendly, nice ambiance on both floors.
(4)A H.
The food was good here. Service is a bit slow, so watch the time if you're here before a show. Great prices for what you get, though. Tons of good, comfort-style food for a good price.
(4)Leslie S.
What a find! After a long touristy day of sightseeing, we were in the mood for a quiet meal. We found Hourglass on our evening walk. The weather was spectacular and on a nice October evening (10/12/13) we sat at an outside table and enjoyed wine and pasta for what seemed like hours. I had lobster ravioli and my husband had a seafood pasta. Both were wonderful!
(4)Phil H.
There is just so much win about Bettibar that it astounds me since it's located in the Theater District restaurant row area. Did we just happen to stumble upon a speakeasy type establishment in tourist central? OMG - this place is PURE WIN! As we were proceeding on our night of drinking debauchery and were headed over to Hell's Kitchen to bar hop a bit more and get a bite to eat I saw this hidden gem located next to the Hourglass Tavern. It's actually owned by them. You have to ring the buzzer to be let in and then walk up a narrow flight of stairs to find Bettibar. You get the feeling of a secret little speakeasy that few people know about, and only those "in the know" really realize it's there. I'm so happy to know about it now, since I love spots like this, and I am sure I will be there again soon! You just can't go wrong here. The owners have set up a killer atmosphere with a speakeasy ambiance to it. Dim lighting with candles all around, small chandelier, old hourglasses decorate the walls, small bar area, classic jazz and old school tunes playing quietly in the background, a few turned off tv's, and a few tables with people conversing quietly. As it was a Monday night and Broadway was dark it was not too crowded with only about six other patrons in there. We easily found a great spot at the bar and took a few seats. The bartender, Kelly, welcomed us with a friendly smile and fun conversation. He told us that it does get crowded on show nights with many theater folk, stage hands, and musicians making up the crowd. We picked a good time to come here for our first visit. OK - this might be crazy, but here's my number, so happy hour me maybe? Yessss! Happy hour seven nights a week from 5-10pm. AWESOME! It was already after 9pm and we still got to enjoy this. There is a sign on the wall near the bar with the drink and food specials. What is this I see? $8 MYSTERY BEER IN A BAG AND A SHOT! This is so up my alley. It was a must. Had to be done. What a terrific deal. You actually get served a bartender's choice of a bottled beer and it's placed in a brown paper bag. You can't get more secretive than this. I felt like the place was going to get raided by the police as in the old time prohibition era movies. The beers you get are quality craft styles too. No Bud Light here. We took a few mouthfuls before sneaking a peek into the bags. RJ Rockers Ball Eagle Brown and Bell Ringer, Prohibition, and Shipyard. Good stuff! Also, Kelly hooked us up with delicious shots - vodka, creme de cocoa, triple sec - that tasted like creme soda. We did a few rounds of course! This whole deal is just so much fun!!! Bettiebar is a breath of fresh air among the touristy crowds, mediocre bars, and so-so restaurants in the area. There is nothing more enjoyable than a bar with a speakeasy vibe if done right. To me, Bettiebar hits on all points - terrific happy hour, drink specials, bartender, atmosphere. We finished our drinks before bidding Kelly adieu and heading out into the darkness in search of more libations.
(5)David J.
We felt fortunate to get a short notice reservation. When we arrived we wound up waiting for half an hour before being seated. The host thanked us for being patient and got our drinks for us. The dining areas are small but they have nice ambiance. Food was very good. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her lobster ravioli. My daughter enjoyed her crab cakes and my NY sirloin was very good. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. A nice experience.
(4)Betty S.
My fiance and I went here for dinner (6 pm on a Saturday night) and had a wonderful experience! We made reservations through Open Table (highly recommended) and were seated right away on the 3rd floor (if you're given the choice, choose the more intimate 3rd floor not the 1st which gets more foot traffic). The space was small, so expect to dine close to neighbors, but it was totally fine for us given that the crowd was very chill and the historic atmosphere is pretty cool. We ordered 2 hand-crafted cocktails (moscow mezule, brooklyn flower), brisket sliders and the beet salad which was plenty for the 2 of us. The drinks were fabulous (and not skimpy on the liquor), and we enjoyed the sliders and salad. Note that the beet salad is pretty much a ton of beets with a spoonful of goat cheese and sprinkling of pine nuts - I love beets so this was ideal for me, but I can see how it might be a bit much for others. Definitely check this jewel of a restaurant out if you can!
(5)Krystal G.
My friend and I went there for brunch today based on its 4 star on Yelp. But the experience was absolutely horrible. The old waiter was basically rushing us to finish our brunch. He literally threw a piece of bacon into my plate from another plate which he couldn't wait to take away. It was just around noon and the restaurant was almost empty. We don't understand what's the rush here and why he was so eager to take away the plate that held some pieces of bacon. Then when he gave us the check, we mentioned there's a yelp 15% discount that we want to use (we mentioned it at the beginning to the other waiter), then the old waiter said "WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME EARLIER?". What the hell? First of all, we told the other waiter. Second of all, you don't have any other customer in the restaurant at this moment. Is it really that much trouble to rerun the bill again?? Finally when he brought us the check, he was standing there waiting for us to write down the tip. We really couldn't stand this. So I had to tell him could you please not stand there waiting for us to finish the check? It'll take a few minutes. Thank God, we finally had some peace of mind at the very last in that restaurant. We live in the neighborhood. Def won't come back or recommend anyone to go there.
(1)Arielle S.
Came here with my mom for dinner pre-theater performance. We were seated in the 3rd floor dining room. I liked the ambiance up there. It kind of felt like a home to me. There were 2 waiters both of whom were very friendly and helpful. It kind of made up for the fact that there was a large group seated up there that were obnoxiously loud making it hard to even think much less carry on your own conversation. My mom ordered spinach ravioli and said it was really really good. I, who almost never ever ever order steak, was somehow craving steak and decided to order it. It came with a side of mashed potatoes and broccoli. The steak was ok but i've had better and probably wouldn't order it here again. The mashed potatoes were really good and probably my favorite part of the meal. The broccoli was boring, it was just steamed broccoli; no butter, no garlic, no seasoning, just plain old healthy broccoli. I would certainly not shy away from returning but don't feel compelled to rush back.
(3)Kathy D.
I'm new to New York and restaurant row. But not new to braised short ribs and theirs are excellent!!
(4)Onelia E.
Three story spot with cramped spaces, the furniture was falling apart (I sat upstairs with a large party near on a banquet) and my end of the bench was literally cracked and I was leaning forward with me knees halfway to kneeling. I normally would have made a big stink but there was no other place to seat our party of 8 so I took one for the team and hoped to heaven that the wine would start flowing soon because I had a tough day of travelling. The good news is that the wine menu is superb. The bad news is that everything else on the menu was uninspiring. Pigs in a blanket? I had to double check the menu to make sure I didn't get the kids menu or that I didn't accidentally walk into Hooters on game day. Nope- definitely Pigs in a blanket for $10. Sorry but I was over that quickly after I discovered my first easy bake project with Pillsbury's ready to bake croissant triangles. The hummus was cold, the Tavern salad was drab, and my salmon was just edible. While the service was hospitable and the bartenders were on point, the overall experience left much more to be wanted. The third floor was stuffy- smelled of musty old wood and cooked food, mixed with the hot breath of patrons coming in from the cold. Note to management: please close the bathroom doors that lead into the third floor dining room. The last thing a patron wants to see when they walk up the stairs and are being seated is a wide open view to the toilet (and bathtub!).
(2)Michael P.
A couple of friends and I were having a great time next door at The Ritz the Saturday after Halloween and we needed a place to sit and talk and have some good food and conversation. We planted ourselves inside and was greeted by a very nice server, Maria. The night was already rocky for a couple of us and once we got in the inviting space, Maria made us feel incredibly safe and was quick to pick up on our drama and insisted to make matters better. By her charm and hospitality, she turned what might have been a night of drama to a safe haven of good food and service. I'm from LA and never been here before however the graciousness that she put forth prompted me to write my first yelp review. If anything, please go there, ask for Maria...what a fantastic asset this place has...you won't be disappointed if Maria takes care of you!
(5)Matic J.
I feel sorry to give only 2 stars as I feel this place could get 4-5. It started of fine with a nice welcome chat and round of beers. We ordered and were full of expectations for what tasty treats we will get. Then the waiter got us the burgers - picture uploaded - burned!! I asked the waiter if he could give me some ketchup as the burger is BURNED - he made a strange face and got the ketchup. So I just cut the burger round and round to get the burned layer off and ate the rest. I pointed the issue to the waiter and asked if we can make a deal with a dessert - his reaction was very disturbing. Since then it all went downhill. He treated us like it was our fault that he gave us burned food. Well we got 1 lava cake for free which is nice, but the guy could have taken it less personal and be more understanding. If you go there - don't take the burger.
(2)Kristen M.
On our first trip to NYC we wanted to get away from anything chain related and try all the great food we'd heard so much about. If we hadn't seen positive reviews we might have walked by this small restaurant. On the first floor is the main dining area with only about 5 tables. On the second floor there is a bar (but we didn't venture up there). The menu had many choices from seafood to burgers. I had the salmon fillet with garlic mashed potatoes and my husband has the "big ass burger" (yes, the actual name ). The fish was fresh and a great portion. My husband raved about the hollowed bun that allowed for more condiments on the burger without having to unhinge his jaw. Overall, a cute restaurant with quality food at reasonable prices. A win-win!
(5)Sydney L.
Great food.
(4)Kristen J.
Looked adorable, got good yelp reviews but quite frankly didn't deliver......both our meals (short ribs and ravioli) were awful and inedible. Our waiter was very colorful and entertaining - he was the best part of the experience here.
(2)D L.
This is great little place right on Restaurant Row. I don't go to the theater that often, but I like to come here right after the shows start at 8 PM because you can come in an relax and enjoy the friendliness and eat your food without any rush. Everything is delicious and ample. Scott the server is warm and friendly and makes the experience great. Alternative to eating is just going to one of the bars on the upper floors. Again the cozy size makes for conversation starters. After the shows close the crowds can return and even later you might bump into a "name" or two among the drinkers. Josh and Beth the owners are always around and make it super friendly.
(4)Paul S.
Had to give it a 5, our meal was awesome. Table on the street, what a show Hell's Kitchen can be, skip the overpriced theater and go here. Had the leg of lamb, cooked perfectly. The pre fixe menu was very nice and quite the bargain for NY.
(5)Brian M.
I wouldn't have gone into this place if not for the positive reviews. It's unprepossessing, almost dumpy, but the food was simple, excellently prepared and portioned generously, the wine inexpensive, and the service was friendly and good. The prices are very reasonable -- dinner for three with tax, tip and a bottle of wine was $120. One of us ordered from the prix fixe menu. A homey kind of place I look forward to going back to.
(4)Paris C.
During a recent trip to NYC, went to Hourglass on two occassions, once to the upstairs Betti Bar and another night to dinner downstairs at the restaurant. The owner, Beth, is a very nice and funny woman. Bartenders were friendly and mixed great drinks. Loved the atmosphere of the Bettibar. It was intimate, comfortable and inviting. The restaurant was good, but cannot think of anything memorable, either good or bad. It is quite small and dark, with a very tiny kitchen. Reasonable selection of food, a blend of Italian and Mediteranean. Warm loaf of bread to start was delicious as was the spanakopitas, which were not flaky but more pastry like. I tried bites of the shrimp pesto pasta, which was rather ordinary. Overall we had a nice dinner downstairs but a GREAT time at the upstairs bar the night before. I do believe they have recently acquired this restaurant, which I think will get much better as it seasons.
(4)Kayleena T.
good food and drinks. nice people. fun idea. i like it.
(4)Lizzy B.
JUST EAT THAT HOMEMADE CRAB CAKE AND YOU'LL LOVE IT! Working to your preferences 24/7. Always an amazing atmosphere... small, cozy and a perfect getaway for anyone. Can meet so many new and accepting people, best for making new friends and cool connections. The bartenders try hard for creative cocktails with special promotions.
(5)Laura A.
Small, unique restaurant with only a few tables in the main dining area (1st floor). I have been twice and loved what I ordered both times - they have absolutely delicious lobster ravioli and spanakopita. They have three tiers of prix fixe dinner options, tiered based on prices. The restaurant is located in a great row of restaurants right by Times Square and makes for a great pre- or post-theater dinner spot! Having been twice already, I would definitely return!
(4)Ellen H.
I was looking for a restaurant for a pre theater dinner that got an A rating from the health department and found the Hourglass Tavern. It had lots of menu options for all types of diners, seafood, vegetarian, light, heavy whatever. A perfect choice and good wine by the glass, not to mention the killer fruit cobbler! If they'd only turned down the music a bit (why do restaurants think they need that?).
(4)Hannah C.
Great service and a vast menu, but the food is a bland, not a lot of taste.
(3)Christopher Thomas B.
Had dinner for 2 at the Hourglass after a show----about 1045pm. We dressed appropriately for Broadway and were a little uncomfortable in the unairconditioned space as it was a muggy evening. We ordered the spinach/ricotta and lobster ravioli which were made in-house. The flavors were average---in fact they tasted similar to frozen bag pastas I've had before. The bread was also baked in house and tasted fresh. Visually, I think the restaurant has a nice romantic aesthetic, but the food, while reasonable, isn't very memorable.
(3)Jaymie C.
Our first night in NY we discovered Hourglass Tavern. We had a wonderful meal and were waited on by Beth, one of the owners. She was the greatest. We even went back a second time!
(5)Sara R.
Great Sliders! Good WIne! Great lil space upstairs for events. I had a great time here with the Apple Consultant Network. If you're looking for a place to entertain 20 people I'd inquire here.
(4)Nancy C.
Great funky place for uncomplicated American food. We had drinks in Bettibar and then dined on the third floor. Good service, great food, awesome happy hour drink specials - $5 beers, wine and well drinks. Don't miss it for pre-theater dinner. We had the chicken fetuccine and shrimp catalina and both were well prepared and tasty.
(4)Taryn N.
Great place! Excellent food, service and prices and a cool, friendly, funky atmosphere. The grilled tilapia, steak and mashed potatoes were delicious and the chicken alfredo looked really yummy. Love that you can get a nice glass of wine for under $10! I would recommend and will be going back.
(4)Melissa I.
Very average. We went here because of the good rating on yelp. It's a cute place. Very tiny. The food was just average though. I was very disappointed to go here for my night out in NYC.
(3)J. J.
My husband I went here while visiting in New York. Never been to the city and we wandered the area for a place to eat and stumbled across the Hourglass. It was fabulous! The food was hot, delicious and the friendly staff was amazing. For the price fix you got a ton of food and we didnt leave hungry in the least. If you go, order the home made chicken soup- wonderful! The new owner of the Tavern Beth even came out and chatted with us and was talking to passer's by about their specials. She even gave us suggestions of what to see and do in NYC. A very homey, warm and fun place. We sat outside and listened to the romantic music play and people watched on the streets. Great food for the money and the atmosphere was spectacular. Next time we are in NYC we plan to visit the Hourglass again.
(5)Samantha D.
The food and service was awesome!
(4)Dana S.
Tiny, tiny little place. We went only for dessert and got great service and very large glasses of wine. The desserts were decent, but not amazing. Overall it was pretty good.
(3)Kristen F.
My family and I squeezed into this place after a show last Thursday night. It's a tiny space, probably better for couples, but the waitress was very accommodating and set up a table for the 5 of us. She was there by herself, yet was still able to run the whole dining area. The service was speedy and fun... she was able to roll with the corny jokes and teasing my uncle was giving her. We ordered late night appetizers, desserts, and wine. The chocolate cake... OMG, if I hadn't been with my family I would have exploded if you know what I mean ;-) Super cute place, that's very relaxed with scrumptious eats. Perfect for late night post theater.
(4)Elizabeth W.
Very prompt and friendly. Food was excellent. Fun atmosphere .
(5)Nathalie B.
Love this place ! I was looking for a place to celebrate my birthday and I came across this one when I added "unpretentious" to the search. And that was exactly what I was looking for, we (about 12/14 people) had dinner at the top floor and it felt like having dinner served at my dinning room, very cozy, casual and down to earth, the food was very good too. The middle floor, the bar can get too crowded but it also has a great vibe. I'm coming back again and again :)
(4)David D.
We (3 in all) were lured to this place from Time square for their 'Mediterranean' food listing ( as per Yelp search on Iphone.) At first - we couldn't find the place ( elec. sign was off ) There is nothing 'Mediterranean' about it. a regular mixture of dishes. The food was nothing special. Service is OK. The place is small and you have to climb over other eaters - or climb narrow stairs to the second floor. Not for the overweight...and not when the cold wind blows....
(2)Gloria K.
I absolutely loved this little place. When you first walk in, you get a bohemian 1920's Parisian feel which makes it intimate and romantic. I had the prixe fixe which had some really good bread, salad, an entree and dessert. They have a lot of different beers too and a pretty good wine list. I had the spinach ravioli which was homemade and super good and fruit cobbler which was amazing! It was warm and gooey and creamy all in 1 bite! My friend tells me her tiramisu was really good too. I'm definitely coming back for a date or something!
(4)Rosie H.
As other reviewers have said, the menu is not inventive and there are probably more interesting places to go. However, this place delivered everything we were looking for: solid food, great drinks, convenient location, ability to make a reservation online, and speedy service. The atmosphere was stylish and cozy and the place was not (contrary to what others have said) filled with tourists, except for us.
(4)Cory G.
The idea of this place is to have a quiet, romantic dinner, for two, and to leave within an hour. Sounds sweet but... don't go in here if there is a table of 6 people squeezed into the little space and expect to have a romantic night of it! This place is not about the food as the meals all taste like they are from the frozen food isle from the Price Chopper. It's the ambience! And if the place has 5 or 6 tourists sitting around one table yammering on and you're smashed against the wall in the other corner and your wasting your time and money. I like this place. I like what the idea is behind it but while they try to accommodate larger parties it leaves very little ambience for anyone else.
(3)Penny W.
So glad we found this place. We were in town for NY Marathon weekend. We wanted something quiet and with good food. This place was a lot of fun. We ate at Hourglass Tavern which is on the bottom floor of the brownstone. There were seven tables and one waiter. The waiter was friendly and helpful. We were not rushed at all. We had fun watching the chef deliver all the food for our floor and the two above out of a kitchen the size of a shoebox. The food was OK, but the wine and service were great. We'll be back the next time we are in NYC.
(4)Lauren B.
I gave this place 4 stars even though it probably should only get 3 in terms of food. The extra star was for the kind staff. My boyfriend and I used to go here from time to time when he lived right on 46th. The food was alright. Its like stuff my mom would make at home. But with most of the meals they give you a retarded amount of grub. A loaf of bread, appetizers, salad, entree, and dessert/coffee. Plus the wine list is decent with good prices. The thing I loved the most about this place though was the decor. 3 floors in an old brownstone apt, which felt like you were eating in your aunt's living room. So cute. Super friendly staff. Try it.
(4)Lindsay F.
how this restaurant had 4 stars when i was looking for a place to dine before "In the Heights" last night is beyond me. B.E.Y.O.N.D. ME. The establishment itself was charming and small, so i felt comfortable walking in expecting decent food. to say the least, the place was a complete tourist trap, the food was awful, and the sangria tasted like grape juice. to make matters worst, the menu is prix-fix for $21 to $25 and $17 if you want an entree a la carte. i NEVER would have paid $10 for the quality of ravioli i ordered, not to mention $17! so, my sister and i opted to split a prix-fix dinner since we weren't starving and could tell this place was a rip. then the bill came: they charged an extra $4 for a small slice of spanikopita (which would have come with the prix fix) and a $3 plate fee! i left the worst tip of my life just because of the plain absurdity that i had spent money there to begin with. a horrible pre-play destination. do yourself a favor and walk past this place.
(1)Augusto L.
M girlfriend and I went to this place for a late dinner and everything was great. The place is small but the esthetics are perfect. The exposed brick, cool decorations, and music to set the mood. The lights were dim but not so much that you could not see the person across from you. We were also lucky enough to attend when there were not a lot of people. Since it is a small restaurant, I can imagine it being a bit cramped when all of the tables are full. Food: Pork Dish with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus - The curry sauce was just the right sweetness with a bit of a spicy kick, the pork was soft and moist and the mashed potatoes were just the right consistency! Soup: Homemade Chicken Soup - This was perfect for the cold weather we were battling that night. The broth was very tasty and there was just the right amount of chicken and vegetables in the soup. Bread - Awesome, no other word for it. It was soft, warm, and tasted so damn good! If your a fan of bread, ask the waitress to keep it coming!!! Rib Eye Steak 10 oz with Mashed Potatoes & Asparagus - The steak was ordered medium and that;s exactly how it was served. The meat was tender and super juicy, The potatoes, again, perfect consistency. Asparagus at first appeared to be undercooked but after the first bite, I realized it was perfect! 3 Dollar Sangrias! - One review said that they tasted like grape juice but let me assure you that this was not the case when we went. The Sangria was tasty and had a nice kick. After about 3.5, I was feeling pretty dang good and this is coming from a person that usually has two shots in his hands. My girlfriend is a bit of lightweight and she was feeling very good after the second round. For 3 dollars, you need to give them a shot! Shrimp - The night we went they actually had a special on the Rib Eye plate and you also received a side of 3 large shrimp and dinner for $33! Well the shrimp were very tasty. The lemon seasoning exploded in your mouth and they were cooked to perfection. Dessert - Cobbler - The fruit and crust pieces tasted amazing! The cream was a nice touch but if I had to pick at something about this dish, I would suggest that it be served with ice cream. That would have completed the dessert dish!!! Service - The waitress was very sweet and fast. The only gripe I had was towards the end of the dinner, she seemed a bit pre-occupied with her cell phone and then disappeared for a bit upstairs. I had to ask her for the check. I'll be nice and not knock off a star for such a little thing. Overall, I would highly recommend this place. The entire night ended up costing about $85, not including the tip. That got us 2 main courses, dessert, 6 Sangrias, a small appetizer, and soup. I am rather new to NYC, but I would have to say this was one of the more reasonably priced places that I have been to, I enjoyed the environment, got a nice buzz, and left nice and full!
(5)Aileen M.
What a wonderful little gem in the midst of all the Broadway chaos! Best 5$ I've ever spent on a happy hour sangria. The pastas are full of flavor and the portions are just perfect and more. Three floors of the tavern to explore, definitely cozy and intimidate. The service is friendly and welcoming, a sure "go back" for me.
(4)Katie H.
Grabbed dinner here before a show after reading the reviews and we were very happy we found it! It was intimate but not crowded on the first floor. The food was amazing and the waitress was beyond kind and had a great personality. Overall it was a great experience!
(5)David S.
We went to Hourglass on the recommendation of another friend... It definitely didn't disappoint... from answering our reservation request (same day!) via email to finding us a small table in the window, it was beautiful. We got there early due to theater... it wasn't busy. Service was great... very prompt, funny and great recommendations. The chicken and steaks were wonderful. Wines were good. We were in and out in about 1.5 hours which gave us a TON of time for the show. Thanks!
(4)Sam F.
Hidden Gem!! First of all, this is not a tavern or bar, but rather a cozy and delectable family owned restaurant. It's something between Italian, Greek and Middle-eastern. I really enjoyed the cozy 2nd floor. It felt like we were in someone's living room (probably because it used to be just that). Service was very fast, and friendly! As soon as we sat down, we had warm spinach pie type things at our table. Warm, flaky crusts, and fresh filling. Who just gives something like that away? Stick with the colorful papers in the middle of the menu (the specials), by far the best deal. You'll pay around $20 for a four course meal. You can't beat that price in the city. After the aforementioned spinach pie, I had a house salad. For my entre, I chose the blue fish, which was a bit spicy for my liking. However, I really enjoyed everything that my friends got! The lamb chops were phenomenal. Five succulent chops, done right! Both penne dishes, their names escape me, were also very tasty. Lastly, I had the tiramisu for dessert, which was much sweater than usual. We got the cheapest pinot grigio for the table, and were very happy. I'll be back, I just hope they still have the lamb.
(5)Marshall R.
Really enjoyed our pre theater dinner here. I tried the spinach ravioli and my wife had the Catalina shrimp and both were very good. The service was very attentive and polite. The wine was good and the cobbler for dessert was very well made. The price was very reasonable and I would dine here again.
(4)Samantha K.
Found this place to have dinner with my siblings and cousins the other night. it was definitely not what we were expecting when we walked in, and felt like we were in another city or country. We were on the third floor and after 7:00 the place was empty and they had a music playlist playing Dean Martin and Copa Cabana on repeat. Having said that, the menu is extensive, food was great and not too pricey! I had the grilled cheese on Rosemary bread and my brother in law had the grilled chicken which was amazing!
(4)Brenda P.
Went for a quick bite before a show. Food and service were very good. I had a flat iron steak, my husband the sirloin and they were great cuts cooked well. My only gripe would be that it was cramped. Many mentioned cozy, which it was; but since it's a smaller place all workers end up frantically running past your table every 2 seconds...a bit distracting and didn't make for a relaxing dinner, but a good one.
(3)Cassandra S.
I hosted a private event on the third floor with just over 24 hrs. notice and my reservation was taken with no hassle and accommodations were quickly made. When I arrived, I was personally greeted by both of the owners. Our bartender was a delight and did a fantastic job. Having only visited the establishment once prior to the event, I didn't know what to expect and was ultimately blown away. The space perfectly accommodated my 35-40 guests for cocktails (I was told the 3rd floor will seat up to 25 for dinner) and set the perfect atmosphere for the gathering. With a cute bar, and tables around the outside of the room, it was a comfortable place for my guests to mingle and relax. All of my guests were very impressed and incredibly well taken care of. Hourglass Tavern is a gem nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, and I really do look forward to my next visit.
(5)Laura G.
We went to the Hourglass Tavern before a show on a Friday night based on positive Yelp reviews. It was as good as expected! We were seated right away in a cozy window seat. The bread was delicious and so was my entree- mushroom ravioli. The service was attentive and we made it to the show on time!
(4)Hazal O.
I went to second floor to bettibar. They have happy hour 5-10 pm which is awesome. Atmosphere was so nice. Almost everybody knows each other except me:)) but i had so much fun.
(5)Sarah F. H.
I came here in the winter but loved it so much that it's still worth reviewing now. This place is tiny and lovely. Great food, relaxed and competent dinner service (a prize in the theater district), unbelievably good value -- including a four-course $22.95 prix-fix from 4 to 8 pm -- and a delightful atmosphere. I made reservations but didn't need to. Although the place has only seven small tables, two of which are basically expanded windowseats, it didn't get crowded, almost certainly because despite the multiple reviews and awards posted in the windows, people must not know about it. The place is actually three floors tall. On the second floor is Betti Bar, a casually romantic spot for a pre- or post-theater drink with a disproportionately large (but proportionately sweet) bathroom. I didn't venture to the top floor. All the ravioli is home-made, and my spinach ravioli stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce was delicious and not unduly heavy. The menu boasts many sizes of food, from appetizers and entrees to "snacklettes" and "big snackage." There's also a make-your-own option for kids. I would come here with four people maximum, and I would definitely come back. In all my theater-going days, this is one of the best dining experiences I've had -- and it didn't matter, time-wise or service-wise, that my dining partner was 10 minutes late -- despite the hourglass hanging over each table, which, according to old reviews, used to limit each meal to exactly 60 minutes.
(5)Mark M.
This is my new favorite place in the Theater District. The room is small and cozy, the music is nice, the service is friendly and efficient, and the food was very good. I would have given it 5 stars if the food was amazing. It's rare to find a place that is relaxing during the pre-theater period, but this place nicely fits the bill!
(4)Denis W.
Comment dis tu "annoying French tourists" in French? because on the day I was there, the place was packed wall-to-wall with them. Came here before our saying goodbye to Rent show (just came to say goodbye..er...forget that). Was in town with the in-laws and wanted to show them a not-overpriced restaurant that was cute. After some reseach, and the suggestions found here, I decided on the Hourglass (better than going to Junior's right?). Maybe it was because of the tourists, but service was spotty and sloppy, and the seating cramped and uncomfortable. I ordered the leg of lamb, in-laws ordered sirlion, and wifey had salmon. The leg of lamb was cooked ok, and tasted pretty good, but had tough and sinewy sections. The vegetables were limp, and mashed potatoes bland. The steaks were functional, but not great. The salmon would have been good if not overcooked. Both the tiramisu and chocolate cake were too sweet, and the filling tasted artificial. Spinach pie was ok, though cold and oily. I wanted to give them a pass because we obviously caught them at a bad night, but there were too many misses. Somewhere between 2.5-3 stars. Will pay more to go to one of the other restuarants next time.
(3)Jon C.
So mom came into the city to visit and I took here here before we went out for some entertainment. This place I feel had so much potential, but similar to my tax return, left me wanting more. The appitizers we were served had no business ever leaving the kitchen, and the service was medicore even though there was only one other table to wait on. The being said, my lamb chops were possibly the best I've ever had, the were literally so tender I could cut them with my fork, "My fork?" you say, yes my fork, I too was amazed. The desert was ok, but forgettable, I may return if I was in the area, but wouldn't plan an evening around it. This place could've easily gotten 4 or 5 stars from me, but the app + bad service are two serious strikes that I can't overlook when we were practically the only ones there.
(3)Mark G.
Terrific little, and I mean little pub on Restaurant Row that's friendly, reasonably priced with real good food. Yes, it is on Restaurant Row!
(4)Amalia M.
Love this place! Many happy memories here, eating dinner after a show. Food is simple, but very good. Really friendly, family run place.
(4)M W.
Prix Fixe menu at 24.95 great value. Appetizer, salad or soup, choice of several entrees (I had v good chicken breast) plus dessert. My husband had steak off the regular menu which was very tasty. Service was extremely pleasant for NYC.
(4)Maria T.
amazing!!! the food is crazy delicious...the price is typical new york prices..wine was great...and service was awesome. The owners are the sweetest and most humble people you will ever meet. Been here a few times, considering its right across the street, but I will definitely be coming back... check out this place. Cute decor, nice service, and delicious food!
(4)Michele R.
How I loathe to write a negative review but here I go. And why? Because honestly, this put such a damper on the already rainy evening and I do want to spare some other poor shnook a dismal experience. Firstly, it feels OLD, but not in a well preserved way, in a musty odor kind of manner. Still, hope springs eternal which is why they call it hope but this was soon dashed by a piece of steak I would not feed to my neighbor's dog let alone my dinner companion. It was more fat than anything and for the first time in our dining jaunts, it was sent back! Now I am sure my fellow yelpers can rightly understand that truly dashed any chance of a satisying dining experience prior to the theatre. To top it all off, the soda was flat and we were informed by our less than happy to see us waiter, that this was just the way the soda was; sorry folks. If the guy wanted a decent tip if any and yes we did leave him one regardless,( it was the cook we really wanted to boil in oil) ; he woud have hightailed it over to corner bodega for two cans of cola and behold, we would have had at the very least a little fizz instead of a dinner that so totally fizzled out. So in short, the Hourglass Tavern is so aptly named as it felt like it was HOURS before we could say "Sayonara" and we shall NOT return. Oh, I had the lobster ravioli and to be fair, next to the steak, it was at least edible. I guess REVENGE is a dish best served cold which is what the Hourglass Tavern leaves you feeling.
(1)Steve S.
Hourglass Tavern is a restaurant row eatery with a variety of prix-fixe options for the pre-Theater crowd. In fact, there were so many options on the menu that it made ordering a quite difficult. We enjoyed the homey feel of being able to eat right in the kitchen. The service, however, was slow and the food was simply not that good. I ordered the steak from the prix fixe. It was serviceable but had no flavor. My friend was similarly not impressed by the soft-shell crab. We ordered a bottle of wine (don't remember what it was) for $17 and it was almost undrinkable. I'm giving it three stars because the food was not terrible, but just nothing to write home about. In short, there are better choices along restaurant row for pre-Theater dining.
(3)Gretchen W.
I can't say enough good about this restaurant. It's perfect for anyone going to the theater. The owners are usually there and are friendly and casual. Food was great; reasonably priced. They are open until the wee hours so you can make reservations to go for dinner or drinks after the theater also. The spinach ravioli is fantastic!
(4)Michael J.
One of my favorite local spots for drinks and socializing. The food is decent and the atmosphere is fun yet intimate.
(5)Karisa G.
I thought I loved this place before I even arrived. However I was greatly disappointed. I could have cooked and seasoned the food better myself, I got shrimp and scallops Aka fishy tasting over cooked crap. The broccoli that it came with was raw and unseasoned. My boyfriend got the pork which was tiny and dried up over gross mashed. Our bill came to $ 42...$7 for iced tea and a sprite. I couldn't be too mad b/c of the nice waitress and cozyness of the place. But I am still very disappointed at the waste of money this meal was.
(2)Lawrence F.
I have been going to the Hourglass Tavern for years but I will never eat there again. I went last evening with a dear friend prior to seeing a Broadway show and there was only seating at the upstairs bar (no problem there). We sat down and there was a VERY LOUD and drunk group of 3 ( 2 girls and one guy) kids there. We asked them very kindly if they could lower their voices. This only stirred their intoxicated brains and they began to bang on the tables and became even more boisterous. The staff there was simply clueless. Other patrons were also very agitated with their behavior. Before anyone got hurt (and it wasn't going to be me) we decided to leave. As we were leaving they once again started banging on the tables like neanderthals. As we walked out we came across more kids who too were drunk (6pm), it was a pathetic site. Restaurant Row has indeed gone down-hill. I cannot eat in an establishment that cannot control or do something about drunkard patrons.
(1)Nobody M.
Nothing here was bad...the food, the service, the cute little rooms-all of it was good, but I wasn't blown away by anything. If your typical meals consist of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and/or other chain restaurants, cruise buffets or church potlucks, you'll be blown away by the food here. But if you're a bit more discretionary, you might be a little disappointed. Hourglass' menu consisted of a lot of "specials" which were each xerox'd hand-written full page descriptions....it was a little irritating shifting through a half a ream of colored paper. I'm sure it's all part of their system, but it was jankey. If I lived around here, it might be a place I'd frequent due to the reasonable prices and lack of tourists, but when you only have a few days in NYC, consider a few more options first.
(3)charley s.
Pedestrian food. Passed off a brand X drink for a Baileys. Seated pre - theatre Sat. nite table for 2 in second floor room with group of 12 including young children. Granny put out because no chocolate milk. Must have thought it was Chucky Cheese. If for low prices would be a 2 not a 3. Overall meh.
(3)Foster K.
I brought my parents to the famed "Restaurant Row" hoping to find a place that didn't gouge out-of-towners, and thankfully we chose the Hourglass Tavern. The restaurant is really cozy, lots of dark wood and we practically climbed over tables to get to our spot in a corner on the second floor. This was a good thing - it really reminded me of restaurants in Montmartre. We ordered a bottle of wine, and then each of us chose one of the seemingly endless meal choices. I had lobster ravioli (they just don't make it on the left coast!), and Mam and Dad had trout and lamb. Let's not forget that these included soup or salad, dessert, and coffee! All the entrees were great, and Mam said that the Tiramisu was the BEST she'd ever had. This is no small feat - my Mother has turned over every rock in Boston's Little Italy looking for the best Tiramisu, so she knows what she's talking about! As if the food wasn't shockingly good enough, the bill came to a grand total of $78! What a deal! I'd say it's likely we'll be back here!!
(5)Mary Beth K.
Great little restaurant & bar on Restaurant Row. All homemade pasta & wonderful wait staff. I had the Lobster Ravioli, my husband has the Chicken Alfredo & my niece had the Spinach Ravioli. I liked the Alfredo best because it had a bite to it. Make sure to make a reservation as I think there are only 4 tables in the whole spot! We will be back.
(4)Caitlyn S.
It's small. Like tiny hallway small, but unless you have a ton of people with you I wouldn't let that stop you from hitting up Hourglass late night! They have a few different rooms and we happened to be in the main bar area most of the time. We had a blast. The event planner even gave me a tour of the private bar room where a certain celeb was hanging out at the time. It was a really cool place and the bartenders and rest of the staff were so accommodating. I can't wait to go back when I'm in town!
(5)Richard H.
OK, it's not bad. It's a tiny, charming place with prompt, friendly service. But it really does taste like something you could make at home. I am not convinced that was fresh broccoli, and was that Vigo Spanish rice?
(2)Martin D.
This place was not our first choice, but it turned out to be a great one. Although Maria, the waitress who seems to know every patron by first name is extremely friendly, she is a tad bit slow. This sub-par service did not hinder the outstanding food this fine establishment offers. Open well over 10 years, they have daily specials that include appetizer, dessert, etc. I had the fettuccini with olive oil, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and smoked gouda. This dish is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. My dessert was a flourless chocolate cake that was also over the top. I almost forgot the sangria. At $3 a glass, this stuff was world class. Although there are 1000 restaurants within a couple blocks, this would be a good choice for anyone! Enjoy.
(4)Whitney W.
We stopped by for dessert and drinks. The food was really good! We got a chocolate cake and a pear apple pie. It had a more homemade touch rather then fancy shmancy. It isn't up at the professional level cooking, but still very good. I LOVE the atmosphere here. The woman who served us had a nice quirky personality rather then just strait up business. She treats her customers like long time friends. Very Refreshing.
(4)Scott R.
Solid choice for pre-show with good prices and food. Pre fix gets you wide selection of entree with vege spanikopte (sp?) and salad or soup. We had lobster raviolli (rich, creamy, filled with real lobster) and salmon with mashed potatoes (delicious, homemade and buttery). Desert was limited but a wonderful chocalate biscotti freshly made (actually our server said she prepared it!). Prompt service, they are sensitive to getting you out for your show.
(3)Court W.
The tiny restaurant on the ground floor is lovely, but a bit boisterous and crowded, especially with the pre-theater crowd. Upstairs is a GEM of a quiet bar, something all too rare in the midtown Theater District. The place is spotless and the service fantastic. Always calm, kind, respectful, friendly, funny, and courteous. The bar only has a few tables. There is a nice selection of wine, all affordably priced. There is a tasty bar menu, but the full restaurant menu is also available. A great place to meet friends for a quiet drink after work. Love it!
(5)Ama B.
Great food and drinks!! The bar staff/owners are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Go for food and drinks before a show, after, or even better when the shows are on and you won't have to share the attention of the staff with anyone. Love it!!! Short ribs to die for!
(5)MS K.
One of my favorite cities is NYC. I enjoy the diversity. The interior design of this restaurant looks like my grandma's living room. Seriously, as soon as I walked in, I felt like my grandma would be cooking in the kitchen. Very old-fashioned cozy. The homemade bread is fantastic. I remember having seafood pasta that I liked. The restaurant has got two floors but tables and chairs were close together so I felt I was actually sitting on the neighbors table. I really liked the Polish waitress. She was so nice and friendly. I'd like to go back next time when I visit.
(5)Russ L.
Small and cozy but great food and good service. So many choices on the menu, and great wine deals. If you are looking to change it up a bit and try something fun and interesting this place is for you. If you are a rich snob then stay at your phony overpriced restaurants on the east side.
(4)Billy A.
It's like eating at my grandparents, if my grandparents were sort of Italian-Greek, loved cooking and hosting, made everything from scratch, doted on us at the table, insisted on serving dessert, and were happy to see us come and sad to see us leave. A pleasure to eat here.
(5)Stacy T.
The service is amazing and the food is even better. This place is terrific, the owners are also truly amazing.. I have been to Hourglass Tavern several times for dinner and I love it more every time. We also had a private party there and they did such an amazing job with the set up, food and service.. I suggest everyone go there and try this amazing restaurant.
(5)Citizen Cliff G.
Was walking around looking for a drink before a play, and the waitress vigorously waved us in. We looked at each other, looked at her, she waved some more, we shrugged and went in. The bar was upstairs -- kinda odd and intriguing. Funny little space, the patrons were real Broadway types, singing show tunes, discussing shows, etc. My wife had a piece of cake brought out and everyone sang Happy Birthday (really well and very animated). We had a blast and went back after the show.
(4)victoria o.
No matter when you go to the Hourglass Tavern, your bound to have a great experience. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Business are run from the Top down, and this one is Tops!! GO to the Hourglass and enjoy your experience, your belly will!
(5)anni b.
Great place to eat while in midtown, among so many mediocre choices along restaurant row. Very homey, almost cluttered atmosphere, very old fashioned - kind of like eating dinner in your British grandmother's apartment, 50 years ago. Although I believe the owners are Greek. The food is nothing fancy, but very good and fresh. Entrees are generally choice of meat or fish, with potato and veg. Also, kind of like your Grandma just cooked you dinner. And it's a great deal - appetizer, entree, and dessert for a set price; somewhere between $18-22 (plus tax and tip). Adding to the experience is the kindly worded, shoddily constructed, always changing handwritten menu. Truly one of the only real mom-and-pop type places left in Midtown. Worth a visit or two.
(4)michael k.
great small restaurant vibe. i just came for drinks and dessert but the woman waiting on the tables on the ground floor restaurant was the perfect combination of attentive and non-existent. she took our order and checked in with us from time to time but didn't hound us to get more drinks or get us to wrap up and leave. perfect for conversation to take place. my friend and i easily were there for 2+ hours. there is a cool looking upstairs bar too but only saw it while heading into the restroom. definitely worth going back to.
(4)Antonella P.
True the atmosphere is homey but the food is very mundane. We had steak and halibut to find both quite boring. The pinot noir, boring, the pre-meal spinach filo pie, boring and the tiramisu, yea - boring. Spending $70 for 2 people and you can do much, much better elsewhere.
(2)John F.
We were taken to this Litte Restaurant by a friend while visiting New York. What a deal! Three course meal (I had first-rate fish) with an extra complimentary appetizer for $18. Friendly and polite service and very near theaters.
(5)Nermis R.
I came here for brunch yesterday and I'm sure to be back. I like I like I like. The dishes are just amazing and different if you are looking to move away from your typical brunch offerings. I had the HG Florentine and wow, they were the best eggs Florentine I've ever had (I'm also a huge fan of foccacia bread which made quite a different to me)..The short ribs hash was unbelievable, I ate all of it! Small cozy place. There is a bar/more dining area on the second floor which I look forward to trying out. Highly recommend for brunch.
(4)Karen M.
Ambience, service (courtesy of Greg our server), prices, convenience to theaters, all worthy of praise. Seems all in my party were happy with their meals. I ordered the pasta veggie dish on the fixed price menu and it was kind of blah. I think they forgot the seasonings. All in all a delightful meal and restaurant. I wouldn't hesitate to return but would definitely order something else.
(4)Irena N.
We had a fantastic brunch here on my mother's birthday. This place looks like someone's very old house - small and narrow and full of stuff, but still charming. We sat on the third floor and it was a bit tight, but still comfortable. Definitely not the place to go with a large group, but perfect for an intimate meal. What a nice experience! We loved the warm little pastries we got at the start of the meal, our drinks (bloody marys and mimosas) were delicious, the food was scrumptious (potato pancakes, eggs and short rib hash, omelettes etc.), and the prices were very reasonable. Our server was friendly, attentive, and hilarious. I'd love to come back.
(5)Maggie A.
Was looking for a place a bit off the beaten path from the craziness of Midtown (I think Times Square is the WORST) that my tourist parents could enjoy before a show. We went in for Sunday brunch. The ambiance is a little hectic--small seating areas that are crammed together and the decor was a bit disheveled for my taste. However, our waitress was lovely and thoughtful. The $5 brunch happy hour was fantastic--I loved the sangria. I was a little disappointed and underwhelmed in my dish, but both my parents enjoyed theirs. Bathrooms were a train wreck, so I avoided. A good place to go before a show with decent brunch. Definitely much quieter than any other restaurant I've been to in that area, which is a huge plus for me!
(3)Alexandria U.
Okay where do I start ! The pictures are so deceiving. This restaurant is a hole in a wall ! Everything about it is so unappealing. There's this one lady that greeted us and seemed to be overly pushy for customers which turned us off even more. We didn't even enter the restaurant and she came outside and grabbed my friend Leroy to come on in. We glanced at the menu but something was too shady going on so we left. Worst thing, we were the only customers on a SATURDAY NIGHT! If that's not a tell tell sign , then I don't know what else to say. Definitely not giving this place a chance anymore !
(1)Jason L.
Came here for a late brunch. Surprising that we were seated right away. They have 3 levels of seating. We were famished and happy to see the food came out so quickly. We had hourglass blueberry belgian waffle with a side of cheese grits and hg florentine with a side of potato pancake. The waffle was crisp and filled with blueberry. The hg florentine was big and tasty. The short rib hash it came with was flavorful and not as salty as your normal hash. The potato pancake tasted just like a crabcake but with out the crab and was really good. The cheese grits was the only disappointing part. I thought the cheese was somehow going to be incorporated into the grits but no. It was just on the top layer. We also had their mimosa and paloma drink. It was a happy hour special for drinks and was pretty satisfied with it Overall the service was friendly and fast. Food was good quality. Would love to come back here to try their dinner menu.
(4)Sarah Z.
Stopped in before a 2pm play. It's a great option near a lot of theaters! We had a reservation for 11:45, and were seated as soon as we got there. We sat on the third floor. Seating was spacious and we got there early so we had the room almost to ourselves, it was great! I opted for the potato pancakes, they were so good. They were fluffy and not too heavy. The dill sour cream on the side complimented the salmon and potato really well. I was happy with my choice. My grandparents split the waffles and jumbo. They loved them both! Careful, the jumbo has a kick so steer clear of you don't like spice. This restaurant is a great pre theater option. The ambiance is wonderful and unique too. I love th hourglass theme. Will definitely be recommending to anyone who is looking for a place to eat around the theater district!
(4)Zhichun L.
Decided to go for a Sunday brunch. I ordered a waffle. It arrived 25 mins later which is soooo dry and hard to chew. The plate came with four pieces of waffles and I can't even finish one. I complaint to the waiter that it is obviously overdone and he simply said" oh okay" and kept being cool. Later when we asked for check, my friend complaint again about the waffle so the waiter "nicely" offered us 15% off( which is always there on yelp). Not a good customer experience.
(1)Alexandra C.
The food and service is wonderful! This is my go-to before a show. Make a reservation, try to sit on the 2nd floor bar area. The specials on drinks are so great for the Theatre District. My favorite midtown restaurant!
(5)Ashley A.
A cute Italian place, aka my favorite kinda place. They had a nice menu, friendly staff, and neat environment. Everything I require. This is more of a date night, or night out with friends environment. Not that they wouldn't be lovely to children, but it's very small and could be a little tight for smaller parties. Hint: get the spinach ravioli!!!
(4)Grace Y.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday afternoon before heading to an art show by the pier. Can't say much about the decor because we sat in the outdoor partition; it was really sunny that day and there was a portable heater by the table which our server promptly turned up to the max. I felt fine because I guess I was sitting in the sun but my friend was still a little chilled. Regardless the seating wasn't a problem. Took a little wiggling of chair but not a big deal. Patrons would come in and out (I sat right by the door) but I didn't really find that disruptive. The only downside was that my coffee went cold in like 10 minutes... Now the food... I got the HG Florentine (poached eggs and spinach on foccacia with salad and short rib hash) and friend got the potato pancakes with salmon and dill cream. I was 100% satisfied with my food, pretty much shaved off my plate. The eggs were done just right, the Hollandaise luxurious, and the hash savory in its own category. For a lack of pedantic food-critic jargon, everything was so yummy my palate was held in rapture (does that even make sense??). I had a taste of friend's dish and I'd just toss in a comment about the potato pancakes - they were super fleshy and firm, delicious on their own without the dill cream. Staff were attentive, friendly, and accommodating. Frequently checking to see if we were warm enough. Quick to serve me another glass of water after I pointed out there was something unidentifiable in the initial glass. Could've just been a flake of potato pancakes that made its way out of their plate, but no questions were asked. Also, FYI the restroom is upstairs by the Bettibar. On a completely unrelated note, a cute guy traveling from LA struck up a conversation (which I wish lasted longer than 30 seconds) with me while we were waiting for the restroom. It was one of the more pleasant restroom waiting experience I've had. (Dear LA with an Armenian accent, if you're reading this - I hope you and your friend had a good time in NYC! Sorry I couldn't give you touristy tips, if you needed any.)
(4)Tracy P.
Great food! Super friendly service! Can't wait to come back! Fun atmosphere, and the Bettibar is a blast and the happy hour is WAY MORE THAN HAPPY!
(5)Courtney L.
My favorite happy hour in mid-town, Bettibar is nothing like the Disneyfied area that surrounds it. On the second floor of the Hourglass Tavern, Bettibar has happy hour everyday from 5pm-10pm. Yes, you did read that correctly. Everyday until 10pm. Selections include $5 wine and bottled beer, and a specialty cocktail for $9. They also have an amazing deal for the more adventurous of us out there: $8 for a shot and a mystery beer. Mystery beer comes in a paper bag and everything. Perfect casual but classy atmosphere. Great for a date, drinks with a colleague, catching up with friends, or really any other occasion you can think of.
(5)David N.
It was a farewell brunch for my UK friends and what better to get them in the mood to go home than an English décor tavern. The host was lovely and our server was really great. Sat in a bright sun lit corner on the 3rd floor. Yes, we get cake to start...cinnamon cake, corn cake as the English calls it. Well, we Americans call it a muffin. Is there tea? No, coffee. How uncivilized! The eggs & short rib hash for the British and blacken chicken club for the rest of us. The bloody Mary was bloody awful but the meal was delicious. I enjoyed the blacken chicken breast with a slight heat on a hoagie bun with lettuce and tomatoes. My friends devoured their Eggs & short rib hash. Hourglass Tavern was a causal brunch that wasn't rushed. We all enjoyed the meal, conversation and a proper send off back to the Queen.
(4)Andy C.
Came for a late night snack. Had the brisket sliders...meh. My wife had the salmon, it was tasty. The hummus plate was ok, the olives were small, pita was fine. Maybe better for brunch. Maybe I was tired. Eh.
(3)L L.
So we stumble upon this gem after spotting a sign for $5 drinks.. Palomas / Mimosas / Bloody Mary's / Bellini... as you can surely believe our group stops and sets up shop outside. The owner Betti was such a treat! The menu is easy.. something for everyone and price is more than fair. She sold us on this delicious fig and goat cheese salad in addition to our brunch items. The building offers a bar on the 2nd floor and additional seating on the 3rd. The venue has this old charm and history. Check if out and if you are lucky you get to experience Betti which is better then any dessert special they have on the menu !!
(4)Bella B.
Excellent !!! Excellent !! Service was beyond expectations !!! Beth was so professional and with a heart of gold and our waitress Maria the best of the best !! We will be going back there after our Broadway Play !!
(5)David Z.
Caught them at the rush on a Sunday. Kitchen was a little slow, but the atmosphere on the second floor bar drowned that out. The penne mascarpone is excellent!
(4)Bill J.
this is a nice place, it is very small and dining areas are tight. We were 8 minutes late for our reservation and the waitress/ manager gave us a hard time about it. Asked us if we wanted to sit outside at 6pm on a hot sticky New York evening, the answer was no. Made us wait 15 minutes and then brought us to a table on the 3rd floor, where many table were open. Food was decent, nothing over the top the waitress was pleasant and service levels were average. You can do much worse in the theater district that is for sure
(3)Paul M.
Perfectly adequate meal and service in a tiny footprint of a restaurant on the west side. Nothing outstanding but no complaints either, a decent value for the dollar.
(3)Brandon E.
We came here the other night before going to see Drunk Shakespeare. We've been wanting to give it a try but couldn't get a reservation, but because this was 5:45 dinner had no problem. I won't discuss the space issue, it's small, that's it. I was kind of underwhelmed. I read all the reviews about the service, etc. The service wasn't bad, but it wasn't outstanding either. We felt rushed the entire time. We received our check as soon as our desserts were placed in front of us, for a nicer restaurant that is kind of a no no for me. I know you need to flip tables, but not just slam my check down before I'm even done eating, this wasn't the lunch rush. The timing of all the apps, entrees and dessert were fine but it was just kind of dropped off. Again, not bad, but not amazing. The prices are all really decent for restaurant row. The prefixe theater menu was nice. My wife ordered that, and I ordered it with the $10 up-charge to get the short ribs. The vegetable soup was delicious, had a decent spice to it, my wife didn't like it that much because of it. I thought it was great. The bread they give you is also fantastic. The ribs were OK, just that. They needed a bit more seasoning, or a sauce or something. There was just something missing. The mashed potatoes were meh. I had to add Parmesan cheese and salt to give it a little flavor. The dessert was ok, the cobbler was the better option. I got the tiramisu, as other's have said, it really isn't tiramisu, it's more a mousse with a small lady finger attached, it was ok too. The house wines are really decently priced at $6, so no complaints there. I just thought it was AOK, just kind of average. I don't know if I'd come back, but I might to try the sliders or something a little simpler.
(3)Thomas M.
Good food at a solid price, the Hourglass Tavern has charm that only an old brownstone can bring. And I do mean old. It's most likely one of the older buildings in Manhattan that isn't deliberately preserved by some historic act. The food is plenty good with big portions at a great price. A steak can be had here for $18 and that's really hard to beat. It didn't come with much sauce though, but I'm sure you can ask for extra gravy (it's really good). The mash is also tasty here with hints of garlic. Nice spot if you're ever in this part of town. I also caught a glimpse of the second floor bar and while small, it had a great cozy feel. The entire building is unique because it does feel like someone's house transformed into an old timey restaurant/bar.
(4)C W.
Great Bloody Mary, very cool atmosphere, the food is very good. Our waiter, Joe's was awesome made us feel very welcome. With all the choices on Restaurant Row, this is a pretty good bet.
(4)Michelle L.
What a great place on restaurant row. Making our first night out in the city perfect. Unique, historical, fun and delicious. Beautiful beet salad, savory Shrimp Catalina and to die for blueberry and apple cobbler. Definitely going back before I leave NYC.
(5)Patrick B.
Excellent food for all five of us at our table. Honestly best food we had in NYC. I am attaching all the pictures if our meals. Seriously stop here - enjoy a drink and dinner . We ate outside - only issue the have is that they need to extend the drip hose off the AC unit . Was getting splashed as I was sitting up against building.
(5)Doug M.
We went with a group of 8 for pre-theater. Went upstairs to the cozy dining room. Really friendly service checking in downstairs and by our waitress upstairs ('try this drink, if you don't like it it's free and I'll drink it"). The food was very tasty, better in many ways than you would think from the outside of the place. The soft shell crab special was a hit with 2 of us, as was the crusted tilapia and veal chop. I had the short rib -- a different cut of short rib than I've had before but still tender and flavorful. Four negatives almost brought it down to a 3-star review: * It worked out to $65 per person, a bit on the steep side for what we ordered and the limited drinks we had. I would encourage you to try the prix frix menu. * Served with our main course was large hunks of boiled broccoli. No salt, butter, bread crumbs, roasting, etc. Just giant hunks of boiled broccoli lol. Not what I'd expect for $65. * Double butter mashed potatoes tasted neither of salt or much butter, and were grainy (not lumpy which I don't actually mind, just a bit mealy like they used the wrong kind of potato). * A few people got the fruit cobbler with their meal for dessert. Not a nice texture or flavor profile -- more like a hot cup of melted fruit. I'm sticking with 4 stars though because everyone really did like the main food and the service was really very nice. Just try out the prix fixe for your first time.
(4)Maria F.
The Hourglass is a friendly local joint, on the far side of the restaurant row strip. Always friendly, always quirky, totally geared toward comfort food, it is a great choice when you want more local color than tourism, and are looking for simple but well prepared, large portion entrees. It is VERY reasonable, especially in comparison to the other choices on the strip (check out the Prix Fixe options). I guarantee you will find yourself chatting amiably with other New Yorkers (or lucky tourists) about anything and everything. Always fun, entertaining and reliable. Worth a visit--- you'll be back!
(3)Cindy C.
It's a quirky place with better than average food! Most of its customers go right before the theater, so there are hourglasses on the wall to time the meal to make sure customers don't miss their show. Cute! Bread is a free starter and it was super oily.... but tastes great! We ordered BBQ beef sliders and spinach ravioli. Both were delicious!! In all, it's a nice hole-in-the-wall for something quick. This place is between 3- and 4-stars, and I settled on 3 because it's out of the way for me to go to and isn't on my top 3 if I'm in the area.
(3)L S.
My husband and I went to NYC for our honeymoon and this was the BEST bar that we found. We didn't eat, but went upstairs to the speakeasy bar, which is amazing and cheap. Really cool vibe. The bartender was sweet and really attentive. We met some wonderful locals who were happy to talk to us. Note: we are theatre people and that's the type of people we met. On Saturday night, they had a mystery shot + beer for $10. That's an amazing price for a bar in New York.
(5)Brian C.
I'll be honest -- I stepped in here not knowing what to expect, fearing that Hourglass Tavern would turn out to be a tourist trap. Tourist trap or not, the food was excellent! We dined upstairs, and the decor was pretty eclectic. It was very interesting how the restaurant was built into old/original tenement housing, and I thought that added to the charm of the establishment. We had a very friendly and very accommodating waitress that made sure we had a great dining experience. The menu is large and has plenty of options to satisfy the pickiest of people. All the food descriptions sounded so good that it was hard to choose just one dish. I ended up going with the lobster ravioli, which I was reluctant about because of how skimpy ravioli dishes can be, but I gave it a shot anyway because it came with a rave review from our waitress, and she also mentioned that they're made in-house. It turns out that this lobster ravioli would become the best lobster ravioli dish I'd ever had, and the portion was hearty and filling as well. The raviolis were large and stuffed with cheese and lobster bits, and the pink sauce that came with it was really, REALLY good. It may seem kind of odd for me to recommend this place for a seafood pasta dish, but seriously, come to Hourglass Tavern for the lobster ravioli and casual ambiance!
(5)Nicole D.
Best Brunch Ever! Joe the server is my new favorite dude. Everything about my experience I am in love with. Will come back again and again. I had the crab cake Benny. My friend had the hash. Just wonderful. And so much love to mother there!
(5)Roane B.
I had a friend in town and we were walking around and decided we needed to stop in for brunch. We went to the 3rd floor and had a great server who took good care of us. Its a small place but the feeling of it is excellent. It had a lot of jazz themes on the walls and the music was very classic. It gave a good old fashioned southern type of feel. All it needed was a band and a dance floor and I'd be there every night. The food was very good and my 2 friends and I split our meals. If I am in the area again it would be worth trying for a few more dishes to see if they are just as good.
(5)Joseph A.
Went there for a relaxed sunday brunch before a 3pm show. We had a 1pm reservation. The service was great and the staff very attentive. I had the chicken club sandwich with roasted potatoes. The food took a while to prepare as the kitchen was very small but it was served hot and fresh. There is limited outside seating and the ground floor only has a few tables but there are more levels with additional seating. Overall the experience was very pleasant and I would reccommend it for a before or after theater dining experience, just allow a 1/2 hour extra time for food preparation. The menu is simple and not too complicated. I am sure there is something for everyone.
(4)Emily O.
So so. I had chicken soup which tasted store bought. My boyfriend had crab cakes which he said were tasty. I thought the bread was a little bland as well. Would definitely go back to try brunch...but probably not dinner again.
(3)Tre F.
To put it simply, one of the best meals I have ever had in NYC. My sister and I stopped in after catching a show. My sister was looking a little crazy because the restaurant was not "nice" in her opinion. For me, I found the place to be full of charm. We were seated on the 3rd floor which is a small room, but the instruments on the wall made the decor eye catching. Ok, the best part. We both ordered a drink called a Brooklyn flower. Awesome drink. It's so smooth, which could be a slight problem because I was really taking them down. Not a drunk, but man was it good. My sister and I split the crab cake and shrimp appetizer. Truly amazing. I didn't try the shrimp, but it won my sister over. The crab cake was superb. For my entree, I had the veal chop with mashed potatoes and the spinach. So good. The food was excellent all the way around. Made Jen really happy. The other aspect that was amazing was the service. Our bar tender/waitress was extremely friendly. Great service by her. The place was not too busy, so she took a lot of time with us. Maybe, if there were more people, i would not have felt so cared for. Regardless, she was great. Food was great. Love this place.
(5)Edmund M.
Interesting little place. Great for an intimate get together but not much of a scene. Reminds me of an East Village dive. Food was good but not great. Service was good. I'd go back but not my first choice in the area...
(3)Giacomo C.
2.5 stars. The 3-story setting is interesting, and so is the interior. They make their own bread, and it is delicious. Polenta: just ok; the sauce was flavorful, but the polenta could have been warmer. Burger: asked medium-rare, it was brought almost well done; not a fun of the patty's quality either, but the excellent bun kinda made up for it. Tiramisu: it was a mousse, not a tiramisu, and it was just a bite. Overall, it's a cute spot with professional service and decent American dishes, but nothing to rave about. I didn't have bad food, but nothing I had stood up to be particularly good. They have a good pre-theater price fix for $22, though.
(2)Jennifer R.
Wonderful birthday brunch!!! Staff and owner made the experience extra special. Frankie the waiter was delicious too. Would definitely return for more great food and yummy drinks.
(5)Adwoa B.
The Hourglass Tavern is a quaint spot with awesome food. The ambience of the restaurant is great- dim lighting, small, and awesome service. Our waiter, Phil was very engaging and friendly... He made sure we had everything we need and was very understanding about us being late for our reservation and waiting for another person in our party. The food was awesome. My table ordered the crab cakes, the lobster ravioli, the braised short rib, and the grilled cheese. Everyone finished every single piece of food on their plate. It was that good. The only thing I would change about my experience would be to have a more concrete dessert menu. Other than that, this place is fantastic. The pricing is also great compared to many other restaurants in that area.
(4)Natasha B.
I came here with friends after wandering around Hell's Kitchen trying to find a chill, not crowded bar around 10 pm. We walked upstairs to the bar, and there was no room. They welcomed us to sit on the ground floor in the restaurant, which was nice. We got two rounds of beers and a couple entrees. I got a grilled cheese, which was the best damn grilled cheese I've ever had. It was salty and buttery, on some magical kind of bread. The service was also awesome! The woman serving us was very cool, and she didn't mind when we had an extra person show up unannounced and just claim his own small table. This place is small, but I think it'd be worth it to try a full meal here.
(4)Mark M.
LOVE this place!!! I work in the area and go there all the time after work not only is the food amazing the staff and service is top notch. Make sure you get the short ribs they are my favorite oh yeah check out the second floor bar awesome atmosphere.
(5)Jennifer J.
Cute location and friendly service. The menu had a little something for everyone in our diverse group and we all enjoyed our food, from BBQ sliders to ravioli and salmon. I would definitely go there again.
(4)Betsy B.
Tried the Hourglass tavern for a pre-theater dinner. The place is tiny and a bit disorganized. We wandered through all three stories before finding a staff person to check in with. But the visit got better after that. We had a window seat on the first floor, and to say this restaurant is funky is an understatement. Tables seem squished in wherever possible. A combination of odd little antiques and ephemera adorns the walls. There's something about the place that gives you the feeling you've just gotten in to a 1920's/1930's secret speakeasy. The food was very reasonably priced, generously portioned and very tasty. My friend and I both started with the small Hourglass Salad, which had mixed baby greens, dried cranberries, whipped goat cheese and a house made cider vinaigrette. My friend had the strip steak and said it was very good. I had the Mascarpone Penne which had a creamy tomato sauce, Gorgonzola, sausage, walnuts, and mascarpone obviously. Delicious. The waitress was great - attentive, helpful with suggestions, and accommodating of our time constraints. This was a great find.
(4)Kristen A.
Delicious food with a great atmosphere. The service was exceptional. So glad we stopped in here! Brunch was amazingly tasty and the menu had its own great flair!
(5)Michelle A.
Place is a bit hard to find, but it is definitely a hidden gem. Great service, great food, great drinks.
(4)Tracy M.
We had dinner for 4 Saturday night. The food was delicious! We had the shrimp dish, ravioli, steak and spaghetti and meatballs for our little guy. All cooked perfectly! I agree Mike at the front door was a little intimidating at first, he was actually very nice friendly. We also were asked to wait at the bar upstairs where we were greeted with friendly service and a few adult beverages. The place was great, all around, our waitress was friendly and accommodating, the ambiance was NYC perfect! I will come back the next time I'm in town.
(5)April M.
The place is very cute and cozy. The waitress was VERY nice and she was quick on her feet. My mom and I got the pre fixed meals, such a tasty meal while still being priced so cheap. The salad with their special house dressing was delicious! I had the chicken alfredo, the blackened chicken was soooo flavorful and the pasta was perfectly al dente. The fruit cobbler of the night was blueberry and apple, which was alright. I would definitely come again!
(4)Caroline B.
This review is for Bettibar: After we went to B. Smith's for his birthday dinner, my boyfriend told me he wanted to take me to a speakeasy across the street. I wasn't sure what to expect and was surprised that there would be such a place on Restaurant Row, but sure enough, an older man sitting outside told us to walk up a flight of stairs which led us to our destination. It was dimly lit and felt somewhat clandestine despite the fact that the chances of the place getting raided by the police are pretty slim in this day and age. The happy hour special of a beer in a brown bag and a shot cracked me up, and I love how committed Bettibar is to its theme. The atmosphere was very sexy and I loved it. The other patrons seemed to be theater people but being there, I forgot that I was mere feet away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square. Bettibar is a gem and I hope to be back soon.
(5)Lily P.
3 levels! resturant, bar area, and upper floor you can have private parties. Logistics: bathrooms on 2nd and 3rd floor not on first..sorta weird. TV is on the 2nd and so we watched the NBA playoffs from there. they have a theater app, main, and dessert special for 22.95. We got this even though it ended at 8pm and we went way after. The pork chop was great, salad was standard, and then the dessert was very chocolate and dense.
(3)Stacy B.
Terrible new waitress made silly and expensive mistakes that we ended up having to pay for. The dishes were portioned and (over)cooked completely different from our last dining experience. Disappointing all around.
(2)Sheila T.
We were here last week. We arrived for our 6:00 reservation to be told that an earlier party was lingering over their coffee, so they apologized profusely while telling us to have a seat upstairs at the bar. They were very conscientious about checking in with us as the previous party continued to linger, ordering second coffees. We had left plenty of time before the theater, so weren't worried at all, but they continued to be very apologetic and even paid for our drinks. A table finally opened up upstairs, and we continued to receive the best treatment. Dinner arrived quickly and the burgers were delicious. Despite the probably half-hour or so wait for a table, we were out in plenty of time! The customer service was simply over and above anything we expected. We will definitely be back!!
(5)Sonia M.
Great find! My family and I were looking for a place to grab dinner before a show and the Hourglass was able to accommodate the four of us without a reservation! The service was a bit slow to start, but there seemed to be some sort of problem with their computer system. The crab cakes were excellent and my husband raved about the leg of lamb. My two kiddos chose pasta from the kids menu ($11.95 each), and the portions were ample. Nice atmosphere and great location!
(4)Anya B.
The food is just OK, nothing special, but not awful either. The Bitti bar upstairs has a lot of character which is more than I can say about the happy hour Sangrias served there. Pretty watered down if you ask me, but I suppose for $5 you can't complain. The service is great and the building itself is worth the visit. There are still glimpses of old NYC in the decor and layout of the place. Interestingly enough, there is third floor with a dining room that looks like a very nice and cozy place to have a private dinner party. You wouldn't even know it's there unless you go visit the tiny upstairs bathroom. Overall, not terrible, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. OK, maybe to the bar upstairs, because it's just so darn cute.
(3)Julia R.
Warm and friendly staff, very converstaional, excellent brunch (we sat on the second floor). So happy we stumbled upon it!
(5)Amanda L.
All I can say is Meh...hit or miss meals and hit or miss service I presume. Wouldn't go again, not a horrible experience....but not worth going again. If you need to eat, and are easy to please....try it if you want...
(3)Josh B.
Dined here with friends from out of town. The food was good but the service was spectacular. My friend's mother was not feeling too well and the entire wait staff went out of their way to do anything to help her feel better. I've never seen such genuine concern from a staff at a place before. These guys are going into the regular rotation for both a decent meal and exceptional service!
(5)Sara S.
Solid food great service. I had the sliders and they were juicy, well cooked and overall pretty tasty. What really stood out for me was how cool the staff was. I ended up having a 3 hour meal with my friend here and they didn't give us any crap about it. Super fast with food and drinks and refills. Ambiance was cool too, I could talk to my friend without having to shout, even at peak hours.
(4)Karen A.
Found this place on Yelp after looking for something near our theater with a menu suitable for both of us. I love the fact that it looks old and charming. It has lots of character. The service was just wonderful, both friendly and professional. They were very obliging with all our requests and the prices didn't break the bank. The food was good. The soup tasted very home made and the bread was delicious.We were fortunate to have the table on the first floor, right by the window, so I don't know about the other two floors' noise levels or comfort. I certainly will be a regular here any time I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)Holly S.
We went before going to a show. It was a Tuesday night so not super busy. We had the pre-fixe dinner. First they served us the BEST homemade loaf of bread. I could have just ate the bread and salad all night! Next came the salad. The house dressing was excellent. The salad was a spring mix. I ended up eating half of my daughters because she didn't like "all those greens" her loss was my gain. Next came the entree. I had ordered the pork chop. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli. One of the best pork chops I've ever had. Perfectly cooked, well seasoned. Loved every bite. Potatoes were sooo good too. Not sure what they do to them but they were really good. I'm only giving them 4 stars because of the dessert. The fixed menu came with only two choices of dessert. Apple/blueberry cobbler or tiramisu. My mom and I went for the cobbler while my daughter went for the tiramisu. The tiramisu wasn't bad, just ok. No lady fingers though. The cobbler went mostly uneaten by both of us however. The apples were unpeeled and most of them were way undercooked. There didn't seem to be any sweetness to the dish at all. I was disappointed after everything else I had been presented. My daughter had the Penne Bolognese and that was very good. It was very meaty. The menu said it was made with wine and I had asked the waitress how strong the wine would be and she said "not at all, it cooks out". I did not find that to be the case when I tasted her pasta. I was glad I didn't order it. My mom ordered the grilled chicken (can't remember the name) and that was very good as well. I liked the pork chop the best though. Our waitress was awesome. I didn't catch her name but she had quite a few tables and she was hustling it. We never lacked for anything and she came to check on us often. She also manned the phones. I highly recommend the Hourglass Tavern!
(4)Gary D.
Three times to the hourglass and it just keeps getting better! Service is #1 and the food is just delicious. Can't wait for my next time there and I'm bringing anyone who is interested in eating short ribs.
(5)Krissi D.
Betti Bar. I love this place. My brother and I have been coming here for years and we are never disspointed. It's our favorite spot to have a cocktail and dinner before a show. Beyond the delicious drinks and food, the service can't be beat. The owners and bartenders are so friendly, it's not surprising that there are so many regulars that keep coming back for more!
(5)Daniel E.
This is a tiny place situated on restaurant row. We made reservations for 5, which is a must since this place doesn't have a big area to sit people. The service was great, very friendly, which seems to be a rarity in the city. The food was pretty amazing too! I had the short ribs which were fall off the bone. Everyone in the group loved the food they had. I would recommend this place based off 2 major things...the service and the food! Thank you for being so amazingly nice to us!
(4)Kay W.
Hourglass / Betti Bar is always a great stop. My friends and I will often come here at the end of the night for a cozy last drink. All the staff I've encountered are friendly and polite. There is a small room on the third floor that you can reserve for groups. My friends and I have hosted several events there, and it is PERFECT for a low-key, intimate gathering. The staff at Betti Bar is wonderful about working with you to get the food and drinks you'd like, even reserving food for you if you're due to arrive after their kitchen closes. I would definitely recommend Betti Bar to anyone looking for a nice drink with friends or planning a birthday party.
(5)Kraig B.
SOLID. Hands down Solid food and drink and I'll be back. Totally agree with the other reviews which led me here. Big groups... not sure but never saw the 3rd floor. 4 stars all day.
(4)Renata P.
Absolutely amazing place. The food was fantastic, the wait staff was friendly, and the decor was charming. We came with a large party and rescheduled three times due to the lateness of all people involved (my family is not known for its punctuality) and they were incredibly accommodating. I had the special (lamb shank) was was tasty and the portions were generous. My mother had the chicken alfredo which was executed perfectly. My sister had the beet salad with a side of salmon, and that was the only dish that wasn't great. Otherwise, A+!
(5)Laurel S.
Went to Hourglass Tavern before a show one night. Sat outside as the weather was great which is good because inside was small and stuffy. The food was great and very reasonably priced. I had the chicken meatball sliders and my daughter had the grilled cheese. We weren't really in the mood for a big heavy dinner so these were perfect and our bill was only about $22!
(4)Regina D.
Went last night for a double date, the place is very cute and all the staff is very nice. We started out at the Bettibar, very cute and small. They offer happy hour, so we had a Sangria, it was just ok. Not very strong and there were only apples in the glass. After that we went downstairs for dinner, I think it depends what you having. My friends ordered shrimp entree and she said it was good and her husband seemed to enjoy his lobster ravioli, I ordered zucchini sandwich with mash potatoes and my hubby had Salmon Salad. The salad was bit old in my side and on my husbands plate. Portions are good size and prices are very moderate for the area. I would say it was ok meal, I would come back but would not go out of my way.
(3)Tommy K.
Go upstairs to Betti bar. Mystery beers and shots. Nice place to chat with your friend(s) or strangers. Small place.
(4)Vincent P.
Food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I was very impressed by this restaurant. Also the service was lightning fast!
(5)Josh G.
This place was a surprise! It's a bit hidden away in Manhattan's Theatre District, so you need to keep your eyes open or you may miss it! The service was very prompt and friendly and the food was delicious! I ordered the chicken alfredo and it ranks as some of the best chicken I've ever had. Perfect in every way. The alfredo and noodles left a little to be desired, but that was forgivable.
(4)Jay L.
It was OK, we went after a show on a Tuesday...so the place wasn't hopping. Food was pretty tasty, but the overall experience was just so-so. Waiters were less interested in us that they seemed to be in the upper floors, and the table was just a little too close to the kitchen. I got the impression it had a lot of potential, but we were not thereto see it at it's best. Food deserved 4 stars, service and atmosphere bring it down to a three. I won't be back, too many other places to experience in NYC
(3)Kourtney L.
Tiny little space, but definitely a distinct atmosphere. Had the hummus platter and sliders with a friends and both were pretty good.
(3)Hanne P.
Food was just okay, but the service was incredibly slow and rude. We got shuffled between floors a couple of times, and once we were finally seated our wait really didn't seem to want us to be there.
(2)John C.
Enjoyed an early dinner following an afternoon matinee. Most pleased with the location, service, prices and food quality. Nice wine selection, but no draft beer. The Hourglass will definitely be on our must return list.
(4)Genie M.
We didn't stay. After waiting a while for the waiter, in addition to the smell of cleaning products, it didn't seem worth the time or money to actually have a meal.
(1)Ze W.
AMAZING burger!!! in a fresh boule, dug out and stuffed w fresh greens. YUM! Also had a nice bottle of cabernet. Cozy interior w wonderful, friendly service. Late night dinner OK! The desserts also looked amazing. Next time!
(5)Jane B.
The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a warm goat cheese and fig salad. ( this was so good we wound up ordering it again instead of dessert or a cheese course). Then we ate very sweet and fresh shrimp served over grilled polenta. Honestly, these were the sweetest tastiest shrimp I've had in years. As a finale we had house made mushroom ravioli. These were also very good. The house made bread was delicious and we (2 of us) polished off 2 loaves. The wine selection was small but quite adequate. I had a yummy Syrah rose and Sauvignon blanc. Both were delicious. Go here! It is great bang for the buck and truly good food! Don't be put off, as some diners seemed to be, by the narrow dining room. It is in an 1895 brownstone...they're narrow. Also, service was great. We ate on the 3rd floor and the server was smart, attentive and charming. The owner came to say hello and it was nice to see my money going to such caring hard working people. This is a must for avant or après theater and just a great spot for any time. It is very " New York! "
(4)Larry J.
Been here many times,always great food,great service. Nice variety on menu & great bar choices with happy hour until 10:00. Prices very reasonable!
(5)Olga K.
came here before a show for dinner and was overall impressed. Most restaurants in the theater district are too touristy and just mediocre and this was neither. It is small and quaint but with a European charm about it. There pre fix menu is a bargain, you get fresh home made food for such a reasonable price. Get here early because it is a size of a shoebox so it gets filled up quickly. We will def be back next time we are in the area.
(4)Michael F.
We four friends often have dinner before going to the Signature Theatre near 10th Ave and 42nd. A little out of the regular theatre district restaurant area. So it is always terrific to find a new place nearby. Hourglass was our latest try. Nice set up with dining rooms on first and third floors and bar / cafe on the second where we got into pre-dinner drinks. We found it so comfortable - and Josh the co-owner and bartender so amiable - that we had our dinner at the bar too. Excellent! Two of us had the prix fixe meal, others ordered a la carte. The pastas (we tried three different ones in our group, mine being the nicely spicy fettucini Fra Diavolo) and the lamb) were all superb. As were the salads and desserts. Nothing but good things to say. The Hourglass is definitely on our "regular place" list in this area.
(5)Jake S.
The Hourglass is the best place to go before a show, after a show, or when there's no show! I love the hourglass. Each of the three floors has it's own character and special purpose. Just go. Eat drink and enjoy this awesome NYC tavern with great food, friendly staff, cool decor, and just all around good energy. One of a kind New York find!
(5)Manfred H.
The restaurant goes over three stories and has actually a cool and a little nostalgic ambiente. We had dinner at a Saturday evening with a party of 7. The food starting with salads, which did not look fresh, was mediocre family restaurant quality. My wife actually liked the crab cakes though. The other dishes were pork chops with mashed potatoes and spinach. The pork chop was less than 1" thick and chargrilled dry. So was the chicken with the Fettucini Alfredo. The strip steaks had just about the right size about 12oz but were not grilled to the doness as desired. Also stay away from the sliders. Rather go for the big a___ burger and share it. Those sliders are just tasteless. We were hungry so we ate what we could. All in all a disappointing culinary experience. I informed our waiter about the food experience. He informed the management or owner and we received a considerable deduction form the bill and free desert. This was certainly a surprising but welcome apology. The staff actually is very friendly and customer oriented. Too bad that the kitchen quality does not match up. We don't feel going back since there are way better choices in NYC.
(2)Stephanie M.
A solid choice for pre-theatre dining. They have multiple floors and nice servers. The menu has a great variety, so there is something for everyone. Considering the neighborhood, it's even priced well. The downstairs is a bit tight, but in midtown what isn't?
(4)Briana H.
I first happened into Bettibar for a post-theater drink. I decided to take my mom and strictly meat-and-potatoes stepdad to the Hourglass for a pre-theater dinner this weekend, and it ended up being a perfect choice. The menu is pretty standard and not exactly hip, but we all found something we wanted easily, and the prices aren't bad. I did the prix-fixe with a salad, orechiette, and chocolate cake. I really liked the citrus-y dressing and didn't mind the old school mesclun mix. The pasta was a little too oily, but otherwise quite pleasing. The cake was tinged with amaretto and Grand Marnier, and my stepdad particularly enjoyed it. Everyone was happy and the turnover was quick enough to get us to the theater with time to spare. Our doting server made the place feel very homey. My one complaint was that the air was a little smokey and garlicky sitting next to the kitchen, but it's a tiny place, so what can you do? You'll probably need a reservation if you're going before a show. Upstairs, Bettibar is a perfect spot for a cozy drink. It's tiny and gets packed easily, so you might want to have a Plan B if you're making a date here, but if you just happen to be in the area during their generous happy hours, I would definitely stop in and see if there's room. I have successfully taken a party of four here on a Saturday night and we snagged a seat, but we had to wait about twenty minutes. I'm a fan of French 75s, so their French 77s are a treat. If you like surprises, order the beer in a bag & mystery shot.
(4)Joshua Q.
This review is about Bettibar. I don't know anything about the first-floor restaurant or the third-floor lounge. I first came here for a going away party that my friend was having. Walking up the steps to bar, I wasn't sure how I was going to like the place, but what a great surprise! The bar is so cozy! We had it reserved for a couple hours for the party, so it was nice to have it to ourselves. The hand-food that we had was good, and the drinks were strong. I came back with a friend on Saturday night and it was busy, but we were able to get a seat at one of the small tables. We only intended to stay for one drink, but ended up staying the entire night! The crowd is great and most people are super friendly. The bartender (a woman, but I don't know her name!) is really a gem. I don't think tourists know about this place. I hope it stays that way!
(5)Dakota L.
Have been here twice for meals before going to see a show. Both times the meals were good, and the atmosphere was friendly. The last time we came, however, the service was pretty slow, so slow that we ended up being late for our show.
(3)Brian G.
Cozy little place. A bit cramped on first of their 3 floors. Food was quite good. I had the bolognese. There was fresh bread and the service was attentive. Good for those eating before plays as the food and service was quick. Bar on second floor. Request to sit away from the door as tables by door are very cramped. Bathroom on second floor.
(3)Lauren I.
Drinks were OK. Food was kind of bland but OK. It was rather quiet and calm which was a nice change of pace for NYC. Bartender/server (two in one) was very personable. Bathroom very tiny and kinda dirty.
(3)Kimberly Y.
See a show and then go to the Hourglass Tavern for some cheap, juicy chicken! Probably the best chicken I've ever had in a restaurant... And I eat out a lot. And order chicken a lot. I was craving chicken and was worried since breast is usually too dry for me. I have NO idea how Hourglass does it, but the breast is juicy and tender, as if each bite were cut from right next to the bone. The cumin sauce adds great flavor to an already juicy chicken. The double butter mashed potatoes are indeed buttery, but amazingly fluffy. The broccoli wasn't too memorable; I'm just glad the dish had some vegetables. I found the portions to be perfect (if you're hungry, get an appetizer or dessert), and the prices are extremely reasonable! My boyfriend had the salmon and wasn't too pleased with it. He tried my chicken and was instantly jealous! (Don't worry, I shared.) The Tavern is more of a restaurant on the bottom floor, with the BettiBar upstairs. There aren't too many tables downstairs, but it can still be a little cramped. The servers are extremely friendly, though they didn't necessarily come by as often as I wanted. I will definitely be back every time I see a Broadway or Comedy Central show in the area!
(5)Kirk M.
Home cooking! Tasty food, friendly, warm environment and big on Pre-Fixe in the heart of the Broadway Theater district. I have been coming here for 17 years! Low on seating so have a reservation, this place is always a hit, whereas the show I go to see after, well, not so much.
(4)Mike Z.
It's a New York staple to hit up before going down the street to see a Broadway show, hence the hourglass by your table when you walk in. Very small and quaint with tons of people walking by - it's what you expect of New York. The service is fast but friendly. They are so busy yet this still take time to throw a witty joke in there while you wait for your food to show up. Prices are very reasonable and the food is nothing adventurous by any means but they put out a great product. It's comforting and simple. Just do it well and everyone is happy - and they do that, so the people are happy. I'd come back because it kind of has a sentimental factor to it for me now but regardless, it's worth a stop in for a traditional type dinner restaurant. Grab a bottle of wine too, it's cheaper than grabbing a couple glasses.
(4)Joe O.
Went there for Brunch on Saturday. Great greeting by staff and owner. Ushered to third floor dining area. Great setting. The place has charm and character but not a place to go if looking for modern. We loved it. Food was fantastic. Potato Pancakes with salmon was incredible as was chicken club my partner had. Great drinks. We enjoyed the place so much came back for drinks and dessert after theater. Had the same great experience. It is classic NYC charm.
(4)Johnny B.
Found this place on Yelp searching for Happy Hour deals. It lived up to my expectations. FYI that the bar is actually upstairs and it looks like it is next door. Also there are some dudes (patrons) always sitting outside that are chatty and want to ask you how you're doing and where you're going. A little intimidating, but they (appear to) mean no harm. The service was great and attentive, and the food was delicious.
(4)Tara C.
One of my new favorites in NYC, and if I were a local, I'd be here constantly. I was here for a party thrown by a friend, and we PACKED the place. I felt bad for anyone who was trying to get into the mid-level bar. Charlie was our bartender, and he did a fantastic job of keeping everyone supplied and happy. As people started to trickle out to dinner, there were about 8-10 of us still milling out and still hungry. As we debated area restaurants to try out, Charlie kindly offered to set us up upstairs and take advantage of their restaurant. I'm so glad he did that for us. The service upstairs with Kelly (sp? sorry!) was fantastic, and the food was delivered with great timing and delicious to boot. Everyone was helpful, accommodating (to a varied group of very loud people) and when were done, they pointed us to O'Flaherty's that also took great care of us. Overall, a fantastic experience.
(4)Mashel R.
We loved introducing Beth to the Moscow Mule. May have been the first one she ever made but it was dang perfect. Leaving a touch of Pittsburgh at the Bettie Bar leaves us feeling all special and stuff. We plan on being a regular for years to come.
(5)Jenna M.
Coming here was a major disappointment! Based on the other really complimentary reviews, I chose this restaurant for a pre-show dinner with friends. Was extremely underwhelmed by my experience. Pros: -good/ friendly service -convenient location to many theaters -reasonably priced Cons: -the food lacked flavor and any excitement. Edible, but you're better off spending more at another restaurant for something good. Every member of my party agreed with this... It was not just one bland entree. -lacked any sort of ambiance. I ate on the first floor and it was very narrow and dark (I'm aware that there's at least one other floor above the entry level, but I did not take the dark skinny staircase up to see it). I would never recommend this restaurant and would never return. I've never written a yelp review, but I was compelled to do so just to clear up the misconception that this place is worthwhile!
(1)Lb G.
well priced, good simple food. Will be back
(4)Bonnie H.
Four of us ate here after a Sunday matinee. The food was very good. Everyone was satisfied with their choice. I plan to go back here the next time I am in NYC.
(4)Nilson S.
Went there for a later-than-usual dinner as its kitchen is open until later than some of the other restaurants and really liked it. The price is fair for NYC, but the price fix menu doesn't seem worth it. Instead, we only ordered two entrees (which also come with the free and delicious just-out-of-the-oven bread). I ordered the pork chop and my girlfriend ordered the lobster ravioli, which were both delicious. The ravioli is a small portion, though it was enough for her, it wouldn't be enough for someone who eats a lot. It was a bit weird as we were on the first floor all alone, so the waitress would just stay there looking at us (as the place is fairly small and basically there was nowhere else to look at). It seems the bar upstairs is where all the fun really goes on, but we just wanted to have a nice dinner and go back to our hotel. Maybe New Yorkers won't enjoy this place, but we loved it. And the price is definitely fair. PS: we're Brazilian tourists in New York
(4)Billy C.
