When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Maison Pickle
Why Maison Pickle is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Maison Pickle is a retro-chic eatery located on Broadway in Manhattan's Upper West Side, known for its elegant yet comfortable atmosphere that pays homage to both classic American dining and the area's artistic history. The restaurant specializes in French dip sandwiches, steaks, and a variety of American bites, alongside an impressive selection of cocktails, fascinating wines, and artisanal beers. Its in-house pastry department crafts delectable desserts that perfectly complement the main menu. Since opening in 2016 in a landmark space previously known for fine dining, Maison Pickle invites guests to enjoy a timeless dining experience that balances sophistication with a hint of nostalgia reminiscent of an American diner. With its spacious seating and welcoming ambiance, it is an ideal spot for friends to gather for long lunches or lively late-night outings, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking comfort food with a refined twist.
Here's what people think of Maison Pickle
As of recent, Maison Pickle holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3417 reviews.
Customer reviews highlight Maison Pickle's generous portion sizes and quality of food, particularly praising the standout French toast with berries and cream, which many liken to freshly baked delights. Positive feedback consistently mentions the excellent service, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the playful yet classic cocktail menu which enhances the overall dining experience. Reviewers appreciate the combination of traditional American fare with an elevated presentation and the unique setting that honors the Upper West Side's cultural legacy. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally point to issues such as wait times during peak hours and moments where service felt rushed or inattentive. A few diners have mentioned that certain menu items did not meet their expectations, or that prices were higher than anticipated for casual dining. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus remains strong, as many customers continue to laud the restaurant's food quality, ambiance, and drink selections. Maison Pickle successfully marries charm, comfort, and class, appealing to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in a distinctive New York City spot.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gizem Nacir
I went to Mason Pickle on the Upper West Side with a friend, and we thought we’d try a little bit of everything—which, in hindsight, may have been a mistake! Their portion sizes are insane. Honestly, just one mac & cheese could’ve easily fed two people. We ended up ordering the pull-apart bread, egg & cheese sandwich, mac & cheese, and French toast… and could barely get through a few bites of each. Everything was rich, buttery, and very delicious. Not exactly light, but definitely satisfying. The only thing I wouldn’t recommend is the egg & cheese sandwich. It was way too greasy for my taste. Just a heads-up: if you’re hoping for a quiet brunch and easy conversation, it gets really loud. But if you’re in it for the food, you’ll leave happy.
Maxine
With all the restaurants in NYC, I rarely go back to a restaurant twice but I will be making an exception for Maison Pickle. I’m truly going to dream about this establishment until I have the opportunity to come back. Every single thing we tried was mouthwatering and delicious. Because of the large portion sizes, you can totally share with another person if you prefer, and in fact I did so with plenty left over. In terms of space, the restaurant was nicely decorated and vibes immaculate. Everywhere you looked, people seemed to be enjoying themselves and the food. I cant wait to come back. Food: pull apart bread and butter 1000/10 - it literally melts in your mouth and is so good. I would come back just to get this alone; hot honey chicken and toast 8/10, I loved the flavoring of the chicken. Not too spicy; chocolate cake - 10/10. You can’t go wrong with any of the cakes they offer. Portions are huge Atmosphere: 10/10. The space was huge, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Service: 10/10 very attentive staff
Nicolette
Cool place with good food. I got the Berries-n-Cream French Toast. The pictures don't do it justice! The bread was about 1.5 inches thick!! Far too much food, but it was fun to eat. My husband went with the Deluxe French Dip with fries and enjoyed it. The salty fries I stole from him were very tasty with my sweet meal. We ate at 11:15am on a Mon and nearly had the place to ourselves.
Sabrina Hoss
Overhyped food & god awful service - This is how I would summarize my experience at Maison Pickle. Our server, Carly, was the absolute worst. After greeting us and pouring some water she was never to be seen again. It wasn’t until 20 minutes later we had to finally flag down a server who was on his way out for the night to take our full drink&food order because we couldn’t get Carly’s attention. Once our food arrived we were extremely unimpressed… everything other than the pull apart bread tasted average & honestly comparable to the Cheesecake Factory. We were hoping to end the night on a high with their famous layered chocolate cake, but once the busser cleared our food, Carly dropped the check and walked away…. No additional drink order, didn’t ask if we wanted dessert, nothing. It then took us another 10 minutes to flag her down and tell her we wanted the cake & by then she said “the kitchen said we could only take it to go” as by this time they were closing up. Honestly the most laughable experience with non impressive food. Don’t waste your limited time in NYC by coming here. PS we got the cake to-go, and it also sucked. My group all took one bite and then threw it away.
