The Clam Bar

- 169 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012

Introduction / Overview

In a city celebrated for its diverse and world-class dining scene, The Clam Bar stands out as a jewel of fine dining. Situated in the heart of Greenwich Village, this establishment redefines the concept of a clam bar, elevating it into an intimate, upscale, and truly exceptional culinary experience. It is a place where impeccable service meets a meticulously curated menu, all within an atmosphere that is both cozy and chic. The Clam Bar is not just a place to eat; it's a destination for a romantic evening or a special occasion. The ambiance is intentionally designed to be warm and welcoming, creating a personal and memorable experience for every guest. It's the kind of spot that a local New Yorker would know and love, a hidden gem that feels exclusive yet approachable. The restaurant specializes in fresh, high-quality seafood, with an emphasis on its raw bar offerings and a menu that showcases a unique and sophisticated take on classic dishes. The food is complemented by a fantastic selection of cocktails and a great wine list, making every aspect of the dining experience a thoughtful one. As a fine dining establishment, it sets itself apart by focusing on the overall experience, from the moment you walk in to the final bite of dessert, ensuring that the memory of the evening lasts long after you've left. The Clam Bar is a testament to the fact that true fine dining is about more than just the food; it’s about the feeling, the atmosphere, and the personal touches that make an evening truly special.

Location and Accessibility

The Clam Bar is perfectly located at 169 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012, USA. This address places it in a prime position within Greenwich Village, a neighborhood known for its historic charm, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. The restaurant's location offers easy access for New Yorkers from all over the city. Public transportation is abundant, with several major subway lines, including the A, C, E, B, D, F, M, and 1, all within a short walking distance. This makes it incredibly convenient to get to, whether you're coming from another borough or a different part of Manhattan. While the information provided doesn't specify accessibility features like a wheelchair ramp, its location in a well-developed, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood suggests it is easily reachable for many. The street itself, Thompson Street, is a quintessential part of the West Village experience, filled with unique shops, other acclaimed eateries, and a distinct character. The intimate setting of The Clam Bar makes it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger, more crowded venues without leaving the city. Its central position makes it an ideal spot to plan a night around, allowing patrons to enjoy a fine dining experience before or after exploring the surrounding area, which is rich with theaters, art galleries, and other attractions. The location is a key part of its allure, offering an exclusive-feeling experience in the heart of one of NYC's most sought-after neighborhoods.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: The Clam Bar is exclusively a dine-in establishment, focusing on providing a full, upscale dining experience on-site.
• Table service: As a fine dining restaurant, it offers professional and attentive table service.
• Dinner and Dessert: The dining options are centered around dinner, with a dedicated dessert menu to complete the meal.
• Bar Onsite: An onsite bar provides a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including wine, cocktails, beer, and hard liquor.

Features / Highlights

• Great cocktails: The Clam Bar is celebrated for its excellent cocktail program, offering well-crafted and sophisticated drinks that complement the food menu.
• Great wine list: The restaurant boasts a comprehensive and carefully selected wine list, curated to pair perfectly with its seafood-centric menu.
• Cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale atmosphere: The combination of these elements creates a unique and intimate ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions and dates.
• Reservations required: The need for reservations highlights the exclusivity and demand for a table, ensuring a controlled and personal dining experience.
• Popular for dinner: The Clam Bar is a premier choice for an unforgettable dinner, with a menu and atmosphere tailored for an evening meal.
• High-quality food: The menu, while focused, features premium ingredients like Kampachi, Spanish Sea Bass, and various types of clams and caviar.
• Attentive staff: Reviews mention the staff is "attentive and courteous," contributing to the personal and high-quality experience.

Contact Information

For those looking to experience the intimate and upscale dining at The Clam Bar, planning ahead is a must. The restaurant is located at 169 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012, USA. While the provided information doesn't include a specific phone number for The Clam Bar, it's known that reservations are required. This indicates that the primary method of contact for booking a table is likely through an online reservation platform or by a direct booking system that may not have a public phone number. The focus is on a streamlined and organized booking process to maintain the exclusivity and personal nature of the dining experience. For a place of this caliber, it's advisable to search for "The Clam Bar New York reservations" or visit its official website to secure a spot. Given the "reservations required" policy, this is the most effective way to ensure you can get a seat. The a la carte and high-end nature of the restaurant means that its clientele is typically one that plans in advance. This lack of a public phone number for general inquiries is not uncommon for exclusive establishments, as it helps manage the high demand and maintains a sense of privacy and specialness for its guests. The most professional and reliable way to connect with The Clam Bar is through its official booking channels, which are the gatekeepers to a truly memorable meal.

What is worth choosing

Choosing The Clam Bar for a fine dining experience in New York is a decision to prioritize an exceptional, intimate, and memorable evening. This is not the place for a casual, last-minute meal; it is a destination chosen for its quality and atmosphere. The food menu, while seemingly limited, is a testament to the restaurant's focus on high-quality ingredients and expert preparation. From the delicate toasts topped with Uni or Trout Roe to the exquisite Carpaccio of Chianina Beef with Caviar, every dish is a work of art. The raw bar, with its selection of fresh clams from different regions, provides a taste of the sea that is unparalleled. But what truly makes The Clam Bar worth the premium price is the overall experience. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of cozy, romantic, and trendy, creating a vibe that is both luxurious and welcoming. One customer review beautifully captures this, noting that "the vibe and intimacy is what makes this place special" and that it's a spot to return to for "the experience, not just the meal." The service is another key factor. The staff is described as attentive and courteous, adding a personal touch that elevates the entire evening. The combination of a stellar wine list and great cocktails ensures that your drink pairings are as sophisticated as your food. This fine dining restaurant is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life and are willing to invest in an experience that goes beyond the plate. It is the perfect choice for a special celebration, an anniversary, or simply a night when you want to treat yourself and someone special to a truly unparalleled dining adventure in one of the city’s most enchanting neighborhoods. The Clam Bar is an institution that promises not just a meal, but an indelible memory.

The Clam Bar

169 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012, USA