The Eatery at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

- 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028

For many New Yorkers and visitors to the city, a trip to The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an all-day affair. And when hunger strikes between gallery visits, having a convenient and accessible place to eat is a must. The Eatery at The Met offers a casual, self-service dining experience right inside the museum, providing a much-needed spot to rest and refuel. Located on the ground floor, it's designed to be a family-friendly and straightforward option, with a menu focused on American comfort food classics that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

This article will provide an honest and informative overview of The Eatery, helping you to set expectations and decide if it's the right choice for your museum visit. We will detail its location and accessibility, the services it offers, and the features that make it a popular spot for a quick bite. Our goal is to present a factual picture based on available information and customer feedback, so you can make an informed decision about where to eat during your day at The Met.

The atmosphere at The Eatery is casual and trendy, with a design that features vaulted ceilings and archways, contrasting with modern food stations and furniture. It is a large, communal dining space designed to handle a crowd, making it a popular spot for groups and locals who are looking for a quick and convenient option. However, as some reviews suggest, the food quality and pricing can be a point of friction. One customer noted that the prices are "outrageous" for the quality of the food, describing a burger as "charred" and chicken as "dry." Another reviewer expressed a similar sentiment, suggesting that it might be better to "go outside and eat at the food trucks" that are often found nearby. While The Eatery is a convenient choice for its location within the museum, managing your expectations for the food is key.

The Eatery is located on the ground floor of The Metropolitan Museum of Art at 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028. Its location at the very center of the museum, beneath the Medieval Sculpture Hall, makes it a highly accessible and convenient choice for visitors. You can find it near the Robert Lehman Collection Galleries. Being part of a world-renowned institution, the cafe is fully accessible. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. Its central ground-floor location also makes it an easy stop without having to navigate multiple floors.

The Eatery operates as a casual, self-service cafe.

Services offered at The Eatery include:

• Dine-in service with communal seating.
• Takeout options for those on the go.
• It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with hours that align with the museum's operating times.
• A menu with a variety of hot entrees, sandwiches, and salads.

The menu is focused on classic American fare and comfort food. From "The Fire" station, you can get options like a Grass-Fed Burger, Fried Chicken Sandwich, or a Met Cheesesteak. There are also classics like Grilled Cheese and Chicken Tenders. The menu extends to include sandwiches, a salad bar, and pasta, with kid-friendly options available. The beverage selection includes coffee, beer, wine, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. While it offers a wide range of choices, customer reviews suggest that the quality of some items, particularly the fried chicken and burgers, may not live up to the price.

Features and highlights that distinguish The Eatery include:

• Fast service, as it is a self-service cafe designed for efficiency.
• It is popular for breakfast and lunch, providing options for early visitors.
• It is a family-friendly space with a kids' menu, high chairs, and booster seats available.
• Offers a variety of beverages, including alcohol, beer, and wine.
• A casual and trendy atmosphere that is welcoming for large groups.
• Accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

The Eatery is a pragmatic choice for many. Its ground-floor location and casual setup make it an easy stop for families and large groups who don't want to navigate the more formal, pricier dining rooms on the upper floors. While the food may not be its primary selling point, the convenience and comfort of the space itself are significant highlights. It's a place to quickly grab a bite and a drink without losing your spot in the museum.

For more information or to inquire about menu options, you can contact The Met.

Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028

Phone: (212) 535-7710

What is worth choosing The Eatery at The Met for?

The Eatery at The Met is a practical and convenient choice for New Yorkers visiting the museum. It is worth choosing primarily for its location and speed. If you are on a tight schedule or are visiting with a group, especially one with children, the self-service format allows you to get in and out quickly. It's a place to find a restroom and a seat, and to grab a quick, familiar meal. However, it is important to go in with clear expectations. As noted by customer reviews, the food quality might not be on par with the higher prices, and you may find better value and taste from the many food trucks outside the museum. One reviewer recommended sticking to "a bag of chips or maybe a salad" if you have to eat inside. The Eatery is best viewed as a basic, no-frills amenity that provides convenience and a place to rest, rather than a destination for a gourmet meal. It’s an ideal option when the weather is bad, or when you simply don't want to leave the building, but if you're looking for a higher-quality culinary experience, you might consider other dining options within the museum or venturing into the surrounding neighborhood.

The Eatery at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA