I’m going against my better judgment. I’m going to tell you guys about one of my favorite restaurants in New York City. It’s called Robert (yes, singular.) Its located in Midtown, near Columbus Circle.
The actual location is right above MAD, the Museum of Art and Design. On the 9th floor.
Roberts is not a restaurant tourists know about. However, I’ve developed a tradition to come here every time I’m in town.
Because this place is not touristy, they’ll think you’re a local and treat you like a fellow New Yorker, which in my eyes is a sign of respect.
So, Lets Dine Like a New Yorker
Currently, Robert is practicing all of the covid regulations that have been implemented in NYC. They’ve spaced tables to allow for social distancing. They’ve also installed plexiglass stands to physically separate tables. Also, all New York City restaurants are capped at 25% capacity. With that said, it’s vital to make a reservation because they only allow each party to stay for 90 minutes. Covid has changed a lot of things.
Nevertheless, this is a perfect place for brunch or lunch.
If you can, try and get a table near the window. The floor to ceiling windows highlight the Central Park view. From here, you can see Columbus Circle and the stunning skyline that lines Broadway.
It’s so spectacular you could spend a lot of time staring out the window as you enjoy your tasty meal. Although it’s a bummer you have to eat within 90 minutes nowadays, it’s never been a problem for me. Lingering past 90 minutes is too long anyway.
Their bread basket is tasty and warm. They go well with a cup of coffee.
Since I primarily come here for brunch or lunch, I can attest their dishes are great. I’ve had their tasty butternut squash soup. Their crottin de chavignol (beat salad.) I love beats, and their beat salad is a must.
Their wagyu burger is tasty, but why get a burger when you can get something better? The orange sage chicken is also tasty and worth a try. But, the biggest dish I’ve had is their chicken sandwich. It’s gigantic.
Usually, their portion sizes are European. Meaning, they’re smaller than Americans are used to (except their chicken sandwich.) However, I’ve never had an issue. I’m always overfull.
Another great thing about Robert is their prices. New York City has some of the most outrageous prices I’ve seen for dining out. However, Robert is on the lower end. Except cocktails. Expect to pay around $20 per cocktail (that’s NYC prices for booze.)
The Restrooms
At one point, make sure to go to the restroom at the far end of the hallway. That restroom also has floor to ceiling windows with a view of the midtown sky rises. Don’t worry, though. No one will see you poop. They have beaded curtains that allow for privacy.
Apart from the fantastic restrooms, the restaurant itself is beautiful and very artistically designed. After dinner, make sure to check out the art store located on the first floor of the building. You’ll find lots of quirky, artsy stuff for that art lover back home.
Let me break it down for you:
Robert is located at 2 Columbus Circle New York, NY 10019 on the 9th floor of the Museum of Art and Design (MAD.)
The menu is great and affordable. The views are spectacular, no joke. The food is tasty, and the restaurant is completely non-touristy.
Check out their website for more information: https://robertnyc.com