Had the shrimp, nice flavor sauce. The rice was good, a little dry. The broccoli was slightly under cooked. Good to try it out once.
(3)scott s.
First off, I ordered a whiskey and sour. Which apparently used real lemon and lime and was undrinkable The bartender was kind enough to water it down and then give me a beer instead Not a big space, but kinda cozy
(4)Angela V.
Love this find! The waitress / owner made me my ideal dish of spicy shrimp, spinach, and garlic mash. It was as though she'd read my mind. Drinks were great. Nice neighborhood feel. I will definitely be back here next time I'm in NY! Thanks Beth!!!
(5)Chris B.
If you're in Midtown looking for a break from the touristy/chain fare, look no further. The food is fresh and well prepared, the ambiance is quaint and fun and the prices reasonable. The service we had was typical NYC, which is to say, barely there. If the food were just a little more adventurous and the server didn't seem like we were bothering her, I'd give it four stars, and either way would go back if/when I find myself looking for a casual bite in Midtown.
(3)Alice M.
loved the atmosphere great server the food was ordinary.upstairs bar way cool
(2)Alan L.
I've been to a lot of tavern's in my day but the Hourglass Tavern is the best by far. There beef short rids were the most tender ribs I've ever eaten.The meat falls off the bone with you just picking at with your folk. They also have great specials every evening. One of the owners ,Beth Sheinis is a great host. She will attend to all of your needs .Even more so if you have young children. When your in the theater district this is your best choice for outstanding food and a great atmosphere. I can't wait to come back!!!!!!
(5)Olga K.
Food and drinks are killer.
(5)Ryan G.
This is a hard review to write, asI have family members I would sacrifice to save this place from a fire. A littlewhile back on a dreary winter night I got a craving for a burger, the kind of itch that just needed to be scratched. I'd have jumped on a subway downtown to some 24 hour bodega to get a burger that night... After calling all my local burger options and failing miserably, I was getting more desperate by the second. Not sure what inspired me to think of it that night, but on a few occasions walking by this tiny little homey looking place it always seemed to have a consistent flow of cool local peeps stopping in for drinks and grub late night. I quickly looked it up online and it popped right up... It's kitchen closed 10 minutes ago. ERGG. Being me I called anyway hoping for a doggy bag filled with two life saving burgers. The "waitress" on the phone was extremely sympathetic to my cause and unbelievably insisted we come in for dinner. Never having been inside this place before, we sat at this window table tucked away in the corner and preceded to observe the really cool, kinda antique, kinda trendy, 100% homey restaurant. On the menu loud and clear was "Big Ass 12 oz. Angus Beef Burger" I was so happy I could almost cry. We split that and a salmon entree to get a good feel for the place. We had decent expectations, but not over the top, and when it came to our table, wow. The food seemed as if a loving mother cooked it herself super home-style, my mouth is watering even thinking about it now. We've since tried just about everything on the menu... This place does food right. Our waitress that night turned out to be one of the two owners. Beth wound up sharing hysterical stories and anecdotes about the neighborhood and this building which is apparently 500 years old. This wound up being of the the best nights and experiences we've ever had in a NYC restaurant not being a regular. We didn't know it at the time, but there are two additional floors of awesome. The second floor, my personal favorite, is the bar. I once counted 16 tea light candles in every random place you can imagine just on this floor. It's impossible to not notice the extreme devotion the owners must have gone through to make this place look incredible. From a broken glass mirror to the numerous antique hourglasses on the walls its very nicely done. You are able to order from the full menu on both the second and third floor along with the longest happy hour I've seen in NYC from 5-10pm at night every single day. Next is service, the extremely diverse staff at this establishment consistently go above and beyond to make you feel like this is home. Creating a relaxed, but fun atmosphere where you can always find interesting people and locals mingling. Each bartender is very different, but brings a great vibe into this place. Besides, the drinks here are unbelievable, this is the place to order anything exotic or one of the specialty cocktails. Never a watered down concoction of cheep simple syrupy garbage, they use the good stuff and aren't stingy! This place has charm oozing out all over, including the narrow, uneven stairway which makes the top two floors the opposite of handicap accessible. I'd give em 6 stars if I could and can't wait to be back.
(5)Gary S.
There is a reason so many people give this place excellent reviews. That's because it's excellent. The prix fixe is extremely reasonable and the food was uniformly well prepared. The short ribs, as noted by others, are terrific and the simple mashed potatoes and al dente steamed broccoli a perfect complement. The penne came with a hearty bolognese that is just slightly spicy. You almost don't notice it at first and then realize it's carefully crafted. There are $6 glasses of wine that were really good - these people clearly know what they're doing. The blueberry/apple cobbler were a bit too sweet for me, but it's probably what most people expect and want. Service was uniformly excellent. They know how to get food done quickly in anticipation of meeting curtain times while still making you feel relaxed and comfortable. This is a small place and if you are looking for something with pizzazz or with modern restaurant buzz and lots of action, this isn't the spot. Don't come expecting that and then complain about it. But if you want excellently prepared food that is reasonably priced with a wonderful and simple ambiance where you'll walk out wanting to come back, then here it is.
(4)Noel L.
Was at Betti Bar for a cast party of a show I am in close by and we had a great time...we eventually took over all of the seating and it was very comfortable.The bartenders were very inviting and the service was great! I had only come to dinner here one year on Thanksgiving and had no idea about this upstairs bar.It is adorable and the food and menu ,great ,and they were serving dinner at midnight which is very key! The wine was excellent and i cannot say enough great things!I will definitely be back every week while our show is going on!!!!Perfect late night spot near Broadway!
(5)Kate W.
Came in late so there was no waiting and the food was amazing. So tasty I couldn't stop eating even though I was very full! I don't know what they put in the salad dressing but I would love the recipe. I also had the chicken vegi soup and believe me you've never tasted anything so fresh and flavorful! Great experience. Thank you!
(5)Gail P.
Delicious brunch food served with $5 cocktails in a funky, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Would certainly go back at other times to try lunch, dinner or just drinks.
(5)Molly H.
Amazing staff, friendly owners, brunch is delicious, and the mystery beer and shot are really fun.
(5)Will F.
We just left here, waited over an hour for eggs. The couple next to us, who was seated and ordered at the same time as U.S., got their food and finished eating before the waitress even commented on the status of our. Until we said something to our server about the delay, she didn't acknowledge us at all. I was this close to walking out when she claimed they were plating our dishes. Additionally, in that time they weren't able to bring me the screwdriver I ordered (a 2 ingredient drink!). When we did get our check, our waitress blamed the new chef. Completely unacceptable, will not be coming back.
(1)Shyanie K.
Food 3/5 Experience 4/5 3 story building in hell's kitchen. We were up on the 3rd floor. Really cute, little hourglass details hidden everywhere. Service was great. Menu was okay. I wasn't blown away by the choices. Our party ordered the lamb special, lobster ravioli, pork chop, pecan crusted tilapia and spicy shrimp. The lamb was not cooked properly, so wasn't as tender as it should have been. But still had great flavor. Lobster ravioli was tasty, sauce was slightly bland. Pork chop was cooked well but the dipping sauce was unimpressive. Pecan crusted tilapia was well balanced and cooked perfectly. Spicy shrimp was also done well, sriracha dipping sauce was unique! For dessert we ordered the molten chocolate cake and the flourless chocolate cake. Both were average! Its a unique intimate place, great for friends catching up or having a casual night.
(3)Heath T.
Tavern is the perfect combination of casual and formal dining. The quality of the food and it's old-world ambience ensure a memorable dining experience, while the overall atmosphere and friendly service create a warm, relaxing retreat.
(4)Jeff W.
This restaurant is in the Theatre District--MAKE RESERVATIONS.....and show up on time if you expect to make your curtain. As a New Yorker, I expect a loud, bustling place in the center Hell's Kitchen-- maybe others do not. Chris, our waiter/bartender on the third floor seemed harried by the pre-theatre crowd. While he seemed perfectly capable of handling it, his demeanor was one of frustration. We were amused by this experience as WE were not in a rush....we made our reservations so that we had plently of time to eat and make our curtain. We ordered the lamb and veal-both specials for the evening -and we were not disappointed. Both were excellent. We finished our meal off with espresso and Sambuca. With all of the restaurants in the area, we do not know if we will be back any time soon.
(3)Elisa B.
I lived in this neighborhood over 20 years ago and returned w/ my husband for a vacation. The Hourglass Tavern is still here and the ambience and food are still cozy and delicious. This is a gem of Restaurant Row and they will flip the hourglass if you need to make an 8 pm curtain, so you can get to the show on time. Great meal, great atmosphere- you cant go wrong with this place!
(5)Rekha K.
I consider Hourglass Tavern a hidden gem. Though it is located in the heart of the Theatre District, its hidden entrance almost makes you miss it! This quaint bar/restaurant has 3 distinct floors. Bettibar on the 2nd floor has a great atmosphere - a perfect spot to chill for a glass of wine or a simple dinner. The bartender and service was excellent. I will definitely be back and next time will check out floors 1 and 3!
(5)Alex S.
Wow! Not what I was expecting two and a half steps outside of tourist central. Working in Midtown has its perks, but it definitely has its drawbacks... I'm looking at you Time's Square. Back to Bettibar, an unassuming staircase next to a somewhat ironic 'speakeasy' sign, inviting people upstairs with a way to escape the normal Midtown routine. I knew this place was different as soon as I saw the specials board. One thing stuck out at me: A beer in a bag and a 'mystery shot' for $8. It reminded me of the old Brooklyn special, a PBR can and shot of Jameson for $5...but better. I didn't think that could happen. I had a couple grab bags (you can also get one for $5 sans shot) and they had a good mix - I got Magic Hat and Riverhorse. It was even a Magic Hat I've never tried before. I mean No #9 is good...but we've all had it. Great pick. The shots aren't for the faint of heart. They were...a little...strong. And big. Now, I'm not complaining but I feel like full disclosure on this: If you're with a group of girls, you should probably let them get something else...unless you want them growing a full-on gorilla fur-covered chest. I'm talking the thick stuff. You should probably keep it to one...or two ;) The food was delicious! Apparently they get it from Hourglass Tavern downstairs? We had a dish of meatballs (great - you found our kryptonite) and some kind of polenta with melted mozzarella on top. Both were delicious. To top it all off, the server was awesome. I forget her name (sorry!) but she has bright pink hair and I'm proud to admit I'm the first person to ever make a joke about it being her natural hair color. Ok, so I made that last part up but she was cool enough to laugh. Hopefully it flies under the radar long enough to come back a few times and have some fun!
(5)Frank B.
Pre theater dinner at this small I.e. narrow restaurant. Quaint place with ok food, nothing spectacular. I had disc shaped pasta primavera without the ricotta. The wife had salmon, and my son had the steak. All dishes were good. No major issues with the service. Our waitress was friendly and helpful. My son had an issue because they did not have steak fries...the waitress said they don't deep fry anything. The price was reasonable for NYC, $140, including tip which included 3 drinks and a dessert.
(3)Brian S.
The best meal we had in four days in NYC. The Penne Bolognese and the roasted chicken were excellent. Everything came to our table properly prepared and hot. Don't let the name fool you into thinking this is just a tavern.
(5)Kathy Y.
Smacked in between much flashier restaurants and bars on 46th street, Hourglass Tavern is hard to notice. But that only adds to the cozy and intimate vibe of this place. The dining room on the first floor has about 5-6 two-person tables, and any seat would have felt equally snug and kind of romantic. The food and wine menu was very plain American. My grilled chicken plate with a side of broccoli and mashed potato was unmemorable, but I was much more drawn to the ambience than the food itself anyways - that's what will get me to come back. But when I do, I'll rather go upstairs to the bar on the second floor!
(3)Matt E.
Yan T said it best when he said "wonderful gem on restaurant row". I saw the name and rating on a Yelp search but hadn't read any reviews, I was expecting an actual tavern but this is definitely a restaurant above all else. It's located in a narrow oddly shaped residential building that was re-purposed decades ago. The first and third floors are dining rooms while the second floor is an intimate bar room that seemed almost like a hidden gem. I came here for dinner and other than a mix up with the order (which a free glass of wine made up for) I was very surprised at the reasonable prices, good service, and the decent quality of the food given it's proximity to Times Square. For an appetizer my girlfriend and I split an order of 3 traditional spanikopita puffs (flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta). She loved them but I found them to be overly salted and a little too oily and flat. We also got a giant roll with butter which seems mundane but was deliciously moist and subtly sweet. Most entrees are under $20, in fact my chicken entree with grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli was only $14. The chicken had a great flame grilled flavor and was cooked perfectly. I was a little disappointed that the rosemary garlic marinade wasn't exactly prevalent and that the steamed broccoli wasn't seasoned or cut up but otherwise was very pleased. I would definitely come back to this unique spot for a nice meal with an intimate setting.
(4)Anne G.
This restaurant has wonderful ambiance and great service! In an old brownstone mere steps away from the 8th Avenue strip in the heart of the theater district, it is an oasis away from the hustle of that area. The food was of acceptable quality, but nothing special. I had a slightly dry and over cooked pork loin chop. Two members of our party ordered grilled salmon on salads and pronounced it to be good. It is certainly a worthwhile stop before the theatre, especially because it is quiet and pleasant, but the food is only a slight edge above average.
(3)Danielle H.
The first time I came here I just had drinks at Bettibar, which was nice and had a very cool, laidback environment. However, the restaurant itself was just mediocre. Service was okay and I have to commend them on finding and bringing my gloves down to me when I returned later (I always seem to forget something.) The food was just so-so. I had the the Hearts of Romaine salad to start and I thought that the cheese overpowered the whole dish. Otherwise, I think it would have been much better but there was too much to pick out. For the main course, we shared the spinach ravioli and the shrimp catalina. There was barely any shrimp (maybe 4 pieces) in the dish and the rest was all sauce. The sauce was very good and packed a punch, but sauce isn't a meal. The spinach ravioli was very tasty, but it's something even I could have made at home and I'm not a good cook. It was also very difficult to eat since the raviolis were hidden at the bottom of the bowl under all the sauce. It was a good portion size and good comfort food, but it's not really what you look for when you go out to eat. Go to Bettibar and get food somewhere else. And as others have said, Yelp, make a separate listing for it!
(3)Chris I.
This place is awesome!! No really it is. I mean I had already thought this place was great after reading the reviews of some trusted Yelper friends of mine.....and to top it off not ten pics in I see Phil H drinking a beer in a bag like an elegant hobo. I call that a recipe for a winner. Turns out this place is more than a tiny bar on the second floor, they are also cooking up some kick ass eats. Me and the GF wanted a place to come after seeing a Broadway show ( yeah I'm cultured like that.....you just learned something new about me , didn't ya? Shame on you for thinking other wise. You now owe me a shot and I expect you to be on the honor system next time you see me! LOL) Any way where was I ? Oh yeah, I looked for a place where we could get decent eats at a late hour and decided on Hourglass tavern. The place is tiny, I mean really tiny but lucky for us the first floor where the restaurant is wasn't too crowded. We were greeted warmly by our waitress and snagged a cool booth right by the from window. Very cozy and romatical ( yup I just dropped a jersey shore phrase on you.) They are a tavern so I was able to get my old standby scotch and the GF got a glass of vino. We started out with the Albondingas, which are chicken meatballs in a red sauce with shaved cheese on top. They were out of this world . Nice and fresh and the sauce was really good. For our main's she got the grilled pork chop and I got one of the specials which was the braised lamb shank. The GF's pork chop was delicious, grilled to perfection and nice and juicy. The honey cumin sauce was awesome. They should bottle that stuff and sell it, they make a fortune. My lamb shank was equally good. It was fall off the bone tender and still nice and juicy. If it's on the menu you should definitely get it. Both dishes came with sauteed veggies that were cooked perfect. We ended the dinner with their flour-less chocolate cake. It was basically fudge cake. Chocolate times a 1000. If you are a chocolate lover then it'll be right up your ally. We really enjoyed our meal there. The bill was really inexpensive given the high quality of food and the area the restaurant is in. You should definitely stop in if you are in the area, it's totally worth it!
(4)Samantha K.
Have to agree with the majority of Yelpers, this place is a keeper. The staff is super friendly and very nice. "Caroline" was our waitress and is VERY nice. We were three who came off the very cold, rainy and snowy streets. Folks in the "Bettibar" greeted us told us out dining options. We opted to go upstairs to eat. "Caroline" greeted us and was very sweet. We all chose the same entrée- chicken breast. I had a nice dish of hot chicken soup as I was soaked and needed a quick warm up. ( We had taken in the Rockefeller tree despite the bad weather). Food came quickly and was very good. The "chicken breast" was butterflied and grilled nicely. The only part I didn't care for was the broccoli looked nice and fresh, but it was lukewarm when served. Bill was VERY reasonable especially by NY standards. I overheard conversations at adjoining tables that indicated that many of the people were tourists from out of state, so word must have gotten around. It's pretty special to find decent food for 23.95 Prix Fixe in NY. Definitely recommended.
(4)Ryan A.
What a great place! Atmosphere was interesting in a sea of restaurants that appear to be the same, or try to hard to be different. The staff was friendly and fun. We had 5 adults and 3 children, and everyone loved their food. The homemade ravioli's were a hit, and the sausage pasta was awesome. We will be back.
(5)Anu P.
I got to New York around 1am on a Wednesday night. After checking in, grabbing dinner and heading to Times Square, we were on the lookout for a bar that wasn't too crowded, touristy or extremely pricey. Luckily my friend came across Hourglass Tavern which is a short walk from Times Square. We arrived around 2:30 am to find it deserted minus a couple people. We walked up to the second floor to enter Bettebar. Cutest bar I've been in! There were nice couches and pillows to sit on as well as regular bar stools. It was very small but given that there were just 4 of us and two bartenders, it was perfect. Our gin & tonics were great. But what I loved the most was the music! They were playing a mix of old 90s pop and rock music and it was so refreshing to be able to enjoy some old favorite songs while also being able to hear the conversation without straining your ears. It was the perfect place to sit down for a few drinks and I would highly recommend it over some of the pricier, louder bars right in Times Square! :)
(5)Jim S.
We had dinner at the Hourglass Tavern again on Sept. 24th. A late dinner after a show , everything was perfect as usual !!!!! Great food and great service !!!!! You will not be disappointed !!!
(5)Brian C.
For years living in the neighborhood this has been my go to place. There is nothing like a "Beer in a Bag, with a Shot" to get you home from work, and when you come back later it is the perfect intimate place to relax with friends. While it is a hangout for old regulars there are plenty of first timers wandering in from the theaters making for an eclectic mix that is sure to always give you someone to talk to. Even if you are not hungry enough to eat a meal, the fresh baked bread is worth a trip in its self. With all the food prepared in house the quality is great, and the prices are such that you can afford to come in on a working mans income. Betti Bar on the second level is the place to be, but is often crowded, but if you have the stamina, there is another full bar up on the third floor too! Sure this is a biased review, its my favorite place, but if I like it, you should probably give it a shot too! Cookie.
(5)Mike T.
You can't go wrong with this restaurant . Food is great service is great. Fun restaurant to go to also the food and price can't be beat.
(5)Kem W.
This is a very cool place with a long history. It's been an establishment since 1894. Long and narrow, 3 floors, and good food. I had the prix fixe grilled chicken. It was very good with broccoli and mashed potatoes on the side. Loved the bread. Upstairs the bar looked cozy and fun. It was amazing to watch the choreography of all the staff as they moved about this very small restaurant. This is a reasonably priced place that you owe yourself to check out. Definitely glad I came. Recommended.
(4)Derek W.
This is the go to place for me and my girlfriend! The atmosphere and interior design is charming. The whole restaurant is three floors with the bar on the second floor with a couple of small tables. Most importantly, the food and drinks are great. I highly recommend getting dinner off the prix-fixe menu since it offers soup/salad, entree, and dessert. This place is also famous for their delicious sangrias. The biggest downside of here is the long wait and crammed space. One time we had to wait for over an hour for seats. After being seated, our entrees came before our salad. But the owner of the restaurant was great! She noticed how our food was coming so slow and out of order and offered to take the price of the salad off our bill. She also gave us a free round of drinks! On another occasion, I was sitting on a partially broken chair and their waiter immediately changed the chair for me once he saw how broken it was! Also, when I was paying, I accidentally dropped a 100$ bill on the floor and when we were about to leave, he picked it up for us and told us that we dropped it! Needless to say, this place has phenomenal service, food, and drinks!
(5)Kate D.
Came here for a girls get together after not having seen everyone in a long time. Was looking forward to seeing everyone and having a good time. Now first looking at the place online, it says it is small. But when you get there they really mean it, the place is tiny. Though there are three levels, all are each just as small as the other and one server per floor. We didnt really mind this at first because it creates a cozy and intimate experience. We started off with the happy hour at the bar on the second level while we waited for our table and then were shown our seats on the third floor. The food is good but does not out way the service that we experienced. My friends and I are between 23-26 years old. We were the youngest people there and as such we were ignored and had to call numerous times to get someones attention. The other tables had no such problem. We asked for the desert menu twice before just giving up and paying for our bill, which also took forever to get. Dont get me wrong, the food was good. But I would not go back just for that. Maybe the bar. If they had more people helping, then perhaps it would be a better time.
(2)Steve N.
Great experience! Small, intimate and quiet setting with friendly service and a good menu.
(5)Tiffany S.
Honestly.. I was pleasantly surprised. I came here with a girlfriend for just drinks and wound up staying for 4 hours and had dinner too. There's 3 floors, I believe Hourglass is the first floor and Betti Bar the next two. The waitress was very friendly and never rushed us. I love how they offer a mystery beer in a bag - good beers too.. Blue Point.. River Horse.. I wish I remembered which cocktails we had.. but those were good too. Had the grilled poletna - basically polenta in tomato sauce with melted cheese on top grilled shrimp and polenta - this was pretty good, the sauce was yummy orecchiette primavera - a little greasy but still good Then ordered a fruit cobbler for dessert. She gave us two serving sizes which was nice. I can see why they might have had some to spare though - it was soooooooooo sweet. I felt a coat of sugar on my teeth, kind of like when I drink a Coke. Blegh, I don't like Coke.. Would I come back here? Eh, not too sure. It definitely wasn't a bad place at all, but nothing extraordinary either.
(3)Gwenn H.
We arrived promptly for our 12:15 brunch reservation. We had tickets for a 2:00 show, which we informed our waitress. We were seated on the third floor and ordered two champagnes and an iced tea. The champagne was terrible. We ordered two eggs florentine and blueberry waffles. At 1:30 we were still waiting for our order! The waitress said she couldn't make the food come out any faster. Every time she had to pick up an order, she had to go down and back up three flights of stairs. She was also the bartender and cashier! Upon leaving, with another unserved party, we complained to the manager. She said it was the first day that the third floor was open and they were very busy. She then said " I did pay for your drinks!" Rushing to the theater, starving, we woofed down a slice of pizza on the street. This was not the four star restaurant i had read about and pizza was not the brunch I was hoping for. Next time you see this place on Restaurant Row, make sure you keep on walking and find somewhere else that might actually serve you food! P.S. We still tipped that poor waitress $10.00!
(1)Nelly G.
Good thing I made a reservation a few hours before we showed up. At first there was no one on the first floor but within 10 minutes everyone started to show up. Loved that it was a cute little place...not good for large groups. Three floors with a waiting area and some table on the second floor with a bar where all drinks are made. Started with the chicken and sundried tomato albóndigas, marinara sauce and shaved pecorino with crostini. Ssooooo good! My girlfriend had the shrimp Catalina and I had the Bourbon braise short beef ribs. Wished they had roasted potatoes or rice as I can't have mashed potatoes...was very tasty and filling. For drinks my gf had the Mezclan mule which she really loved and I had the Brooklyn Flower. Ended our meal with dessert. My gf had the tirimasu and I had the chocolate molten cake. Food, drinks and service were so good. Would definitely go back.
(4)Kristy R.
Betti Bar! Above Hourglass Tavern, there is Betti Bar. You go up a narrow flight of stairs, duck into a door on the left, and arrive in a small, cramped bar. There are a couple of booths, maybe a table or two, and a tiny bar. There is also an actual hourglass on the wall, that they flip. The beers they offer are lined up on the wall, including the beer in a bag with a shot. We decided to go with that since it seems to be the "thing" to do while you're there. We each received a different beer, but the same sweet shot. My beer was a Denver something and it was pretty good. One friend had a beer with eyes on the neck of the bottle so it looked creepy coming out of the paper bag. It's kind of cool to drink out of a paper bag, in a "secret" location, with not too many people around. The music selection is also great, it's full of 90s alternative that everyone can sing along to. I really like this place. It isn't loud, it isn't crazy, it isn't crowded, and you get to drink like you're drinking in secret. Very cool spot.
(4)Joe Y.
Great service, excellent seating outside and nice history. I ordered the Bourbon Braised Short Ribs and have to say they were overcooked however the traditional spanikopita was amazing. Overall a good experience.
(3)Steve A.
On average, decidedly competent. I brought my family here on a Monday evening. When we arrived at 6:30, we had the 1st floor to ourselves, though others eventually showed up. Service was unquestionably the bright spot. Their claim to fame is an entire meal in under an hour, and they certainly delivered. The waitress was very patient as we slowly pored over the options and assembled our decisions. She stayed attentive throughout the meal and didn't show the least bit of frustration or unhappiness. The atmosphere - typical NY cramped. It's shoehorned in the bottom of an old, narrow multi-story house. The first floor isn't even 10 feet wide. We didn't explore the upper floors, where there may be more space, but my family wasn't interested in the bar and was not going to be climbing up to the 3rd floor if not necessary. Food was hit or miss. I ultimately landed with the short ribs, which were absolutely superb quality. The "twice buttered" mashed potatoes were nothing special, though. No gravy; I mistakenly tried to use salad dressing instead, since I figured there had to be a cup of _something_ on the table. Vegetable was uninspiring asparagus, not even the narrow tender kind. My mom had the spinach ravioli, which she said were understuffed with an overabundance of marinara sauce. (Excellent sauce, though.) My father's grilled cheese was really just "cheeses on a large hunk of bread", and between the giant dinner roll (serves 4) and his bread, Hourglass needs to improve its baking skills. However, my mom's extra marinara sauce turned the grilled cheese from subpar to extraordinary. We recommended to the waitress that it come with a side of the sauce, and she immediately told the chef. Good service, right? Finally, my sister had crab cakes, and was underwhelmed, though I pointed out that it's unfair to compare anything outside Maryland to anything served therein. I thought they were just fine. Desserts - Berry cobbler was fairly good, just blueberries and apples, something I could make myself. My sister had tira misu cake, which she said was too dense/creamy. I think that's in line with other reviews I've read. The interesting intrigue to this place is that you can order gourmet dishes for less than gourmet prices. That said, you need to order carefully to get the gourmet quality. Short ribs, yes. Flourless or lava cakes, maybe. Some of these dishes need work. But if they're truly open to improvement like it seems, then they're worth a look, just a short distance from the theater district and superior to all the chains and tourist traps.
(3)Tarik M.
We pre-booked a table (with Open Table) for our pre-show dinner when we visited NYC. We were greeted buy a friendly Jamaican guy outside, who took us inside were we immediately shown to our table on the third floor. The place is a little quirky, but that adds to the experience. The staff were all very attentive, the food was great and the atmosphere was upbeat throughout....the sound of people having a good time!!
(5)Melanie M.
such a great spot with the BEST service. the Bartender who works on Tuesdays is incredible. It seems like a hole in the wall but this place has character and incredible food.
(5)Pooja C.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday. It's a very small place but apparently they have upstairs seating, as well. We sat outside to enjoy the weather. The service was good despite the place being pretty busy. To start, they give you some small complementary berry muffins with butter; they're really good. I had the Cinnamon Strongman Coffee with Whiskey which was excellent. I had asked if I could get it iced since it was so warm outside, but they ended up not being able to do it. As compensation, we were given a free bloody Mary so that was really nice. We shared the Mexicali Omelet which was simple (filled with cheese, spinach, and topped with tomatillo salsa) yet balanced all the flavors really nicely and wasn't overly filling to where we felt like we were in a food coma afterwards. The roasted potatoes that came with it were delicious; perfectly seasoned. Overall, it was a good experience and we'll definitely be back to try more.
(4)Don T.
Fantastic service, fantastic food and fantastic atmosphere. I've been here for brunch and dinner and both times were great. The food offerings on both menus were delicious and the portions are generous! Stop into the Bettibar before or after a show and enjoy great friendly service! It's a great place to meet up with your friends and enjoy some excellently poured cocktails!
(5)Shandar E.
I went here for Brunch and was not disappointed. Service was great and the food was delicious. I will definitely come here again for brunch and even happy hour. A nice little neighborhood gem. Overall experience was great!!!
(4)Christina V.
Did a great job seating our party of 7 quickly, neat old decor on the third floor. Delicious food, we all enjoyed! They did a great job accommodating my food allergies. Thanks!
(5)Peter R.
We dined on a Wednesday at 6pm before a show. We had reservations so had no problem getting seated. The food was very good. I had the lamb shank with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach, which was on special. It was delicious. My fiancé had a salad with a filet of salmon. She said the fish was cooked perfectly and "good for salmon." We had a bottle of Rodney strong cabarnet, which was an acceptable non-descript crowd-pleaser for a reasonable price ($60). The service was excellent. Friendly and attentive staff.
(4)Igor K.
Great happy hours and very cozy. The only problem is - it might be hard to find a table, but the place is great.
(5)Tavo P.
The food was excellent, perfectly-sized portions. We had the spinach ravioli, steak and then the no-flour chocolate cake and it was all excellent. Our server was so friendly it was spooky and he even spoke Spanish for us(we're from Mexico)!!! The space is very small, but it was a perfect chill place for an after-theater dinner. Highly recommend!!!
(5)Heather S.
Disclaimer: This review is for Betti Bar - not Hourglass Tavern itself. --- I came to Betti Bar around 9 on a recent Saturday night and the tight quarters were already pretty crowded. My group of 6 (which later turned into 9) lucked out when a table near the windows opened up. The bartenders were incredibly friendly - which was certainly a breath of fresh air. They helped me navigate the bourbon choices and did so with genuine interest. More and more I find good service to be a rare commodity in NYC bars, so this gave me more of a buzz than the very affordable sauv blanc. We wound up camping out til nearly closing time because we enjoyed the atmosphere so much. The crowd seemed to be all locals and everyone was cordial - despite the occasional accidental bump. In the end the bill, while long, did not pain me as much as the last shot of the night. So happy Yelpers steered me here and I'm looking forward to coming back!
(5)Brandon G.
This review is for Betti Bar the upstairs bar to the restaurant. Rapidly becoming my midtown happy hour spot! I'm pretty sure this place can be considered a speakeasy, it has nice vibe, a great bartender (this awesome girl with purple hair), and best of all a 10 PM happy hour!! That's how I found this place by searching late happy hours. It's a pretty standard happy hour of $5 wells, wine, and beer, the also have an $8 mystery beer and shot. I went on a Friday night which was the most packed I've ever seen it,which by NYC standards coulda considered dead, all the chairs were full except for one and I had two other friends coming, but people were moving and leaving at a good rate, I think a lot of people come here for pre theater drinks. I haven't tried the food yet, but I, not rushing to, it seems pretty pricey for food I'm never in the mood for,but in looks good when other people get it. Def going back!
(4)tamanna r.
5 for service, 5 for food, 5 for atmosphere...what a find. We were wandering, starving, and while this place didn't look like much from outside, inside it was amazing. Three floors of tiny, cozy, well designed rooms that feel like you're a guest at someone's house rather than a restaurant. The lady with curly hair who seemed like the manager was so warm, and welcoming and clearly adept at fitting people into tiny spaces. She bought us drinks because no tables were available yet, and was generally super kind and professional. We were then brought up to the third floor when a table opened up, and just loved our server. She seemed genuinely pleased each time we liked something, like we were eating at her own kitchen or something. I got shrimp fra diavolo and my date got mushroom ravioli. Beyond delicious, definitely far beyond our expectations for wandering into a random place. Truly a hidden gem in this neighborhood! And, very affordable!
(5)Carl I.
Had dinner prior to a concert on Sat eve. Ate on 3rd. While waiting for table, had a cocktail, on 2nd. Friendly staff, value for money, very nice wait staff, food very good. Will return.
(5)pamela p.
Convenient for pre theater dinners. I was able to sit outside and could watch all the people pass by. Since I am watching my weight- I had a salad and salmon with veggies. All was prepared nicely and it was tasty. The service was excellent and the prices were what I expected.
(3)Bruce B.
Was a great little place that we would have never tried of it weren't for YELP. The food was great, and the staff was more than accommodating. The ambiance of the place was off the charts. Loved it. The steak was fantastic, there was something for everyone, teens and adults alike.
(4)Abbey M.
A total hidden gem! Amazing food and great service in this little hole in the wall!! We will definitely be back!
(5)Nicholas G.
A few friends and I grabbed last minute reservations for this place the week after Thanksgiving and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. It was small... really small... I've sat at larger tables small... but, the food was amazing. My mother would shoot me if she read this, but their bolognese sauce is the best I've ever had. Just typing this, I'm salivating. All of us loved our meals and we would all love to go again.
(4)Irene S.
Sat outside to dine before a show. Restaurant is funky and narrow. The dining is on the first floor and I think there are 2 different bars on the 2nd and 3rd floors. It has an old tavern feel. The greeter is very friendly and knows everyone in the neighborhood. The service and food were very good. We were able to have dinner at 6:30 and get to our 8:00 show on time. The ravioli were just delicious! Perfectly seasoned and thin, fresh pasta. I usually don't get ravioli, because I don't like cheese, but their ravioli had no cheese.
(4)Leslie D.
Ok, so why isn't Betti Bar its own separate Yelp listing?! Anyway, this review is obviously about Betti Bar, the adorable "hidden" bar located in the Theater District above Hourglass Tavern. I came here with my friend Chris after a delicious dinner at Pio Pio 8 to engage in some libations. I had heard of this place from a few Yelpers and was excited to try out this little hot spot. The entrance to Betti Bar is to the right of Hourglass Tavern when facing it. Contrary to what is implied, the doorbell serves no purpose as the door is unlocked. The bartender actually came down the stairs and cordially yelled at us "IT'S NOT LOCKED" after we had rung it a few times. Forgive me if I wanted it to be reminiscent of Milk & Honey! Once inside, you're greeted by a cozy space filled with many tall chairs, a bustling tiny bar, and a huge hourglass mounted on the wall ticking down the seconds (the hourglass was/is used to tell patrons that they have an hour left before they need to leave to catch their show). After scoring a table against the back wall's mirror, we had a chance to peruse the menu and check out the patrons. For drinks, I went with the Champagne Cocktail and he went with the Sweet and Sour Bourbon. The bartender upon hearing my order went to work at lightning speed mixing, cutting, pouring and creating our drinks. I think I am turning into a man as I am coming to the realization I do not enjoy sweet drinks anymore. Still, the drink was perfectly concocted and I sipped on it slowly. He on the other hand seemed to love his bourbon concoction and at $10-$12 a pop, I think his drink was better for the money. I really want to come back to Betti Bar and get the $8 beer and mystery shot in a bag special. That just sounds like the beginning to a night you don't want to (voluntarily) forget. They also have happy hour every day from 5-10pm- just don't tell the alcoholics or you'll never get a spot inside. Sure, the space at Betti Bar is small and the crowd is mostly gay gentlemen (well on Saturday night it sure was), but it's a great spot to kick back, relax with a deliciously crafted drink, and enjoy watching your heterosexual guy friend get visually gang banged by every "Richard" within the vicinity.
(4)Emma P.
completely thrown by how bad a place with 4 stars was..I had to. We just had pasta, beef sliders , and tiramisu..all were bad.
(1)Nicole S.
several story restaurant/bar in the theater district. Found this place on yelp a made a reservation that night. Place gets busy due to its proximity to the theaters - staff of the restaurant was very attentive and made sure to get us seated timely. The bar staff seemed to think we were a bit silly as we were celebrating but hopefully we entertained for a bit. It is a tiny bar area- so hard to get situated in the bar area out of everyone's way -but still a cute place and reasonably priced meals especially for NYC.
(3)Ann D.
Given the array of restaurants on this stretch of 46th, not to mention the variety of choices in Hell's Kitchen as a whole, I was a bit disappointed with Hourglass Tavern. The Yelp reviews I read were so upbeat that I came in with high expectations - ones that weren't met, although our experience was perfectly fine. We tried to go to Bettibar, but our party of 4 was too large to be accommodated. The space is cozy - there were 2 tables that could seat 2-3 and about 6 or 7 spots at the bar. I can see how this would be a great place to grab a drink after work if you're in the neighborhood, especially with the mystery beer and shot, but unfortunately it didn't work for us. Seated downstairs in another small, homey area, we tried the lobster ravioli, shrimp catalina, and flatiron steak. All were fine, none were exceptional. The shrimp entrée only came with 4 shrimp, and the coconut rice that accompanied the entrees was overcooked and mushy, although the flavor was ok. From my perspective, the best value here is the happy hour drink special. The ambience isn't as quaint as the descriptions in other reviews, and we left with those awkward feelings you get after a very mediocre meal. Guilt for the person that suggested the venue? Regret for all the awesome places we could have eaten? Although I'm always glad to try a new place out, I don't think I'll be coming back here again.
(2)Christopher C.
This review is for BettiBar, which is the 2nd floor part of this converted apartment. It's a small cute bar that has a great happy hour and some good old school cocktails as well.I came here with Baby D last week after we ate at Pio Pio. Next time I will be going for a couple of the beer in a bag and shot for $8. The setting is very cozy but I'm sure could get crowded really easy since there is not that many places to sit or stand.
(4)Michele B.
I was going to dinner and a show with some family and they picked this place on a recommendation. Not wanting to judge a book by its cover, I was going to let the food speak to the place rather than the decor, which is seriously lacking in this oddly shaped and strangely laid out restaurant. Well, we never made it as far as ordering dinner, as a cockroach decided to take residence on our table. I know this is NYC and these things happen, but the waiter didn't make any attempts to kill it. Needless to say, I have no idea what the food is like but I don't plan on finding out.
(1)Caroline D.
Had a grand time. Went to bettie bar first for a shot an d a beer. Then downstairs for dinner. Had an oldfashioned with dinner, twas pretty tasty. I also had the steak. It was just fine, I would say for the price and the ambiance for being in midtown it doesnt get any better than this place. That said, it can get so much better than this for so much less anywhere else. To sum up, if you are forced to be in midtown, go here.
(4)J P.
Move on - there are better choices on Restaurant Row. Food was overcooked, slow to come out from the kitchen. Service is fine. One of those places where you say to yourself "I could have made this better at home" And I don't even cook!
(2)Keith L.
First, I have to say that this review is about Betti Bar (the hidden gem), and not the overall Hourglass Tavern. I've been frequenting Betti ever since I discovered it a little over a year ago. I know, I know - my review is a little late. The ambiance is amazing - decorated like a brothel that you would find in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The bar staff is delightful, the drinks are strong, and their happy hour that lasts for five hours is amazing and playful. A secret "beer in a bag" and a shot? Yes, please! Betti is one of those secret gems that transports you out of the chaos that is Restaurant Row on 46th Street. I was almost hesitant to write a review for fear that more people would discover it. The bar is small and intimate, and a rush of the crowd from Murray Hill that we all loathe would ruin it. You know who I'm talking about... But, if you're a nice person and like a well-crafted cocktail with a neighborhood feel - definitely check it out. I'm sure I'll be sitting on a stool in the corner when you walk in. Say hello!
(5)Caroline H.
We loved it here. We went here after Carnegie Hall's Vienna Choir Boys concert. I had the pre-theater dinner for $22.85+tax. I had a nice salad, pork chops, and tiramisu. My boyfriend had the penna with bolognese sauce, which he said was very good. The house bread was good. We got two loaves. The bottle of Merlot was great for $21. The Bettibar was packed for a Sunday night. $5 drinks. I looked across the room and the crab cakes and salmon were a hit too.
(5)Bryan P.
I've been to Bettibar before, and it's a cool spot. A very cramped restaurant, we were pretty fortunate to just walk in and get a seat amid the theater rush. The food was really good. I think we both had pasta dishes, but I don't recall what exactly. They were good. Decent prices, including drinks.
(4)Sherri H.
There's a speakeasy upstairs. It's charming and cozy. Must try in NYC
(5)Ashley D.
Lovely place to enjoy a pre-show dinner. They're very quick at turning around large groups pre-show. My favorite dish is the Mushroom Ravioli - all ravioli is made in-house. This dish features an amazingly delicious marsala sauce as opposed to pasta sauce and it is TO DIE FOR. I'll never order anything else :) Plus, they have Clos du Val by the bottle. A-OK in my book!
(4)Amy P.
We had a terrific per-theater dinner here. The restaurant has three narrow floors and a lot of charm. We sat at the bar on the 2nd floor and ate on the third floor. The service was friendly and attentive. The food was really great. I had a homemade spinach ravioli that was spectacular. The brisket sliders were also amazing. Also at the table we had the pasta bolognese, short ribs and grilled chicken. All were delicious. We will definitely come here again.
(4)Monique R.
Oh, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly. What have you done to me? ***For BettiBar*** When you ring the doorbell next to the hourglass tavern, you gain access to a secret bar! No shit! Upstairs, grab a booth and rub elbows with some of the cooler people in Manhattan. Cooler because they know about this awesome bar. Kelly, the mixologist, was a great conversationalist. And he can make a serious drink! My enabler, Phil, dragged me to this bar. I entered slightly tipsy and left here clearly intoxicated. The $8 Mystery Beer and Shot is quite the deal. Growing up in the hoodtastic part of williamsburg, sipping a beer from a paper bag made me feel all nostalgic and shit. But how fun is it to drink like a hobo? VERY. Some pretty awesome labels inside the mystery beer. I sipped on a sneaky prohibition beer that tasted like an IPA of sorts. The mystery shot looked like flat coca cola. And if i think really hard, or read my tweets from that inglorious night I can recall the formula. I slurred at some regulars who humored my drunk ass but this bar is the bees knees. Ring the door bell and come on up! Please note that the WATER CLOSET is fancy talk for the Shitter.
(5)Samantha C.
Small and intimate place to hang out for a quick drink, until it starts to get crowded. Must try their happy hour menu and get the grilled flatiron steak and handmade spinach ravioli. Good portions. Service was decent, but don't expect too much once it gets pretty busy because the bartender was the only one waiting tables and serving drinks. Perfect cosmo and good pinot at reasonable prices during happy hour. Upstairs is the best place to sit.
(4)Jonathan A.
I really enjoyed the ambiance and the feel if the place, the food was spectacular and I would definitely try any of the wines. The only problem I would say is the actual walk space which is very narrow esp the stairway but besides that I give it 4 stars and will not only come back but will recommend it to all my friends that are looking to go to a nice quiet place for two
(4)Mary B.
My husband and I took our 2 adult children there after seeing a play on Broadway. We didn't get there till almost 11 pm. We were greeted at the door and seated on the 3rd floor dining room, very small but nice. Ordered dinner, a couple glasses of wine and we were eating a half hour later. Everyone enjoyed their meal, service was good, and we had real food after the show! Not some stupid fast food or chain restaurant garbage. Would recommend this place if you need a good meal late in NYC.
(4)T E.
I enjoyed the Shrimp Positano, but not enough to go back. The service was lacking. The waitress forgot not only a beer but the entire meal of one of our party. I don't think he'll go back either.
(2)Catherine R.
Shhh! Don't tell anyone about this space! It's my new neighborhood oasis. It's intimate and and well lit and cozy and everyone smiles and sips. (I guess some gulp.) I just love it here. It's the perfect place to end the night. I hear the food is delicious, but I've never made it to Hourglass before the kitchen's closed (1am). Josh and Beth are the magnanimous proprietor/bartenders, one of whom usually pours until 4am.
(5)Amber T.
My sister lives on Long Island and I was visiting her from Pittsburgh - we were going to a Sunday evening show on Broadway but needed to find some grub first. So we were walking down restaurant row looking for something interesting to eat pre-theater. I kept stopping to glance at menus, but for whatever reason she kept on walking. Finally at one point she turned around and gave me a look that only sisters can give one another (the "what the hell are you doing, get your butt moving" look) and I started yelling down the street at her the way only sisters can do ("I'm looking at the menus! How the F are you going to know where to eat if you don't look at menus???") - well, fortunately for us, we were having this exchange right in front of the Hourglass Tavern. Their host happened to be standing outside to witness this sisterly love and pulled us aside to try to coerce us to come in. Now, let me tell you, I do not like when people do that - I hate being put on the spot. It was a really, really hard sell and that almost made me tell him to shove it you-know-where and walk away. BUT he was charming and the other staffers hanging out outside were really nice (later I found out one was the former owner and the other was the current owner - they were having a baklava lesson!), so after perusing the menu for a few minutes we decided to go in. Fantastic decision. The menu is large and varied and uses the word "snacklettes" which I love! We went with the Prix-Fixe menu - so we got homemade bread, a spanikopita, a salad, an entree and a dessert. She got the mascarpone penne. I got the shrimp catalina. Both were excellent. The bread was excellent. The salad was phenomenal. The spanikopita was really, really good (and I generally do not like spanikopita that much). I had tiramisu for dessert and it was wonderful. My sister had the cobbler and she said it was very tasty. The Hourglass Tavern is definitely on my list of places to visit again next time I'm in the city. It was delightful.
(5)Jin C.
The positive but small amount of reviews made me think this would be an undiscovered gem but after dining there, I had a dawning realization that most of the reviews were written by tourists. And indeed, the food the restaurant served made me feel like it was meant for people who wouldn't be coming back. I got the prix fixe menu, which included a soup, a phyllo pastry, an entree and dessert. They also gave a supersized dinner roll to start. It had a yeasty flavor and a chewy texture to it, which I personally liked. The lentil soup kinda reminded me of something I would make in a large quantity and then reheat for dinners. Watery, and the cut vegetables that floated in the soup looked like they've been boiled to death. It tasted fine, I guess. The phyllo pastry was quite small, and also didn't taste like very much. So far, very standard; underwhelming. I got the grilled chicken breast entree, which was again, just okay. It certainly didn't taste as nuanced as the description made it sound: rosemary and garlic marinated, honey cumin sauce, and toasted coconut rice. I personally liked the rice, because it reminded me a coconut rice milk dish called nasi lemak, but the chicken was sort of meh and I wished there were more of the sauce. And my dining partner's blackened tilapia's sauce was the same sauce as mine, even though the menu said it'd be pico de gallo. Dessert was probably the best part of the meal. The tiramisu was good, and the berry cobbler was very warm and the serving was generous. Pros: good service, good dessert Cons: touristy vibe, mediocre food
(3)Tad B.
This place is AWESOME. We live a few blocks away. Only downside is, they dont deliver. BUT...the food is fresh, very tasty, and moderately priced. All in all, a great deal compared to most places in the neighborhood. Im not sure why somebody would criticize a restaurant in a review for being too small, or cozy, or not being able to accommodate all of the members in a party. If they are at capacity, why should that detract from the overall rating? The restaurant size is what it is. Also, for the price you pay here, the food is very good. I live in the neighborhood, and everything is expensive, so for me, the quality of food at that price point, especially compared to just about every other restaurant in the area, is very very good. The actual restaurant is small, cozy, intimate, great ambience. Everybody that works there is incredibly friendly, accommodating, and recognize us every time we stop in or call. I know this sounds like a ridiculously positive review...but give the place a try. You will understand....
(5)Betty W.
Came here after the fail at Hudson Terrace on a whim. I had the $5 Sangria (which was a little weak but tasty) and my friend had the $5 white wine. We then got dinner which I had the mini Cuban sandwiches and he got the hamburger w/ mashed potatoes. Everything was pretty good and our bill came to about $38 + tax so it was also a decent price. The server/bartender was friendly and it seemed like there were quite a few regulars which is always a good sign. I loved how cute and romantic the space was though the narrow stairs to get to the bar on the 2nd floor were a little daunting. Overall I'll be back for sure
(4)Laura M.
Great location for pre-theater dining.. Funky, "old" atmosphere. We sat in front window so great for people watching. Food was good . Prices very reasonable for NYC.
(3)Katy P.
Always a good experience when I dine here. It's one of the few places in the area that isn't touristy. The food is great, drinks are reasonably priced, and the service is always friendly. The space is an old townhouse which has been redecorated in a shabby chic manner--adorable. It is a little cramped during dinner time, but only because it's a quality place.
(4)Lindsay T.
I went here with my mom a few weeks ago specifically for the pre-theater menu. The place is small but beautifully decorated, we got seated right away (with reservations) and were greeted by very friendly staff. The homemade bread is delicious and the drinks were amazing, I recommend the "Brooklyn Flower" for a cocktail. The meal was flavorful and filling and more affordable than most places on Restaurant Row. The second floor is the Betti Bar which looked fun but cramped, however they did have really cheap drinks. I would definitely make this a regular stop when I'm in the city.
(5)Bea B.
Up a flight of stairs and off to the left, Hourglass-a.k.a. Bettibar- has an "in the know" sort of feel to it. Once perched on our bar stools--there are only a few tables on the floor--we were quickly entertained by the bar man on staff. He was affable, friendly, but just a bit too loud and keen on having a monologue rather than a dialogue-again, he was entertaining, so this is not a huge complaint, but rather something to mention-he got us what we wanted without a hitch. For those who wish to nosh, there's also a fairly solid bar menu. Fun bit: affixed to the walls are a couple of vintage-looking hourglasses that patrons may tip to their delight as the sand runs out. Also, there's a gorgeous chandelier that hangs just toward the far end of the room by the windows that overlook 46th St. Note: no soda gun on hand, so tonic, coke, soda and the like are dispensed from cans.
(3)Quasona C.
Came here with my bff's friends who are Hell Kitchen residents. Great spot for drinks and a quick meal. They have the daily specials listed on the side of the bar, which is located on the 2nd floor. A nice and cozy spot if you're looking for an intimate setting.
(3)valerie d.
Because of this place, I have a new obsession with short ribs. Eat them.
(5)Tabitha S.
Cute little place, good food.
(3)Edna C.
Tiny space, quiet crowd. Can't go wrong with $8 shot & beer.
(3)Jeremy L.
We had our "see you later New York" dinner/ drink party here. As always, the staff is great, as is the food and drinkage. A REAL place in the middle of the schlock in TS and Restautant Row. You really can't go wrong here.
(4)Clint S.
We came based in part on reviews on Yelp. We would come back again and again based on the deliciously prepared meals and hospitality of the staff and owners. We enjoyed the pork chop and mashed potatoes, as well as the chicken and rice. Both came with amazing broccoli, and the meat was atop a dollop of sauce that was a combination of honey and cumin. It was nothing short of amazing!! Value, taste, and hospitality that makes you feel like part of a family. If you find yourself in the area, visit. I will be again before we leave manhattan. Second Visit: As good as the first, and our time spent chatting with the staff was also great. Cheers, and we cannot wait to visit again on our next NY trip.
(5)Kenneth D.
A great gem in Hell's Kitchen. Had the pleasure of dining here late last night and was very impressed. We ventured up to the top level where we enjoyed practically a private dining room as we were the only ones up there until right before we left. Service was incredible and the food was delicious. Definitely will be heading back here.
(4)Mike B.
we thought we had walked into the wrong place, but as it turns out, no - we discovered a bar made of AWESOME. kudos to Sam for finding it. the restaurant on the ground floor is small. maybe seating for 10 or 12. we stood awkwardly for a minute or two before the waitress asked if we wanted a seat, then we said, "uh, we're here for the bar". she phoned upstairs, confirmed that there was space, and led us to it. I'm not sure if this counts Hourglass Tavern as a speakeasy really, but still awesome! they have happy hour from 5-10 every day? THIS IS RELEVANT TO MY INTERESTS. we wondered why people were drinking from brown paper bags. turns out one of the happy hour deals is a mystery beer in a brown paper bag and a shot, for eight bucks. turns out it's all American brews like Shipyard, Harpoon, River Horse...SWEET! and the shots were Jameson, then Soco & lime (of course we got two rounds)! all three of us got different beers, none of which were bad. atmosphere is killer here: the lighting is really clutch: a small chandelier and real candles, not electric ones. subdued lighting, thanks to the magic of dimmer switches. bartenders were friendly and actually nice to talk to. it's pretty cozy - maybe about 25 people total can fit here. definitely good for a date or a small group of friends. two TVs, neither of which were on jazz music, but not being played too loud, so you can actually have a conversation without shouting it's right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of midtown, yet doesn't feel at all like it. musicians and actors from theater productions seem to make up the bulk of the clientele, which is pretty cool.
(5)Denise D.
A friend and I were due for some girl talk, and wanted a low key spot that had a late happy hour in the Theater District. Searching around on Yelp I came across Betti Bar, and I was so glad that I did. Though this place isn't technically a speakeasy (there is a large sign out front letting you know it is there), the doorway is unassuming, and looks like the entryway to someone's apartment. You ring a door bell, and enter into a small stairway. I exited the stairway onto the second floor (there is a third floor, which I hear also is a bar, but I can not say anything about that from experience) into the tiniest bar that I have ever been in. It really only had about 4 tables, most of which sat 2, and some bar seating. There were a couple other parties there, which worked out perfectly for us. I read that it got crowded on other nights, but since it was a Monday, it was not. The bar had nice little touches that added to the decor, and gave it a vintage time appeal. The bartender immediately greeted me from behind the bar, and let me know what the happy hour specials were (and that they run until 10pm - Jackpot!). I ordered a glass of wine ($5), and a sangria later (also $5). The sangria was actually really good. There was music playing, but it wasn't very loud, so conducive to easy conversation. Also, when the other two parties had left, the bartender asked if there was anything that we would like to listen to, which is very thoughtful,and cool in my book. My friend and I shared the chicken sliders, and I must say, we gobbled them up quite quick. They were pretty darn tasty. Overall, the vibe is great, the ambiance is great, and service is wonderful, and a definite win in my book. I'll be back!
(4)Jessica M.
Love the vibe here, the bartenders are super nice. It's a really quaint, unique place with different floors with different ambiances. I've been twice and just had drinks but I loved it both times. They have decent happy hour deals, I think drinks are $5.
(4)Kerry C.
Hourglass tavern is awesome! It's good food and drink and service with a smile. A great NYC place to eat and drink. It's small and not great for a large crowd on the 1st and 2nd floor.
(5)Sharone N.
Wonderful, warm and incredibly accommodating. We had NO reservation, competing with the pre-theatre crowd and got a seat quickly. Beth then upgraded us to a window seat without us even having to ask! I had the shrimp entree with polenta(I'm Italian and this was GOOOD polenta!), and my bf had the pork chop. All perfectly seasoned and beautifully presented. Our bill was nothing...I was stunned! Well done friends!
(5)James K.
I went upstairs to the Betti Bar. It was a small and cute space. A lot of the people there all seem to know each other, so it's probably a neighborhood bar. There's a giant hour glass on the wall that was pretty. My friend and I got the sangria, which was good but not the best I've had. I had a nice time here, though my friend said that she had been before and there was a woman who was running the bar that evening who was more chatty and fun.
(3)Carol G.
I held a birthday party at the Hourglass Tavern's 3rd floor space for my husband. The intimate space, the delicious food, the wonderful staff and Beth's personal warm attention made it a night to remember. People are still praising the party and the Hourglass Tavern!
(5)Erin W.
Needed a place near Midtown/Hells Kitchen that would take a group of 5 on short notice and ended up here in one of those "must've been fate"/"count your lucky stars" kind of moments. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel like we were old friends with everyone that worked there. Beth made room for us at the bar while we waited for our #5, even though Bettibar is teeny (adorably so!). Happy Hour is 5-10pm (!!) and we all went for the mystery-beer-and-shot for $8. You really can't beat it, and Beth didn't even mock me when I told her I'd only do it if she could promise the shot would be "girly." It was, and it was delicious. For dinner we moved downstairs to the smaller of the two dining rooms (think 4 tables small) where we kicked things off with two bottles of wine. We asked the (incredibly sweet, charming) waitress for suggestions for entrees and all ended up going with everything she recommended. She didn't steer us wrong, either. Everyone raved about whatever they were eating, from the pork chops, to the handmade mushroom ravioli, to the giant goat cheese and mixed greens salad we got to split as an appetizer. We shared a dessert, leisurely finished our wine, and weren't rushed in the slightest, even as other after-theater diners started coming in. Here's the best part: for two rounds of drinks, two bottles of wine, an appetizer, 5 entrees, a dessert, gratuity and tax included...$225. Under $50 a person for an all around stellar dinner experience. This place is a gem, and even our friends from New York can't wait to go back. Beth also told us about an improv event they do the last Wednesday of every month in the 3rd floor dining room that I'm interested in checking out.
(5)Leslie W.
Go upstairs to the speakeasy bar - Bettibar! Love this place. Great bartendars, I love the prices, and they have an $8 "Mystery beer in a big + shot" that never fails to put a smile on my face. I take people here all the time!
(4)Matthew L.
It's a quirky, narrow little place in the theatre district/restaurant row recommended by our guidebook and it's not terribly overpriced - $19.95 for a three course meal + inexpensive Sangria (which tasted inexpensive as well, but that's okay). The prix fixe begins with a spanakopita, which was a pretty standard one - I've had better and worse. The salad and soup were both pretty tasty as well, which came afterward (I had the soup, my wife had the salad - good dressing). While I found my main dish, the lobster ravioli to be delicious, but not spectacularly so, my wife was disappointed in the lack of flavor in her pasta primavera. She felt it was missing tomatoes, at the very least. And when it came to be time to go, it appeared to take at least a half an hour to receive the bill. When you're dining pre-theatre, you don't want to cut it all that close. Of course, they may have delivered the bill more expediently had we made it clear that we were dining pre-theatre at the onset. Of course, my guidebook made me think that we would be forced from our table within an hour, but that rule was probably moot as there were maybe 4 other people in the restaurant at that time.
(2)Robert T.
Really nice place. Good wait staff
(4)Lucy R.
Service pretty good, food very uneven. Husband had the vegetable soup (he got the 4 pm - 8 pm prix fixe) which was OK, and the grilled chicken, which he liked. I had the "Lobster Stuffed Ravioli." The menu did say that there was also ricotta cheese in it; what they didn't say was that you really had to look for the tiny bits of lobster in ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Total rip-off. The vodka sauce on the ravioli was pleasant. I also had a side of sauteed spinach, which was acceptable: made fresh and not overcooked. Adult daughter ordered pasta with meat sauce (probably called bolognese or something). It was so salty she could barely eat it, and that was without the parmesan on top. Wine list was miniscule, yet they were still out of one of the two dry(ish) whites they offered. Service was pretty good, nothing special. Initially they tried to seat us upstairs, which one can expect pre-theatre, but be forewarned - it is TWO flights up; the second floor is the bar. I had an issue where I could do one flight of stairs but not two, and they kindly found us a table on the ground floor. Dessert was very odd. We had one fruit cobbler (served in a coffee cup) which was fresh and hot, apparently made in-house. The chocolate mousse cake, on the other hand, was a very small serving of a completely industrial product, sweet with no taste, chocolate or otherwise, and not even fresh - I wouldn't even serve it to a small child. I just can't see why anyone give this place a decent rating. One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of the reviews under the name of this restaurant are actually for the Bettibar on the second floor (something Yelp should fix). For me, next time I'll make a note to call Trecolore earlier in the week.
(2)E A.
Amazing place. Ate here on my birthday and the service was fantastic. Food was amazing as well. Definitely try the lobster ravioli. Fellow stoma patients out there, there are a variety of options that are safe for you (i.e. no seeds or nuts involved). UC patients, obviously the lack of seeds and nuts and the willingness of the staff to change around menu items to suit particular dietary restrictions is a big plus, but definitely look at the menu beforehand and make sure that you can find foods that suit your particular dietary regime. I would recommend the lobster ravioli (even if you don't have the same dietary restrictions I do, based strictly on the taste). Great place with great food and great service. Will definitely return.
(5)Stacy Y.
The Hourglass Tavern is a place I like to take friends to that are visiting, staying in the Midtown West/Times Square area, and are looking for something that is not so touristy based on where they are staying but can't go too far b/c they have theatre tickets. Their menu has a good amount of variety to satisfy different likes and dislikes, their waitstaff is friendly and efficient and their prices won't break the bank so you can afford to actually have dinner before your Broadway show and not worry how long it's going to take to pay off the credit card bill.
(3)Kandi A.
While in NYC for my millionth time, I was looking for something new. Something different. I was traveling with my mom who doesn't frequent the city so I tried to pick places I knew would have good options for anyone. Well, I honestly read about this place in my book and saw it while we were walking around and recognized the name. I was starving and grabbed my mother and dragged her in. We were seated instantly. It was cozy in the downstairs space and by cozy I mean, you can barely move around but I was into it. Me and my mom looked over the menu and decided to get the Pre-fix menu. Great choice! We started with some fresh, baked bread and salad. Both were great ways to start. I had the spinach ravioli as my entree and it was tasty. The pasta was so fresh and the tomato sauce was incredible! I loved mine. But the best part of the meal was the cobbler. It came out nice and warm with a little whipped cream on top. I ate the entire cup. We had plenty of food for the low price of $22 each. It was a steal by any standards. I went home full, happy and with a new favorite place to visit when I come back.
(4)Lisa C.
Amazing crab cakes! Swift and friendly service! Will make it a must stop next time I visit the area!
(4)Brad H.
I won't spend too much time on this review because based on my one-time dining experience this was really nothing too special. Regarding the restaurant downstairs (Hourglass Tavern), the food was ok but not great. My wife ordered soup which was marginally better than Campbells, my pork chop was ok but nothing to write home about. The prix fix is a decent value. Service was polite. For area equivalents or for dinner before a show you can do better, at the same price point in my opinion. However... Regarding the bar upstairs (Betti Bar), I was a fan. I has a very chill, laid back atmosphere and some interesting drink options, like a shot with a beer in a bag. The drinks are incredibly well priced for this area of manhattan. I suggest skipping the restaurant downstairs but stopping by the bar above for a drink before your next show.
(2)Alexander M.
I'm usually a little skeptical of places that have an employee standing on the sidewalk begging you to come in. But in this case I'm pretty sure it's just because it's easy to miss this skinny 3-story bar in the hullabaloo of Restaurant Row. Each floor is progressively more laidback (tablecloths and candles on the bottom, small beer and wine-only bar up top) and it's fun to explore each of the different "scenes." The happy hour specials are good ($5 for wine and sangria, $3 or $4 for beer). My only grievance is no beer on tap. Cute quiet spot for a bottle of red.
(4)Tim P.
This is for Bettibar. Wife and I had a great time.
(5)Keith S.
Stopped in here looking for a convenient place to meet some friends. Cozy relaxed atmosphere (a little tight). Good service and a very extensive menu to choose from. My bourbon spare ribs were melt in your mouth awesome! No tap beer but a good selection. For being near the theater district, pricing was a lot better than expected.
(4)Soup D.
Came here with 3 teens, 9 year old, and 4 adults. We all enjoyed our food, service was great (fun and friendly). We had mushroom, lobster, and pumpkin ravioli, chicken penne, ribs, burger. Everyone had a great meal, great dessert (loved the chocolate lava cake), reasonably priced. Place was hopping on a Saturday night, but we (and other large-ish) groups all got out in plenty of time to make our Broadway shows. Also the restaurant, on three small floors, makes optimal use of the space, which feels cozy but not crowded. Will definitely return!
(4)Dana L.
We just went for the Betti Bar on the second floor, and it was great. So incredibly chill. Tiny but somehow not cramped. Maybe we just got lucky? We went after a play at around 11pm. The food looked and smelled good, so we will be returning. The bartender was super nice. Someone had ordered some of the stuffed puff things and for some reason had to go, so he gave them to us. They were crazy greasy, but that was really nice! Their happy hour is insane! For the theater district, this truly is a find!
(4)Carmen M.
This is a charming little place to eat at, nice to sit and look around. The food was o.k. I've definitely had better, I was a bit disappointed. I went for dinner so maybe this place is better for drinks and appetizers.
(2)Thomas L.
Quirky little place! We were pleasantly squeezed into a window seat. I had the pork chop, which was well prepared. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli. Unfortunately, they ran out of lobster and she chose the mushroom ravioli, which was very good. Excellent sides, like the mashed potatoes and a boatload of brocolli. Great experience and would dine here again!
(5)Deidra G.
Delicious homemade ravioli! We ate in the restaurant on the bottom floor, and it was so teeny-tiney. You are practically next to the little kitchen, and it was cool to see them prepare the dishes. Our waitress was super friendly and pretty attentive. Very quaint atmosphere; we took a little tour of the second floor (bar) and third floor (overflow for restaurant). Looked like a lot of fun to hang out, but we were catching a show that night and didn't have time. Would definitely return!
(4)Danielle G.
One of my favorite restaurants in NYC! Just took my in laws for a pre theater meal and it was awesome!!!
(5)Hui C.
Cute tiny multilevel spot that is really inconspicuous - almost missed it walking past several times. Brunch is really good despite how sketchy it might originally look; would rec the blueberry waffles and the pancakes. Shrimp and grits is very meh, so avoid
(4)Sarah O.
Great place! Joe was our waiter- he was amazing. Endearing and funny and very kind. Went right before seeing Kinky Boots. Shrimp and grits is the meal to get if you're there for brunch. (I don't eat shrimp nor do I eat grits. However joe convinced me to get and it was great.) Will definitely go back.
(5)Lisa F.
Alas we had such high hopes for this place after the reviews - we were seated upstairs at the bar. It was busy but not heaving. We were given water & then left to sit for 15 mins without a peep from any server, so.. We left & went across the street to bare burger where we had amazing prompt service & delicious burgers!!
(1)Seth H.
This place is a restaurant row institution. It's a little crowded, but well worth it. The four stars that I have given are for Betti Bar on the second floor and the Tavern on the first floor. I haven't been to the lounge on the third floor yet so I don't know what it's like. The cocktails are good but I usually order off the happy hour menu. Speaking of the happy hour menu, the Sangria is often a good choice. Best of all, they have a 5 hour happy hour (It's till 10PM)! I would recommend going here during the week, otherwise you can reserve a table on Opentable through yelp. It is very cozy, so don't be surprised if you want to stay and relax. This place is very LGBT friendly, which I find usually means that the bar side conversations are going to rock. Of course like most patrons of restaurant row, you may be going to a show afterwords. That said, they are experts at getting you out the door by 7:45. I hope you find this restaurant row establishment as unique and superior to its neighbors as I have.
(4)Brett W.
So much to write so I'm going see if I can boil it down. Lobster ravioli was out of this world and the chicken Alfredo was awesome. Very fresh buttery sauce but the chicken was sooo unbelievable. The flavors were amazing very tender and I love the char. However...the short rib was the show stopper. Not too many people can do a short rib. I think most place try to pass off pot roast as short rib. Even fewer cut it like they do. Across 4 ribs. Most do individual ribs. This was phenomenal. If you like short rib you need to have it here The atmosphere is awesome. Quaint 3 story and the service was great!
(5)Seyoon K.
The place was small and I was seated on the third floor. I ordered short ribs and NY strip. Both were okay but not excellent. I do not recommend wine, however.
(3)Jemini S.
Happy to have found this place. Went for brunch before a Sunday afternoon show. Great food, music, and drinks!
(5)Vincent T.
The brunch is excellent. I have tried them all and you can't go wrong with any of them. Ask for Edgar he is the best server. And they serve one of the best bloody mary's in the city.
(5)Lauren P.
Loved everything about this place--the decor, atmosphere, fresh bread, and meals were delicious. The braised short ribs and bolognese were excellent. The service was quick & made us feel at home. Perfect place to carb load before the Marathon!
(5)Leah G.
My boyfriend and I grabbed an early dinner here before our 7:00 showing of 'Of Mice and Men'. I know I'm reviewing the restaurant and not the show, but seriously do yourself a favor and just wait for someone to post the show on Youtube. Apart from Chris O'Dowd's stunning performance as Lenny, it was 3/5 stars in my humble opinion (and congrats on that Tony nom, Chris!). Ok yeah... where was I? OH YES the food. I made reservations for 5:15 on that Thursday night. When we got there it was obvious that I didn't need one that early in the day. We basically had a pick of the house. There are three stories to this 1893 charming little building and we went straight up the creaky stairs to the top. Let me tell you, this place is small and not too impressive from the outside, but then again what in Manhattan looks good from the outside? You don't go to a place to stare at the outside of the building. So the top floor has maybe 9 or 10 little tables in it and a quaint little bar immediately to your left as you walk in. The gentleman taking care of us pointed through the empty room to the romantic corner table for two right by the window. I admitted that I wouldn't remember his name and he admitted the same, but insured us that he would remember us by our drink orders, but this guy game the most earnest and welcoming customer service we have ever experienced. Customer service isn't the right word for it..... hospitality. Chris (I did indeed remember his name ^_^) welcomed us frightened tourists off the loud mean Manhattan streets and let us straight into his home. This guy was SERIOUSLY the epitome of NYC hospitality. So both my boyfriend and I were undecided about what we wanted to eat and drink, which can be the most I'm-about-to-slap-you-in-your-face annoying thing to ever say to a waiter, but Chris offered up his personal favorites and perfect wine pairings to go with each respective dish. I got the pork chop with cumin sauce, double-butter mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli paired with the sauvignon blanc and my boyfriend got Chris's #1 favorite, mushroom ravioli with the pinot Noir. I swear my boyfriend got off on that meal. He didn't say one word while he was eating. It was like he was on a date with the damn ravioli instead of me. Don't get me wrong, the pork chop was cooked perfectly and absolutely melted in my mouth, I just wasnt as sexually attracted to my meal as my boyfriend obviously was to his. It did take a little while to get our food, but that is certainly not a complaint. We were the only one's in Chris' room for almost the whole time we were there and I was having a damn good time just chatting it up. He also went down to the kitchen more than once to see how it was coming which I greatly appreciated but, again, that's not a complaint. I enjoyed the entire experience 100% beginning to end. All in all as much as I want to explore and experience new things every time I go to the city, I think I'll definately pay the Hourglass Tavern another visit.
(5)Sheree D.
Very small place --- the food was good! We had a 5:00 seating and we were rushed through dinner. Our appy came and not soon after our entrees came. We mentioned it to the.owner and he explained that the wait staff was gearing up for the 6:00 theater rush.
(4)Donald M.
Very small but very nice. Food and service were excellent. Only thing that was a disappointment was the "double butter" mashed potatoes. Sounded good but pretty mediocre in reality.
(4)Elyse A.
My mom and I had a really awesome pre-theatre dinner here over Easter weekend. I did a bit of research before our trip (we live out of town) and wanted to find a place in the theater district that'd be a simple skip away from the 8pm show. I read the reviews on Yelp and you guys really nailed the whole vibe! Even though I knew what to expect (sort of), I was still very impressed! I know this review is sort of redundant and repeats some points of other reviewers, but this place deserves the praise. Here's the deal with this restaurant: - It's definitely small and a bit cramped. But what do you expect? It's a NYC restaurant just a few blocks away from Times Square. - The service was great. We were greeted immediately and seated fairly soon after. Our waitress was friendly and funny and took great care of us. - I was glad I made reservations! This place was super packed! - We ordered off the prixe fixe menu. I was not expecting much in the way of quality when it came to the food here. I sort of just thought this was going to be a non-offensive cheap meal before the musical we were going to see, but wow. It really impressed me! I ordered the Penne Bolognasse which had a great flavor. And my mom ordered the Orechiette Primavera which was fresh and light and hot and delicious! Who knew the vegetarian option would be the star of the show? The salad was fresh. The tiramisu was great. And the wine we ordered was also rad. What more could we want? A great dinner before the theater in NYC for just about $50? Unheard of. Both my mom and I left feeling very full and very happy. The only downside was that the place looks sort of dingy and outdated. But that said, I'd rather go to an imperfect restaurant with character that knows how to treat its customers and can put out great food, rather than have a place that's shiny and fancy and modern and just mediocre. AMIRITE?
(4)Steve N.
What a great find in the theater district. From appetizer to coffee, this gem is worthy of trying!
(4)Yan T.
Wonderful gem on Restaurant Row. I went upstairs to the bar as bidden by Yelp reviews and we had a really nice time in that cozy space (though I didn't get to flip the hourglass...a screw was literally loose). The service was fantastic, from the downstairs waitress to the Betti Bar bartender. They took great care of us and were very accommodating. We both got the orecchiette with a medley of goodies (squash, artichoke, cheese, and lots of olive oil), which was not bad, but somehow the parts were better than the whole. They had a decent selection of beers, including Belhaven ale and porter, and there's a brown bag special that includes a shot for $8 if you want to go the distance.
(4)Rich F.
We LOVE the Hourglass Tavern. We were there for a quick day trip into the city on a Saturday morning. It was about 11:15am and we were browsing the area knowing we would find a Brunch we could enjoy....Sure enough, Hourglass Tavern came through! Not only did they let us in early to get us out of the cold, but the food and service was fantastic as well. I had the HG Florentine and my wife had the BlueWaffle. I had a little bit of order envy as the eggs were just a tad under-done. But the focaccia and spinach were spot on. I asked for the Hollandaise on the side as I wasn't sure how heavy it was going to be but it was just right. So buttery and creamy! And you can't beat the $5 brunch cocktails. Thank you for the coffee and the Churros! We can't wait to come back. Great for Pre-Theatre matinees!!!
(4)Irena N.
We had a fantastic brunch here on my mother's birthday. This place looks like someone's very old house - small and narrow and full of stuff, but still charming. We sat on the third floor and it was a bit tight, but still comfortable. Definitely not the place to go with a large group, but perfect for an intimate meal. What a nice experience! We loved the warm little pastries we got at the start of the meal, our drinks (bloody marys and mimosas) were delicious, the food was scrumptious (potato pancakes, eggs and short rib hash, omelettes etc.), and the prices were very reasonable. Our server was friendly, attentive, and hilarious. I'd love to come back.
(5)Maggie A.
Was looking for a place a bit off the beaten path from the craziness of Midtown (I think Times Square is the WORST) that my tourist parents could enjoy before a show. We went in for Sunday brunch. The ambiance is a little hectic--small seating areas that are crammed together and the decor was a bit disheveled for my taste. However, our waitress was lovely and thoughtful. The $5 brunch happy hour was fantastic--I loved the sangria. I was a little disappointed and underwhelmed in my dish, but both my parents enjoyed theirs. Bathrooms were a train wreck, so I avoided. A good place to go before a show with decent brunch. Definitely much quieter than any other restaurant I've been to in that area, which is a huge plus for me!
(3)Alexandria U.
Okay where do I start ! The pictures are so deceiving. This restaurant is a hole in a wall ! Everything about it is so unappealing. There's this one lady that greeted us and seemed to be overly pushy for customers which turned us off even more. We didn't even enter the restaurant and she came outside and grabbed my friend Leroy to come on in. We glanced at the menu but something was too shady going on so we left. Worst thing, we were the only customers on a SATURDAY NIGHT! If that's not a tell tell sign , then I don't know what else to say. Definitely not giving this place a chance anymore !
(1)Nermis R.
I came here for brunch yesterday and I'm sure to be back. I like I like I like. The dishes are just amazing and different if you are looking to move away from your typical brunch offerings. I had the HG Florentine and wow, they were the best eggs Florentine I've ever had (I'm also a huge fan of foccacia bread which made quite a different to me)..The short ribs hash was unbelievable, I ate all of it! Small cozy place. There is a bar/more dining area on the second floor which I look forward to trying out. Highly recommend for brunch.
(4)Jason L.
Came here for a late brunch. Surprising that we were seated right away. They have 3 levels of seating. We were famished and happy to see the food came out so quickly. We had hourglass blueberry belgian waffle with a side of cheese grits and hg florentine with a side of potato pancake. The waffle was crisp and filled with blueberry. The hg florentine was big and tasty. The short rib hash it came with was flavorful and not as salty as your normal hash. The potato pancake tasted just like a crabcake but with out the crab and was really good. The cheese grits was the only disappointing part. I thought the cheese was somehow going to be incorporated into the grits but no. It was just on the top layer. We also had their mimosa and paloma drink. It was a happy hour special for drinks and was pretty satisfied with it Overall the service was friendly and fast. Food was good quality. Would love to come back here to try their dinner menu.
(4)Sarah Z.
Stopped in before a 2pm play. It's a great option near a lot of theaters! We had a reservation for 11:45, and were seated as soon as we got there. We sat on the third floor. Seating was spacious and we got there early so we had the room almost to ourselves, it was great! I opted for the potato pancakes, they were so good. They were fluffy and not too heavy. The dill sour cream on the side complimented the salmon and potato really well. I was happy with my choice. My grandparents split the waffles and jumbo. They loved them both! Careful, the jumbo has a kick so steer clear of you don't like spice. This restaurant is a great pre theater option. The ambiance is wonderful and unique too. I love th hourglass theme. Will definitely be recommending to anyone who is looking for a place to eat around the theater district!
(4)David Z.
Caught them at the rush on a Sunday. Kitchen was a little slow, but the atmosphere on the second floor bar drowned that out. The penne mascarpone is excellent!
(4)Bill J.
this is a nice place, it is very small and dining areas are tight. We were 8 minutes late for our reservation and the waitress/ manager gave us a hard time about it. Asked us if we wanted to sit outside at 6pm on a hot sticky New York evening, the answer was no. Made us wait 15 minutes and then brought us to a table on the 3rd floor, where many table were open. Food was decent, nothing over the top the waitress was pleasant and service levels were average. You can do much worse in the theater district that is for sure
(3)Paul M.
Perfectly adequate meal and service in a tiny footprint of a restaurant on the west side. Nothing outstanding but no complaints either, a decent value for the dollar.
(3)Grace Y.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday afternoon before heading to an art show by the pier. Can't say much about the decor because we sat in the outdoor partition; it was really sunny that day and there was a portable heater by the table which our server promptly turned up to the max. I felt fine because I guess I was sitting in the sun but my friend was still a little chilled. Regardless the seating wasn't a problem. Took a little wiggling of chair but not a big deal. Patrons would come in and out (I sat right by the door) but I didn't really find that disruptive. The only downside was that my coffee went cold in like 10 minutes... Now the food... I got the HG Florentine (poached eggs and spinach on foccacia with salad and short rib hash) and friend got the potato pancakes with salmon and dill cream. I was 100% satisfied with my food, pretty much shaved off my plate. The eggs were done just right, the Hollandaise luxurious, and the hash savory in its own category. For a lack of pedantic food-critic jargon, everything was so yummy my palate was held in rapture (does that even make sense??). I had a taste of friend's dish and I'd just toss in a comment about the potato pancakes - they were super fleshy and firm, delicious on their own without the dill cream. Staff were attentive, friendly, and accommodating. Frequently checking to see if we were warm enough. Quick to serve me another glass of water after I pointed out there was something unidentifiable in the initial glass. Could've just been a flake of potato pancakes that made its way out of their plate, but no questions were asked. Also, FYI the restroom is upstairs by the Bettibar. On a completely unrelated note, a cute guy traveling from LA struck up a conversation (which I wish lasted longer than 30 seconds) with me while we were waiting for the restroom. It was one of the more pleasant restroom waiting experience I've had. (Dear LA with an Armenian accent, if you're reading this - I hope you and your friend had a good time in NYC! Sorry I couldn't give you touristy tips, if you needed any.)
(4)Tracy P.
Great food! Super friendly service! Can't wait to come back! Fun atmosphere, and the Bettibar is a blast and the happy hour is WAY MORE THAN HAPPY!
(5)Courtney L.
My favorite happy hour in mid-town, Bettibar is nothing like the Disneyfied area that surrounds it. On the second floor of the Hourglass Tavern, Bettibar has happy hour everyday from 5pm-10pm. Yes, you did read that correctly. Everyday until 10pm. Selections include $5 wine and bottled beer, and a specialty cocktail for $9. They also have an amazing deal for the more adventurous of us out there: $8 for a shot and a mystery beer. Mystery beer comes in a paper bag and everything. Perfect casual but classy atmosphere. Great for a date, drinks with a colleague, catching up with friends, or really any other occasion you can think of.
(5)David N.
It was a farewell brunch for my UK friends and what better to get them in the mood to go home than an English décor tavern. The host was lovely and our server was really great. Sat in a bright sun lit corner on the 3rd floor. Yes, we get cake to start...cinnamon cake, corn cake as the English calls it. Well, we Americans call it a muffin. Is there tea? No, coffee. How uncivilized! The eggs & short rib hash for the British and blacken chicken club for the rest of us. The bloody Mary was bloody awful but the meal was delicious. I enjoyed the blacken chicken breast with a slight heat on a hoagie bun with lettuce and tomatoes. My friends devoured their Eggs & short rib hash. Hourglass Tavern was a causal brunch that wasn't rushed. We all enjoyed the meal, conversation and a proper send off back to the Queen.
(4)Andy C.
Came for a late night snack. Had the brisket sliders...meh. My wife had the salmon, it was tasty. The hummus plate was ok, the olives were small, pita was fine. Maybe better for brunch. Maybe I was tired. Eh.
(3)L L.
So we stumble upon this gem after spotting a sign for $5 drinks.. Palomas / Mimosas / Bloody Mary's / Bellini... as you can surely believe our group stops and sets up shop outside. The owner Betti was such a treat! The menu is easy.. something for everyone and price is more than fair. She sold us on this delicious fig and goat cheese salad in addition to our brunch items. The building offers a bar on the 2nd floor and additional seating on the 3rd. The venue has this old charm and history. Check if out and if you are lucky you get to experience Betti which is better then any dessert special they have on the menu !!
(4)Bella B.
Excellent !!! Excellent !! Service was beyond expectations !!! Beth was so professional and with a heart of gold and our waitress Maria the best of the best !! We will be going back there after our Broadway Play !!
(5)Ashley A.
A cute Italian place, aka my favorite kinda place. They had a nice menu, friendly staff, and neat environment. Everything I require. This is more of a date night, or night out with friends environment. Not that they wouldn't be lovely to children, but it's very small and could be a little tight for smaller parties. Hint: get the spinach ravioli!!!
(4)L S.
My husband and I went to NYC for our honeymoon and this was the BEST bar that we found. We didn't eat, but went upstairs to the speakeasy bar, which is amazing and cheap. Really cool vibe. The bartender was sweet and really attentive. We met some wonderful locals who were happy to talk to us. Note: we are theatre people and that's the type of people we met. On Saturday night, they had a mystery shot + beer for $10. That's an amazing price for a bar in New York.
(5)Karen M.
Ambience, service (courtesy of Greg our server), prices, convenience to theaters, all worthy of praise. Seems all in my party were happy with their meals. I ordered the pasta veggie dish on the fixed price menu and it was kind of blah. I think they forgot the seasonings. All in all a delightful meal and restaurant. I wouldn't hesitate to return but would definitely order something else.
(4)Brandon E.
We came here the other night before going to see Drunk Shakespeare. We've been wanting to give it a try but couldn't get a reservation, but because this was 5:45 dinner had no problem. I won't discuss the space issue, it's small, that's it. I was kind of underwhelmed. I read all the reviews about the service, etc. The service wasn't bad, but it wasn't outstanding either. We felt rushed the entire time. We received our check as soon as our desserts were placed in front of us, for a nicer restaurant that is kind of a no no for me. I know you need to flip tables, but not just slam my check down before I'm even done eating, this wasn't the lunch rush. The timing of all the apps, entrees and dessert were fine but it was just kind of dropped off. Again, not bad, but not amazing. The prices are all really decent for restaurant row. The prefixe theater menu was nice. My wife ordered that, and I ordered it with the $10 up-charge to get the short ribs. The vegetable soup was delicious, had a decent spice to it, my wife didn't like it that much because of it. I thought it was great. The bread they give you is also fantastic. The ribs were OK, just that. They needed a bit more seasoning, or a sauce or something. There was just something missing. The mashed potatoes were meh. I had to add Parmesan cheese and salt to give it a little flavor. The dessert was ok, the cobbler was the better option. I got the tiramisu, as other's have said, it really isn't tiramisu, it's more a mousse with a small lady finger attached, it was ok too. The house wines are really decently priced at $6, so no complaints there. I just thought it was AOK, just kind of average. I don't know if I'd come back, but I might to try the sliders or something a little simpler.
(3)Thomas M.
Good food at a solid price, the Hourglass Tavern has charm that only an old brownstone can bring. And I do mean old. It's most likely one of the older buildings in Manhattan that isn't deliberately preserved by some historic act. The food is plenty good with big portions at a great price. A steak can be had here for $18 and that's really hard to beat. It didn't come with much sauce though, but I'm sure you can ask for extra gravy (it's really good). The mash is also tasty here with hints of garlic. Nice spot if you're ever in this part of town. I also caught a glimpse of the second floor bar and while small, it had a great cozy feel. The entire building is unique because it does feel like someone's house transformed into an old timey restaurant/bar.
(4)C W.
Great Bloody Mary, very cool atmosphere, the food is very good. Our waiter, Joe's was awesome made us feel very welcome. With all the choices on Restaurant Row, this is a pretty good bet.
(4)Michelle L.
What a great place on restaurant row. Making our first night out in the city perfect. Unique, historical, fun and delicious. Beautiful beet salad, savory Shrimp Catalina and to die for blueberry and apple cobbler. Definitely going back before I leave NYC.
(5)Patrick B.
Excellent food for all five of us at our table. Honestly best food we had in NYC. I am attaching all the pictures if our meals. Seriously stop here - enjoy a drink and dinner . We ate outside - only issue the have is that they need to extend the drip hose off the AC unit . Was getting splashed as I was sitting up against building.
(5)Doug M.
We went with a group of 8 for pre-theater. Went upstairs to the cozy dining room. Really friendly service checking in downstairs and by our waitress upstairs ('try this drink, if you don't like it it's free and I'll drink it"). The food was very tasty, better in many ways than you would think from the outside of the place. The soft shell crab special was a hit with 2 of us, as was the crusted tilapia and veal chop. I had the short rib -- a different cut of short rib than I've had before but still tender and flavorful. Four negatives almost brought it down to a 3-star review: * It worked out to $65 per person, a bit on the steep side for what we ordered and the limited drinks we had. I would encourage you to try the prix frix menu. * Served with our main course was large hunks of boiled broccoli. No salt, butter, bread crumbs, roasting, etc. Just giant hunks of boiled broccoli lol. Not what I'd expect for $65. * Double butter mashed potatoes tasted neither of salt or much butter, and were grainy (not lumpy which I don't actually mind, just a bit mealy like they used the wrong kind of potato). * A few people got the fruit cobbler with their meal for dessert. Not a nice texture or flavor profile -- more like a hot cup of melted fruit. I'm sticking with 4 stars though because everyone really did like the main food and the service was really very nice. Just try out the prix fixe for your first time.
