Frying Pan NYC — Restaurant in New York

This place is purely awesome. I don’t know how I’ve lived in the city this long without having been here before. It is now on my list as a top spot to take friends and family when they visit!

The food and drinks are great, which is almost an afterthought considering how enjoyable the experience of just being in the restaurant is. It has a vibe of feeling like you’re out on the water, but while still easily accessible to land. Sort of a cross between a boat and a pier. It’s a truly unique spot to hang out, whether you're sipping cocktails, enjoying a meal, or just soaking in the view of the Hudson.

The upper level of the Frying Pan is more of a sit-down, reservation-only area, where you'll find cozy tables with umbrellas and great views of the river. The setup gives off a chic, maritime vibe with nautical accents, including fishing nets and old ropes, but it’s not overly formal, making it a great spot for a relaxed, yet stylish dining experience. The outdoor seating makes it feel like you're cruising along the water, and the breeze off the Hudson adds to the whole experience.

The lower level is more casual and walk-up, but still offers plenty of space with picnic-style tables and benches, perfect for larger groups or just hanging out. It’s more of a bar vibe here, with a lively atmosphere and people chatting while enjoying drinks and snacks. The bar area is fun and well-stocked, with an quality range of cocktails, beers, and wines. Plus, there are a few TVs mounted around, which makes it a great spot to catch a game, especially if you’re sitting in the more open space at the back. The whole area feels like a mix between a beach bar and a classic New York hangout.

We didn’t have reservations, and since the upper section with waiter service is only for reservations, we’ll have to be back and try that next time! But the walk-up bar area still provides a great view, and it’s fun to watch the boats and ships pass by as you dine.

The actual Frying Pan boat sits next to the restaurant, and if you’re into history, the boat has a ton. The Frying Pan is a retired US Coast Guard vessel that was built in 1929. Originally known as the Frying Pan Lightship, it served as a floating lighthouse off the coast of North Carolina for many years, guiding ships through hazardous waters. It had a particularly notable stint during World War II, when it was stationed in the Panama Canal Zone.

In 1965, it was decommissioned and eventually moved to New York City, where it became a popular part of the waterfront scene in Chelsea.

If you’re into boats, piers, history, railroads (there’s a railroad element to the restaurant with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Float Transfer Bridge used for access and a railcar when you first walk in), good food, good drinks, and good vibes, I highly recommend checking out...

Stadium-quality food for 4-Star prices: The Frying Pan is an embarrassment to Manhattan. The restaurant had so much promise to be a lovely experience which has been on my list for a very long time, but the establishment failed us in every possible way. We had an evening reservation which meant we were seated for table service. The restaurant advertises the red boat, but seating on the famed red boat was not open. We were instead seated on an upper level of a mooring barge in direct sunlight with strong winds which obliterated our table every few minutes. The entire dining area was in direct view of the horrifically noisy helicopter pads next door. The entire experience was ruined by incessant and excessive helicopter noise which exceeded 90db multiple times according to noise warnings from my smart devices. The menu was very limited and simple. Small a la carte plates and sides for exorbitant prices is somewhat normal for New York, but I have had much better food on board Amtrak and the airlines. The poor quality of the food was absolutely disgusting and it was difficult to finish what I ordered. The prices charged were an insult after enduring the stadium-quality food and beverages. The service was also deplorable: the waiter served our food and abandoned our table for the rest of the evening. We eventually ordered more drinks and dessert, and it was dropped off with no utensils with which to eat it. Due to the inattentive staff I had to get up and request more utensils from the bartender at the other end of the barge before we could eat our desserts. Nearly three hours in, now nauseated by the helicopter noise, we had to ask for the check three times before finally getting a check from a different server who had not previously been serving our table. The overall impression is that this restaurant has NO incentive to provide quality food or service due to the transient one-time tourist patronage they enjoy, and this Upper West Side local will never set foot onto the dock of The Frying Pan again. What a pathetic experience, and what an embarrassment to the restaurant community...

Frying Pan is a unique and captivating dining destination that offers an unforgettable experience. Nestled on a historic vessel docked in New York City's waterfront, this floating restaurant creates an atmosphere unlike any other. As soon as you step aboard, you are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by the charm and nostalgia of a vintage ship.

The setting of Frying Pan alone is worth the visit. With panoramic views of the Hudson River, you can enjoy your meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery and feeling the gentle sway of the boat. The outdoor seating area provides a relaxed and casual atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or a romantic evening under the stars.

When it comes to the food, Frying Pan doesn't disappoint. The menu features a variety of delicious options, with a focus on classic American fare. From juicy burgers and crispy fish and chips to flavorful salads and fresh seafood, there's something to satisfy every palate. The quality of the ingredients shines through in each dish, and the flavors are well-executed, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

What sets Frying Pan apart is its vibrant and lively atmosphere. The restaurant often hosts live music performances, creating an energetic vibe that adds to the overall enjoyment. The friendly and attentive staff contributes to the welcoming ambiance, providing excellent service and making sure you have everything you need.

It's important to note that as a popular destination, Frying Pan can get quite busy, especially during peak hours or weekends. This may result in longer wait times, so it's advisable to plan accordingly or make a reservation in advance to secure your spot.

In summary, Frying Pan offers a truly unique dining experience aboard a historic ship, with stunning river views, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the city, this waterfront gem is definitely...