This Buzzy New York Restaurant Does One Dish Really, Really Well

New York City might just be the top spot for dining in the entire United States. As someone who lives right across the river and visits all the time, I find it incredible how each month brings new must-visit spots, ranging from high-end fine dining to casual lunch spots. But despite this, the best spots stand the test of time—even if they're in the most unexpected locations imaginable.

One of my favorite iconic restaurants in NYC is the Grand Central Oyster Bar, a high-end seafood restaurant located in the lower level of one of New York's top transit hubs. As countless people mill through the station on their way to Connecticut, some decide to take the late train and step into a restaurant that feels like it never left the early 20th century in the best way. The specialty here is fresh seafood, prepared simply, and that means the most popular dish at the Grand Central Oyster Bar is never exactly the same twice. It's the bounty of the sea—as fresh as it can possibly get.

Grand Central Terminal is worth visiting, even if you're not actually getting on a train. Between the gorgeous central atrium and the unique attached market, it's a tourist destination in a way no other transit hub in New York is.

The most unique spot in the terminal is also one of the area's best restaurants: the Oyster Bar Restaurant. This swanky seafood restaurant has been holding court on the lower concourse since 1913, and it's currently open on weekdays, as that's when the station gets most of its traffic.

Inside, the restaurant is just as classy and clubby as it was when it opened. From the attentive, old-school service to the extensive and seasonal seafood menu, it's one of the most iconic New York restaurants. And unlike many famous places, the food definitely holds up.

If the Oyster Bar has a signature item, it's...you guessed it, the oysters. There are so many ways to enjoy this unique food item. You can have them raw, with many options for trying different varieties of the ocean treat. And if raw isn't your jam, one of the Oyster Bar's signature dishes is the oyster pan roast, an old-school dish of stewed oysters in a sherry cream sauce.

But that's just scratching the surface of this restaurant. They have an extensive fish and shellfish menu, regular specials, and seasonal delights. There's even an annual herring festival, celebrating this classic fish that's so popular in Scandinavia!

Have you ever dined at this iconic New York City restaurant? Do you think the fresh oysters are the most popular dish at the Grand Central Oyster Bar, or do you have another pick? Tell a friend about this article and try it out for yourself! To see what's on the menu currently, check out the Grand Central Oyster Bar website, and follow the Oyster Bar Facebook page for announcements of upcoming arrivals from the sea. The building itself is worth exploring as well—did you know it's the largest train station in the world?

While you're in the area of Grand Central, make sure to drop by the Stephen A. Schwartzman Building, New York's most beautiful library. And if you have the full day to explore New York and want some ideas, check out Only In Your State's AI-powered travel planner for your custom itinerary!