(4)Maria F.
The Hourglass is a friendly local joint, on the far side of the restaurant row strip. Always friendly, always quirky, totally geared toward comfort food, it is a great choice when you want more local color than tourism, and are looking for simple but well prepared, large portion entrees. It is VERY reasonable, especially in comparison to the other choices on the strip (check out the Prix Fixe options). I guarantee you will find yourself chatting amiably with other New Yorkers (or lucky tourists) about anything and everything. Always fun, entertaining and reliable. Worth a visit--- you'll be back!
(3)Cindy C.
It's a quirky place with better than average food! Most of its customers go right before the theater, so there are hourglasses on the wall to time the meal to make sure customers don't miss their show. Cute! Bread is a free starter and it was super oily.... but tastes great! We ordered BBQ beef sliders and spinach ravioli. Both were delicious!! In all, it's a nice hole-in-the-wall for something quick. This place is between 3- and 4-stars, and I settled on 3 because it's out of the way for me to go to and isn't on my top 3 if I'm in the area.
(3)Zhichun L.
Decided to go for a Sunday brunch. I ordered a waffle. It arrived 25 mins later which is soooo dry and hard to chew. The plate came with four pieces of waffles and I can't even finish one. I complaint to the waiter that it is obviously overdone and he simply said" oh okay" and kept being cool. Later when we asked for check, my friend complaint again about the waffle so the waiter "nicely" offered us 15% off( which is always there on yelp). Not a good customer experience.
(1)Alexandra C.
The food and service is wonderful! This is my go-to before a show. Make a reservation, try to sit on the 2nd floor bar area. The specials on drinks are so great for the Theatre District. My favorite midtown restaurant!
(5)Brian C.
I'll be honest -- I stepped in here not knowing what to expect, fearing that Hourglass Tavern would turn out to be a tourist trap. Tourist trap or not, the food was excellent! We dined upstairs, and the decor was pretty eclectic. It was very interesting how the restaurant was built into old/original tenement housing, and I thought that added to the charm of the establishment. We had a very friendly and very accommodating waitress that made sure we had a great dining experience. The menu is large and has plenty of options to satisfy the pickiest of people. All the food descriptions sounded so good that it was hard to choose just one dish. I ended up going with the lobster ravioli, which I was reluctant about because of how skimpy ravioli dishes can be, but I gave it a shot anyway because it came with a rave review from our waitress, and she also mentioned that they're made in-house. It turns out that this lobster ravioli would become the best lobster ravioli dish I'd ever had, and the portion was hearty and filling as well. The raviolis were large and stuffed with cheese and lobster bits, and the pink sauce that came with it was really, REALLY good. It may seem kind of odd for me to recommend this place for a seafood pasta dish, but seriously, come to Hourglass Tavern for the lobster ravioli and casual ambiance!
(5)Nicole D.
Best Brunch Ever! Joe the server is my new favorite dude. Everything about my experience I am in love with. Will come back again and again. I had the crab cake Benny. My friend had the hash. Just wonderful. And so much love to mother there!
(5)Roane B.
I had a friend in town and we were walking around and decided we needed to stop in for brunch. We went to the 3rd floor and had a great server who took good care of us. Its a small place but the feeling of it is excellent. It had a lot of jazz themes on the walls and the music was very classic. It gave a good old fashioned southern type of feel. All it needed was a band and a dance floor and I'd be there every night. The food was very good and my 2 friends and I split our meals. If I am in the area again it would be worth trying for a few more dishes to see if they are just as good.
(5)Joseph A.
Went there for a relaxed sunday brunch before a 3pm show. We had a 1pm reservation. The service was great and the staff very attentive. I had the chicken club sandwich with roasted potatoes. The food took a while to prepare as the kitchen was very small but it was served hot and fresh. There is limited outside seating and the ground floor only has a few tables but there are more levels with additional seating. Overall the experience was very pleasant and I would reccommend it for a before or after theater dining experience, just allow a 1/2 hour extra time for food preparation. The menu is simple and not too complicated. I am sure there is something for everyone.
(4)Emily O.
So so. I had chicken soup which tasted store bought. My boyfriend had crab cakes which he said were tasty. I thought the bread was a little bland as well. Would definitely go back to try brunch...but probably not dinner again.
(3)Tre F.
To put it simply, one of the best meals I have ever had in NYC. My sister and I stopped in after catching a show. My sister was looking a little crazy because the restaurant was not "nice" in her opinion. For me, I found the place to be full of charm. We were seated on the 3rd floor which is a small room, but the instruments on the wall made the decor eye catching. Ok, the best part. We both ordered a drink called a Brooklyn flower. Awesome drink. It's so smooth, which could be a slight problem because I was really taking them down. Not a drunk, but man was it good. My sister and I split the crab cake and shrimp appetizer. Truly amazing. I didn't try the shrimp, but it won my sister over. The crab cake was superb. For my entree, I had the veal chop with mashed potatoes and the spinach. So good. The food was excellent all the way around. Made Jen really happy. The other aspect that was amazing was the service. Our bar tender/waitress was extremely friendly. Great service by her. The place was not too busy, so she took a lot of time with us. Maybe, if there were more people, i would not have felt so cared for. Regardless, she was great. Food was great. Love this place.
(5)Edmund M.
Interesting little place. Great for an intimate get together but not much of a scene. Reminds me of an East Village dive. Food was good but not great. Service was good. I'd go back but not my first choice in the area...
(3)Giacomo C.
2.5 stars. The 3-story setting is interesting, and so is the interior. They make their own bread, and it is delicious. Polenta: just ok; the sauce was flavorful, but the polenta could have been warmer. Burger: asked medium-rare, it was brought almost well done; not a fun of the patty's quality either, but the excellent bun kinda made up for it. Tiramisu: it was a mousse, not a tiramisu, and it was just a bite. Overall, it's a cute spot with professional service and decent American dishes, but nothing to rave about. I didn't have bad food, but nothing I had stood up to be particularly good. They have a good pre-theater price fix for $22, though.
(2)Jennifer R.
Wonderful birthday brunch!!! Staff and owner made the experience extra special. Frankie the waiter was delicious too. Would definitely return for more great food and yummy drinks.
(5)Adwoa B.
The Hourglass Tavern is a quaint spot with awesome food. The ambience of the restaurant is great- dim lighting, small, and awesome service. Our waiter, Phil was very engaging and friendly... He made sure we had everything we need and was very understanding about us being late for our reservation and waiting for another person in our party. The food was awesome. My table ordered the crab cakes, the lobster ravioli, the braised short rib, and the grilled cheese. Everyone finished every single piece of food on their plate. It was that good. The only thing I would change about my experience would be to have a more concrete dessert menu. Other than that, this place is fantastic. The pricing is also great compared to many other restaurants in that area.
(4)Lauren I.
Drinks were OK. Food was kind of bland but OK. It was rather quiet and calm which was a nice change of pace for NYC. Bartender/server (two in one) was very personable. Bathroom very tiny and kinda dirty.
(3)Kimberly Y.
See a show and then go to the Hourglass Tavern for some cheap, juicy chicken! Probably the best chicken I've ever had in a restaurant... And I eat out a lot. And order chicken a lot. I was craving chicken and was worried since breast is usually too dry for me. I have NO idea how Hourglass does it, but the breast is juicy and tender, as if each bite were cut from right next to the bone. The cumin sauce adds great flavor to an already juicy chicken. The double butter mashed potatoes are indeed buttery, but amazingly fluffy. The broccoli wasn't too memorable; I'm just glad the dish had some vegetables. I found the portions to be perfect (if you're hungry, get an appetizer or dessert), and the prices are extremely reasonable! My boyfriend had the salmon and wasn't too pleased with it. He tried my chicken and was instantly jealous! (Don't worry, I shared.) The Tavern is more of a restaurant on the bottom floor, with the BettiBar upstairs. There aren't too many tables downstairs, but it can still be a little cramped. The servers are extremely friendly, though they didn't necessarily come by as often as I wanted. I will definitely be back every time I see a Broadway or Comedy Central show in the area!
(5)Kirk M.
Home cooking! Tasty food, friendly, warm environment and big on Pre-Fixe in the heart of the Broadway Theater district. I have been coming here for 17 years! Low on seating so have a reservation, this place is always a hit, whereas the show I go to see after, well, not so much.
(4)Mike Z.
It's a New York staple to hit up before going down the street to see a Broadway show, hence the hourglass by your table when you walk in. Very small and quaint with tons of people walking by - it's what you expect of New York. The service is fast but friendly. They are so busy yet this still take time to throw a witty joke in there while you wait for your food to show up. Prices are very reasonable and the food is nothing adventurous by any means but they put out a great product. It's comforting and simple. Just do it well and everyone is happy - and they do that, so the people are happy. I'd come back because it kind of has a sentimental factor to it for me now but regardless, it's worth a stop in for a traditional type dinner restaurant. Grab a bottle of wine too, it's cheaper than grabbing a couple glasses.
(4)Joe O.
Went there for Brunch on Saturday. Great greeting by staff and owner. Ushered to third floor dining area. Great setting. The place has charm and character but not a place to go if looking for modern. We loved it. Food was fantastic. Potato Pancakes with salmon was incredible as was chicken club my partner had. Great drinks. We enjoyed the place so much came back for drinks and dessert after theater. Had the same great experience. It is classic NYC charm.
(4)Johnny B.
Found this place on Yelp searching for Happy Hour deals. It lived up to my expectations. FYI that the bar is actually upstairs and it looks like it is next door. Also there are some dudes (patrons) always sitting outside that are chatty and want to ask you how you're doing and where you're going. A little intimidating, but they (appear to) mean no harm. The service was great and attentive, and the food was delicious.
(4)Tara C.
One of my new favorites in NYC, and if I were a local, I'd be here constantly. I was here for a party thrown by a friend, and we PACKED the place. I felt bad for anyone who was trying to get into the mid-level bar. Charlie was our bartender, and he did a fantastic job of keeping everyone supplied and happy. As people started to trickle out to dinner, there were about 8-10 of us still milling out and still hungry. As we debated area restaurants to try out, Charlie kindly offered to set us up upstairs and take advantage of their restaurant. I'm so glad he did that for us. The service upstairs with Kelly (sp? sorry!) was fantastic, and the food was delivered with great timing and delicious to boot. Everyone was helpful, accommodating (to a varied group of very loud people) and when were done, they pointed us to O'Flaherty's that also took great care of us. Overall, a fantastic experience.
(4)Mashel R.
We loved introducing Beth to the Moscow Mule. May have been the first one she ever made but it was dang perfect. Leaving a touch of Pittsburgh at the Bettie Bar leaves us feeling all special and stuff. We plan on being a regular for years to come.
(5)Jenna M.
Coming here was a major disappointment! Based on the other really complimentary reviews, I chose this restaurant for a pre-show dinner with friends. Was extremely underwhelmed by my experience. Pros: -good/ friendly service -convenient location to many theaters -reasonably priced Cons: -the food lacked flavor and any excitement. Edible, but you're better off spending more at another restaurant for something good. Every member of my party agreed with this... It was not just one bland entree. -lacked any sort of ambiance. I ate on the first floor and it was very narrow and dark (I'm aware that there's at least one other floor above the entry level, but I did not take the dark skinny staircase up to see it). I would never recommend this restaurant and would never return. I've never written a yelp review, but I was compelled to do so just to clear up the misconception that this place is worthwhile!
(1)Lb G.
well priced, good simple food. Will be back
(4)Bonnie H.
Four of us ate here after a Sunday matinee. The food was very good. Everyone was satisfied with their choice. I plan to go back here the next time I am in NYC.
(4)Nilson S.
Went there for a later-than-usual dinner as its kitchen is open until later than some of the other restaurants and really liked it. The price is fair for NYC, but the price fix menu doesn't seem worth it. Instead, we only ordered two entrees (which also come with the free and delicious just-out-of-the-oven bread). I ordered the pork chop and my girlfriend ordered the lobster ravioli, which were both delicious. The ravioli is a small portion, though it was enough for her, it wouldn't be enough for someone who eats a lot. It was a bit weird as we were on the first floor all alone, so the waitress would just stay there looking at us (as the place is fairly small and basically there was nowhere else to look at). It seems the bar upstairs is where all the fun really goes on, but we just wanted to have a nice dinner and go back to our hotel. Maybe New Yorkers won't enjoy this place, but we loved it. And the price is definitely fair. PS: we're Brazilian tourists in New York
(4)Billy C.
Had the shrimp, nice flavor sauce. The rice was good, a little dry. The broccoli was slightly under cooked. Good to try it out once.
(3)scott s.
First off, I ordered a whiskey and sour. Which apparently used real lemon and lime and was undrinkable The bartender was kind enough to water it down and then give me a beer instead Not a big space, but kinda cozy
(4)Angela V.
Love this find! The waitress / owner made me my ideal dish of spicy shrimp, spinach, and garlic mash. It was as though she'd read my mind. Drinks were great. Nice neighborhood feel. I will definitely be back here next time I'm in NY! Thanks Beth!!!
(5)Chris B.
If you're in Midtown looking for a break from the touristy/chain fare, look no further. The food is fresh and well prepared, the ambiance is quaint and fun and the prices reasonable. The service we had was typical NYC, which is to say, barely there. If the food were just a little more adventurous and the server didn't seem like we were bothering her, I'd give it four stars, and either way would go back if/when I find myself looking for a casual bite in Midtown.
(3)Alice M.
loved the atmosphere great server the food was ordinary.upstairs bar way cool
(2)Alan L.
I've been to a lot of tavern's in my day but the Hourglass Tavern is the best by far. There beef short rids were the most tender ribs I've ever eaten.The meat falls off the bone with you just picking at with your folk. They also have great specials every evening. One of the owners ,Beth Sheinis is a great host. She will attend to all of your needs .Even more so if you have young children. When your in the theater district this is your best choice for outstanding food and a great atmosphere. I can't wait to come back!!!!!!
(5)Olga K.
Food and drinks are killer.
(5)Ryan G.
This is a hard review to write, asI have family members I would sacrifice to save this place from a fire. A littlewhile back on a dreary winter night I got a craving for a burger, the kind of itch that just needed to be scratched. I'd have jumped on a subway downtown to some 24 hour bodega to get a burger that night... After calling all my local burger options and failing miserably, I was getting more desperate by the second. Not sure what inspired me to think of it that night, but on a few occasions walking by this tiny little homey looking place it always seemed to have a consistent flow of cool local peeps stopping in for drinks and grub late night. I quickly looked it up online and it popped right up... It's kitchen closed 10 minutes ago. ERGG. Being me I called anyway hoping for a doggy bag filled with two life saving burgers. The "waitress" on the phone was extremely sympathetic to my cause and unbelievably insisted we come in for dinner. Never having been inside this place before, we sat at this window table tucked away in the corner and preceded to observe the really cool, kinda antique, kinda trendy, 100% homey restaurant. On the menu loud and clear was "Big Ass 12 oz. Angus Beef Burger" I was so happy I could almost cry. We split that and a salmon entree to get a good feel for the place. We had decent expectations, but not over the top, and when it came to our table, wow. The food seemed as if a loving mother cooked it herself super home-style, my mouth is watering even thinking about it now. We've since tried just about everything on the menu... This place does food right. Our waitress that night turned out to be one of the two owners. Beth wound up sharing hysterical stories and anecdotes about the neighborhood and this building which is apparently 500 years old. This wound up being of the the best nights and experiences we've ever had in a NYC restaurant not being a regular. We didn't know it at the time, but there are two additional floors of awesome. The second floor, my personal favorite, is the bar. I once counted 16 tea light candles in every random place you can imagine just on this floor. It's impossible to not notice the extreme devotion the owners must have gone through to make this place look incredible. From a broken glass mirror to the numerous antique hourglasses on the walls its very nicely done. You are able to order from the full menu on both the second and third floor along with the longest happy hour I've seen in NYC from 5-10pm at night every single day. Next is service, the extremely diverse staff at this establishment consistently go above and beyond to make you feel like this is home. Creating a relaxed, but fun atmosphere where you can always find interesting people and locals mingling. Each bartender is very different, but brings a great vibe into this place. Besides, the drinks here are unbelievable, this is the place to order anything exotic or one of the specialty cocktails. Never a watered down concoction of cheep simple syrupy garbage, they use the good stuff and aren't stingy! This place has charm oozing out all over, including the narrow, uneven stairway which makes the top two floors the opposite of handicap accessible. I'd give em 6 stars if I could and can't wait to be back.
(5)Thao N.
I absolutely loved this place. It has three floors - the first floor was completely empty, but the tiny 2nd floor bar was pretty full. My date and I managed to grab a table and order some happy hour drinks - nothing spectacular, $5 wines and sangria. Our food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallop and shrimp skewers, and they were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The sauce was so good - tangy and sweet. My date ordered the mushroom ravioli, which was very good, but a very small portion. Our entrees were pretty much the same price ($15-$16) but mine was certainly a better values. Seriously, those shrimps and scallops were MASSIVE. We will be back for sure. I think this is the best $50 dinner we have had yet in Manhattan. I'm not sure why people call it a tourist trap - maybe because it is on Restaurant Row? It's not at all, and the bars on the 2nd and 3rd floor are super cute.
(5)Bruce C.
Here's why I gave it a five star rating. First, the people who work here are very friendly, accommodating, and honest. Second, the seat we had was outside on the sidewalk on a beautiful early summer day, and it couldn't have been more pleasant. Third, the food was delicious at that price, which was extremely reasonable. Fourth, we had tickets and had to get in and out in a certain amount of time, and our waitress kept us stricly on schedule without appearing pushy or intrusive. She simply did her job on time and as appropriate. Finally, the other patrons were as happy with their meal and experience as we were. So even though this isn't Le Cirque, it's certainly got a much better tasting food for your dollar, and couldn't be a more pleasant experience.
(5)Jacob T.
I really enjoyed this old-school theater district restaurant! I'd walked by it so many times and their are so many in that area that it never peaked my interest and looked a bit run down. Well, I finally went in to visit a friend bartending upstairs. Teach me to be such a snob. The decor was great, not run down at all. It had real character, and was so different on each floor, but shared a very intriguing menu with a blend of old and new American cuisine. I came back a week later with my husband and no reservation. We were seated immediately, service wasn't especially friendly but was fast and effeceint. I will definitely return.
(4)Dee A.
My sister and I went here while visiting in New York. My first time to New York celebrating my sister's 60th. We stumbled across Hourglass Tavern in restaurant Row Midtown hoping to find something that we didn't have to wait or have reservations. The food was great!! We ordered the Prix Fixe it came with an appetizer, soup or salad and the main course and dessert. I was excited that they had one of my favorite wine 2007 valpolicella Solane Santi! My Sister had the cobbler and she said it was okay my tiramisu was very good. I'd like to go back next time when I visit. We ate on the third floor it looked like we were in someone's living room my sister asked the server and she politely informed us that it use to be. The whole ambience of the place was great!
(4)Samantha D.
The food and service was awesome!
(4)Jennifer C.
Loved it. A friend and I visited the bar on the 2nd floor (the Bettibar) and had some Very Strong Cosmopolitans and a long chat. The place was small and hidden away, which, to me, just added to its charm. It was pretty lively (Friday night), but not super crowded and you could still chat with your party without feeling like your voice was going to give out. I loved the intimate, divey kind of feel...like you're at somebody's houseparty and they have a nice little selection of booze. :) As an aside, I really enjoyed the soundtrack, which consisted of 90s alternative rock (esp. acoustic renditions), and totally took me back to my angsty youth. The food smelled great and looked like it was being demolished pretty quickly. I will definitely be back! The only down side was when we realized it was getting late and asked for the tab to be closed out - the lady obviously had it all ready for us, but instead of just handing me my card and receipt (which she had all printed and ready on the other side of the bar, in plain view) she served drinks to about 4 other people, slowly. My friend had to catch transit so we ended up asking her again to just give us the check, and then she did it...but not very graciously. This made me pretty sad because I was otherwise really happy and excited to come back.
(4)Kristen M.
On our first trip to NYC we wanted to get away from anything chain related and try all the great food we'd heard so much about. If we hadn't seen positive reviews we might have walked by this small restaurant. On the first floor is the main dining area with only about 5 tables. On the second floor there is a bar (but we didn't venture up there). The menu had many choices from seafood to burgers. I had the salmon fillet with garlic mashed potatoes and my husband has the "big ass burger" (yes, the actual name ). The fish was fresh and a great portion. My husband raved about the hollowed bun that allowed for more condiments on the burger without having to unhinge his jaw. Overall, a cute restaurant with quality food at reasonable prices. A win-win!
(5)Sydney L.
Great food.
(4)Kristen J.
Looked adorable, got good yelp reviews but quite frankly didn't deliver......both our meals (short ribs and ravioli) were awful and inedible. Our waiter was very colorful and entertaining - he was the best part of the experience here.
(2)D L.
This is great little place right on Restaurant Row. I don't go to the theater that often, but I like to come here right after the shows start at 8 PM because you can come in an relax and enjoy the friendliness and eat your food without any rush. Everything is delicious and ample. Scott the server is warm and friendly and makes the experience great. Alternative to eating is just going to one of the bars on the upper floors. Again the cozy size makes for conversation starters. After the shows close the crowds can return and even later you might bump into a "name" or two among the drinkers. Josh and Beth the owners are always around and make it super friendly.
(4)Paul S.
Had to give it a 5, our meal was awesome. Table on the street, what a show Hell's Kitchen can be, skip the overpriced theater and go here. Had the leg of lamb, cooked perfectly. The pre fixe menu was very nice and quite the bargain for NY.
(5)Brian M.
I wouldn't have gone into this place if not for the positive reviews. It's unprepossessing, almost dumpy, but the food was simple, excellently prepared and portioned generously, the wine inexpensive, and the service was friendly and good. The prices are very reasonable -- dinner for three with tax, tip and a bottle of wine was $120. One of us ordered from the prix fixe menu. A homey kind of place I look forward to going back to.
(4)Paris C.
During a recent trip to NYC, went to Hourglass on two occassions, once to the upstairs Betti Bar and another night to dinner downstairs at the restaurant. The owner, Beth, is a very nice and funny woman. Bartenders were friendly and mixed great drinks. Loved the atmosphere of the Bettibar. It was intimate, comfortable and inviting. The restaurant was good, but cannot think of anything memorable, either good or bad. It is quite small and dark, with a very tiny kitchen. Reasonable selection of food, a blend of Italian and Mediteranean. Warm loaf of bread to start was delicious as was the spanakopitas, which were not flaky but more pastry like. I tried bites of the shrimp pesto pasta, which was rather ordinary. Overall we had a nice dinner downstairs but a GREAT time at the upstairs bar the night before. I do believe they have recently acquired this restaurant, which I think will get much better as it seasons.
(4)Kayleena T.
good food and drinks. nice people. fun idea. i like it.
(4)Lizzy B.
JUST EAT THAT HOMEMADE CRAB CAKE AND YOU'LL LOVE IT! Working to your preferences 24/7. Always an amazing atmosphere... small, cozy and a perfect getaway for anyone. Can meet so many new and accepting people, best for making new friends and cool connections. The bartenders try hard for creative cocktails with special promotions.
(5)Laura A.
Small, unique restaurant with only a few tables in the main dining area (1st floor). I have been twice and loved what I ordered both times - they have absolutely delicious lobster ravioli and spanakopita. They have three tiers of prix fixe dinner options, tiered based on prices. The restaurant is located in a great row of restaurants right by Times Square and makes for a great pre- or post-theater dinner spot! Having been twice already, I would definitely return!
(4)Ellen H.
I was looking for a restaurant for a pre theater dinner that got an A rating from the health department and found the Hourglass Tavern. It had lots of menu options for all types of diners, seafood, vegetarian, light, heavy whatever. A perfect choice and good wine by the glass, not to mention the killer fruit cobbler! If they'd only turned down the music a bit (why do restaurants think they need that?).
(4)Hannah C.
Great service and a vast menu, but the food is a bland, not a lot of taste.
(3)Christopher Thomas B.
Had dinner for 2 at the Hourglass after a show----about 1045pm. We dressed appropriately for Broadway and were a little uncomfortable in the unairconditioned space as it was a muggy evening. We ordered the spinach/ricotta and lobster ravioli which were made in-house. The flavors were average---in fact they tasted similar to frozen bag pastas I've had before. The bread was also baked in house and tasted fresh. Visually, I think the restaurant has a nice romantic aesthetic, but the food, while reasonable, isn't very memorable.
(3)Jaymie C.
Our first night in NY we discovered Hourglass Tavern. We had a wonderful meal and were waited on by Beth, one of the owners. She was the greatest. We even went back a second time!
(5)Sara R.
Great Sliders! Good WIne! Great lil space upstairs for events. I had a great time here with the Apple Consultant Network. If you're looking for a place to entertain 20 people I'd inquire here.
(4)Nancy C.
Great funky place for uncomplicated American food. We had drinks in Bettibar and then dined on the third floor. Good service, great food, awesome happy hour drink specials - $5 beers, wine and well drinks. Don't miss it for pre-theater dinner. We had the chicken fetuccine and shrimp catalina and both were well prepared and tasty.
(4)Taryn N.
Great place! Excellent food, service and prices and a cool, friendly, funky atmosphere. The grilled tilapia, steak and mashed potatoes were delicious and the chicken alfredo looked really yummy. Love that you can get a nice glass of wine for under $10! I would recommend and will be going back.
(4)Melissa I.
Very average. We went here because of the good rating on yelp. It's a cute place. Very tiny. The food was just average though. I was very disappointed to go here for my night out in NYC.
(3)J. J.
My husband I went here while visiting in New York. Never been to the city and we wandered the area for a place to eat and stumbled across the Hourglass. It was fabulous! The food was hot, delicious and the friendly staff was amazing. For the price fix you got a ton of food and we didnt leave hungry in the least. If you go, order the home made chicken soup- wonderful! The new owner of the Tavern Beth even came out and chatted with us and was talking to passer's by about their specials. She even gave us suggestions of what to see and do in NYC. A very homey, warm and fun place. We sat outside and listened to the romantic music play and people watched on the streets. Great food for the money and the atmosphere was spectacular. Next time we are in NYC we plan to visit the Hourglass again.
(5)Kristen F.
My family and I squeezed into this place after a show last Thursday night. It's a tiny space, probably better for couples, but the waitress was very accommodating and set up a table for the 5 of us. She was there by herself, yet was still able to run the whole dining area. The service was speedy and fun... she was able to roll with the corny jokes and teasing my uncle was giving her. We ordered late night appetizers, desserts, and wine. The chocolate cake... OMG, if I hadn't been with my family I would have exploded if you know what I mean ;-) Super cute place, that's very relaxed with scrumptious eats. Perfect for late night post theater.
(4)Elizabeth W.
Very prompt and friendly. Food was excellent. Fun atmosphere .
(5)Nathalie B.
Love this place ! I was looking for a place to celebrate my birthday and I came across this one when I added "unpretentious" to the search. And that was exactly what I was looking for, we (about 12/14 people) had dinner at the top floor and it felt like having dinner served at my dinning room, very cozy, casual and down to earth, the food was very good too. The middle floor, the bar can get too crowded but it also has a great vibe. I'm coming back again and again :)
(4)David D.
We (3 in all) were lured to this place from Time square for their 'Mediterranean' food listing ( as per Yelp search on Iphone.) At first - we couldn't find the place ( elec. sign was off ) There is nothing 'Mediterranean' about it. a regular mixture of dishes. The food was nothing special. Service is OK. The place is small and you have to climb over other eaters - or climb narrow stairs to the second floor. Not for the overweight...and not when the cold wind blows....
(2)Gloria K.
I absolutely loved this little place. When you first walk in, you get a bohemian 1920's Parisian feel which makes it intimate and romantic. I had the prixe fixe which had some really good bread, salad, an entree and dessert. They have a lot of different beers too and a pretty good wine list. I had the spinach ravioli which was homemade and super good and fruit cobbler which was amazing! It was warm and gooey and creamy all in 1 bite! My friend tells me her tiramisu was really good too. I'm definitely coming back for a date or something!
(4)Rosie H.
As other reviewers have said, the menu is not inventive and there are probably more interesting places to go. However, this place delivered everything we were looking for: solid food, great drinks, convenient location, ability to make a reservation online, and speedy service. The atmosphere was stylish and cozy and the place was not (contrary to what others have said) filled with tourists, except for us.
(4)Cory G.
The idea of this place is to have a quiet, romantic dinner, for two, and to leave within an hour. Sounds sweet but... don't go in here if there is a table of 6 people squeezed into the little space and expect to have a romantic night of it! This place is not about the food as the meals all taste like they are from the frozen food isle from the Price Chopper. It's the ambience! And if the place has 5 or 6 tourists sitting around one table yammering on and you're smashed against the wall in the other corner and your wasting your time and money. I like this place. I like what the idea is behind it but while they try to accommodate larger parties it leaves very little ambience for anyone else.
(3)Penny W.
So glad we found this place. We were in town for NY Marathon weekend. We wanted something quiet and with good food. This place was a lot of fun. We ate at Hourglass Tavern which is on the bottom floor of the brownstone. There were seven tables and one waiter. The waiter was friendly and helpful. We were not rushed at all. We had fun watching the chef deliver all the food for our floor and the two above out of a kitchen the size of a shoebox. The food was OK, but the wine and service were great. We'll be back the next time we are in NYC.
(4)Lauren B.
I gave this place 4 stars even though it probably should only get 3 in terms of food. The extra star was for the kind staff. My boyfriend and I used to go here from time to time when he lived right on 46th. The food was alright. Its like stuff my mom would make at home. But with most of the meals they give you a retarded amount of grub. A loaf of bread, appetizers, salad, entree, and dessert/coffee. Plus the wine list is decent with good prices. The thing I loved the most about this place though was the decor. 3 floors in an old brownstone apt, which felt like you were eating in your aunt's living room. So cute. Super friendly staff. Try it.
(4)Lindsay F.
how this restaurant had 4 stars when i was looking for a place to dine before "In the Heights" last night is beyond me. B.E.Y.O.N.D. ME. The establishment itself was charming and small, so i felt comfortable walking in expecting decent food. to say the least, the place was a complete tourist trap, the food was awful, and the sangria tasted like grape juice. to make matters worst, the menu is prix-fix for $21 to $25 and $17 if you want an entree a la carte. i NEVER would have paid $10 for the quality of ravioli i ordered, not to mention $17! so, my sister and i opted to split a prix-fix dinner since we weren't starving and could tell this place was a rip. then the bill came: they charged an extra $4 for a small slice of spanikopita (which would have come with the prix fix) and a $3 plate fee! i left the worst tip of my life just because of the plain absurdity that i had spent money there to begin with. a horrible pre-play destination. do yourself a favor and walk past this place.
(1)Augusto L.
M girlfriend and I went to this place for a late dinner and everything was great. The place is small but the esthetics are perfect. The exposed brick, cool decorations, and music to set the mood. The lights were dim but not so much that you could not see the person across from you. We were also lucky enough to attend when there were not a lot of people. Since it is a small restaurant, I can imagine it being a bit cramped when all of the tables are full. Food: Pork Dish with Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus - The curry sauce was just the right sweetness with a bit of a spicy kick, the pork was soft and moist and the mashed potatoes were just the right consistency! Soup: Homemade Chicken Soup - This was perfect for the cold weather we were battling that night. The broth was very tasty and there was just the right amount of chicken and vegetables in the soup. Bread - Awesome, no other word for it. It was soft, warm, and tasted so damn good! If your a fan of bread, ask the waitress to keep it coming!!! Rib Eye Steak 10 oz with Mashed Potatoes & Asparagus - The steak was ordered medium and that;s exactly how it was served. The meat was tender and super juicy, The potatoes, again, perfect consistency. Asparagus at first appeared to be undercooked but after the first bite, I realized it was perfect! 3 Dollar Sangrias! - One review said that they tasted like grape juice but let me assure you that this was not the case when we went. The Sangria was tasty and had a nice kick. After about 3.5, I was feeling pretty dang good and this is coming from a person that usually has two shots in his hands. My girlfriend is a bit of lightweight and she was feeling very good after the second round. For 3 dollars, you need to give them a shot! Shrimp - The night we went they actually had a special on the Rib Eye plate and you also received a side of 3 large shrimp and dinner for $33! Well the shrimp were very tasty. The lemon seasoning exploded in your mouth and they were cooked to perfection. Dessert - Cobbler - The fruit and crust pieces tasted amazing! The cream was a nice touch but if I had to pick at something about this dish, I would suggest that it be served with ice cream. That would have completed the dessert dish!!! Service - The waitress was very sweet and fast. The only gripe I had was towards the end of the dinner, she seemed a bit pre-occupied with her cell phone and then disappeared for a bit upstairs. I had to ask her for the check. I'll be nice and not knock off a star for such a little thing. Overall, I would highly recommend this place. The entire night ended up costing about $85, not including the tip. That got us 2 main courses, dessert, 6 Sangrias, a small appetizer, and soup. I am rather new to NYC, but I would have to say this was one of the more reasonably priced places that I have been to, I enjoyed the environment, got a nice buzz, and left nice and full!
(5)Aileen M.
What a wonderful little gem in the midst of all the Broadway chaos! Best 5$ I've ever spent on a happy hour sangria. The pastas are full of flavor and the portions are just perfect and more. Three floors of the tavern to explore, definitely cozy and intimidate. The service is friendly and welcoming, a sure "go back" for me.
(4)Katie H.
Grabbed dinner here before a show after reading the reviews and we were very happy we found it! It was intimate but not crowded on the first floor. The food was amazing and the waitress was beyond kind and had a great personality. Overall it was a great experience!
(5)David S.
We went to Hourglass on the recommendation of another friend... It definitely didn't disappoint... from answering our reservation request (same day!) via email to finding us a small table in the window, it was beautiful. We got there early due to theater... it wasn't busy. Service was great... very prompt, funny and great recommendations. The chicken and steaks were wonderful. Wines were good. We were in and out in about 1.5 hours which gave us a TON of time for the show. Thanks!
(4)Sam F.
Hidden Gem!! First of all, this is not a tavern or bar, but rather a cozy and delectable family owned restaurant. It's something between Italian, Greek and Middle-eastern. I really enjoyed the cozy 2nd floor. It felt like we were in someone's living room (probably because it used to be just that). Service was very fast, and friendly! As soon as we sat down, we had warm spinach pie type things at our table. Warm, flaky crusts, and fresh filling. Who just gives something like that away? Stick with the colorful papers in the middle of the menu (the specials), by far the best deal. You'll pay around $20 for a four course meal. You can't beat that price in the city. After the aforementioned spinach pie, I had a house salad. For my entre, I chose the blue fish, which was a bit spicy for my liking. However, I really enjoyed everything that my friends got! The lamb chops were phenomenal. Five succulent chops, done right! Both penne dishes, their names escape me, were also very tasty. Lastly, I had the tiramisu for dessert, which was much sweater than usual. We got the cheapest pinot grigio for the table, and were very happy. I'll be back, I just hope they still have the lamb.
(5)Marshall R.
Really enjoyed our pre theater dinner here. I tried the spinach ravioli and my wife had the Catalina shrimp and both were very good. The service was very attentive and polite. The wine was good and the cobbler for dessert was very well made. The price was very reasonable and I would dine here again.
(4)Samantha K.
Found this place to have dinner with my siblings and cousins the other night. it was definitely not what we were expecting when we walked in, and felt like we were in another city or country. We were on the third floor and after 7:00 the place was empty and they had a music playlist playing Dean Martin and Copa Cabana on repeat. Having said that, the menu is extensive, food was great and not too pricey! I had the grilled cheese on Rosemary bread and my brother in law had the grilled chicken which was amazing!
(4)Dana S.
Tiny, tiny little place. We went only for dessert and got great service and very large glasses of wine. The desserts were decent, but not amazing. Overall it was pretty good.
(3)Cassandra S.
I hosted a private event on the third floor with just over 24 hrs. notice and my reservation was taken with no hassle and accommodations were quickly made. When I arrived, I was personally greeted by both of the owners. Our bartender was a delight and did a fantastic job. Having only visited the establishment once prior to the event, I didn't know what to expect and was ultimately blown away. The space perfectly accommodated my 35-40 guests for cocktails (I was told the 3rd floor will seat up to 25 for dinner) and set the perfect atmosphere for the gathering. With a cute bar, and tables around the outside of the room, it was a comfortable place for my guests to mingle and relax. All of my guests were very impressed and incredibly well taken care of. Hourglass Tavern is a gem nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, and I really do look forward to my next visit.
(5)Laura G.
We went to the Hourglass Tavern before a show on a Friday night based on positive Yelp reviews. It was as good as expected! We were seated right away in a cozy window seat. The bread was delicious and so was my entree- mushroom ravioli. The service was attentive and we made it to the show on time!
(4)Hazal O.
I went to second floor to bettibar. They have happy hour 5-10 pm which is awesome. Atmosphere was so nice. Almost everybody knows each other except me:)) but i had so much fun.
(5)Sarah F. H.
I came here in the winter but loved it so much that it's still worth reviewing now. This place is tiny and lovely. Great food, relaxed and competent dinner service (a prize in the theater district), unbelievably good value -- including a four-course $22.95 prix-fix from 4 to 8 pm -- and a delightful atmosphere. I made reservations but didn't need to. Although the place has only seven small tables, two of which are basically expanded windowseats, it didn't get crowded, almost certainly because despite the multiple reviews and awards posted in the windows, people must not know about it. The place is actually three floors tall. On the second floor is Betti Bar, a casually romantic spot for a pre- or post-theater drink with a disproportionately large (but proportionately sweet) bathroom. I didn't venture to the top floor. All the ravioli is home-made, and my spinach ravioli stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce was delicious and not unduly heavy. The menu boasts many sizes of food, from appetizers and entrees to "snacklettes" and "big snackage." There's also a make-your-own option for kids. I would come here with four people maximum, and I would definitely come back. In all my theater-going days, this is one of the best dining experiences I've had -- and it didn't matter, time-wise or service-wise, that my dining partner was 10 minutes late -- despite the hourglass hanging over each table, which, according to old reviews, used to limit each meal to exactly 60 minutes.
(5)Mark M.
This is my new favorite place in the Theater District. The room is small and cozy, the music is nice, the service is friendly and efficient, and the food was very good. I would have given it 5 stars if the food was amazing. It's rare to find a place that is relaxing during the pre-theater period, but this place nicely fits the bill!
(4)Denis W.
Comment dis tu "annoying French tourists" in French? because on the day I was there, the place was packed wall-to-wall with them. Came here before our saying goodbye to Rent show (just came to say goodbye..er...forget that). Was in town with the in-laws and wanted to show them a not-overpriced restaurant that was cute. After some reseach, and the suggestions found here, I decided on the Hourglass (better than going to Junior's right?). Maybe it was because of the tourists, but service was spotty and sloppy, and the seating cramped and uncomfortable. I ordered the leg of lamb, in-laws ordered sirlion, and wifey had salmon. The leg of lamb was cooked ok, and tasted pretty good, but had tough and sinewy sections. The vegetables were limp, and mashed potatoes bland. The steaks were functional, but not great. The salmon would have been good if not overcooked. Both the tiramisu and chocolate cake were too sweet, and the filling tasted artificial. Spinach pie was ok, though cold and oily. I wanted to give them a pass because we obviously caught them at a bad night, but there were too many misses. Somewhere between 2.5-3 stars. Will pay more to go to one of the other restuarants next time.
(3)Jon C.
So mom came into the city to visit and I took here here before we went out for some entertainment. This place I feel had so much potential, but similar to my tax return, left me wanting more. The appitizers we were served had no business ever leaving the kitchen, and the service was medicore even though there was only one other table to wait on. The being said, my lamb chops were possibly the best I've ever had, the were literally so tender I could cut them with my fork, "My fork?" you say, yes my fork, I too was amazed. The desert was ok, but forgettable, I may return if I was in the area, but wouldn't plan an evening around it. This place could've easily gotten 4 or 5 stars from me, but the app + bad service are two serious strikes that I can't overlook when we were practically the only ones there.
(3)Mark G.
Terrific little, and I mean little pub on Restaurant Row that's friendly, reasonably priced with real good food. Yes, it is on Restaurant Row!
(4)Amalia M.
Love this place! Many happy memories here, eating dinner after a show. Food is simple, but very good. Really friendly, family run place.
(4)M W.
Prix Fixe menu at 24.95 great value. Appetizer, salad or soup, choice of several entrees (I had v good chicken breast) plus dessert. My husband had steak off the regular menu which was very tasty. Service was extremely pleasant for NYC.
(4)Maria T.
amazing!!! the food is crazy delicious...the price is typical new york prices..wine was great...and service was awesome. The owners are the sweetest and most humble people you will ever meet. Been here a few times, considering its right across the street, but I will definitely be coming back... check out this place. Cute decor, nice service, and delicious food!
(4)Brenda P.
Went for a quick bite before a show. Food and service were very good. I had a flat iron steak, my husband the sirloin and they were great cuts cooked well. My only gripe would be that it was cramped. Many mentioned cozy, which it was; but since it's a smaller place all workers end up frantically running past your table every 2 seconds...a bit distracting and didn't make for a relaxing dinner, but a good one.
(3)Michele R.
How I loathe to write a negative review but here I go. And why? Because honestly, this put such a damper on the already rainy evening and I do want to spare some other poor shnook a dismal experience. Firstly, it feels OLD, but not in a well preserved way, in a musty odor kind of manner. Still, hope springs eternal which is why they call it hope but this was soon dashed by a piece of steak I would not feed to my neighbor's dog let alone my dinner companion. It was more fat than anything and for the first time in our dining jaunts, it was sent back! Now I am sure my fellow yelpers can rightly understand that truly dashed any chance of a satisying dining experience prior to the theatre. To top it all off, the soda was flat and we were informed by our less than happy to see us waiter, that this was just the way the soda was; sorry folks. If the guy wanted a decent tip if any and yes we did leave him one regardless,( it was the cook we really wanted to boil in oil) ; he woud have hightailed it over to corner bodega for two cans of cola and behold, we would have had at the very least a little fizz instead of a dinner that so totally fizzled out. So in short, the Hourglass Tavern is so aptly named as it felt like it was HOURS before we could say "Sayonara" and we shall NOT return. Oh, I had the lobster ravioli and to be fair, next to the steak, it was at least edible. I guess REVENGE is a dish best served cold which is what the Hourglass Tavern leaves you feeling.
(1)Steve S.
Hourglass Tavern is a restaurant row eatery with a variety of prix-fixe options for the pre-Theater crowd. In fact, there were so many options on the menu that it made ordering a quite difficult. We enjoyed the homey feel of being able to eat right in the kitchen. The service, however, was slow and the food was simply not that good. I ordered the steak from the prix fixe. It was serviceable but had no flavor. My friend was similarly not impressed by the soft-shell crab. We ordered a bottle of wine (don't remember what it was) for $17 and it was almost undrinkable. I'm giving it three stars because the food was not terrible, but just nothing to write home about. In short, there are better choices along restaurant row for pre-Theater dining.
(3)Gretchen W.
I can't say enough good about this restaurant. It's perfect for anyone going to the theater. The owners are usually there and are friendly and casual. Food was great; reasonably priced. They are open until the wee hours so you can make reservations to go for dinner or drinks after the theater also. The spinach ravioli is fantastic!
(4)Michael J.
One of my favorite local spots for drinks and socializing. The food is decent and the atmosphere is fun yet intimate.
(5)Karisa G.
I thought I loved this place before I even arrived. However I was greatly disappointed. I could have cooked and seasoned the food better myself, I got shrimp and scallops Aka fishy tasting over cooked crap. The broccoli that it came with was raw and unseasoned. My boyfriend got the pork which was tiny and dried up over gross mashed. Our bill came to $ 42...$7 for iced tea and a sprite. I couldn't be too mad b/c of the nice waitress and cozyness of the place. But I am still very disappointed at the waste of money this meal was.
(2)Lawrence F.
I have been going to the Hourglass Tavern for years but I will never eat there again. I went last evening with a dear friend prior to seeing a Broadway show and there was only seating at the upstairs bar (no problem there). We sat down and there was a VERY LOUD and drunk group of 3 ( 2 girls and one guy) kids there. We asked them very kindly if they could lower their voices. This only stirred their intoxicated brains and they began to bang on the tables and became even more boisterous. The staff there was simply clueless. Other patrons were also very agitated with their behavior. Before anyone got hurt (and it wasn't going to be me) we decided to leave. As we were leaving they once again started banging on the tables like neanderthals. As we walked out we came across more kids who too were drunk (6pm), it was a pathetic site. Restaurant Row has indeed gone down-hill. I cannot eat in an establishment that cannot control or do something about drunkard patrons.
(1)Nobody M.
Nothing here was bad...the food, the service, the cute little rooms-all of it was good, but I wasn't blown away by anything. If your typical meals consist of Olive Garden, Red Lobster and/or other chain restaurants, cruise buffets or church potlucks, you'll be blown away by the food here. But if you're a bit more discretionary, you might be a little disappointed. Hourglass' menu consisted of a lot of "specials" which were each xerox'd hand-written full page descriptions....it was a little irritating shifting through a half a ream of colored paper. I'm sure it's all part of their system, but it was jankey. If I lived around here, it might be a place I'd frequent due to the reasonable prices and lack of tourists, but when you only have a few days in NYC, consider a few more options first.
(3)charley s.
Pedestrian food. Passed off a brand X drink for a Baileys. Seated pre - theatre Sat. nite table for 2 in second floor room with group of 12 including young children. Granny put out because no chocolate milk. Must have thought it was Chucky Cheese. If for low prices would be a 2 not a 3. Overall meh.
(3)Whitney W.
We stopped by for dessert and drinks. The food was really good! We got a chocolate cake and a pear apple pie. It had a more homemade touch rather then fancy shmancy. It isn't up at the professional level cooking, but still very good. I LOVE the atmosphere here. The woman who served us had a nice quirky personality rather then just strait up business. She treats her customers like long time friends. Very Refreshing.
(4)Foster K.
I brought my parents to the famed "Restaurant Row" hoping to find a place that didn't gouge out-of-towners, and thankfully we chose the Hourglass Tavern. The restaurant is really cozy, lots of dark wood and we practically climbed over tables to get to our spot in a corner on the second floor. This was a good thing - it really reminded me of restaurants in Montmartre. We ordered a bottle of wine, and then each of us chose one of the seemingly endless meal choices. I had lobster ravioli (they just don't make it on the left coast!), and Mam and Dad had trout and lamb. Let's not forget that these included soup or salad, dessert, and coffee! All the entrees were great, and Mam said that the Tiramisu was the BEST she'd ever had. This is no small feat - my Mother has turned over every rock in Boston's Little Italy looking for the best Tiramisu, so she knows what she's talking about! As if the food wasn't shockingly good enough, the bill came to a grand total of $78! What a deal! I'd say it's likely we'll be back here!!
(5)Mary Beth K.
Great little restaurant & bar on Restaurant Row. All homemade pasta & wonderful wait staff. I had the Lobster Ravioli, my husband has the Chicken Alfredo & my niece had the Spinach Ravioli. I liked the Alfredo best because it had a bite to it. Make sure to make a reservation as I think there are only 4 tables in the whole spot! We will be back.
(4)Caitlyn S.
It's small. Like tiny hallway small, but unless you have a ton of people with you I wouldn't let that stop you from hitting up Hourglass late night! They have a few different rooms and we happened to be in the main bar area most of the time. We had a blast. The event planner even gave me a tour of the private bar room where a certain celeb was hanging out at the time. It was a really cool place and the bartenders and rest of the staff were so accommodating. I can't wait to go back when I'm in town!
(5)Richard H.
OK, it's not bad. It's a tiny, charming place with prompt, friendly service. But it really does taste like something you could make at home. I am not convinced that was fresh broccoli, and was that Vigo Spanish rice?
(2)Martin D.
This place was not our first choice, but it turned out to be a great one. Although Maria, the waitress who seems to know every patron by first name is extremely friendly, she is a tad bit slow. This sub-par service did not hinder the outstanding food this fine establishment offers. Open well over 10 years, they have daily specials that include appetizer, dessert, etc. I had the fettuccini with olive oil, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and smoked gouda. This dish is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. My dessert was a flourless chocolate cake that was also over the top. I almost forgot the sangria. At $3 a glass, this stuff was world class. Although there are 1000 restaurants within a couple blocks, this would be a good choice for anyone! Enjoy.
(4)Scott R.
Solid choice for pre-show with good prices and food. Pre fix gets you wide selection of entree with vege spanikopte (sp?) and salad or soup. We had lobster raviolli (rich, creamy, filled with real lobster) and salmon with mashed potatoes (delicious, homemade and buttery). Desert was limited but a wonderful chocalate biscotti freshly made (actually our server said she prepared it!). Prompt service, they are sensitive to getting you out for your show.
(3)Court W.
The tiny restaurant on the ground floor is lovely, but a bit boisterous and crowded, especially with the pre-theater crowd. Upstairs is a GEM of a quiet bar, something all too rare in the midtown Theater District. The place is spotless and the service fantastic. Always calm, kind, respectful, friendly, funny, and courteous. The bar only has a few tables. There is a nice selection of wine, all affordably priced. There is a tasty bar menu, but the full restaurant menu is also available. A great place to meet friends for a quiet drink after work. Love it!
(5)Ama B.
Great food and drinks!! The bar staff/owners are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Go for food and drinks before a show, after, or even better when the shows are on and you won't have to share the attention of the staff with anyone. Love it!!! Short ribs to die for!
(5)MS K.
One of my favorite cities is NYC. I enjoy the diversity. The interior design of this restaurant looks like my grandma's living room. Seriously, as soon as I walked in, I felt like my grandma would be cooking in the kitchen. Very old-fashioned cozy. The homemade bread is fantastic. I remember having seafood pasta that I liked. The restaurant has got two floors but tables and chairs were close together so I felt I was actually sitting on the neighbors table. I really liked the Polish waitress. She was so nice and friendly. I'd like to go back next time when I visit.
(5)Russ L.
Small and cozy but great food and good service. So many choices on the menu, and great wine deals. If you are looking to change it up a bit and try something fun and interesting this place is for you. If you are a rich snob then stay at your phony overpriced restaurants on the east side.
(4)Billy A.
It's like eating at my grandparents, if my grandparents were sort of Italian-Greek, loved cooking and hosting, made everything from scratch, doted on us at the table, insisted on serving dessert, and were happy to see us come and sad to see us leave. A pleasure to eat here.
(5)Stacy T.
The service is amazing and the food is even better. This place is terrific, the owners are also truly amazing.. I have been to Hourglass Tavern several times for dinner and I love it more every time. We also had a private party there and they did such an amazing job with the set up, food and service.. I suggest everyone go there and try this amazing restaurant.
(5)Citizen Cliff G.
Was walking around looking for a drink before a play, and the waitress vigorously waved us in. We looked at each other, looked at her, she waved some more, we shrugged and went in. The bar was upstairs -- kinda odd and intriguing. Funny little space, the patrons were real Broadway types, singing show tunes, discussing shows, etc. My wife had a piece of cake brought out and everyone sang Happy Birthday (really well and very animated). We had a blast and went back after the show.
(4)victoria o.
No matter when you go to the Hourglass Tavern, your bound to have a great experience. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Business are run from the Top down, and this one is Tops!! GO to the Hourglass and enjoy your experience, your belly will!
(5)anni b.
Great place to eat while in midtown, among so many mediocre choices along restaurant row. Very homey, almost cluttered atmosphere, very old fashioned - kind of like eating dinner in your British grandmother's apartment, 50 years ago. Although I believe the owners are Greek. The food is nothing fancy, but very good and fresh. Entrees are generally choice of meat or fish, with potato and veg. Also, kind of like your Grandma just cooked you dinner. And it's a great deal - appetizer, entree, and dessert for a set price; somewhere between $18-22 (plus tax and tip). Adding to the experience is the kindly worded, shoddily constructed, always changing handwritten menu. Truly one of the only real mom-and-pop type places left in Midtown. Worth a visit or two.
(4)michael k.
great small restaurant vibe. i just came for drinks and dessert but the woman waiting on the tables on the ground floor restaurant was the perfect combination of attentive and non-existent. she took our order and checked in with us from time to time but didn't hound us to get more drinks or get us to wrap up and leave. perfect for conversation to take place. my friend and i easily were there for 2+ hours. there is a cool looking upstairs bar too but only saw it while heading into the restroom. definitely worth going back to.
(4)Antonella P.
True the atmosphere is homey but the food is very mundane. We had steak and halibut to find both quite boring. The pinot noir, boring, the pre-meal spinach filo pie, boring and the tiramisu, yea - boring. Spending $70 for 2 people and you can do much, much better elsewhere.
(2)John F.
We were taken to this Litte Restaurant by a friend while visiting New York. What a deal! Three course meal (I had first-rate fish) with an extra complimentary appetizer for $18. Friendly and polite service and very near theaters.
(5)Joe Y.
Great service, excellent seating outside and nice history. I ordered the Bourbon Braised Short Ribs and have to say they were overcooked however the traditional spanikopita was amazing. Overall a good experience.
(3)Don T.
Fantastic service, fantastic food and fantastic atmosphere. I've been here for brunch and dinner and both times were great. The food offerings on both menus were delicious and the portions are generous! Stop into the Bettibar before or after a show and enjoy great friendly service! It's a great place to meet up with your friends and enjoy some excellently poured cocktails!
(5)Shandar E.
I went here for Brunch and was not disappointed. Service was great and the food was delicious. I will definitely come here again for brunch and even happy hour. A nice little neighborhood gem. Overall experience was great!!!
(4)Steve A.
On average, decidedly competent. I brought my family here on a Monday evening. When we arrived at 6:30, we had the 1st floor to ourselves, though others eventually showed up. Service was unquestionably the bright spot. Their claim to fame is an entire meal in under an hour, and they certainly delivered. The waitress was very patient as we slowly pored over the options and assembled our decisions. She stayed attentive throughout the meal and didn't show the least bit of frustration or unhappiness. The atmosphere - typical NY cramped. It's shoehorned in the bottom of an old, narrow multi-story house. The first floor isn't even 10 feet wide. We didn't explore the upper floors, where there may be more space, but my family wasn't interested in the bar and was not going to be climbing up to the 3rd floor if not necessary. Food was hit or miss. I ultimately landed with the short ribs, which were absolutely superb quality. The "twice buttered" mashed potatoes were nothing special, though. No gravy; I mistakenly tried to use salad dressing instead, since I figured there had to be a cup of _something_ on the table. Vegetable was uninspiring asparagus, not even the narrow tender kind. My mom had the spinach ravioli, which she said were understuffed with an overabundance of marinara sauce. (Excellent sauce, though.) My father's grilled cheese was really just "cheeses on a large hunk of bread", and between the giant dinner roll (serves 4) and his bread, Hourglass needs to improve its baking skills. However, my mom's extra marinara sauce turned the grilled cheese from subpar to extraordinary. We recommended to the waitress that it come with a side of the sauce, and she immediately told the chef. Good service, right? Finally, my sister had crab cakes, and was underwhelmed, though I pointed out that it's unfair to compare anything outside Maryland to anything served therein. I thought they were just fine. Desserts - Berry cobbler was fairly good, just blueberries and apples, something I could make myself. My sister had tira misu cake, which she said was too dense/creamy. I think that's in line with other reviews I've read. The interesting intrigue to this place is that you can order gourmet dishes for less than gourmet prices. That said, you need to order carefully to get the gourmet quality. Short ribs, yes. Flourless or lava cakes, maybe. Some of these dishes need work. But if they're truly open to improvement like it seems, then they're worth a look, just a short distance from the theater district and superior to all the chains and tourist traps.
(3)Pooja C.
Came here for brunch on a Sunday. It's a very small place but apparently they have upstairs seating, as well. We sat outside to enjoy the weather. The service was good despite the place being pretty busy. To start, they give you some small complementary berry muffins with butter; they're really good. I had the Cinnamon Strongman Coffee with Whiskey which was excellent. I had asked if I could get it iced since it was so warm outside, but they ended up not being able to do it. As compensation, we were given a free bloody Mary so that was really nice. We shared the Mexicali Omelet which was simple (filled with cheese, spinach, and topped with tomatillo salsa) yet balanced all the flavors really nicely and wasn't overly filling to where we felt like we were in a food coma afterwards. The roasted potatoes that came with it were delicious; perfectly seasoned. Overall, it was a good experience and we'll definitely be back to try more.
(4)Christina V.
Did a great job seating our party of 7 quickly, neat old decor on the third floor. Delicious food, we all enjoyed! They did a great job accommodating my food allergies. Thanks!
(5)Peter R.
We dined on a Wednesday at 6pm before a show. We had reservations so had no problem getting seated. The food was very good. I had the lamb shank with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach, which was on special. It was delicious. My fiancé had a salad with a filet of salmon. She said the fish was cooked perfectly and "good for salmon." We had a bottle of Rodney strong cabarnet, which was an acceptable non-descript crowd-pleaser for a reasonable price ($60). The service was excellent. Friendly and attentive staff.
(4)Igor K.
Great happy hours and very cozy. The only problem is - it might be hard to find a table, but the place is great.
(5)Heather S.
Disclaimer: This review is for Betti Bar - not Hourglass Tavern itself. --- I came to Betti Bar around 9 on a recent Saturday night and the tight quarters were already pretty crowded. My group of 6 (which later turned into 9) lucked out when a table near the windows opened up. The bartenders were incredibly friendly - which was certainly a breath of fresh air. They helped me navigate the bourbon choices and did so with genuine interest. More and more I find good service to be a rare commodity in NYC bars, so this gave me more of a buzz than the very affordable sauv blanc. We wound up camping out til nearly closing time because we enjoyed the atmosphere so much. The crowd seemed to be all locals and everyone was cordial - despite the occasional accidental bump. In the end the bill, while long, did not pain me as much as the last shot of the night. So happy Yelpers steered me here and I'm looking forward to coming back!
(5)Brandon G.
This review is for Betti Bar the upstairs bar to the restaurant. Rapidly becoming my midtown happy hour spot! I'm pretty sure this place can be considered a speakeasy, it has nice vibe, a great bartender (this awesome girl with purple hair), and best of all a 10 PM happy hour!! That's how I found this place by searching late happy hours. It's a pretty standard happy hour of $5 wells, wine, and beer, the also have an $8 mystery beer and shot. I went on a Friday night which was the most packed I've ever seen it,which by NYC standards coulda considered dead, all the chairs were full except for one and I had two other friends coming, but people were moving and leaving at a good rate, I think a lot of people come here for pre theater drinks. I haven't tried the food yet, but I, not rushing to, it seems pretty pricey for food I'm never in the mood for,but in looks good when other people get it. Def going back!
(4)greg w.
Had the Mexicali omelette and it was very good. Cute atmosphere and excellent service. We sat next to a noisy group of tourists that seemed to be having a good time and all enjoyed the food. Not the largest portions and a little pricey for brunch. I want to come back to dinner very soon.
(5)Toni F.
We went to Hourglass before a show in Times Square based on the decent reviews on Yelp. It was a beautiful night so we sat in one of the two tables that have on the sidewalk outside. Our server was nice and promptly took our order for a light dinner and a few beverages. The cocktails were good and the soups, salads and sandwiches we ordered were decent too. I ordered a Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Sandwich - it was ok but really nothing more than under-grilled (almost raw) hunks of zucchini with a schmear of soft goat cheese on a crusty roll. The sandwich might have been better if the zucchini were sliced thinner and grilled a bit more. I think there are quite a few options in this area they call "restaurant row" so I'd probably try another spot before I'd return to Hourglass.
(3)Natalie O.
Food was delicious, but the service was a bit odd. It was a slow night, yet we found ourselves essentially abandoned at our table for about half an hour, with no staff in sight. It turned out the waitress had gotten "distracted" talking to some customers outside.
(3)Tavo P.
The food was excellent, perfectly-sized portions. We had the spinach ravioli, steak and then the no-flour chocolate cake and it was all excellent. Our server was so friendly it was spooky and he even spoke Spanish for us(we're from Mexico)!!! The space is very small, but it was a perfect chill place for an after-theater dinner. Highly recommend!!!
(5)Tarik M.
We pre-booked a table (with Open Table) for our pre-show dinner when we visited NYC. We were greeted buy a friendly Jamaican guy outside, who took us inside were we immediately shown to our table on the third floor. The place is a little quirky, but that adds to the experience. The staff were all very attentive, the food was great and the atmosphere was upbeat throughout....the sound of people having a good time!!
(5)Melanie M.
such a great spot with the BEST service. the Bartender who works on Tuesdays is incredible. It seems like a hole in the wall but this place has character and incredible food.
(5)Ryan P.
Came here for brunch and ordered the Hourglass Blueberry Belgian Waffle. These were the BEST restaurant Belgian waffles I have ever had. Perfectly textured and tasty since whole blueberries are within it. Four waffles come with the order. The fruit cup was watermelon, which was in season. Amazing, friendly, and attentive staff. I would definitely come back again for these waffles.
(5)Adam G.
This place is so cool. It's a good late night spot / date night spot. It's not loud, but its still lively and intimate. The food is great and the bartenders and patrons are not pretentious. Every time I've been here I've chatted up with people nearby and with the bartenders. Prices are reasonable too.
(5)Scott F.
I spent a wonderful Christmas night here some years back. It's not as good as it was--eg salad dressing WAY too sweet, vegetable soup Blah-boring, waitress completely bored/disengaged & resentful to be working. Still steak was good & the ambience better. I just think steamed broccoli is pretty much the most uninspired boring side on the planet & a baked potato would have been infinitely better. I guess I won't be back unless they become more interested in the food. Bar upstairs has actually made things worse not better. Robert Irvine? Gordon Ramsey?
(3)Ran F.
The ribs they recommended is OVERCOOKED!!! And the crab cake sides with shrimp is salty... However their home baked bread is worth to try although it's free of charge. I think it should be a nice place to have a drink with friends instead of having dinner.
(3)Mathew T.
Been coming here for awhile now and it is my go to spot pre theater and after. The second floor cocktail lounge is fantastic, always a good vibe and great service. The food is always on point, the crab legs are an absolute must when they are on special.
(5)Kam T.
Went to dinner before a show. Found it on yelp. What a great find! Historic & cozy location, friendly service, good food & reasonable prices. Definitely going back.
(4)Magnolia S.
I love this place. It's super cute - set up like an apartment complex kinda. My brunch was delicious and so were my bloody Marty's. I had the potato pancake smoked salmon brunch entree and the poached egg crab cake one ( both shared ) and it was delicious. We also had a side of cheesy grits. It was amazing!
(5)Jim B.
If you're in Midtown for a show (or really anything for that matter) you might want to check this place out. Well, that is if you like good food (if you don't like good food then read no further). In a city were one could eat out every day and possible not ever eat at the same place twice I'd strongly consider going here again. Although the restaurant was a little cramped the food was mostly outstanding. I started off with the Roasted Beet Salad. It was mostly just beets, and although they threw in some goat cheese and pine nuts the beets overpowered everything else. But then I had the Penne Mascarpone and I forgot all about those beets! That dish had chunks of sausage and gorgonzola in a medium thick marinara cream sauce. It was filling and delicious. I also tried the Bourbon Braised Short Beef Ribs and I would recommend both. Two thumbs way up.
(4)K G.
A group of us stayed at a nearby AirBnB for a week. Ate here 3 times!! With so many fine restaurants in NYC -- this says a lot! Everyone was so pleased with their food. Their shrimp dishes are devine! Great salads & a pasta with spicy sausage & blue cheese was fabulous. Go fresh cobbler ala mode over the tiramisu if you have room for dessert. The venue has a lot of character, and the outdoor seating allowed for lots of people watching. Very impressed by the wait staff as well - all very attentive & personable. Highly recommend this place!
(5)Zeenath S.
This is the perfect place to go if: 1. You want to wait 40 minutes for fried eggs and lukewarm hash 2. You want to wait 25 minutes for drinks, most of which aren't what you ordered. 3. Bread and fruit are part of your brunch, but they never bring you fruit and when you ask for bread they tell you they are "out". When you are leaving you see they have more and you ask for some (because its included) and they refuse to give you any. 4. You seem the waitress yelling at a customer because he's asking why his breakfast was ordered 40 minutes ago and still hasn't arrived. 5. Your asparagus is almost raw, while your friend's is overcooked to the point where you don't need to chew it at all.
(1)K S.
For starters, the staff rocks. Everyone was super friendly and awesome. We were waiting for a table for 8 ppl and while we waited for the previous occupants to wrap up, we enjoyed the super cute bar on the 2nd floor. A few folks (manager?, waiter, another manager?) kept us updated on the table status and made sure we were doing ok- seeing if we were in a rush and if they should push them along. We were enjoying ourselves so it was all good. The bartender was sweet and made great drinks. Our waiter was friendly and fun. Oh, and the food was yummy (big pillow of warm bread, lobster ravioli, beet salad, mashed potatoes). Ambiance is cool with funky decor (obviously hourglasses, also random instruments) and the friendly staff set the tone all around for a great vibe throughout. And if you're cold- sit on the bench on the 3rd floor. You'll sweat. Figuring out how to manage this is the only somewhat negative thing I have to say. I'm sure they try and its the only way to heat the whole bldg of this old, great place. I'll deal :)
(5)Amanda A.
The wife and I yelped to find a place to go before a show. Came across this little gem. It was really funky with the three floors and the food was good and the service was great. There was one woman who ran the small top floor. She was attentive and very nice. She noticed our table wasn't sturdy and without us even saying anything bent down to fix it. I love when I don't have to ask for things to be corrected. Having some one just do it, is for me great customer service. I had the Penne Mascarpone. It was SO good. Portion was large, couldn't finish it. The sauce was yummy and walnuts on it were a fun touch. Wife had lobster ravioli. She said it was great too. I was able to try a bite and it was very good. There were large chunks of lobster through out. The bread was delicious and the wine wasn't too expensive for a nice bottle. All in all we would recommend this place and also go back again. The 4 stars is because the food took longer than expected. Being we ordered pasta dishes and people who ordered after us were served before, was strange.
(4)Jenn A.
Review for Betti Bar - Awesome!!! It's upstairs from the Tavern/restaurant. It's small, cozy, and super cool. The waitress was incredibly friendly and chill - almost made me feel like she was my new gal-pal! But obviously not. We chatted up a few other patrons and all were friendly. The drinks were good! The food was not so good. We ordered the grilled cheese with the side of mashed potatoes. Bland on both - just no flavor. So - if come here for the drinks, vibe, and service (and not for the food), you will be happy!
(4)Hannah M.
We came here for brunch at 12:30, it took an hour and a half to get our food. Service was awful, frankie took 4 orders at a time for a party of 12. We had to go back up to the bar twice for our drinks. Our food all came out at different times- it was awful. He was absolutely so rude, he told us he only had two hands and was super rude. I do have to say after the experience with the server, the owner of the restaurant was very kind. She was apologetic and took good care of us. Thank you Beth, I do apologize for not completing my prior review.
(3)Mitch E.
This review is for Betti Bar, located right above the Hourglass Tavern, on the second floor: You ever been in the scenario where It's 7:55 and you want to grab another drink. Happy Hour ends in five minutes. YOU NEED TO GET A DRINK, ORDER SOMETHING OFF THE MENU AND DO IT FAST. You break away from your friend who is telling you some awful story about how they got fired, blah blah blah. Then that guy you don't really know but acts like your best friend gets in your way. Hell bent on desire (and frustration for this weirdo) you throw him out of the way, nicely as possible of course. You then have the bar drunk fall towards you and you quickly cartwheel out of the way. (Catching him would only be enabling his drinking problem) You get to the bar and it's 6:57. Plenty of time to order your drink and some awesome nachos. Oh No! Some yuppie is asking questions to the bartender about the wine. DAMN YOU YUPPIE! Now it's 7:01, you order your drink at full price! At Betti Bar you don't have to worry about such things because Happy Hour last till 10 o'clock every night of the week! (Plus it's not that large so, all those things probably couldn't happen in such a small place. But you got the idea) Located right above Hourglass Tavern on the second floor, Betti Bar is a great spot in Hell's kitchen for some drinks. Maybe you have a show to see later, meeting a friend on the west side of town or just in the mood to get your drink on, whatever the case, good inexpensive drinks happen here. As mentioned, it's not the largest so if you get here and it's packed, you're out of luck. There really isn't standing room, so unless you get one of the booths or a seat at the bar you should probably try another night. I can't say I have ever eaten here, but the last time I was here some gentleman got a pasta dish at the bar. It smelled amazing! So it does tempt me to try the food here in the future, as opposed to drinking beer out of a brown paper bag. (Yes, that happens here) Come by and enjoy this small hidden gem. Just don't ruin it by blabbing about it to everyone...... wait........
(4)Julie S.
Haven't been here for a while. But went July 5th and was seated on the first floor. The dinner we both had was great. And this is just a cute place with a lot of New York City flavor inside and on your plate.
(4)Ann Y.
This place is absolutely worth the cringe-worthy hellish seizure-inducing but inevitable walk through Times Square area to get to Hell's Kitchen. Cute and cozy, very attentive service and lovely retro Theatre district decor. The 3 bloody Mary or mimosa brunch deal is definitely worth it, and their baked treats (churros, biscuits, etc) to snack on before your meal is a lovely touch and were incredibly delicious. My crab cake eggs Benedict was delicious and worth the price. A solid and underrated midtown brunch option
(4)Andrew D.
I've eaten here before and the food was pretty good but tonight we had a reservation for 4 people at 6:30. The man at the door was so off putting that we decided to go elsewhere. We show up at 6:20 and on our way in are "greeted" by a man who asks if he can help us. We had no idea he was working there and he wasn't helpful at all. Quite honestly he was a little bit creepy. The waitress inside asked us to wait at the bar upstairs until 6:30 and then come back down... Which I can understand but it seemed like there wouldn't have been a place to put us anyway. And we shouldn't have to come back down, if we sit at your bar you should come get us when a table is ready. The next person to walk up was "greeted" by this man and she said: oh, do you work here? His response: "sometimes". She asked: Are tables available? He says: well they're pretty full and no one is leaving. She asks: can we put our name down? His response: well I guess you could. Not sure who decided to put him at the door but he waits until you walk up and stands there and then asks if he can help but is really no help at all. Seems like he not even sure if where he is. We decided to leave because we felt uncomfortable.
(1)Shawn P.
We found the Hourglass Tavern on Yelp and I am glad we did. The service, food, and drinks were great and the second floor bar looked like a fun spot. I would recommend stopping in here to anyone looking for a bite to eat in Hells Kitchen! The only problem one might have is seating. It is rather small but at 6pm on a Saturday we were seated immediately at an outside table which was exactly what we wanted.
(5)Katherine R.
The beet salad is so yummy. The rest was average. We had the NY strip and the albondigas.
(3)Vanesha P.
We both wanted brunch food and were not disappointed - we got the mexicali omelet and the eggs & short rib hash, throw in 2 $5 bloody marys and it was awesome. I don't remember our servers name but he was super super sweet and really a great server all around. Would definitely come back!
(5)Katie A.
This is a small place and is a little tight inside but the food was delicious and the service was exceptionally good. We went for brunch, without reservations and only had to wait a couple minutes for a table.
(4)Pam L.
Great for happy hour and snacks. We went right after work on a Thursday. Great bartender on the second floor, cool atmosphere, great beer selection. I recommend the sliders.
(5)Shannon B.
One of my favorite places to grab a drink and grab a bite after work, before a show or just any old time! Mike and Sean and Megan are all excellent bartenders and super friendly! I love their regular of the day concept and the overall neighborhood bar feel of this place in touristy Hell's Kitchen. Their drinks are tasty and their food is really delicious! Some of my faves: Beet Salad, Crab Cake, Cheese & Fruit Plate, Pan Seared Salmon Filet, Grilled 3 Cheese and their Mashed Potatoes. Also, they had a pumpkin ravioli special last week that literally brought tears to my eyes.
(5)Matt G.
Good place to meet for a glass of wine and a bite to eat. In a bustling neighborhood but offers a nice ambience. Good wine selection, service, and reasonable prices.
(5)Kevin W.
Solid and quaint little tavern right in the heart of restaurant row. I was surprised I never checked this place out given how close I lived to the restaurant. There is a lovely speakeasy-like bar upstairs that I will most definitely try out in the future. My experience here was generally very positive. The folks here are all very friendly and they were able to accommodate us without reservations on what was a very busy Valentine's evening for them. The ambiance is very warm and romantic. It's a great place to enjoy a meal in a spirited but charming atmosphere. The waiters here were all very friendly, although they were extremely busy and were often running up and down several flights of stairs to bring food up and drinks down from the bar. Despite that we found we didn't wait that long for our food and wine. The food itself was decent. I opted for the usual pre-theater set dinner. The salad was fresh and the house dressing had a nice fruity tang to it. The shrimp fra diavlo was decent though I felt there was too much sauce and it was slightly watered down. The apple/blueberry cobbler dessert was not bad and worked well with the whipped cream. All in all if you're looking for some comfort food in a quaint setting before heading to a Broadway show, this is not a bad place to consider. I enjoyed the overall experience and would go back there again in the future.
(4)Michele C.
Excellent service and incredible fare. Our waitress was extremely attentive and never missed a beat. It was particularly impressive because the place was extremely busy. the atmosphere of the staff was warm and friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious from the initial chips and salsa to the very tasty dessert. The prices are decent. Try the Brooklyn Flower. Delicious drink!
(5)Amanda P.
Stopped in after a matinee & so glad we did! Sat upstairs with Toby & took advantage of the reverse HH. The Albondingas and wine were just what we needed to get back to the room. Great end to our day!
(5)Emily R.
I came here this weekend for dinner, our reservation was early, around 5 because we had plans right after. We ate on the 3rd floor, it was so cozy (literally small but very intimate) they have candles on the tables, it has an antique feel, into it. We got bread to start- carbs = win We shared a salad- the dressing was so good I have no idea what it was but I was dipping the bread in it I had lobster ravioli and my boy had bolognese- both were so yummy! My favorite part was the food came quickly, and was portioned well. Just enough food, we both didn't finish and were stuffed, but not an obnoxious amount (you know when you get so much food you are like WHOA) We had tiramisu (sp?) to finish and it was delicious! Also had a bottle of wine Our server was so great, funny, attentive, and personable ! No lie, we did all this in just over an hour. We didn't feel rushed and we sat and chatted throughout and inbetween courses. Had a wonderful time here! (and our bill was about $70 for two of us..with the wine...)
(5)Hao L.
Cozy little spot to have brunch before a matinee show. I had the eggs with braised short rib hash - delicious. Came with asparagus & watermelon. Also, $5 cocktails (mimosas, Bloody Mary, etc.) - cheapest drinks I've come across so far. Service was great. Highly recommend.
(5)Jen A.
Great, friendly service and delicious food! This is a great place to eat if you have a show but don't want to eat at the crappy, touristy restaurants in Times Square. Nice wine, as well.
(4)Bobby M.
I live in Hell's Kitchen, blocks away from some of the best hidden gem restaurants in New York. The Hourglass Tavern is hands down, my favorite. As a Hell's Kitchen resident, I have my pick of scores of fantastic restaurants. The Hourglass is hands down my favorite. And although I've been there so often that I've practically memorized the menu, last week I decided to mix it up and order something outside of my usual (the short ribs - best in the city). Last week, I had the Lobster Ravioli and my friend had the Pecan Crusted Tilapia for the first time. Both dishes were cooked to order (it's a tiny place - no assembly line kitchen). Both meals were superb. The staff treats you like family. Stop in and say hi to owners Beth and Josh. You'll be back. I guarantee it.
(5)Jeannie L.
Amazing food! Went with a party of 3 tried the steak, chicken, and shrimp and we all finished our plates.. must say this was the first time I ever had chicken at a restaurant which was soo moist. Same goes with the steak! Cooked perfectly, soo tender and yummy. Shrimp was great, flavorful! Great spices. Had a salad and the dressing was great!! The place is small but cozy and great food! Highly recommend!
(5)Tianna H.
Ok, so the third floor is a great spot. Quiet, great music soundtrack, chill vibe. Dig it. We went after a show based on the yelp reviews and ordered the lobster ravioli in vodka tomato cream sauce (hurzband) and I had the mushroom ravioli in Marsala jus. Hurzband loved his ravioli (which are all made in house) but I could only eat one of mine. It was salty for me and I had gastric bypass 4 months ago so 1 ravioli in the hearty portion of 4 in the pasta bowl was plenty for me since I wasn't over the moon about it anyway. Wish I had gotten the spinach ravioli instead. It's stuffed with ricotta and pesto in a marinara sauce and I think that would have been more my speed tonight. Great spot after a show, tho. They're open till midnight.
(4)Thomas F.
Food and desert was amazing and service is super friendly. Absolutely worth a sit down dinner and hang out place
(5)Curtis H.
Just an all around fantastic place to go. I have never had a bad meal here. From late night drunk snacks, to full on dinners to private dinner cooked by the owner Beth. I never drink the same thing here. Sometimes it's the brown bag special. Sometimes it's manhattan and martinis. They never disappoint. Very reasonably priced. It's also a great spot to celebrity spot and see B'way kids after their shows. It's three levels and each level has it's own style and charm.
(5)Ellen W.
Great dinner - but be warned this is a very small dining area - we were seated next to the door on a window seat (and there is no way my husband could have gotten up from his seat without having the table pulled out from the wall). Spinach ravioli and tirimisu were excellent. My husband like his strip steak but the crab cake appetizer wasn't very good.
(4)Jesse G.
I made reservations for 4 people on a Tuesday night at 8:30. I figured we would completely miss the theater crowd, and we definitely did. However, aside from a super cool space, and the place to ourselves, everything else was really disappointing. Our poor server was about 18 years old, and didn't know what it meant to order a "well" or "house" scotch, or that a Manhattan straight up means a martini. She tried to bring a 16 year single malt to the table, since she didn't know what the house was. She couldn't tell me the cost, even with the computer right behind her. They were out of the puffs, which I suppose was our fault for not getting there earlier in the day. If you order the burger, be aware that it is served completely plain. You get bun and burger and that's it. The appetizer of meatballs came after we had finished everything else, and that was honestly the end of an ultimately boring meal. The merlot was interesting, Ca'Donini, and at $6 a glass, I felt that was the best value of the whole evening. We found out later that the Betti bar is much better, but there are too many restaurants in NY, unless the drink specials get you so wasted you don't care what you're eating. I really wanted to like you, Hourglass Tavern. Shame on you for not properly training your staff.
(2)Augie R.
If I were rating Hourglass just for the food, it would be a three-star restaurant. I was with two others, and none of us were blown away by the entrees. My Penne Bolognese was heavy and not as tasty as others I've tried. My wife's Bourbon Braised Short Ribs of beef was a lot of food but far from the best she's had--she found it a little tasteless and not the best cut of meat. Despite the somewhat disappointing food, the Hourglass is still a four-star experience. The place is intimate and cozy, loaded with old-school charm. The service was spectacular--very friendly and warm. I wouldn't hesitate to come back, but I might opt for "Snacklettes," sliders or sandwiches instead of the entrees, next time.
(4)Deidra G.
Delicious homemade ravioli! We ate in the restaurant on the bottom floor, and it was so teeny-tiney. You are practically next to the little kitchen, and it was cool to see them prepare the dishes. Our waitress was super friendly and pretty attentive. Very quaint atmosphere; we took a little tour of the second floor (bar) and third floor (overflow for restaurant). Looked like a lot of fun to hang out, but we were catching a show that night and didn't have time. Would definitely return!
(4)Danielle G.
One of my favorite restaurants in NYC! Just took my in laws for a pre theater meal and it was awesome!!!
(5)Hui C.
Cute tiny multilevel spot that is really inconspicuous - almost missed it walking past several times. Brunch is really good despite how sketchy it might originally look; would rec the blueberry waffles and the pancakes. Shrimp and grits is very meh, so avoid
(4)Sarah O.
Great place! Joe was our waiter- he was amazing. Endearing and funny and very kind. Went right before seeing Kinky Boots. Shrimp and grits is the meal to get if you're there for brunch. (I don't eat shrimp nor do I eat grits. However joe convinced me to get and it was great.) Will definitely go back.
(5)Kaytee C.
Cute place for before theatre dinner/drinks. It is what seems to be on old home (lots of wood and a quaint feel. We were in a small dining room on the third floor. One of our meals did come out completely incorrect, but they comped the meal to make up for it. The food was good and had large portions. The food/service did take a bit of time, but I think that was due to the pre-show rush and the fact that only one server was working the section doing everything from making drinks to working the register (the place is kinda of small and I don't think 2 servers could even function in the space).
(4)Vesna G.
Had brunch here on Valentine's day with my boyfriend. It's a small but cute place. We ate upstairs by the bar - I had eggs with short-rib hash and he had the chicken sandwich. Both were so delicious and the menu is unique. Also got a yummy peach bellini!
(5)Lisa F.
Alas we had such high hopes for this place after the reviews - we were seated upstairs at the bar. It was busy but not heaving. We were given water & then left to sit for 15 mins without a peep from any server, so.. We left & went across the street to bare burger where we had amazing prompt service & delicious burgers!!
(1)Seth H.
This place is a restaurant row institution. It's a little crowded, but well worth it. The four stars that I have given are for Betti Bar on the second floor and the Tavern on the first floor. I haven't been to the lounge on the third floor yet so I don't know what it's like. The cocktails are good but I usually order off the happy hour menu. Speaking of the happy hour menu, the Sangria is often a good choice. Best of all, they have a 5 hour happy hour (It's till 10PM)! I would recommend going here during the week, otherwise you can reserve a table on Opentable through yelp. It is very cozy, so don't be surprised if you want to stay and relax. This place is very LGBT friendly, which I find usually means that the bar side conversations are going to rock. Of course like most patrons of restaurant row, you may be going to a show afterwords. That said, they are experts at getting you out the door by 7:45. I hope you find this restaurant row establishment as unique and superior to its neighbors as I have.
(4)Brett W.
So much to write so I'm going see if I can boil it down. Lobster ravioli was out of this world and the chicken Alfredo was awesome. Very fresh buttery sauce but the chicken was sooo unbelievable. The flavors were amazing very tender and I love the char. However...the short rib was the show stopper. Not too many people can do a short rib. I think most place try to pass off pot roast as short rib. Even fewer cut it like they do. Across 4 ribs. Most do individual ribs. This was phenomenal. If you like short rib you need to have it here The atmosphere is awesome. Quaint 3 story and the service was great!
(5)Seyoon K.
The place was small and I was seated on the third floor. I ordered short ribs and NY strip. Both were okay but not excellent. I do not recommend wine, however.
(3)Leah G.
My boyfriend and I grabbed an early dinner here before our 7:00 showing of 'Of Mice and Men'. I know I'm reviewing the restaurant and not the show, but seriously do yourself a favor and just wait for someone to post the show on Youtube. Apart from Chris O'Dowd's stunning performance as Lenny, it was 3/5 stars in my humble opinion (and congrats on that Tony nom, Chris!). Ok yeah... where was I? OH YES the food. I made reservations for 5:15 on that Thursday night. When we got there it was obvious that I didn't need one that early in the day. We basically had a pick of the house. There are three stories to this 1893 charming little building and we went straight up the creaky stairs to the top. Let me tell you, this place is small and not too impressive from the outside, but then again what in Manhattan looks good from the outside? You don't go to a place to stare at the outside of the building. So the top floor has maybe 9 or 10 little tables in it and a quaint little bar immediately to your left as you walk in. The gentleman taking care of us pointed through the empty room to the romantic corner table for two right by the window. I admitted that I wouldn't remember his name and he admitted the same, but insured us that he would remember us by our drink orders, but this guy game the most earnest and welcoming customer service we have ever experienced. Customer service isn't the right word for it..... hospitality. Chris (I did indeed remember his name ^_^) welcomed us frightened tourists off the loud mean Manhattan streets and let us straight into his home. This guy was SERIOUSLY the epitome of NYC hospitality. So both my boyfriend and I were undecided about what we wanted to eat and drink, which can be the most I'm-about-to-slap-you-in-your-face annoying thing to ever say to a waiter, but Chris offered up his personal favorites and perfect wine pairings to go with each respective dish. I got the pork chop with cumin sauce, double-butter mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli paired with the sauvignon blanc and my boyfriend got Chris's #1 favorite, mushroom ravioli with the pinot Noir. I swear my boyfriend got off on that meal. He didn't say one word while he was eating. It was like he was on a date with the damn ravioli instead of me. Don't get me wrong, the pork chop was cooked perfectly and absolutely melted in my mouth, I just wasnt as sexually attracted to my meal as my boyfriend obviously was to his. It did take a little while to get our food, but that is certainly not a complaint. We were the only one's in Chris' room for almost the whole time we were there and I was having a damn good time just chatting it up. He also went down to the kitchen more than once to see how it was coming which I greatly appreciated but, again, that's not a complaint. I enjoyed the entire experience 100% beginning to end. All in all as much as I want to explore and experience new things every time I go to the city, I think I'll definately pay the Hourglass Tavern another visit.
(5)Sheree D.
Very small place --- the food was good! We had a 5:00 seating and we were rushed through dinner. Our appy came and not soon after our entrees came. We mentioned it to the.owner and he explained that the wait staff was gearing up for the 6:00 theater rush.
(4)Donald M.
Very small but very nice. Food and service were excellent. Only thing that was a disappointment was the "double butter" mashed potatoes. Sounded good but pretty mediocre in reality.
(4)Jemini S.
Happy to have found this place. Went for brunch before a Sunday afternoon show. Great food, music, and drinks!
(5)Vincent T.
The brunch is excellent. I have tried them all and you can't go wrong with any of them. Ask for Edgar he is the best server. And they serve one of the best bloody mary's in the city.
(5)Elyse A.
My mom and I had a really awesome pre-theatre dinner here over Easter weekend. I did a bit of research before our trip (we live out of town) and wanted to find a place in the theater district that'd be a simple skip away from the 8pm show. I read the reviews on Yelp and you guys really nailed the whole vibe! Even though I knew what to expect (sort of), I was still very impressed! I know this review is sort of redundant and repeats some points of other reviewers, but this place deserves the praise. Here's the deal with this restaurant: - It's definitely small and a bit cramped. But what do you expect? It's a NYC restaurant just a few blocks away from Times Square. - The service was great. We were greeted immediately and seated fairly soon after. Our waitress was friendly and funny and took great care of us. - I was glad I made reservations! This place was super packed! - We ordered off the prixe fixe menu. I was not expecting much in the way of quality when it came to the food here. I sort of just thought this was going to be a non-offensive cheap meal before the musical we were going to see, but wow. It really impressed me! I ordered the Penne Bolognasse which had a great flavor. And my mom ordered the Orechiette Primavera which was fresh and light and hot and delicious! Who knew the vegetarian option would be the star of the show? The salad was fresh. The tiramisu was great. And the wine we ordered was also rad. What more could we want? A great dinner before the theater in NYC for just about $50? Unheard of. Both my mom and I left feeling very full and very happy. The only downside was that the place looks sort of dingy and outdated. But that said, I'd rather go to an imperfect restaurant with character that knows how to treat its customers and can put out great food, rather than have a place that's shiny and fancy and modern and just mediocre. AMIRITE?
(4)Steve N.
What a great find in the theater district. From appetizer to coffee, this gem is worthy of trying!
(4)Yan T.
Wonderful gem on Restaurant Row. I went upstairs to the bar as bidden by Yelp reviews and we had a really nice time in that cozy space (though I didn't get to flip the hourglass...a screw was literally loose). The service was fantastic, from the downstairs waitress to the Betti Bar bartender. They took great care of us and were very accommodating. We both got the orecchiette with a medley of goodies (squash, artichoke, cheese, and lots of olive oil), which was not bad, but somehow the parts were better than the whole. They had a decent selection of beers, including Belhaven ale and porter, and there's a brown bag special that includes a shot for $8 if you want to go the distance.
(4)Rich F.
We LOVE the Hourglass Tavern. We were there for a quick day trip into the city on a Saturday morning. It was about 11:15am and we were browsing the area knowing we would find a Brunch we could enjoy....Sure enough, Hourglass Tavern came through! Not only did they let us in early to get us out of the cold, but the food and service was fantastic as well. I had the HG Florentine and my wife had the BlueWaffle. I had a little bit of order envy as the eggs were just a tad under-done. But the focaccia and spinach were spot on. I asked for the Hollandaise on the side as I wasn't sure how heavy it was going to be but it was just right. So buttery and creamy! And you can't beat the $5 brunch cocktails. Thank you for the coffee and the Churros! We can't wait to come back. Great for Pre-Theatre matinees!!!
(4)Lauren P.
Loved everything about this place--the decor, atmosphere, fresh bread, and meals were delicious. The braised short ribs and bolognese were excellent. The service was quick & made us feel at home. Perfect place to carb load before the Marathon!
(5)Ann M.
Loved it here, our waitress made us feel so comfortable. Not at all touristy and she was great with the kids and parents. Short rib sliders were a great start and the garlic shrimp with polenta was filling even for an appetizer. Veggie soup of the day was very good per the 12.year old critic with us. Close to theaters though that was not our criteria. I felt at home here, like dinner at your favorite aunt's house.
(5)liz r.
Awesome service, amazing food and owners are truly there to make sure patrons are taking care of! I love this place, I recommend it to all friends and family. I will be an ongoing customer as long as they're open. Beth and Josh help me host my High School fundraiser here, and I am truly grateful for all that they did for us. Thank you!
(5)Dee M.
We visited the Hourglass Tavern on a Saturday night before a show, the service was excellent and the food was delicious. We also had a few drinks at the bar and the crowd was very friendly. We will be going back very soon!
(5)Dana W.
Well once again Yelp hooked me up! Was looking for a good place to eat near my hotel, Marriott Marquis Time Square and up popped this little gem! Cute little place, great service, delicious homemade food and excellent prices! What more can you ask for. Had the previously mentioned chicken ms it was divine, roasted in garlic and rosemary with a honey cumin sauce, yumm! Goat cheese salad was fabulous as well as was the homemade tiramisu. Give this place a try!
(5)Enzo C.
Amazing discovery! It was intimate and the service was exceptional! It was a memorable experience.
(5)Phil H.
There is just so much win about Bettibar that it astounds me since it's located in the Theater District restaurant row area. Did we just happen to stumble upon a speakeasy type establishment in tourist central? OMG - this place is PURE WIN! As we were proceeding on our night of drinking debauchery and were headed over to Hell's Kitchen to bar hop a bit more and get a bite to eat I saw this hidden gem located next to the Hourglass Tavern. It's actually owned by them. You have to ring the buzzer to be let in and then walk up a narrow flight of stairs to find Bettibar. You get the feeling of a secret little speakeasy that few people know about, and only those "in the know" really realize it's there. I'm so happy to know about it now, since I love spots like this, and I am sure I will be there again soon! You just can't go wrong here. The owners have set up a killer atmosphere with a speakeasy ambiance to it. Dim lighting with candles all around, small chandelier, old hourglasses decorate the walls, small bar area, classic jazz and old school tunes playing quietly in the background, a few turned off tv's, and a few tables with people conversing quietly. As it was a Monday night and Broadway was dark it was not too crowded with only about six other patrons in there. We easily found a great spot at the bar and took a few seats. The bartender, Kelly, welcomed us with a friendly smile and fun conversation. He told us that it does get crowded on show nights with many theater folk, stage hands, and musicians making up the crowd. We picked a good time to come here for our first visit. OK - this might be crazy, but here's my number, so happy hour me maybe? Yessss! Happy hour seven nights a week from 5-10pm. AWESOME! It was already after 9pm and we still got to enjoy this. There is a sign on the wall near the bar with the drink and food specials. What is this I see? $8 MYSTERY BEER IN A BAG AND A SHOT! This is so up my alley. It was a must. Had to be done. What a terrific deal. You actually get served a bartender's choice of a bottled beer and it's placed in a brown paper bag. You can't get more secretive than this. I felt like the place was going to get raided by the police as in the old time prohibition era movies. The beers you get are quality craft styles too. No Bud Light here. We took a few mouthfuls before sneaking a peek into the bags. RJ Rockers Ball Eagle Brown and Bell Ringer, Prohibition, and Shipyard. Good stuff! Also, Kelly hooked us up with delicious shots - vodka, creme de cocoa, triple sec - that tasted like creme soda. We did a few rounds of course! This whole deal is just so much fun!!! Bettiebar is a breath of fresh air among the touristy crowds, mediocre bars, and so-so restaurants in the area. There is nothing more enjoyable than a bar with a speakeasy vibe if done right. To me, Bettiebar hits on all points - terrific happy hour, drink specials, bartender, atmosphere. We finished our drinks before bidding Kelly adieu and heading out into the darkness in search of more libations.
(5)David J.
We felt fortunate to get a short notice reservation. When we arrived we wound up waiting for half an hour before being seated. The host thanked us for being patient and got our drinks for us. The dining areas are small but they have nice ambiance. Food was very good. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her lobster ravioli. My daughter enjoyed her crab cakes and my NY sirloin was very good. Staff was very friendly and accommodating. A nice experience.
(4)Betty S.
My fiance and I went here for dinner (6 pm on a Saturday night) and had a wonderful experience! We made reservations through Open Table (highly recommended) and were seated right away on the 3rd floor (if you're given the choice, choose the more intimate 3rd floor not the 1st which gets more foot traffic). The space was small, so expect to dine close to neighbors, but it was totally fine for us given that the crowd was very chill and the historic atmosphere is pretty cool. We ordered 2 hand-crafted cocktails (moscow mezule, brooklyn flower), brisket sliders and the beet salad which was plenty for the 2 of us. The drinks were fabulous (and not skimpy on the liquor), and we enjoyed the sliders and salad. Note that the beet salad is pretty much a ton of beets with a spoonful of goat cheese and sprinkling of pine nuts - I love beets so this was ideal for me, but I can see how it might be a bit much for others. Definitely check this jewel of a restaurant out if you can!
(5)Krystal G.
My friend and I went there for brunch today based on its 4 star on Yelp. But the experience was absolutely horrible. The old waiter was basically rushing us to finish our brunch. He literally threw a piece of bacon into my plate from another plate which he couldn't wait to take away. It was just around noon and the restaurant was almost empty. We don't understand what's the rush here and why he was so eager to take away the plate that held some pieces of bacon. Then when he gave us the check, we mentioned there's a yelp 15% discount that we want to use (we mentioned it at the beginning to the other waiter), then the old waiter said "WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME EARLIER?". What the hell? First of all, we told the other waiter. Second of all, you don't have any other customer in the restaurant at this moment. Is it really that much trouble to rerun the bill again?? Finally when he brought us the check, he was standing there waiting for us to write down the tip. We really couldn't stand this. So I had to tell him could you please not stand there waiting for us to finish the check? It'll take a few minutes. Thank God, we finally had some peace of mind at the very last in that restaurant. We live in the neighborhood. Def won't come back or recommend anyone to go there.
(1)Arielle S.
Came here with my mom for dinner pre-theater performance. We were seated in the 3rd floor dining room. I liked the ambiance up there. It kind of felt like a home to me. There were 2 waiters both of whom were very friendly and helpful. It kind of made up for the fact that there was a large group seated up there that were obnoxiously loud making it hard to even think much less carry on your own conversation. My mom ordered spinach ravioli and said it was really really good. I, who almost never ever ever order steak, was somehow craving steak and decided to order it. It came with a side of mashed potatoes and broccoli. The steak was ok but i've had better and probably wouldn't order it here again. The mashed potatoes were really good and probably my favorite part of the meal. The broccoli was boring, it was just steamed broccoli; no butter, no garlic, no seasoning, just plain old healthy broccoli. I would certainly not shy away from returning but don't feel compelled to rush back.
(3)Kathy D.
I'm new to New York and restaurant row. But not new to braised short ribs and theirs are excellent!!
(4)Onelia E.
Three story spot with cramped spaces, the furniture was falling apart (I sat upstairs with a large party near on a banquet) and my end of the bench was literally cracked and I was leaning forward with me knees halfway to kneeling. I normally would have made a big stink but there was no other place to seat our party of 8 so I took one for the team and hoped to heaven that the wine would start flowing soon because I had a tough day of travelling. The good news is that the wine menu is superb. The bad news is that everything else on the menu was uninspiring. Pigs in a blanket? I had to double check the menu to make sure I didn't get the kids menu or that I didn't accidentally walk into Hooters on game day. Nope- definitely Pigs in a blanket for $10. Sorry but I was over that quickly after I discovered my first easy bake project with Pillsbury's ready to bake croissant triangles. The hummus was cold, the Tavern salad was drab, and my salmon was just edible. While the service was hospitable and the bartenders were on point, the overall experience left much more to be wanted. The third floor was stuffy- smelled of musty old wood and cooked food, mixed with the hot breath of patrons coming in from the cold. Note to management: please close the bathroom doors that lead into the third floor dining room. The last thing a patron wants to see when they walk up the stairs and are being seated is a wide open view to the toilet (and bathtub!).
(2)Michael P.
A couple of friends and I were having a great time next door at The Ritz the Saturday after Halloween and we needed a place to sit and talk and have some good food and conversation. We planted ourselves inside and was greeted by a very nice server, Maria. The night was already rocky for a couple of us and once we got in the inviting space, Maria made us feel incredibly safe and was quick to pick up on our drama and insisted to make matters better. By her charm and hospitality, she turned what might have been a night of drama to a safe haven of good food and service. I'm from LA and never been here before however the graciousness that she put forth prompted me to write my first yelp review. If anything, please go there, ask for Maria...what a fantastic asset this place has...you won't be disappointed if Maria takes care of you!
(5)Matic J.
I feel sorry to give only 2 stars as I feel this place could get 4-5. It started of fine with a nice welcome chat and round of beers. We ordered and were full of expectations for what tasty treats we will get. Then the waiter got us the burgers - picture uploaded - burned!! I asked the waiter if he could give me some ketchup as the burger is BURNED - he made a strange face and got the ketchup. So I just cut the burger round and round to get the burned layer off and ate the rest. I pointed the issue to the waiter and asked if we can make a deal with a dessert - his reaction was very disturbing. Since then it all went downhill. He treated us like it was our fault that he gave us burned food. Well we got 1 lava cake for free which is nice, but the guy could have taken it less personal and be more understanding. If you go there - don't take the burger.
(2)Marci F.
Just ate here after a show at illuminate. Fantastic fresh food! From the door person who greeted us with a smile to the waitress I loved the experience. The food was super fresh. I got the special which was the arugula salad and the hummus. My mom got the spicy pasta and my sister raved about the roasted chicken. The only sad part of the meal was the Bettie bourbon sour. Not so great but it's hard to please a whiskey sour snob. I absolutely recommend this place. Fantastic atmosphere and amazing food.
(4)Gary S.
There is a reason so many people give this place excellent reviews. That's because it's excellent. The prix fixe is extremely reasonable and the food was uniformly well prepared. The short ribs, as noted by others, are terrific and the simple mashed potatoes and al dente steamed broccoli a perfect complement. The penne came with a hearty bolognese that is just slightly spicy. You almost don't notice it at first and then realize it's carefully crafted. There are $6 glasses of wine that were really good - these people clearly know what they're doing. The blueberry/apple cobbler were a bit too sweet for me, but it's probably what most people expect and want. Service was uniformly excellent. They know how to get food done quickly in anticipation of meeting curtain times while still making you feel relaxed and comfortable. This is a small place and if you are looking for something with pizzazz or with modern restaurant buzz and lots of action, this isn't the spot. Don't come expecting that and then complain about it. But if you want excellently prepared food that is reasonably priced with a wonderful and simple ambiance where you'll walk out wanting to come back, then here it is.
(4)Noel L.
Was at Betti Bar for a cast party of a show I am in close by and we had a great time...we eventually took over all of the seating and it was very comfortable.The bartenders were very inviting and the service was great! I had only come to dinner here one year on Thanksgiving and had no idea about this upstairs bar.It is adorable and the food and menu ,great ,and they were serving dinner at midnight which is very key! The wine was excellent and i cannot say enough great things!I will definitely be back every week while our show is going on!!!!Perfect late night spot near Broadway!
(5)Kate W.
Came in late so there was no waiting and the food was amazing. So tasty I couldn't stop eating even though I was very full! I don't know what they put in the salad dressing but I would love the recipe. I also had the chicken vegi soup and believe me you've never tasted anything so fresh and flavorful! Great experience. Thank you!
(5)Gail P.
Delicious brunch food served with $5 cocktails in a funky, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Would certainly go back at other times to try lunch, dinner or just drinks.
(5)Molly H.
Amazing staff, friendly owners, brunch is delicious, and the mystery beer and shot are really fun.
(5)Will F.
We just left here, waited over an hour for eggs. The couple next to us, who was seated and ordered at the same time as U.S., got their food and finished eating before the waitress even commented on the status of our. Until we said something to our server about the delay, she didn't acknowledge us at all. I was this close to walking out when she claimed they were plating our dishes. Additionally, in that time they weren't able to bring me the screwdriver I ordered (a 2 ingredient drink!). When we did get our check, our waitress blamed the new chef. Completely unacceptable, will not be coming back.
(1)Ron M.
Great little pre-theater place to eat and have a few drinks. Food is really good, service is friendly, nice ambiance on both floors.
(4)A H.
The food was good here. Service is a bit slow, so watch the time if you're here before a show. Great prices for what you get, though. Tons of good, comfort-style food for a good price.
(4)Leslie S.
What a find! After a long touristy day of sightseeing, we were in the mood for a quiet meal. We found Hourglass on our evening walk. The weather was spectacular and on a nice October evening (10/12/13) we sat at an outside table and enjoyed wine and pasta for what seemed like hours. I had lobster ravioli and my husband had a seafood pasta. Both were wonderful!
(4)Shyanie K.
Food 3/5 Experience 4/5 3 story building in hell's kitchen. We were up on the 3rd floor. Really cute, little hourglass details hidden everywhere. Service was great. Menu was okay. I wasn't blown away by the choices. Our party ordered the lamb special, lobster ravioli, pork chop, pecan crusted tilapia and spicy shrimp. The lamb was not cooked properly, so wasn't as tender as it should have been. But still had great flavor. Lobster ravioli was tasty, sauce was slightly bland. Pork chop was cooked well but the dipping sauce was unimpressive. Pecan crusted tilapia was well balanced and cooked perfectly. Spicy shrimp was also done well, sriracha dipping sauce was unique! For dessert we ordered the molten chocolate cake and the flourless chocolate cake. Both were average! Its a unique intimate place, great for friends catching up or having a casual night.
(3)Heath T.
Tavern is the perfect combination of casual and formal dining. The quality of the food and it's old-world ambience ensure a memorable dining experience, while the overall atmosphere and friendly service create a warm, relaxing retreat.
(4)Brian S.
The best meal we had in four days in NYC. The Penne Bolognese and the roasted chicken were excellent. Everything came to our table properly prepared and hot. Don't let the name fool you into thinking this is just a tavern.
(5)Jeff W.
This restaurant is in the Theatre District--MAKE RESERVATIONS.....and show up on time if you expect to make your curtain. As a New Yorker, I expect a loud, bustling place in the center Hell's Kitchen-- maybe others do not. Chris, our waiter/bartender on the third floor seemed harried by the pre-theatre crowd. While he seemed perfectly capable of handling it, his demeanor was one of frustration. We were amused by this experience as WE were not in a rush....we made our reservations so that we had plently of time to eat and make our curtain. We ordered the lamb and veal-both specials for the evening -and we were not disappointed. Both were excellent. We finished our meal off with espresso and Sambuca. With all of the restaurants in the area, we do not know if we will be back any time soon.
(3)Elisa B.
I lived in this neighborhood over 20 years ago and returned w/ my husband for a vacation. The Hourglass Tavern is still here and the ambience and food are still cozy and delicious. This is a gem of Restaurant Row and they will flip the hourglass if you need to make an 8 pm curtain, so you can get to the show on time. Great meal, great atmosphere- you cant go wrong with this place!
(5)Alex S.
Wow! Not what I was expecting two and a half steps outside of tourist central. Working in Midtown has its perks, but it definitely has its drawbacks... I'm looking at you Time's Square. Back to Bettibar, an unassuming staircase next to a somewhat ironic 'speakeasy' sign, inviting people upstairs with a way to escape the normal Midtown routine. I knew this place was different as soon as I saw the specials board. One thing stuck out at me: A beer in a bag and a 'mystery shot' for $8. It reminded me of the old Brooklyn special, a PBR can and shot of Jameson for $5...but better. I didn't think that could happen. I had a couple grab bags (you can also get one for $5 sans shot) and they had a good mix - I got Magic Hat and Riverhorse. It was even a Magic Hat I've never tried before. I mean No #9 is good...but we've all had it. Great pick. The shots aren't for the faint of heart. They were...a little...strong. And big. Now, I'm not complaining but I feel like full disclosure on this: If you're with a group of girls, you should probably let them get something else...unless you want them growing a full-on gorilla fur-covered chest. I'm talking the thick stuff. You should probably keep it to one...or two ;) The food was delicious! Apparently they get it from Hourglass Tavern downstairs? We had a dish of meatballs (great - you found our kryptonite) and some kind of polenta with melted mozzarella on top. Both were delicious. To top it all off, the server was awesome. I forget her name (sorry!) but she has bright pink hair and I'm proud to admit I'm the first person to ever make a joke about it being her natural hair color. Ok, so I made that last part up but she was cool enough to laugh. Hopefully it flies under the radar long enough to come back a few times and have some fun!
(5)Frank B.
Pre theater dinner at this small I.e. narrow restaurant. Quaint place with ok food, nothing spectacular. I had disc shaped pasta primavera without the ricotta. The wife had salmon, and my son had the steak. All dishes were good. No major issues with the service. Our waitress was friendly and helpful. My son had an issue because they did not have steak fries...the waitress said they don't deep fry anything. The price was reasonable for NYC, $140, including tip which included 3 drinks and a dessert.
(3)Matt E.
Yan T said it best when he said "wonderful gem on restaurant row". I saw the name and rating on a Yelp search but hadn't read any reviews, I was expecting an actual tavern but this is definitely a restaurant above all else. It's located in a narrow oddly shaped residential building that was re-purposed decades ago. The first and third floors are dining rooms while the second floor is an intimate bar room that seemed almost like a hidden gem. I came here for dinner and other than a mix up with the order (which a free glass of wine made up for) I was very surprised at the reasonable prices, good service, and the decent quality of the food given it's proximity to Times Square. For an appetizer my girlfriend and I split an order of 3 traditional spanikopita puffs (flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta). She loved them but I found them to be overly salted and a little too oily and flat. We also got a giant roll with butter which seems mundane but was deliciously moist and subtly sweet. Most entrees are under $20, in fact my chicken entree with grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli was only $14. The chicken had a great flame grilled flavor and was cooked perfectly. I was a little disappointed that the rosemary garlic marinade wasn't exactly prevalent and that the steamed broccoli wasn't seasoned or cut up but otherwise was very pleased. I would definitely come back to this unique spot for a nice meal with an intimate setting.
(4)Anne G.
This restaurant has wonderful ambiance and great service! In an old brownstone mere steps away from the 8th Avenue strip in the heart of the theater district, it is an oasis away from the hustle of that area. The food was of acceptable quality, but nothing special. I had a slightly dry and over cooked pork loin chop. Two members of our party ordered grilled salmon on salads and pronounced it to be good. It is certainly a worthwhile stop before the theatre, especially because it is quiet and pleasant, but the food is only a slight edge above average.
(3)Danielle H.
The first time I came here I just had drinks at Bettibar, which was nice and had a very cool, laidback environment. However, the restaurant itself was just mediocre. Service was okay and I have to commend them on finding and bringing my gloves down to me when I returned later (I always seem to forget something.) The food was just so-so. I had the the Hearts of Romaine salad to start and I thought that the cheese overpowered the whole dish. Otherwise, I think it would have been much better but there was too much to pick out. For the main course, we shared the spinach ravioli and the shrimp catalina. There was barely any shrimp (maybe 4 pieces) in the dish and the rest was all sauce. The sauce was very good and packed a punch, but sauce isn't a meal. The spinach ravioli was very tasty, but it's something even I could have made at home and I'm not a good cook. It was also very difficult to eat since the raviolis were hidden at the bottom of the bowl under all the sauce. It was a good portion size and good comfort food, but it's not really what you look for when you go out to eat. Go to Bettibar and get food somewhere else. And as others have said, Yelp, make a separate listing for it!
(3)Kathy Y.
Smacked in between much flashier restaurants and bars on 46th street, Hourglass Tavern is hard to notice. But that only adds to the cozy and intimate vibe of this place. The dining room on the first floor has about 5-6 two-person tables, and any seat would have felt equally snug and kind of romantic. The food and wine menu was very plain American. My grilled chicken plate with a side of broccoli and mashed potato was unmemorable, but I was much more drawn to the ambience than the food itself anyways - that's what will get me to come back. But when I do, I'll rather go upstairs to the bar on the second floor!
(3)Rekha K.
I consider Hourglass Tavern a hidden gem. Though it is located in the heart of the Theatre District, its hidden entrance almost makes you miss it! This quaint bar/restaurant has 3 distinct floors. Bettibar on the 2nd floor has a great atmosphere - a perfect spot to chill for a glass of wine or a simple dinner. The bartender and service was excellent. I will definitely be back and next time will check out floors 1 and 3!
(5)Chris I.
This place is awesome!! No really it is. I mean I had already thought this place was great after reading the reviews of some trusted Yelper friends of mine.....and to top it off not ten pics in I see Phil H drinking a beer in a bag like an elegant hobo. I call that a recipe for a winner. Turns out this place is more than a tiny bar on the second floor, they are also cooking up some kick ass eats. Me and the GF wanted a place to come after seeing a Broadway show ( yeah I'm cultured like that.....you just learned something new about me , didn't ya? Shame on you for thinking other wise. You now owe me a shot and I expect you to be on the honor system next time you see me! LOL) Any way where was I ? Oh yeah, I looked for a place where we could get decent eats at a late hour and decided on Hourglass tavern. The place is tiny, I mean really tiny but lucky for us the first floor where the restaurant is wasn't too crowded. We were greeted warmly by our waitress and snagged a cool booth right by the from window. Very cozy and romatical ( yup I just dropped a jersey shore phrase on you.) They are a tavern so I was able to get my old standby scotch and the GF got a glass of vino. We started out with the Albondingas, which are chicken meatballs in a red sauce with shaved cheese on top. They were out of this world . Nice and fresh and the sauce was really good. For our main's she got the grilled pork chop and I got one of the specials which was the braised lamb shank. The GF's pork chop was delicious, grilled to perfection and nice and juicy. The honey cumin sauce was awesome. They should bottle that stuff and sell it, they make a fortune. My lamb shank was equally good. It was fall off the bone tender and still nice and juicy. If it's on the menu you should definitely get it. Both dishes came with sauteed veggies that were cooked perfect. We ended the dinner with their flour-less chocolate cake. It was basically fudge cake. Chocolate times a 1000. If you are a chocolate lover then it'll be right up your ally. We really enjoyed our meal there. The bill was really inexpensive given the high quality of food and the area the restaurant is in. You should definitely stop in if you are in the area, it's totally worth it!
(4)Samantha K.
Have to agree with the majority of Yelpers, this place is a keeper. The staff is super friendly and very nice. "Caroline" was our waitress and is VERY nice. We were three who came off the very cold, rainy and snowy streets. Folks in the "Bettibar" greeted us told us out dining options. We opted to go upstairs to eat. "Caroline" greeted us and was very sweet. We all chose the same entrée- chicken breast. I had a nice dish of hot chicken soup as I was soaked and needed a quick warm up. ( We had taken in the Rockefeller tree despite the bad weather). Food came quickly and was very good. The "chicken breast" was butterflied and grilled nicely. The only part I didn't care for was the broccoli looked nice and fresh, but it was lukewarm when served. Bill was VERY reasonable especially by NY standards. I overheard conversations at adjoining tables that indicated that many of the people were tourists from out of state, so word must have gotten around. It's pretty special to find decent food for 23.95 Prix Fixe in NY. Definitely recommended.
(4)Ryan A.
What a great place! Atmosphere was interesting in a sea of restaurants that appear to be the same, or try to hard to be different. The staff was friendly and fun. We had 5 adults and 3 children, and everyone loved their food. The homemade ravioli's were a hit, and the sausage pasta was awesome. We will be back.
(5)Anu P.
I got to New York around 1am on a Wednesday night. After checking in, grabbing dinner and heading to Times Square, we were on the lookout for a bar that wasn't too crowded, touristy or extremely pricey. Luckily my friend came across Hourglass Tavern which is a short walk from Times Square. We arrived around 2:30 am to find it deserted minus a couple people. We walked up to the second floor to enter Bettebar. Cutest bar I've been in! There were nice couches and pillows to sit on as well as regular bar stools. It was very small but given that there were just 4 of us and two bartenders, it was perfect. Our gin & tonics were great. But what I loved the most was the music! They were playing a mix of old 90s pop and rock music and it was so refreshing to be able to enjoy some old favorite songs while also being able to hear the conversation without straining your ears. It was the perfect place to sit down for a few drinks and I would highly recommend it over some of the pricier, louder bars right in Times Square! :)
(5)Jim S.
We had dinner at the Hourglass Tavern again on Sept. 24th. A late dinner after a show , everything was perfect as usual !!!!! Great food and great service !!!!! You will not be disappointed !!!
(5)Renata P.
Absolutely amazing place. The food was fantastic, the wait staff was friendly, and the decor was charming. We came with a large party and rescheduled three times due to the lateness of all people involved (my family is not known for its punctuality) and they were incredibly accommodating. I had the special (lamb shank) was was tasty and the portions were generous. My mother had the chicken alfredo which was executed perfectly. My sister had the beet salad with a side of salmon, and that was the only dish that wasn't great. Otherwise, A+!
(5)Brian C.
For years living in the neighborhood this has been my go to place. There is nothing like a "Beer in a Bag, with a Shot" to get you home from work, and when you come back later it is the perfect intimate place to relax with friends. While it is a hangout for old regulars there are plenty of first timers wandering in from the theaters making for an eclectic mix that is sure to always give you someone to talk to. Even if you are not hungry enough to eat a meal, the fresh baked bread is worth a trip in its self. With all the food prepared in house the quality is great, and the prices are such that you can afford to come in on a working mans income. Betti Bar on the second level is the place to be, but is often crowded, but if you have the stamina, there is another full bar up on the third floor too! Sure this is a biased review, its my favorite place, but if I like it, you should probably give it a shot too! Cookie.
(5)Mike T.
You can't go wrong with this restaurant . Food is great service is great. Fun restaurant to go to also the food and price can't be beat.
(5)Kem W.
This is a very cool place with a long history. It's been an establishment since 1894. Long and narrow, 3 floors, and good food. I had the prix fixe grilled chicken. It was very good with broccoli and mashed potatoes on the side. Loved the bread. Upstairs the bar looked cozy and fun. It was amazing to watch the choreography of all the staff as they moved about this very small restaurant. This is a reasonably priced place that you owe yourself to check out. Definitely glad I came. Recommended.
(4)Derek W.
This is the go to place for me and my girlfriend! The atmosphere and interior design is charming. The whole restaurant is three floors with the bar on the second floor with a couple of small tables. Most importantly, the food and drinks are great. I highly recommend getting dinner off the prix-fixe menu since it offers soup/salad, entree, and dessert. This place is also famous for their delicious sangrias. The biggest downside of here is the long wait and crammed space. One time we had to wait for over an hour for seats. After being seated, our entrees came before our salad. But the owner of the restaurant was great! She noticed how our food was coming so slow and out of order and offered to take the price of the salad off our bill. She also gave us a free round of drinks! On another occasion, I was sitting on a partially broken chair and their waiter immediately changed the chair for me once he saw how broken it was! Also, when I was paying, I accidentally dropped a 100$ bill on the floor and when we were about to leave, he picked it up for us and told us that we dropped it! Needless to say, this place has phenomenal service, food, and drinks!
(5)Kate D.
Came here for a girls get together after not having seen everyone in a long time. Was looking forward to seeing everyone and having a good time. Now first looking at the place online, it says it is small. But when you get there they really mean it, the place is tiny. Though there are three levels, all are each just as small as the other and one server per floor. We didnt really mind this at first because it creates a cozy and intimate experience. We started off with the happy hour at the bar on the second level while we waited for our table and then were shown our seats on the third floor. The food is good but does not out way the service that we experienced. My friends and I are between 23-26 years old. We were the youngest people there and as such we were ignored and had to call numerous times to get someones attention. The other tables had no such problem. We asked for the desert menu twice before just giving up and paying for our bill, which also took forever to get. Dont get me wrong, the food was good. But I would not go back just for that. Maybe the bar. If they had more people helping, then perhaps it would be a better time.
(2)Steve N.
Great experience! Small, intimate and quiet setting with friendly service and a good menu.
(5)Tiffany S.
Honestly.. I was pleasantly surprised. I came here with a girlfriend for just drinks and wound up staying for 4 hours and had dinner too. There's 3 floors, I believe Hourglass is the first floor and Betti Bar the next two. The waitress was very friendly and never rushed us. I love how they offer a mystery beer in a bag - good beers too.. Blue Point.. River Horse.. I wish I remembered which cocktails we had.. but those were good too. Had the grilled poletna - basically polenta in tomato sauce with melted cheese on top grilled shrimp and polenta - this was pretty good, the sauce was yummy orecchiette primavera - a little greasy but still good Then ordered a fruit cobbler for dessert. She gave us two serving sizes which was nice. I can see why they might have had some to spare though - it was soooooooooo sweet. I felt a coat of sugar on my teeth, kind of like when I drink a Coke. Blegh, I don't like Coke.. Would I come back here? Eh, not too sure. It definitely wasn't a bad place at all, but nothing extraordinary either.
(3)Gwenn H.
We arrived promptly for our 12:15 brunch reservation. We had tickets for a 2:00 show, which we informed our waitress. We were seated on the third floor and ordered two champagnes and an iced tea. The champagne was terrible. We ordered two eggs florentine and blueberry waffles. At 1:30 we were still waiting for our order! The waitress said she couldn't make the food come out any faster. Every time she had to pick up an order, she had to go down and back up three flights of stairs. She was also the bartender and cashier! Upon leaving, with another unserved party, we complained to the manager. She said it was the first day that the third floor was open and they were very busy. She then said " I did pay for your drinks!" Rushing to the theater, starving, we woofed down a slice of pizza on the street. This was not the four star restaurant i had read about and pizza was not the brunch I was hoping for. Next time you see this place on Restaurant Row, make sure you keep on walking and find somewhere else that might actually serve you food! P.S. We still tipped that poor waitress $10.00!
(1)Nelly G.
Good thing I made a reservation a few hours before we showed up. At first there was no one on the first floor but within 10 minutes everyone started to show up. Loved that it was a cute little place...not good for large groups. Three floors with a waiting area and some table on the second floor with a bar where all drinks are made. Started with the chicken and sundried tomato albóndigas, marinara sauce and shaved pecorino with crostini. Ssooooo good! My girlfriend had the shrimp Catalina and I had the Bourbon braise short beef ribs. Wished they had roasted potatoes or rice as I can't have mashed potatoes...was very tasty and filling. For drinks my gf had the Mezclan mule which she really loved and I had the Brooklyn Flower. Ended our meal with dessert. My gf had the tirimasu and I had the chocolate molten cake. Food, drinks and service were so good. Would definitely go back.
(4)Kristy R.
Betti Bar! Above Hourglass Tavern, there is Betti Bar. You go up a narrow flight of stairs, duck into a door on the left, and arrive in a small, cramped bar. There are a couple of booths, maybe a table or two, and a tiny bar. There is also an actual hourglass on the wall, that they flip. The beers they offer are lined up on the wall, including the beer in a bag with a shot. We decided to go with that since it seems to be the "thing" to do while you're there. We each received a different beer, but the same sweet shot. My beer was a Denver something and it was pretty good. One friend had a beer with eyes on the neck of the bottle so it looked creepy coming out of the paper bag. It's kind of cool to drink out of a paper bag, in a "secret" location, with not too many people around. The music selection is also great, it's full of 90s alternative that everyone can sing along to. I really like this place. It isn't loud, it isn't crazy, it isn't crowded, and you get to drink like you're drinking in secret. Very cool spot.
(4)Natasha B.
I came here with friends after wandering around Hell's Kitchen trying to find a chill, not crowded bar around 10 pm. We walked upstairs to the bar, and there was no room. They welcomed us to sit on the ground floor in the restaurant, which was nice. We got two rounds of beers and a couple entrees. I got a grilled cheese, which was the best damn grilled cheese I've ever had. It was salty and buttery, on some magical kind of bread. The service was also awesome! The woman serving us was very cool, and she didn't mind when we had an extra person show up unannounced and just claim his own small table. This place is small, but I think it'd be worth it to try a full meal here.
(4)Mark M.
LOVE this place!!! I work in the area and go there all the time after work not only is the food amazing the staff and service is top notch. Make sure you get the short ribs they are my favorite oh yeah check out the second floor bar awesome atmosphere.
(5)Jennifer J.
Cute location and friendly service. The menu had a little something for everyone in our diverse group and we all enjoyed our food, from BBQ sliders to ravioli and salmon. I would definitely go there again.
(4)Betsy B.
Tried the Hourglass tavern for a pre-theater dinner. The place is tiny and a bit disorganized. We wandered through all three stories before finding a staff person to check in with. But the visit got better after that. We had a window seat on the first floor, and to say this restaurant is funky is an understatement. Tables seem squished in wherever possible. A combination of odd little antiques and ephemera adorns the walls. There's something about the place that gives you the feeling you've just gotten in to a 1920's/1930's secret speakeasy. The food was very reasonably priced, generously portioned and very tasty. My friend and I both started with the small Hourglass Salad, which had mixed baby greens, dried cranberries, whipped goat cheese and a house made cider vinaigrette. My friend had the strip steak and said it was very good. I had the Mascarpone Penne which had a creamy tomato sauce, Gorgonzola, sausage, walnuts, and mascarpone obviously. Delicious. The waitress was great - attentive, helpful with suggestions, and accommodating of our time constraints. This was a great find.
(4)Kristen A.
Delicious food with a great atmosphere. The service was exceptional. So glad we stopped in here! Brunch was amazingly tasty and the menu had its own great flair!
(5)Michelle A.
Place is a bit hard to find, but it is definitely a hidden gem. Great service, great food, great drinks.
(4)Tracy M.
We had dinner for 4 Saturday night. The food was delicious! We had the shrimp dish, ravioli, steak and spaghetti and meatballs for our little guy. All cooked perfectly! I agree Mike at the front door was a little intimidating at first, he was actually very nice friendly. We also were asked to wait at the bar upstairs where we were greeted with friendly service and a few adult beverages. The place was great, all around, our waitress was friendly and accommodating, the ambiance was NYC perfect! I will come back the next time I'm in town.
(5)April M.
The place is very cute and cozy. The waitress was VERY nice and she was quick on her feet. My mom and I got the pre fixed meals, such a tasty meal while still being priced so cheap. The salad with their special house dressing was delicious! I had the chicken alfredo, the blackened chicken was soooo flavorful and the pasta was perfectly al dente. The fruit cobbler of the night was blueberry and apple, which was alright. I would definitely come again!
(4)Karen A.
Found this place on Yelp after looking for something near our theater with a menu suitable for both of us. I love the fact that it looks old and charming. It has lots of character. The service was just wonderful, both friendly and professional. They were very obliging with all our requests and the prices didn't break the bank. The food was good. The soup tasted very home made and the bread was delicious.We were fortunate to have the table on the first floor, right by the window, so I don't know about the other two floors' noise levels or comfort. I certainly will be a regular here any time I'm in the neighborhood.
(4)Caroline B.
This review is for Bettibar: After we went to B. Smith's for his birthday dinner, my boyfriend told me he wanted to take me to a speakeasy across the street. I wasn't sure what to expect and was surprised that there would be such a place on Restaurant Row, but sure enough, an older man sitting outside told us to walk up a flight of stairs which led us to our destination. It was dimly lit and felt somewhat clandestine despite the fact that the chances of the place getting raided by the police are pretty slim in this day and age. The happy hour special of a beer in a brown bag and a shot cracked me up, and I love how committed Bettibar is to its theme. The atmosphere was very sexy and I loved it. The other patrons seemed to be theater people but being there, I forgot that I was mere feet away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square. Bettibar is a gem and I hope to be back soon.
(5)Lily P.
3 levels! resturant, bar area, and upper floor you can have private parties. Logistics: bathrooms on 2nd and 3rd floor not on first..sorta weird. TV is on the 2nd and so we watched the NBA playoffs from there. they have a theater app, main, and dessert special for 22.95. We got this even though it ended at 8pm and we went way after. The pork chop was great, salad was standard, and then the dessert was very chocolate and dense.
(3)Stacy B.
Terrible new waitress made silly and expensive mistakes that we ended up having to pay for. The dishes were portioned and (over)cooked completely different from our last dining experience. Disappointing all around.
(2)Sheila T.
We were here last week. We arrived for our 6:00 reservation to be told that an earlier party was lingering over their coffee, so they apologized profusely while telling us to have a seat upstairs at the bar. They were very conscientious about checking in with us as the previous party continued to linger, ordering second coffees. We had left plenty of time before the theater, so weren't worried at all, but they continued to be very apologetic and even paid for our drinks. A table finally opened up upstairs, and we continued to receive the best treatment. Dinner arrived quickly and the burgers were delicious. Despite the probably half-hour or so wait for a table, we were out in plenty of time! The customer service was simply over and above anything we expected. We will definitely be back!!
(5)Sonia M.
Great find! My family and I were looking for a place to grab dinner before a show and the Hourglass was able to accommodate the four of us without a reservation! The service was a bit slow to start, but there seemed to be some sort of problem with their computer system. The crab cakes were excellent and my husband raved about the leg of lamb. My two kiddos chose pasta from the kids menu ($11.95 each), and the portions were ample. Nice atmosphere and great location!
(4)Anya B.
The food is just OK, nothing special, but not awful either. The Bitti bar upstairs has a lot of character which is more than I can say about the happy hour Sangrias served there. Pretty watered down if you ask me, but I suppose for $5 you can't complain. The service is great and the building itself is worth the visit. There are still glimpses of old NYC in the decor and layout of the place. Interestingly enough, there is third floor with a dining room that looks like a very nice and cozy place to have a private dinner party. You wouldn't even know it's there unless you go visit the tiny upstairs bathroom. Overall, not terrible, but I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. OK, maybe to the bar upstairs, because it's just so darn cute.
(3)Julia R.
Warm and friendly staff, very converstaional, excellent brunch (we sat on the second floor). So happy we stumbled upon it!
(5)Amanda L.
All I can say is Meh...hit or miss meals and hit or miss service I presume. Wouldn't go again, not a horrible experience....but not worth going again. If you need to eat, and are easy to please....try it if you want...
(3)Josh B.
Dined here with friends from out of town. The food was good but the service was spectacular. My friend's mother was not feeling too well and the entire wait staff went out of their way to do anything to help her feel better. I've never seen such genuine concern from a staff at a place before. These guys are going into the regular rotation for both a decent meal and exceptional service!
(5)Sara S.
Solid food great service. I had the sliders and they were juicy, well cooked and overall pretty tasty. What really stood out for me was how cool the staff was. I ended up having a 3 hour meal with my friend here and they didn't give us any crap about it. Super fast with food and drinks and refills. Ambiance was cool too, I could talk to my friend without having to shout, even at peak hours.
(4)Kay W.
Hourglass / Betti Bar is always a great stop. My friends and I will often come here at the end of the night for a cozy last drink. All the staff I've encountered are friendly and polite. There is a small room on the third floor that you can reserve for groups. My friends and I have hosted several events there, and it is PERFECT for a low-key, intimate gathering. The staff at Betti Bar is wonderful about working with you to get the food and drinks you'd like, even reserving food for you if you're due to arrive after their kitchen closes. I would definitely recommend Betti Bar to anyone looking for a nice drink with friends or planning a birthday party.
(5)Kraig B.
SOLID. Hands down Solid food and drink and I'll be back. Totally agree with the other reviews which led me here. Big groups... not sure but never saw the 3rd floor. 4 stars all day.
(4)Holly S.
We went before going to a show. It was a Tuesday night so not super busy. We had the pre-fixe dinner. First they served us the BEST homemade loaf of bread. I could have just ate the bread and salad all night! Next came the salad. The house dressing was excellent. The salad was a spring mix. I ended up eating half of my daughters because she didn't like "all those greens" her loss was my gain. Next came the entree. I had ordered the pork chop. It came with mashed potatoes and broccoli. One of the best pork chops I've ever had. Perfectly cooked, well seasoned. Loved every bite. Potatoes were sooo good too. Not sure what they do to them but they were really good. I'm only giving them 4 stars because of the dessert. The fixed menu came with only two choices of dessert. Apple/blueberry cobbler or tiramisu. My mom and I went for the cobbler while my daughter went for the tiramisu. The tiramisu wasn't bad, just ok. No lady fingers though. The cobbler went mostly uneaten by both of us however. The apples were unpeeled and most of them were way undercooked. There didn't seem to be any sweetness to the dish at all. I was disappointed after everything else I had been presented. My daughter had the Penne Bolognese and that was very good. It was very meaty. The menu said it was made with wine and I had asked the waitress how strong the wine would be and she said "not at all, it cooks out". I did not find that to be the case when I tasted her pasta. I was glad I didn't order it. My mom ordered the grilled chicken (can't remember the name) and that was very good as well. I liked the pork chop the best though. Our waitress was awesome. I didn't catch her name but she had quite a few tables and she was hustling it. We never lacked for anything and she came to check on us often. She also manned the phones. I highly recommend the Hourglass Tavern!
