& Son UES

- 1450 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021

In a city known for its grand and traditional steakhouses, & Son UES on the Upper East Side offers a distinctly different kind of experience. Located at 1450 2nd Avenue, this establishment has gained a reputation for being an unconventional spot that challenges expectations. It's a place where the atmosphere is described as both "casual" and "cozy," a stark contrast to the formal settings of many of its peers. The restaurant's reputation is as unique as its ambiance, with customer experiences varying widely from one extreme to the other. For some, like one very pleased customer who celebrated a recent accomplishment there, the experience was "delightful" and even felt like "a private dining experience," thanks to a server named Paola who handled everything with "calm and professionalism." This glowing review praises the food and drinks as "excellent," with specific shout-outs to an "AMAZING" burger and "divine" espresso martini. On the other hand, some visitors have found the experience to be underwhelming, feeling "catfished" by the online images and describing the front of the location as a "dive bar" leading to a "cheesy hidden wall door." This contradictory feedback points to a dining spot that is not for everyone but holds a special charm for those who appreciate its unique character and value proposition. It’s a place that thrives on its local appeal, catering to groups and neighborhood residents who appreciate a more laid-back approach to fine dining.

Located on the bustling 2nd Avenue, & Son UES is situated in a prime Upper East Side neighborhood, making it a convenient destination for locals and those visiting the area. Its accessible location is complemented by its commitment to inclusivity, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. For those driving to the area, the presence of paid street parking is a useful feature to be aware of. What truly sets this steakhouse apart, however, is its distinct and unexpected ambiance. As one review describes, the front entrance has the look of a dive bar, and visitors are then led through a hidden wall door to a smaller, cozier dining room in the back. While some may find this a bit jarring, the "secret society" feel and unique themed decor are a key part of the restaurant's identity. The atmosphere is described as "casual" and "cozy," which makes it a more approachable and comfortable alternative to a traditional, stuffy steakhouse. It’s a place where you can come as you are and feel right at home, a quality that is particularly appealing to a local crowd. The unconventional setting makes it a memorable experience, perfect for a casual date night or a relaxed dinner with friends who are game for something a little different from the norm.

& Son UES is a dine-in only establishment, focusing on providing a complete and immersive in-person dining experience. The restaurant's service options cater to a variety of occasions, from a quick bite to a full-course meal.

• Dine-in and Reservations: This is a sit-down dining establishment that accepts reservations, which is an excellent feature for those who want to guarantee a table for a special occasion or a planned get-together. The table service ensures a complete and traditional dining experience within a casual setting. The restaurant is particularly popular for dinner, but also serves lunch and brunch, catering to a wide range of mealtime preferences.

• Brunch and Late-Night Food: One of the more unique offerings for a steakhouse is the inclusion of brunch, providing a relaxed weekend dining option for locals. The menu also includes late-night food and a "quick bite" category, which, along with the extensive bar menu, makes it a great spot for a casual late-night rendezvous after a night out. This flexibility to serve a variety of needs throughout the day and into the night is a key feature of the restaurant's appeal.

• Full-Service Bar: & Son UES features a full-service bar with a wide selection of alcoholic beverages. Their offerings include `Beer`, `Wine`, `Cocktails`, and `Hard liquor`, ensuring there's something to complement any dish. The `Espresso Martini` was even called "divine" by a reviewer, highlighting the quality and care put into the drinks.

While the reputation of a steakhouse is often built on its steak, & Son UES has a number of other features and menu items that stand out, though customer opinions on the food can vary.

• The Burger is a Highlight: One review specifically and emphatically called the burger "AMAZING," rating it as one of the best parts of the meal. This is a crucial detail for a steakhouse, as it shows the menu’s versatility and that high-quality, non-steak dishes are a significant strength. The `French dip` and `crispy fries` also received high praise, suggesting that the restaurant's comfort food offerings are particularly strong.

• Contradictory Food Quality: In a factual manner, it is important to note the conflicting feedback on food quality. One review called the steak "mediocre" and said it "did not deliver" on taste and texture, despite looking "amazing." The same review criticized the `creamed spinach` as "cheesy flavorless" and the `Caesar salad` as having "soggy parmesan crisps." The other review called the food "excellent." This contradiction suggests that experiences may vary, and a patron's enjoyment may depend on what they order. It is worth noting that the prices are described as "extremely reasonable," which may explain some of the differences in expectations.

• Exceptional Service Potential: One of the most significant highlights is the potential for outstanding service. The review that praised a server named Paola for her "calm and professionalism" shows that a great dining experience is possible and that the staff is capable of providing personalized and attentive service. While another review describes a "weird" atmosphere with odd staff interactions, the positive review shows that when it works, the service can make a guest feel like they are having a "private dining experience."

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact & Son UES directly.

• Address: 1450 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021

• Phone: (212) 452-1304

For New Yorkers looking for a steakhouse, & Son UES is a unique option that stands apart from the typical fine-dining experience. It is worth choosing for its casual, cozy atmosphere that provides a relaxed setting for a good meal. While the reviews on the steak itself are mixed, the strong praise for the burgers, French dip, and other comfort food items suggests that the restaurant's strengths lie in its broader menu. The "divine" espresso martini and full bar make it an excellent choice for cocktails and a night out. The "extremely reasonable" prices, as noted by one reviewer, provide great value. It's a place that is best suited for a "quick bite" or a casual dinner, especially for a young couple on a first date or for locals looking for a neighborhood spot that feels a little different. While the experience may not be what you expect from a traditional steakhouse, its unique ambiance, excellent service potential from staff like Paola, and quality comfort food make it a worthy and memorable visit on the Upper East Side. It’s an unconventional gem that provides a comfortable and affordable alternative to the more formal steakhouse scene.

& Son UES

1450 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA