Freemans Introduce
In a city where restaurants often open with great fanfare and disappear just as quickly, Freemans stands as a testament to enduring quality and unique charm. Tucked away at the end of a cobblestone alley off the Bowery, this American restaurant is a true hidden gem. Its existence feels like a well-kept secret among locals, and the journey to find it is part of the adventure. The moment you turn into Freeman Alley, you are transported away from the Lower East Side's urban grit into a world of art and history. The restaurant itself is a captivating space, designed to evoke the feeling of a rustic, colonial American tavern. With its cozy, historic, and at times quirky decor—including taxidermy on the walls—Freemans offers a dining experience that is both upscale and comfortingly familiar. It’s a place that makes you forget you’re in the middle of Manhattan, creating an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic date, a special occasion, or a gathering with friends.
Freemans has perfected the art of elevated comfort food, offering a menu that is both sophisticated and satisfying. The cuisine is described as rustic American, with a focus on simple, traditional dishes inspired by old-world traditions. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with seasonal changes that ensure the freshest ingredients are always on offer. From brunch classics to hearty dinner entrees, there is a dish for every palate. The kitchen consistently produces high-quality, flavorful food that has earned a loyal following. Whether you're indulging in their famous Hot Artichoke Dip with Crisp Bread, a must-try appetizer that has received rave reviews, or savoring a main like the Steak Frites or Whole Brook Trout, you can expect a meal that is both delicious and comforting. Freemans also takes pride in its beverage program, featuring a great selection of cocktails, beer, and a robust wine list. The bar area is a popular spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap, adding to the restaurant's overall appeal as a full-service dining destination. Its ability to serve as a high-quality establishment for any meal of the day, from breakfast to a late-night bite, is a significant part of its charm and success.
Beyond the food, the service at Freemans is a key part of what makes it so special. The staff is known for being super friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels cared for. As one customer review pointed out, the servers "actually care" and go above and beyond to accommodate dietary restrictions, a crucial detail that speaks volumes about their professionalism. This attention to detail and genuine hospitality transforms a meal into a truly memorable experience. The restaurant is not just about its food; it’s about creating a welcoming and homey environment where guests can feel comfortable and relaxed. This combination of a unique atmosphere, exceptional food, and caring service is what has made Freemans a beloved institution in New York City's competitive dining scene. It is a place that balances a trendy and upscale vibe with a cozy and inviting feel, making it a perfect spot for locals and a fascinating discovery for tourists.
Freemans is located at Freeman Alley, New York, NY 10002, USA. Its address is part of its mystique, as the restaurant is truly a hidden find at the end of a colorful alleyway. This location, just off the Bowery and near Rivington Street, places it in a prime spot within the Lower East Side. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with the 2nd Avenue (F train) and Bowery (J, Z) subway stations being within a short walking distance. This makes it a convenient destination for anyone in Manhattan or the surrounding boroughs. While the alley location makes it feel secluded, its proximity to major avenues ensures that it is never truly out of the way. Freemans is a destination in itself, and the journey down the art-filled alley is a delightful prelude to the meal. For those driving, free and paid street parking options are available in the vicinity, though as with any part of Manhattan, it is wise to be prepared for the typical urban parking challenges.
The restaurant’s accessibility extends to its physical design. Freemans features a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that it is an inclusive and welcoming space for all diners. The atmosphere is casual yet upscale, attracting a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, and groups. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, particularly for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as there is often a wait. The ability to make reservations helps guests plan their visit and ensures a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant’s multi-room layout, including private dining rooms, also makes it a versatile venue for events, from intimate dinners to larger receptions. This combination of a secluded location, easy accessibility, and thoughtful amenities makes Freemans a unique and practical choice for any occasion, proving that a hidden gem can be both enchanting and convenient.
Freemans offers a comprehensive range of services and dining options to cater to a diverse clientele.
- Service Options: Customers can choose from no-contact delivery, delivery, takeout, and dine-in, providing a wide array of convenient ways to enjoy their food.
- Dining Options: The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Guests can enjoy a meal with table service or in one of the private dining rooms.
- Reservations: Reservations are accepted and highly recommended, especially during peak hours.
- Catering: Freemans is equipped to host events and offers catering services, making it a popular choice for private parties and special occasions.
- Offerings: The menu includes a variety of alcoholic beverages, including a great beer selection, cocktails, hard liquor, and an impressive wine list. It also features healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options, accommodating a wide range of dietary preferences.
The features and highlights of Freemans are what truly set it apart and make it a memorable dining destination.
- Unique Ambiance: The restaurant’s rustic, historic, and cozy atmosphere is a major draw. The unique decor and secluded alley location create a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience that feels both adventurous and comfortable.
- Exceptional Service: The staff is known for being friendly, professional, and genuinely caring. Their attentiveness to details, including dietary restrictions, is a standout feature.
- Great Beverage Program: Freemans is celebrated for its well-curated list of cocktails and wine, making it a top spot for drinks in the area.
- Consistently High-Quality Food: From the popular Hot Artichoke Dip to main dishes like Steak Frites, the food is consistently praised for its quality and flavor.
- Versatility: The restaurant is suitable for a wide range of occasions, from a romantic dinner to a group gathering or a solo meal. The private dining options add to its versatility as an event space.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact Freemans directly. The restaurant is located at Freeman Alley, New York, NY 10002, USA. You can call the restaurant at (212) 420-0012 or their mobile number +1 212-420-0012. These contact details make it easy for customers to get in touch for questions, catering orders, or to confirm service details. The team is always ready to assist and provide information about the menu or services, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience from start to finish. For the most up-to-date information, it is always best to check their official channels for any changes or special announcements.
What makes Freemans a truly exceptional choice is its harmonious blend of high-quality food, a captivating atmosphere, and outstanding service. It is a place that offers a full-sensory experience, beginning with the adventure of finding it down the alley and continuing with the warmth and charm of its interior. The commitment to a welcoming environment is evident in the customer reviews, with one visitor noting, "You'll forget you're in a restaurant. The adventure begins the moment you turn down the alley." Another reviewer highlighted the "Super friendly service and great food," mentioning that "even the coffee was amazing." This praise for the food, the service, and the atmosphere is a testament to the restaurant’s success. Freemans is a reliable, unique, and enjoyable spot for anyone in New York looking for a dining experience that feels both special and authentic. It's a true Lower East Side institution that continues to delight with its old-world charm and modern American cuisine.
Freemans Menu
Sides
- Heirloom Carrots $13.00
harissa, crushed pistachios, mint
- Grilled Broccolini $13.00
garlic vinaigrette, lemon
- French Fries $13.00
- Salt & Vinegar Fingerlings $13.00
sea salt, chives
- Mixed Greens Salad $13.00
shaved radish, lemon vinaigrette
Entrees
- Steak Frites $58.00
14 oz bone-in strip steak, black garlic au poivre
- Whole Brook Trout $38.00
salsa verde, lemon
- Pan Roasted Salmon $38.00
black-eyed peas, poblano peppers, charred spring onion beurre blanc
- Cavatelli $34.00
whipped lemon ricotta, fennel pollen gremolata, cherry tomatoes, purple basil
- Half Amish Chicken $36.00
summer corn, fingerling potatoes, bourbon-glazed cippolini
- Heritage Pork Chop $46.00
sautéed spinach, sweet potato purée, agrodolce glaze
Dessert
- Flourless Dark Chocolate Gâteau $14.00
vanilla crème, hazelnuts
- Sticky Toffee Pudding $14.00
crème Anglaise, toffee sauce
Appetizers & Salads
- Caesar Salad $21.00
baby gem, boquerones, croutons, parmesan
- Panzanella Salad $21.00
house-made stracciatella, spring vegetables, roasted tomato, green goddess
- Tuna Tartare $27.00
pickled peppers, olives, piquillo vinaigrette, crackers
- Hot Artichoke Dip With Crisp Bread $20.00
Feeds 2-4 people.
- Devils On Horseback $16.00
5 pieces to an order.
- Macaroni $19.00
aged Irish cheddar, gruyere
Breakfast & Lunch
- Steakhouse Burger $26.00
stout-braised onion, pickles, aged Irish cheddar, french fries
- English Breakfast $24.00
scrambled eggs, roasted mushrooms, bacon, sausage links, baked beans, breakfast potatoes
- Nashville Hot Chicken $28.00
Half Amish chicken, buttermilk cheddar waffle, bourbon maple syrup
- Classic Chicken Club $24.00
garlic-herb aioli, butter lettuce, beefsteak tomato, crispy bacon, mixed greens
- French Toast $19.00
challah, bourbon maple syrup, vanilla whipped cream
Dessert
- Sticky Toffee Pudding $14.00
crème Anglaise, toffee sauce
Sides
- Crispy Bacon $13.00
- French Fries $13.00
- Breakfast Sausage Links $13.00
- Mixed Greens Salad $13.00
radish, pink peppercorn vinaigrette
- Breakfast Potatoes $13.00
Appetizers & Salads
- Avocado Toast $20.00
smashed cucumber, salsa macha, grilled sourdough, red sorrel
- Heirloom Grain Salad $18.00
quinoa, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, herb yogurt, pumpkin seeds, roasted garlic vinaigrette
- Kale Caesar $21.00
herb crouton, classic Caesar dressing, shaved parmesan
- Hot Artichoke Dip With Crisp Bread $20.00
Feeds 2-4 people.
- Macaroni $19.00
aged Irish cheddar, gruyere
Freemans Details
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Locals
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Freemans Photos










Freemans Location
Freemans Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1When it comes to wedding receptions, generally those with allergies are left in a lynch. People with confused expressions and gestures of good luck. But not here! This place has servers that actually care. With each course that came out, they made sure we got food that wasn't going to torture our insides. The amazing news doesn't stop there though. While you might not like this place if you're with Peta (or at least the decor) you'll find that everything inside is very homey. You'll forget you're in a restaurant. The adventure begins the moment you turn down the alley and walk among the various works of art that surround you. Come with an empty stomach and a sense of wonder.
September 04 · Tiffany RuppSuper friendly service and great food. And even the coffee was amazing. It is a place tucked in freeman Alley, that gives the vibe of an old English house. Old decor (including stuffed animals on the walls which some of plus found disturbing). The Norwegian Benedict was great.
September 01 · Dana Bashireally awesome space hidden in the end of an active and free nyc museum, just absolutely beautiful decor inside that’s very warm and inviting. the food is really good and the staff are super attentive. great space for parties with plenty of space and options to enjoy a night with friends
May 01 · o oMy husband and I just had our post City Hall wedding dinner here at Freemans. We rented out the Blue Room for 14 people and it was perfect. Communication with their manager Lina leading up was great and booking everything from start to finish was seamless and easy. All of the staff was warm and welcoming and treated us all so kindly. The food was 10/10 and the vibes are cozy and cool. We can not wait to come back and just have a meal ourselves but I highly recommend for special events as well!
September 15 · Alexandria HartnettFood was delicious; the sourdough pancakes with the bourbon maple syrup is an absolute must. The French toast is also very delicous; very thick on the challah bread. Price is what you would expect for a NYC brunch.
May 18 · Danny
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