(4)Gary D.
Three times to the hourglass and it just keeps getting better! Service is #1 and the food is just delicious. Can't wait for my next time there and I'm bringing anyone who is interested in eating short ribs.
(5)Krissi D.
Betti Bar. I love this place. My brother and I have been coming here for years and we are never disspointed. It's our favorite spot to have a cocktail and dinner before a show. Beyond the delicious drinks and food, the service can't be beat. The owners and bartenders are so friendly, it's not surprising that there are so many regulars that keep coming back for more!
(5)Daniel E.
This is a tiny place situated on restaurant row. We made reservations for 5, which is a must since this place doesn't have a big area to sit people. The service was great, very friendly, which seems to be a rarity in the city. The food was pretty amazing too! I had the short ribs which were fall off the bone. Everyone in the group loved the food they had. I would recommend this place based off 2 major things...the service and the food! Thank you for being so amazingly nice to us!
(4)Laurel S.
Went to Hourglass Tavern before a show one night. Sat outside as the weather was great which is good because inside was small and stuffy. The food was great and very reasonably priced. I had the chicken meatball sliders and my daughter had the grilled cheese. We weren't really in the mood for a big heavy dinner so these were perfect and our bill was only about $22!
(4)Regina D.
Went last night for a double date, the place is very cute and all the staff is very nice. We started out at the Bettibar, very cute and small. They offer happy hour, so we had a Sangria, it was just ok. Not very strong and there were only apples in the glass. After that we went downstairs for dinner, I think it depends what you having. My friends ordered shrimp entree and she said it was good and her husband seemed to enjoy his lobster ravioli, I ordered zucchini sandwich with mash potatoes and my hubby had Salmon Salad. The salad was bit old in my side and on my husbands plate. Portions are good size and prices are very moderate for the area. I would say it was ok meal, I would come back but would not go out of my way.
(3)Tommy K.
Go upstairs to Betti bar. Mystery beers and shots. Nice place to chat with your friend(s) or strangers. Small place.
(4)Vincent P.
Food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I was very impressed by this restaurant. Also the service was lightning fast!
(5)Josh G.
This place was a surprise! It's a bit hidden away in Manhattan's Theatre District, so you need to keep your eyes open or you may miss it! The service was very prompt and friendly and the food was delicious! I ordered the chicken alfredo and it ranks as some of the best chicken I've ever had. Perfect in every way. The alfredo and noodles left a little to be desired, but that was forgivable.
(4)Jay L.
It was OK, we went after a show on a Tuesday...so the place wasn't hopping. Food was pretty tasty, but the overall experience was just so-so. Waiters were less interested in us that they seemed to be in the upper floors, and the table was just a little too close to the kitchen. I got the impression it had a lot of potential, but we were not thereto see it at it's best. Food deserved 4 stars, service and atmosphere bring it down to a three. I won't be back, too many other places to experience in NYC
(3)Kourtney L.
Tiny little space, but definitely a distinct atmosphere. Had the hummus platter and sliders with a friends and both were pretty good.
(3)Hanne P.
Food was just okay, but the service was incredibly slow and rude. We got shuffled between floors a couple of times, and once we were finally seated our wait really didn't seem to want us to be there.
(2)John C.
Enjoyed an early dinner following an afternoon matinee. Most pleased with the location, service, prices and food quality. Nice wine selection, but no draft beer. The Hourglass will definitely be on our must return list.
(4)Genie M.
We didn't stay. After waiting a while for the waiter, in addition to the smell of cleaning products, it didn't seem worth the time or money to actually have a meal.
(1)Ze W.
AMAZING burger!!! in a fresh boule, dug out and stuffed w fresh greens. YUM! Also had a nice bottle of cabernet. Cozy interior w wonderful, friendly service. Late night dinner OK! The desserts also looked amazing. Next time!
(5)Jane B.
The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a warm goat cheese and fig salad. ( this was so good we wound up ordering it again instead of dessert or a cheese course). Then we ate very sweet and fresh shrimp served over grilled polenta. Honestly, these were the sweetest tastiest shrimp I've had in years. As a finale we had house made mushroom ravioli. These were also very good. The house made bread was delicious and we (2 of us) polished off 2 loaves. The wine selection was small but quite adequate. I had a yummy Syrah rose and Sauvignon blanc. Both were delicious. Go here! It is great bang for the buck and truly good food! Don't be put off, as some diners seemed to be, by the narrow dining room. It is in an 1895 brownstone...they're narrow. Also, service was great. We ate on the 3rd floor and the server was smart, attentive and charming. The owner came to say hello and it was nice to see my money going to such caring hard working people. This is a must for avant or après theater and just a great spot for any time. It is very " New York! "
(4)Larry J.
Been here many times,always great food,great service. Nice variety on menu & great bar choices with happy hour until 10:00. Prices very reasonable!
(5)Olga K.
came here before a show for dinner and was overall impressed. Most restaurants in the theater district are too touristy and just mediocre and this was neither. It is small and quaint but with a European charm about it. There pre fix menu is a bargain, you get fresh home made food for such a reasonable price. Get here early because it is a size of a shoebox so it gets filled up quickly. We will def be back next time we are in the area.
(4)Michael F.
We four friends often have dinner before going to the Signature Theatre near 10th Ave and 42nd. A little out of the regular theatre district restaurant area. So it is always terrific to find a new place nearby. Hourglass was our latest try. Nice set up with dining rooms on first and third floors and bar / cafe on the second where we got into pre-dinner drinks. We found it so comfortable - and Josh the co-owner and bartender so amiable - that we had our dinner at the bar too. Excellent! Two of us had the prix fixe meal, others ordered a la carte. The pastas (we tried three different ones in our group, mine being the nicely spicy fettucini Fra Diavolo) and the lamb) were all superb. As were the salads and desserts. Nothing but good things to say. The Hourglass is definitely on our "regular place" list in this area.
(5)Jake S.
The Hourglass is the best place to go before a show, after a show, or when there's no show! I love the hourglass. Each of the three floors has it's own character and special purpose. Just go. Eat drink and enjoy this awesome NYC tavern with great food, friendly staff, cool decor, and just all around good energy. One of a kind New York find!
(5)Manfred H.
The restaurant goes over three stories and has actually a cool and a little nostalgic ambiente. We had dinner at a Saturday evening with a party of 7. The food starting with salads, which did not look fresh, was mediocre family restaurant quality. My wife actually liked the crab cakes though. The other dishes were pork chops with mashed potatoes and spinach. The pork chop was less than 1" thick and chargrilled dry. So was the chicken with the Fettucini Alfredo. The strip steaks had just about the right size about 12oz but were not grilled to the doness as desired. Also stay away from the sliders. Rather go for the big a___ burger and share it. Those sliders are just tasteless. We were hungry so we ate what we could. All in all a disappointing culinary experience. I informed our waiter about the food experience. He informed the management or owner and we received a considerable deduction form the bill and free desert. This was certainly a surprising but welcome apology. The staff actually is very friendly and customer oriented. Too bad that the kitchen quality does not match up. We don't feel going back since there are way better choices in NYC.
(2)Stephanie M.
A solid choice for pre-theatre dining. They have multiple floors and nice servers. The menu has a great variety, so there is something for everyone. Considering the neighborhood, it's even priced well. The downstairs is a bit tight, but in midtown what isn't?
(4)Briana H.
I first happened into Bettibar for a post-theater drink. I decided to take my mom and strictly meat-and-potatoes stepdad to the Hourglass for a pre-theater dinner this weekend, and it ended up being a perfect choice. The menu is pretty standard and not exactly hip, but we all found something we wanted easily, and the prices aren't bad. I did the prix-fixe with a salad, orechiette, and chocolate cake. I really liked the citrus-y dressing and didn't mind the old school mesclun mix. The pasta was a little too oily, but otherwise quite pleasing. The cake was tinged with amaretto and Grand Marnier, and my stepdad particularly enjoyed it. Everyone was happy and the turnover was quick enough to get us to the theater with time to spare. Our doting server made the place feel very homey. My one complaint was that the air was a little smokey and garlicky sitting next to the kitchen, but it's a tiny place, so what can you do? You'll probably need a reservation if you're going before a show. Upstairs, Bettibar is a perfect spot for a cozy drink. It's tiny and gets packed easily, so you might want to have a Plan B if you're making a date here, but if you just happen to be in the area during their generous happy hours, I would definitely stop in and see if there's room. I have successfully taken a party of four here on a Saturday night and we snagged a seat, but we had to wait about twenty minutes. I'm a fan of French 75s, so their French 77s are a treat. If you like surprises, order the beer in a bag & mystery shot.
(4)Joshua Q.
This review is about Bettibar. I don't know anything about the first-floor restaurant or the third-floor lounge. I first came here for a going away party that my friend was having. Walking up the steps to bar, I wasn't sure how I was going to like the place, but what a great surprise! The bar is so cozy! We had it reserved for a couple hours for the party, so it was nice to have it to ourselves. The hand-food that we had was good, and the drinks were strong. I came back with a friend on Saturday night and it was busy, but we were able to get a seat at one of the small tables. We only intended to stay for one drink, but ended up staying the entire night! The crowd is great and most people are super friendly. The bartender (a woman, but I don't know her name!) is really a gem. I don't think tourists know about this place. I hope it stays that way!
(5)Dakota L.
Have been here twice for meals before going to see a show. Both times the meals were good, and the atmosphere was friendly. The last time we came, however, the service was pretty slow, so slow that we ended up being late for our show.
(3)Brian G.
Cozy little place. A bit cramped on first of their 3 floors. Food was quite good. I had the bolognese. There was fresh bread and the service was attentive. Good for those eating before plays as the food and service was quick. Bar on second floor. Request to sit away from the door as tables by door are very cramped. Bathroom on second floor.
(3)tamanna r.
5 for service, 5 for food, 5 for atmosphere...what a find. We were wandering, starving, and while this place didn't look like much from outside, inside it was amazing. Three floors of tiny, cozy, well designed rooms that feel like you're a guest at someone's house rather than a restaurant. The lady with curly hair who seemed like the manager was so warm, and welcoming and clearly adept at fitting people into tiny spaces. She bought us drinks because no tables were available yet, and was generally super kind and professional. We were then brought up to the third floor when a table opened up, and just loved our server. She seemed genuinely pleased each time we liked something, like we were eating at her own kitchen or something. I got shrimp fra diavolo and my date got mushroom ravioli. Beyond delicious, definitely far beyond our expectations for wandering into a random place. Truly a hidden gem in this neighborhood! And, very affordable!
(5)Carl I.
Had dinner prior to a concert on Sat eve. Ate on 3rd. While waiting for table, had a cocktail, on 2nd. Friendly staff, value for money, very nice wait staff, food very good. Will return.
(5)pamela p.
Convenient for pre theater dinners. I was able to sit outside and could watch all the people pass by. Since I am watching my weight- I had a salad and salmon with veggies. All was prepared nicely and it was tasty. The service was excellent and the prices were what I expected.
(3)Robert T.
Really nice place. Good wait staff
(4)Bruce B.
Was a great little place that we would have never tried of it weren't for YELP. The food was great, and the staff was more than accommodating. The ambiance of the place was off the charts. Loved it. The steak was fantastic, there was something for everyone, teens and adults alike.
(4)Abbey M.
A total hidden gem! Amazing food and great service in this little hole in the wall!! We will definitely be back!
(5)Nicholas G.
A few friends and I grabbed last minute reservations for this place the week after Thanksgiving and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. It was small... really small... I've sat at larger tables small... but, the food was amazing. My mother would shoot me if she read this, but their bolognese sauce is the best I've ever had. Just typing this, I'm salivating. All of us loved our meals and we would all love to go again.
(4)Leslie D.
Ok, so why isn't Betti Bar its own separate Yelp listing?! Anyway, this review is obviously about Betti Bar, the adorable "hidden" bar located in the Theater District above Hourglass Tavern. I came here with my friend Chris after a delicious dinner at Pio Pio 8 to engage in some libations. I had heard of this place from a few Yelpers and was excited to try out this little hot spot. The entrance to Betti Bar is to the right of Hourglass Tavern when facing it. Contrary to what is implied, the doorbell serves no purpose as the door is unlocked. The bartender actually came down the stairs and cordially yelled at us "IT'S NOT LOCKED" after we had rung it a few times. Forgive me if I wanted it to be reminiscent of Milk & Honey! Once inside, you're greeted by a cozy space filled with many tall chairs, a bustling tiny bar, and a huge hourglass mounted on the wall ticking down the seconds (the hourglass was/is used to tell patrons that they have an hour left before they need to leave to catch their show). After scoring a table against the back wall's mirror, we had a chance to peruse the menu and check out the patrons. For drinks, I went with the Champagne Cocktail and he went with the Sweet and Sour Bourbon. The bartender upon hearing my order went to work at lightning speed mixing, cutting, pouring and creating our drinks. I think I am turning into a man as I am coming to the realization I do not enjoy sweet drinks anymore. Still, the drink was perfectly concocted and I sipped on it slowly. He on the other hand seemed to love his bourbon concoction and at $10-$12 a pop, I think his drink was better for the money. I really want to come back to Betti Bar and get the $8 beer and mystery shot in a bag special. That just sounds like the beginning to a night you don't want to (voluntarily) forget. They also have happy hour every day from 5-10pm- just don't tell the alcoholics or you'll never get a spot inside. Sure, the space at Betti Bar is small and the crowd is mostly gay gentlemen (well on Saturday night it sure was), but it's a great spot to kick back, relax with a deliciously crafted drink, and enjoy watching your heterosexual guy friend get visually gang banged by every "Richard" within the vicinity.
(4)Emma P.
completely thrown by how bad a place with 4 stars was..I had to. We just had pasta, beef sliders , and tiramisu..all were bad.
(1)Nicole S.
several story restaurant/bar in the theater district. Found this place on yelp a made a reservation that night. Place gets busy due to its proximity to the theaters - staff of the restaurant was very attentive and made sure to get us seated timely. The bar staff seemed to think we were a bit silly as we were celebrating but hopefully we entertained for a bit. It is a tiny bar area- so hard to get situated in the bar area out of everyone's way -but still a cute place and reasonably priced meals especially for NYC.
(3)Ann D.
Given the array of restaurants on this stretch of 46th, not to mention the variety of choices in Hell's Kitchen as a whole, I was a bit disappointed with Hourglass Tavern. The Yelp reviews I read were so upbeat that I came in with high expectations - ones that weren't met, although our experience was perfectly fine. We tried to go to Bettibar, but our party of 4 was too large to be accommodated. The space is cozy - there were 2 tables that could seat 2-3 and about 6 or 7 spots at the bar. I can see how this would be a great place to grab a drink after work if you're in the neighborhood, especially with the mystery beer and shot, but unfortunately it didn't work for us. Seated downstairs in another small, homey area, we tried the lobster ravioli, shrimp catalina, and flatiron steak. All were fine, none were exceptional. The shrimp entrée only came with 4 shrimp, and the coconut rice that accompanied the entrees was overcooked and mushy, although the flavor was ok. From my perspective, the best value here is the happy hour drink special. The ambience isn't as quaint as the descriptions in other reviews, and we left with those awkward feelings you get after a very mediocre meal. Guilt for the person that suggested the venue? Regret for all the awesome places we could have eaten? Although I'm always glad to try a new place out, I don't think I'll be coming back here again.
(2)Christopher C.
This review is for BettiBar, which is the 2nd floor part of this converted apartment. It's a small cute bar that has a great happy hour and some good old school cocktails as well.I came here with Baby D last week after we ate at Pio Pio. Next time I will be going for a couple of the beer in a bag and shot for $8. The setting is very cozy but I'm sure could get crowded really easy since there is not that many places to sit or stand.
(4)Michele B.
I was going to dinner and a show with some family and they picked this place on a recommendation. Not wanting to judge a book by its cover, I was going to let the food speak to the place rather than the decor, which is seriously lacking in this oddly shaped and strangely laid out restaurant. Well, we never made it as far as ordering dinner, as a cockroach decided to take residence on our table. I know this is NYC and these things happen, but the waiter didn't make any attempts to kill it. Needless to say, I have no idea what the food is like but I don't plan on finding out.
(1)Caroline D.
Had a grand time. Went to bettie bar first for a shot an d a beer. Then downstairs for dinner. Had an oldfashioned with dinner, twas pretty tasty. I also had the steak. It was just fine, I would say for the price and the ambiance for being in midtown it doesnt get any better than this place. That said, it can get so much better than this for so much less anywhere else. To sum up, if you are forced to be in midtown, go here.
(4)J P.
Move on - there are better choices on Restaurant Row. Food was overcooked, slow to come out from the kitchen. Service is fine. One of those places where you say to yourself "I could have made this better at home" And I don't even cook!
(2)Keith L.
First, I have to say that this review is about Betti Bar (the hidden gem), and not the overall Hourglass Tavern. I've been frequenting Betti ever since I discovered it a little over a year ago. I know, I know - my review is a little late. The ambiance is amazing - decorated like a brothel that you would find in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The bar staff is delightful, the drinks are strong, and their happy hour that lasts for five hours is amazing and playful. A secret "beer in a bag" and a shot? Yes, please! Betti is one of those secret gems that transports you out of the chaos that is Restaurant Row on 46th Street. I was almost hesitant to write a review for fear that more people would discover it. The bar is small and intimate, and a rush of the crowd from Murray Hill that we all loathe would ruin it. You know who I'm talking about... But, if you're a nice person and like a well-crafted cocktail with a neighborhood feel - definitely check it out. I'm sure I'll be sitting on a stool in the corner when you walk in. Say hello!
(5)Caroline H.
We loved it here. We went here after Carnegie Hall's Vienna Choir Boys concert. I had the pre-theater dinner for $22.85+tax. I had a nice salad, pork chops, and tiramisu. My boyfriend had the penna with bolognese sauce, which he said was very good. The house bread was good. We got two loaves. The bottle of Merlot was great for $21. The Bettibar was packed for a Sunday night. $5 drinks. I looked across the room and the crab cakes and salmon were a hit too.
(5)Bryan P.
I've been to Bettibar before, and it's a cool spot. A very cramped restaurant, we were pretty fortunate to just walk in and get a seat amid the theater rush. The food was really good. I think we both had pasta dishes, but I don't recall what exactly. They were good. Decent prices, including drinks.
(4)Sherri H.
There's a speakeasy upstairs. It's charming and cozy. Must try in NYC
(5)Ashley D.
Lovely place to enjoy a pre-show dinner. They're very quick at turning around large groups pre-show. My favorite dish is the Mushroom Ravioli - all ravioli is made in-house. This dish features an amazingly delicious marsala sauce as opposed to pasta sauce and it is TO DIE FOR. I'll never order anything else :) Plus, they have Clos du Val by the bottle. A-OK in my book!
(4)Amy P.
We had a terrific per-theater dinner here. The restaurant has three narrow floors and a lot of charm. We sat at the bar on the 2nd floor and ate on the third floor. The service was friendly and attentive. The food was really great. I had a homemade spinach ravioli that was spectacular. The brisket sliders were also amazing. Also at the table we had the pasta bolognese, short ribs and grilled chicken. All were delicious. We will definitely come here again.
(4)Monique R.
Oh, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly. What have you done to me? ***For BettiBar*** When you ring the doorbell next to the hourglass tavern, you gain access to a secret bar! No shit! Upstairs, grab a booth and rub elbows with some of the cooler people in Manhattan. Cooler because they know about this awesome bar. Kelly, the mixologist, was a great conversationalist. And he can make a serious drink! My enabler, Phil, dragged me to this bar. I entered slightly tipsy and left here clearly intoxicated. The $8 Mystery Beer and Shot is quite the deal. Growing up in the hoodtastic part of williamsburg, sipping a beer from a paper bag made me feel all nostalgic and shit. But how fun is it to drink like a hobo? VERY. Some pretty awesome labels inside the mystery beer. I sipped on a sneaky prohibition beer that tasted like an IPA of sorts. The mystery shot looked like flat coca cola. And if i think really hard, or read my tweets from that inglorious night I can recall the formula. I slurred at some regulars who humored my drunk ass but this bar is the bees knees. Ring the door bell and come on up! Please note that the WATER CLOSET is fancy talk for the Shitter.
(5)Samantha C.
Small and intimate place to hang out for a quick drink, until it starts to get crowded. Must try their happy hour menu and get the grilled flatiron steak and handmade spinach ravioli. Good portions. Service was decent, but don't expect too much once it gets pretty busy because the bartender was the only one waiting tables and serving drinks. Perfect cosmo and good pinot at reasonable prices during happy hour. Upstairs is the best place to sit.
(4)Jonathan A.
I really enjoyed the ambiance and the feel if the place, the food was spectacular and I would definitely try any of the wines. The only problem I would say is the actual walk space which is very narrow esp the stairway but besides that I give it 4 stars and will not only come back but will recommend it to all my friends that are looking to go to a nice quiet place for two
(4)Mary B.
My husband and I took our 2 adult children there after seeing a play on Broadway. We didn't get there till almost 11 pm. We were greeted at the door and seated on the 3rd floor dining room, very small but nice. Ordered dinner, a couple glasses of wine and we were eating a half hour later. Everyone enjoyed their meal, service was good, and we had real food after the show! Not some stupid fast food or chain restaurant garbage. Would recommend this place if you need a good meal late in NYC.
(4)Amber T.
My sister lives on Long Island and I was visiting her from Pittsburgh - we were going to a Sunday evening show on Broadway but needed to find some grub first. So we were walking down restaurant row looking for something interesting to eat pre-theater. I kept stopping to glance at menus, but for whatever reason she kept on walking. Finally at one point she turned around and gave me a look that only sisters can give one another (the "what the hell are you doing, get your butt moving" look) and I started yelling down the street at her the way only sisters can do ("I'm looking at the menus! How the F are you going to know where to eat if you don't look at menus???") - well, fortunately for us, we were having this exchange right in front of the Hourglass Tavern. Their host happened to be standing outside to witness this sisterly love and pulled us aside to try to coerce us to come in. Now, let me tell you, I do not like when people do that - I hate being put on the spot. It was a really, really hard sell and that almost made me tell him to shove it you-know-where and walk away. BUT he was charming and the other staffers hanging out outside were really nice (later I found out one was the former owner and the other was the current owner - they were having a baklava lesson!), so after perusing the menu for a few minutes we decided to go in. Fantastic decision. The menu is large and varied and uses the word "snacklettes" which I love! We went with the Prix-Fixe menu - so we got homemade bread, a spanikopita, a salad, an entree and a dessert. She got the mascarpone penne. I got the shrimp catalina. Both were excellent. The bread was excellent. The salad was phenomenal. The spanikopita was really, really good (and I generally do not like spanikopita that much). I had tiramisu for dessert and it was wonderful. My sister had the cobbler and she said it was very tasty. The Hourglass Tavern is definitely on my list of places to visit again next time I'm in the city. It was delightful.
(5)Jin C.
The positive but small amount of reviews made me think this would be an undiscovered gem but after dining there, I had a dawning realization that most of the reviews were written by tourists. And indeed, the food the restaurant served made me feel like it was meant for people who wouldn't be coming back. I got the prix fixe menu, which included a soup, a phyllo pastry, an entree and dessert. They also gave a supersized dinner roll to start. It had a yeasty flavor and a chewy texture to it, which I personally liked. The lentil soup kinda reminded me of something I would make in a large quantity and then reheat for dinners. Watery, and the cut vegetables that floated in the soup looked like they've been boiled to death. It tasted fine, I guess. The phyllo pastry was quite small, and also didn't taste like very much. So far, very standard; underwhelming. I got the grilled chicken breast entree, which was again, just okay. It certainly didn't taste as nuanced as the description made it sound: rosemary and garlic marinated, honey cumin sauce, and toasted coconut rice. I personally liked the rice, because it reminded me a coconut rice milk dish called nasi lemak, but the chicken was sort of meh and I wished there were more of the sauce. And my dining partner's blackened tilapia's sauce was the same sauce as mine, even though the menu said it'd be pico de gallo. Dessert was probably the best part of the meal. The tiramisu was good, and the berry cobbler was very warm and the serving was generous. Pros: good service, good dessert Cons: touristy vibe, mediocre food
(3)Tad B.
This place is AWESOME. We live a few blocks away. Only downside is, they dont deliver. BUT...the food is fresh, very tasty, and moderately priced. All in all, a great deal compared to most places in the neighborhood. Im not sure why somebody would criticize a restaurant in a review for being too small, or cozy, or not being able to accommodate all of the members in a party. If they are at capacity, why should that detract from the overall rating? The restaurant size is what it is. Also, for the price you pay here, the food is very good. I live in the neighborhood, and everything is expensive, so for me, the quality of food at that price point, especially compared to just about every other restaurant in the area, is very very good. The actual restaurant is small, cozy, intimate, great ambience. Everybody that works there is incredibly friendly, accommodating, and recognize us every time we stop in or call. I know this sounds like a ridiculously positive review...but give the place a try. You will understand....
(5)Betty W.
Came here after the fail at Hudson Terrace on a whim. I had the $5 Sangria (which was a little weak but tasty) and my friend had the $5 white wine. We then got dinner which I had the mini Cuban sandwiches and he got the hamburger w/ mashed potatoes. Everything was pretty good and our bill came to about $38 + tax so it was also a decent price. The server/bartender was friendly and it seemed like there were quite a few regulars which is always a good sign. I loved how cute and romantic the space was though the narrow stairs to get to the bar on the 2nd floor were a little daunting. Overall I'll be back for sure
(4)Laura M.
Great location for pre-theater dining.. Funky, "old" atmosphere. We sat in front window so great for people watching. Food was good . Prices very reasonable for NYC.
(3)Katy P.
Always a good experience when I dine here. It's one of the few places in the area that isn't touristy. The food is great, drinks are reasonably priced, and the service is always friendly. The space is an old townhouse which has been redecorated in a shabby chic manner--adorable. It is a little cramped during dinner time, but only because it's a quality place.
(4)Lindsay T.
I went here with my mom a few weeks ago specifically for the pre-theater menu. The place is small but beautifully decorated, we got seated right away (with reservations) and were greeted by very friendly staff. The homemade bread is delicious and the drinks were amazing, I recommend the "Brooklyn Flower" for a cocktail. The meal was flavorful and filling and more affordable than most places on Restaurant Row. The second floor is the Betti Bar which looked fun but cramped, however they did have really cheap drinks. I would definitely make this a regular stop when I'm in the city.
(5)Bea B.
Up a flight of stairs and off to the left, Hourglass-a.k.a. Bettibar- has an "in the know" sort of feel to it. Once perched on our bar stools--there are only a few tables on the floor--we were quickly entertained by the bar man on staff. He was affable, friendly, but just a bit too loud and keen on having a monologue rather than a dialogue-again, he was entertaining, so this is not a huge complaint, but rather something to mention-he got us what we wanted without a hitch. For those who wish to nosh, there's also a fairly solid bar menu. Fun bit: affixed to the walls are a couple of vintage-looking hourglasses that patrons may tip to their delight as the sand runs out. Also, there's a gorgeous chandelier that hangs just toward the far end of the room by the windows that overlook 46th St. Note: no soda gun on hand, so tonic, coke, soda and the like are dispensed from cans.
(3)Quasona C.
Came here with my bff's friends who are Hell Kitchen residents. Great spot for drinks and a quick meal. They have the daily specials listed on the side of the bar, which is located on the 2nd floor. A nice and cozy spot if you're looking for an intimate setting.
(3)valerie d.
Because of this place, I have a new obsession with short ribs. Eat them.
(5)Tabitha S.
Cute little place, good food.
(3)Edna C.
Tiny space, quiet crowd. Can't go wrong with $8 shot & beer.
(3)Jeremy L.
We had our "see you later New York" dinner/ drink party here. As always, the staff is great, as is the food and drinkage. A REAL place in the middle of the schlock in TS and Restautant Row. You really can't go wrong here.
(4)Clint S.
We came based in part on reviews on Yelp. We would come back again and again based on the deliciously prepared meals and hospitality of the staff and owners. We enjoyed the pork chop and mashed potatoes, as well as the chicken and rice. Both came with amazing broccoli, and the meat was atop a dollop of sauce that was a combination of honey and cumin. It was nothing short of amazing!! Value, taste, and hospitality that makes you feel like part of a family. If you find yourself in the area, visit. I will be again before we leave manhattan. Second Visit: As good as the first, and our time spent chatting with the staff was also great. Cheers, and we cannot wait to visit again on our next NY trip.
(5)Kenneth D.
A great gem in Hell's Kitchen. Had the pleasure of dining here late last night and was very impressed. We ventured up to the top level where we enjoyed practically a private dining room as we were the only ones up there until right before we left. Service was incredible and the food was delicious. Definitely will be heading back here.
(4)Irene S.
Sat outside to dine before a show. Restaurant is funky and narrow. The dining is on the first floor and I think there are 2 different bars on the 2nd and 3rd floors. It has an old tavern feel. The greeter is very friendly and knows everyone in the neighborhood. The service and food were very good. We were able to have dinner at 6:30 and get to our 8:00 show on time. The ravioli were just delicious! Perfectly seasoned and thin, fresh pasta. I usually don't get ravioli, because I don't like cheese, but their ravioli had no cheese.
(4)T E.
I enjoyed the Shrimp Positano, but not enough to go back. The service was lacking. The waitress forgot not only a beer but the entire meal of one of our party. I don't think he'll go back either.
(2)Catherine R.
Shhh! Don't tell anyone about this space! It's my new neighborhood oasis. It's intimate and and well lit and cozy and everyone smiles and sips. (I guess some gulp.) I just love it here. It's the perfect place to end the night. I hear the food is delicious, but I've never made it to Hourglass before the kitchen's closed (1am). Josh and Beth are the magnanimous proprietor/bartenders, one of whom usually pours until 4am.
(5)Mike B.
we thought we had walked into the wrong place, but as it turns out, no - we discovered a bar made of AWESOME. kudos to Sam for finding it. the restaurant on the ground floor is small. maybe seating for 10 or 12. we stood awkwardly for a minute or two before the waitress asked if we wanted a seat, then we said, "uh, we're here for the bar". she phoned upstairs, confirmed that there was space, and led us to it. I'm not sure if this counts Hourglass Tavern as a speakeasy really, but still awesome! they have happy hour from 5-10 every day? THIS IS RELEVANT TO MY INTERESTS. we wondered why people were drinking from brown paper bags. turns out one of the happy hour deals is a mystery beer in a brown paper bag and a shot, for eight bucks. turns out it's all American brews like Shipyard, Harpoon, River Horse...SWEET! and the shots were Jameson, then Soco & lime (of course we got two rounds)! all three of us got different beers, none of which were bad. atmosphere is killer here: the lighting is really clutch: a small chandelier and real candles, not electric ones. subdued lighting, thanks to the magic of dimmer switches. bartenders were friendly and actually nice to talk to. it's pretty cozy - maybe about 25 people total can fit here. definitely good for a date or a small group of friends. two TVs, neither of which were on jazz music, but not being played too loud, so you can actually have a conversation without shouting it's right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of midtown, yet doesn't feel at all like it. musicians and actors from theater productions seem to make up the bulk of the clientele, which is pretty cool.
(5)Denise D.
A friend and I were due for some girl talk, and wanted a low key spot that had a late happy hour in the Theater District. Searching around on Yelp I came across Betti Bar, and I was so glad that I did. Though this place isn't technically a speakeasy (there is a large sign out front letting you know it is there), the doorway is unassuming, and looks like the entryway to someone's apartment. You ring a door bell, and enter into a small stairway. I exited the stairway onto the second floor (there is a third floor, which I hear also is a bar, but I can not say anything about that from experience) into the tiniest bar that I have ever been in. It really only had about 4 tables, most of which sat 2, and some bar seating. There were a couple other parties there, which worked out perfectly for us. I read that it got crowded on other nights, but since it was a Monday, it was not. The bar had nice little touches that added to the decor, and gave it a vintage time appeal. The bartender immediately greeted me from behind the bar, and let me know what the happy hour specials were (and that they run until 10pm - Jackpot!). I ordered a glass of wine ($5), and a sangria later (also $5). The sangria was actually really good. There was music playing, but it wasn't very loud, so conducive to easy conversation. Also, when the other two parties had left, the bartender asked if there was anything that we would like to listen to, which is very thoughtful,and cool in my book. My friend and I shared the chicken sliders, and I must say, we gobbled them up quite quick. They were pretty darn tasty. Overall, the vibe is great, the ambiance is great, and service is wonderful, and a definite win in my book. I'll be back!
(4)Jessica M.
Love the vibe here, the bartenders are super nice. It's a really quaint, unique place with different floors with different ambiances. I've been twice and just had drinks but I loved it both times. They have decent happy hour deals, I think drinks are $5.
(4)Kerry C.
Hourglass tavern is awesome! It's good food and drink and service with a smile. A great NYC place to eat and drink. It's small and not great for a large crowd on the 1st and 2nd floor.
(5)Sharone N.
Wonderful, warm and incredibly accommodating. We had NO reservation, competing with the pre-theatre crowd and got a seat quickly. Beth then upgraded us to a window seat without us even having to ask! I had the shrimp entree with polenta(I'm Italian and this was GOOOD polenta!), and my bf had the pork chop. All perfectly seasoned and beautifully presented. Our bill was nothing...I was stunned! Well done friends!
(5)James K.
I went upstairs to the Betti Bar. It was a small and cute space. A lot of the people there all seem to know each other, so it's probably a neighborhood bar. There's a giant hour glass on the wall that was pretty. My friend and I got the sangria, which was good but not the best I've had. I had a nice time here, though my friend said that she had been before and there was a woman who was running the bar that evening who was more chatty and fun.
(3)Carol G.
I held a birthday party at the Hourglass Tavern's 3rd floor space for my husband. The intimate space, the delicious food, the wonderful staff and Beth's personal warm attention made it a night to remember. People are still praising the party and the Hourglass Tavern!
(5)Erin W.
Needed a place near Midtown/Hells Kitchen that would take a group of 5 on short notice and ended up here in one of those "must've been fate"/"count your lucky stars" kind of moments. From the moment we walked in we were made to feel like we were old friends with everyone that worked there. Beth made room for us at the bar while we waited for our #5, even though Bettibar is teeny (adorably so!). Happy Hour is 5-10pm (!!) and we all went for the mystery-beer-and-shot for $8. You really can't beat it, and Beth didn't even mock me when I told her I'd only do it if she could promise the shot would be "girly." It was, and it was delicious. For dinner we moved downstairs to the smaller of the two dining rooms (think 4 tables small) where we kicked things off with two bottles of wine. We asked the (incredibly sweet, charming) waitress for suggestions for entrees and all ended up going with everything she recommended. She didn't steer us wrong, either. Everyone raved about whatever they were eating, from the pork chops, to the handmade mushroom ravioli, to the giant goat cheese and mixed greens salad we got to split as an appetizer. We shared a dessert, leisurely finished our wine, and weren't rushed in the slightest, even as other after-theater diners started coming in. Here's the best part: for two rounds of drinks, two bottles of wine, an appetizer, 5 entrees, a dessert, gratuity and tax included...$225. Under $50 a person for an all around stellar dinner experience. This place is a gem, and even our friends from New York can't wait to go back. Beth also told us about an improv event they do the last Wednesday of every month in the 3rd floor dining room that I'm interested in checking out.
(5)Leslie W.
Go upstairs to the speakeasy bar - Bettibar! Love this place. Great bartendars, I love the prices, and they have an $8 "Mystery beer in a big + shot" that never fails to put a smile on my face. I take people here all the time!
(4)Matthew L.
It's a quirky, narrow little place in the theatre district/restaurant row recommended by our guidebook and it's not terribly overpriced - $19.95 for a three course meal + inexpensive Sangria (which tasted inexpensive as well, but that's okay). The prix fixe begins with a spanakopita, which was a pretty standard one - I've had better and worse. The salad and soup were both pretty tasty as well, which came afterward (I had the soup, my wife had the salad - good dressing). While I found my main dish, the lobster ravioli to be delicious, but not spectacularly so, my wife was disappointed in the lack of flavor in her pasta primavera. She felt it was missing tomatoes, at the very least. And when it came to be time to go, it appeared to take at least a half an hour to receive the bill. When you're dining pre-theatre, you don't want to cut it all that close. Of course, they may have delivered the bill more expediently had we made it clear that we were dining pre-theatre at the onset. Of course, my guidebook made me think that we would be forced from our table within an hour, but that rule was probably moot as there were maybe 4 other people in the restaurant at that time.
(2)Lucy R.
Service pretty good, food very uneven. Husband had the vegetable soup (he got the 4 pm - 8 pm prix fixe) which was OK, and the grilled chicken, which he liked. I had the "Lobster Stuffed Ravioli." The menu did say that there was also ricotta cheese in it; what they didn't say was that you really had to look for the tiny bits of lobster in ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Total rip-off. The vodka sauce on the ravioli was pleasant. I also had a side of sauteed spinach, which was acceptable: made fresh and not overcooked. Adult daughter ordered pasta with meat sauce (probably called bolognese or something). It was so salty she could barely eat it, and that was without the parmesan on top. Wine list was miniscule, yet they were still out of one of the two dry(ish) whites they offered. Service was pretty good, nothing special. Initially they tried to seat us upstairs, which one can expect pre-theatre, but be forewarned - it is TWO flights up; the second floor is the bar. I had an issue where I could do one flight of stairs but not two, and they kindly found us a table on the ground floor. Dessert was very odd. We had one fruit cobbler (served in a coffee cup) which was fresh and hot, apparently made in-house. The chocolate mousse cake, on the other hand, was a very small serving of a completely industrial product, sweet with no taste, chocolate or otherwise, and not even fresh - I wouldn't even serve it to a small child. I just can't see why anyone give this place a decent rating. One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of the reviews under the name of this restaurant are actually for the Bettibar on the second floor (something Yelp should fix). For me, next time I'll make a note to call Trecolore earlier in the week.
(2)E A.
Amazing place. Ate here on my birthday and the service was fantastic. Food was amazing as well. Definitely try the lobster ravioli. Fellow stoma patients out there, there are a variety of options that are safe for you (i.e. no seeds or nuts involved). UC patients, obviously the lack of seeds and nuts and the willingness of the staff to change around menu items to suit particular dietary restrictions is a big plus, but definitely look at the menu beforehand and make sure that you can find foods that suit your particular dietary regime. I would recommend the lobster ravioli (even if you don't have the same dietary restrictions I do, based strictly on the taste). Great place with great food and great service. Will definitely return.
(5)Stacy Y.
The Hourglass Tavern is a place I like to take friends to that are visiting, staying in the Midtown West/Times Square area, and are looking for something that is not so touristy based on where they are staying but can't go too far b/c they have theatre tickets. Their menu has a good amount of variety to satisfy different likes and dislikes, their waitstaff is friendly and efficient and their prices won't break the bank so you can afford to actually have dinner before your Broadway show and not worry how long it's going to take to pay off the credit card bill.
(3)Kandi A.
While in NYC for my millionth time, I was looking for something new. Something different. I was traveling with my mom who doesn't frequent the city so I tried to pick places I knew would have good options for anyone. Well, I honestly read about this place in my book and saw it while we were walking around and recognized the name. I was starving and grabbed my mother and dragged her in. We were seated instantly. It was cozy in the downstairs space and by cozy I mean, you can barely move around but I was into it. Me and my mom looked over the menu and decided to get the Pre-fix menu. Great choice! We started with some fresh, baked bread and salad. Both were great ways to start. I had the spinach ravioli as my entree and it was tasty. The pasta was so fresh and the tomato sauce was incredible! I loved mine. But the best part of the meal was the cobbler. It came out nice and warm with a little whipped cream on top. I ate the entire cup. We had plenty of food for the low price of $22 each. It was a steal by any standards. I went home full, happy and with a new favorite place to visit when I come back.
(4)Lisa C.
Amazing crab cakes! Swift and friendly service! Will make it a must stop next time I visit the area!
(4)Brad H.
I won't spend too much time on this review because based on my one-time dining experience this was really nothing too special. Regarding the restaurant downstairs (Hourglass Tavern), the food was ok but not great. My wife ordered soup which was marginally better than Campbells, my pork chop was ok but nothing to write home about. The prix fix is a decent value. Service was polite. For area equivalents or for dinner before a show you can do better, at the same price point in my opinion. However... Regarding the bar upstairs (Betti Bar), I was a fan. I has a very chill, laid back atmosphere and some interesting drink options, like a shot with a beer in a bag. The drinks are incredibly well priced for this area of manhattan. I suggest skipping the restaurant downstairs but stopping by the bar above for a drink before your next show.
(2)Alexander M.
I'm usually a little skeptical of places that have an employee standing on the sidewalk begging you to come in. But in this case I'm pretty sure it's just because it's easy to miss this skinny 3-story bar in the hullabaloo of Restaurant Row. Each floor is progressively more laidback (tablecloths and candles on the bottom, small beer and wine-only bar up top) and it's fun to explore each of the different "scenes." The happy hour specials are good ($5 for wine and sangria, $3 or $4 for beer). My only grievance is no beer on tap. Cute quiet spot for a bottle of red.
(4)Tim P.
This is for Bettibar. Wife and I had a great time.
(5)Keith S.
Stopped in here looking for a convenient place to meet some friends. Cozy relaxed atmosphere (a little tight). Good service and a very extensive menu to choose from. My bourbon spare ribs were melt in your mouth awesome! No tap beer but a good selection. For being near the theater district, pricing was a lot better than expected.
(4)Soup D.
Came here with 3 teens, 9 year old, and 4 adults. We all enjoyed our food, service was great (fun and friendly). We had mushroom, lobster, and pumpkin ravioli, chicken penne, ribs, burger. Everyone had a great meal, great dessert (loved the chocolate lava cake), reasonably priced. Place was hopping on a Saturday night, but we (and other large-ish) groups all got out in plenty of time to make our Broadway shows. Also the restaurant, on three small floors, makes optimal use of the space, which feels cozy but not crowded. Will definitely return!
(4)Dana L.
We just went for the Betti Bar on the second floor, and it was great. So incredibly chill. Tiny but somehow not cramped. Maybe we just got lucky? We went after a play at around 11pm. The food looked and smelled good, so we will be returning. The bartender was super nice. Someone had ordered some of the stuffed puff things and for some reason had to go, so he gave them to us. They were crazy greasy, but that was really nice! Their happy hour is insane! For the theater district, this truly is a find!
(4)Carmen M.
This is a charming little place to eat at, nice to sit and look around. The food was o.k. I've definitely had better, I was a bit disappointed. I went for dinner so maybe this place is better for drinks and appetizers.
(2)Thomas L.
Quirky little place! We were pleasantly squeezed into a window seat. I had the pork chop, which was well prepared. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli. Unfortunately, they ran out of lobster and she chose the mushroom ravioli, which was very good. Excellent sides, like the mashed potatoes and a boatload of brocolli. Great experience and would dine here again!
(5)