ROBERT — Restaurant in New York

Went for NYE and used my credit card to keep the reservation. It was my understanding after discussing it with the woman that took my card over the phone I was being charged to hold the reservation. Wasn’t planning on canceling however my significant other wasn’t up to going due to some work related issues. We still pushed through since I was under the impression we were charged. I did not receive a confirmation via email, nor an email stating how much I was supposedly charged, what would be on the menu or what was part of the reservation in terms of entertainment. I also did not know where I was sitting so I had to call back a couple of weeks later to see if I could select a table by the window. The menu was once again not available at that time and only became available a week before NYE. My purpose for going was for the fireworks that were supposed to be displayed over Central Park and to try the four course pre fixe menu while enjoying a jazz band. About a day before we were set to go I received a call asking us to confirm our reservation. I replied stating I paid to hold the reservation so I was unsure as to why I was required to confirm the reservation. This is when I was told I was never charged for the reservation and that the card was just to hold my reservation. Very confusing to say the least. I was finally told at that time of this call that the menu was available. Seriously..two days before our reservation we finally receive word regarding pertinent information? I was truly surprised by the level of disorganization considering we were paying 385 a person. When we arrived they gave us this tiny table pushed to the corner and were told they typically arrange a small table for two shoved in the corner next to an overwhelming table of 8-10 people. It was more like the table next to us that seated about 8-10 people seemed to be the priority and therefore we were pushed into the corner. I didn’t appreciate being given rude information upon arrival that would have probably changed my decision regarding my reservation had I known sooner. Very underhanded move. At that point my husband and I felt reluctant to even have a window seat. Long story short the fireworks were canceled due to inclement weather and the food was decent. Of course the restaurant did not communicate the canceled fireworks to the patrons in advance. I understand they have no control over that however courtesy would have been highly appreciated. The bill was what we expected considering we agreed to 385 a person. The service was decent but not enough to praise due to the awkward angle of the seating and not enough for the 15-20% minimum tip required for a standard four course meal. The entertainment was decent. There was no valet and the restaurant in general felt stuffy and not spacious. My husband and I were forced to park blocks away which resulted in waiting an hour + to pick up our vehicle after dinner. The ambiance is also on the outdated side with an attempt at a modern eclectic artsy look. The only really good thing about the experience was the view and the sound of jazz music playing in the background. For 385 a person on New Years Eve sitting in what my husband called the “time out” chair 😂 I would absolutely not opt to do that again and I suggest anyone thinking of going to Roberts to go on a much less expensive day, simply enjoy the view (if you’re not a native NY’er) and of course make sure you don’t get stuffed in the corner. The three stars are for the food being decent, the service not being horrific, everything else gets 0 stars. Much too expensive for a...

We were a 60th birthday party of 6 and the last time I was at Robert was 10 years ago. It was divine back then. What happened? (And full disclosure - I ‘m a foodie who worked back of house in a fancy restaurant like this - but I maintain, food doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to be good).

Halibut - at $39 - was criminally overcooked - resembled a dry chicken breast. You cannot serve one of the most premium fish varieties like this for that price. My friend and I were so dazed and confused by it as we traded bites we didn’t think to wake up send it back - and we should have. It was clearly left to “sit” and overcook.

Branzino - ok, filleted was good sans bones to worry about. But this fish works better a whole fish - because unlike say, buttery Chilean sea bass, it has that stringy snapper-like texture.

Risotto - way too small.

Sea scallops - 3 on a plate and 1 overcooked at over 10 bucks a piece.

Desserts - were a total, unmitigated disaster. We should’ve just gone to Van Leeuwen across the road. While we appreciated the birthday dish of 6 squares of red velvet cake and a cream cheese frosting - the desserts proved they need a dedicated pastry chef. The pistachio brûlée was like a bad child’s kitchen experiment. The blackberry cheesecake - more like a mauve mouse - just didn’t work. The brownie was just a brownie.

The only thing that was very good in the whole evening were the crispy fries and the $49 fillet steak - and it would want to be at that price.

The server Chris - a brilliant photographer by the way - tried his best, was diplomatic to a fault and really sold us on the desserts. As he should - this is a business. But the kitchen let him down.

I know how difficult is to run a business particularly a restaurant, but it astounds me how these kind of mistakes can happen at such a high-end location with very high rent. At this price point, you have to be good. I don’t like to see businesses fail, but with this lack of attention to detail - which seems to stem from not visiting even casual excellent restaurants like C as in Charlie, Jun Men, Genesis House, Little Rubys (for their short rib pappardelle) - to experience the standard being served - a place like this would be doomed. It is lucky it is more of a tourist-type restaurant so probably benefits from getting a stream of visitors from outside New York. But the fact that it was half full and they still managed to overcook the fish - maybe that says everything.

If you come perhaps order the $26 vegan zoodle dish, 2 of the appetizers in lieu of a main and maybe a vat of the mushroom soup amuse-bouche will save the day. They can’t possibly...

Robert restaurant in New York City is a culinary gem that truly shines in every aspect. From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were greeted with a warmth and professionalism that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The hostess, with her accommodating spirit, ensured that our last-minute reservation, recommended by a VIP client, was handled with the utmost care and efficiency.

The restaurant's ambiance is nothing short of breathtaking, with its stunning views over Columbus Circle and Central Park. Although we initially missed out on a window table, the staff's attention to detail and their genuine desire to please made up for it. Irving, our waiter, was a perfect host, showcasing an impressive knowledge of the menu and offering heartfelt recommendations that elevated our dining experience to new heights. His suggestions on both food and libations were spot-on, reflecting a deep understanding of the cuisine and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

A highlight of our visit was the unexpected relocation to a window table, courtesy of a last-minute cancellation. This gesture, facilitated by the manager on duty, the hostess, and Irving, was a testament to the restaurant's dedication to ensuring that every guest feels valued and well-cared for. The Tina Tartar was a delightful start, fresh and tasty, while the Burrata with Prosciutto di Parma was a symphony of flavors. The Penne Rigate was the star of the show, a dish that was not only beautifully presented but also incredibly satisfying.

The libations, expertly prepared and served with the perfect strength, were a true pleasure. Irving's attention to detail in their presentation further enhanced our overall experience, making each sip a moment to savor. Robert restaurant truly embodies the essence of fine dining, where every element is carefully crafted to create a memorable and enjoyable experience. It is a place where excellence meets hospitality, and we cannot...