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The Whitby Bar and Restaurant

The Whitby Bar and Restaurant, 18 W 56th St, New York

4.7
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.7 out of 5 (284 Ratings)
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0.5 miles The Grand New York
About The Whitby Bar and Restaurant
The Spotlight on The Whitby Bar and Restaurant

Refined Dining in the Heart of Midtown Manhattan

Located inside the stylish Whitby Hotel just off Fifth Avenue, The Whitby Bar and Restaurant is a sophisticated yet welcoming spot serving elevated American cuisine in a bright, art-filled setting. Steps from Central Park and some of New York’s top concert venues, it offers a relaxed but polished atmosphere that feels like a hidden gem in the bustle of Midtown.

Designed with bold colors, high ceilings, and a mix of British charm and New York flair, The Whitby is perfect for those who appreciate both good food and good design. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a drawn-out dinner, the ambiance here makes it feel like a special occasion.

Why Concert-goers Love It

Its prime location makes The Whitby a go-to for concert-goers heading to nearby venues like Carnegie Hall or Radio City Music Hall. Patrons rave about the efficient service that keeps you on schedule and the calm, upscale vibe that offers a welcome contrast to the energy of a concert night. The pre-show dinner options are well-curated, and the bar is ideal for a classy cocktail before the music starts.

Who This Restaurant is Great For

  • Groups of friends looking for an elevated pre-show meal
  • Solo travelers treating themselves to a memorable evening
  • Couples enjoying a romantic night out
  • Fans wanting a chic, lively space to gather
  • Budget-conscious music lovers seeking quality over quantity (note: it’s not cheap, but you get what you pay for)

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable highlight the exceptional decor, attentive staff, and a menu that’s both creative and comforting. Guests love the diverse wine list, perfectly crafted cocktails, and dishes like the truffle mac and cheese and fresh seafood. It’s often described as a “hidden oasis” amid Midtown’s chaos.

Areas for Improvement

Some diners mention that prices are on the higher side, particularly for cocktails and small plates. The atmosphere, while elegant, can feel a bit formal for those wanting a more casual, high-energy pre-show vibe—this is more refined lounge than rowdy bar.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a sophisticated spot to unwind before the show, The Whitby delivers elegance, flavor, and convenience in one stylish Midtown package.

Average Price
$31 to $50
Cuisine
American
Dress Code
Business Casual
Opening Hours
Breakfast
Daily 7:00 am-11:00 am
Brunch
Sat, Sun 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Lunch
Mon-Fri 12:00 pm-4:30 pm
Afternoon Tea
Mon-Fri 1:30 pm-5:00 pm
Sat, Sun 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Dinner
Daily 5:00 pm-10:00 pm
Live Jazz
Fri 6:00 pm-9:00 pm

The Whitby Bar and Restaurant Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

The Whitby Bar & Restaurant is #2130 of 14718 things to do in New York City

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: rochelleforster, Tenafly, New Jersey
Fri 6 Jun, 2025
l We had a very nice lunch at this restaurant. Met a friend who I have not seen in quite a while. The ambience is lovely and the portions were large. I had the mediterranean salad and added grilled...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Travel0116
Tue 4 Mar, 2025
l We had a wonderful family dinner here. The space is nicely decorated, with a skylight and a lot of beautiful art, and the service was very good. The carbonara with spaghetti squash and mushrooms was...

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3 of 5 stars3 out of 5
By: Donna S
Sun 16 Feb, 2025
l Note: I went to this Hotel for Afternoon Tea. I did not stay at the hotel. This hotel had a 5 star rating. The lobby alone screams 'why'? As stated, I did not stay here so I did not see the...

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The Whitby Bar and Restaurant 18 W 56th St, New York