Aaliyah Atances
Maison pickle failed to meet the hype for my party. We tried a few things, the best being their sandwiches (the patty melt specifically) and pull apart bread. Their mac and cheese was also very cheesy but left much to be desired. The steak was over cooked, and the cake was dry/stale. The drinks were great and very strong. As for atmosphere, the biggest problem is the tables are much too close to each other and the spaces can be cramped. The moody lighting and decor was great otherwise. Our server was also prompt and kind.
How to reach Maison Pickle
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Why Maison Pickle may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Maison Pickle with your friends? Maison Pickle, a popular Upper West Side restaurant in New York City, offers a lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or family. Its blend of hearty comfort food with a few French and Montreal influences creates a unique dining experience that satisfies a range of tastes. The setting is spacious and vibrant, with a bar up front and a two-level dining area at the back, making it ideal for groups who want to enjoy both casual drinks and a full meal. The generous portion sizes mean sharing is encouraged, which naturally fosters a communal, fun vibe. Plus, the restaurant's reputation for classic dishes like the French dip sandwich and indulgent sides gives everyone something to look forward to, making it a dependable spot to celebrate, catch up, or just enjoy good company.
What kind of food and drinks can we enjoy at Maison Pickle for a group meetup? Maison Pickle specializes in maximalist American comfort food with rich flavors and generous portions that lend themselves well to sharing among friends. Signature dishes include their famed French dip sandwich served with au jus, a must-have for fans of classic deli fare. Alongside, the bar offers a broad selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits, perfect for toasting to special occasions or simply relaxing after a long day. Appetizers such as garlic parmesan rolls, creamed spinach, and lightly spiced pickles bring an added flair to the table, while heartier options like chicken and waffles with an Upper West Side twist (using challah French toast instead of waffles) satisfy those with a larger appetite. Desserts like the 24-layer chocolate cake or Oreo icebox pie round out the meal with indulgent sweetness, ideal for sharing and extending the celebration.
How does the atmosphere at Maison Pickle support group gatherings? The ambiance at Maison Pickle is an engaging mix of bustling energy and casual chic, fostering an environment where conversations flow easily among groups. The restaurant’s spacious layout, featuring a sizable dining room spread over two levels and a convivial bar area, prevents the space from feeling cramped even when busy. Although some diners have noted that on particularly crowded nights it can get loud, many find that this lively backdrop adds to the festive mood of meeting up with friends or family. Additionally, the staff’s attentiveness, such as prompt drink refills and accommodating seating for larger parties, helps ensure that group needs are met without long waits. It’s a place where the vibrant urban buzz of New York feels alive but still comfortable enough for relaxed, extended visits.
What activities can you enjoy besides dining at Maison Pickle? While the core attraction of Maison Pickle is its food and drink offerings, the restaurant’s setup also encourages engaging group activities centered around socializing and celebration. The cocktail bar provides a perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks or a casual meetup, where friends can sample inventive cocktails or classic drinks while catching up. The large tables and shareable portions promote a communal dining experience, making it a natural spot for lively conversations and bonding over flavorful dishes. Special events or celebrations like birthdays or graduation dinners fit well with the restaurant’s festive vibe, supported by its accommodating staff and vibrant environment. Although not an event venue per se, the restaurant’s design and menu make it excellent for turning any ordinary meal into a memorable group gathering.
Why is Maison Pickle particularly suitable for hosting meetups with family or friends? Maison Pickle stands out as a top location for meetups because of its combination of hearty cuisine, generous portions, and an engaging atmosphere that is welcoming to groups of all sizes. The extensive menu ensures that everyone—from comfort food lovers to those seeking a more refined twist—finds something appealing. Their signature dishes encourage sharing, turning meals into communal experiences that build connection and togetherness. The Upper West Side location is convenient and accessible, making it easy for friends or family members coming from different parts of the city to converge. Moreover, the restaurant’s lively yet laid-back style suits a wide range of occasions, from casual weekend brunches to celebratory dinners, establishing it as a versatile gathering spot.
How does the service at Maison Pickle enhance group experiences? Service quality at Maison Pickle generally receives positive remarks for being attentive and friendly, which is crucial when dining with a group that often requires flexibility and multiple interactions. Staff members are known to be responsive, quickly helping with drink orders, dietary questions, and accommodating seating preferences which helps reduce waiting times and awkwardness in crowded settings. However, some diners have noted occasional rushed bill delivery or issues during busy periods. Despite these rare hiccups, the overall consensus is that the team strives to create a welcoming environment, smoothing the way for groups to focus on enjoying their time together without unnecessary stress.
What unique menu items make Maison Pickle a memorable group dining experience? Among its offerings, Maison Pickle is praised for its creative takes on classic dishes, such as the French dip sandwich which is often cited as a highlight. Additionally, the chicken and waffles dish is a conversation starter due to its “challah French toast” base, giving a sophisticated twist on a beloved comfort food. Starters like the “pull apart bread” drenched in butter and honey are so addictive they set the tone for the meal. Sides such as loaded hash browns topped with crème fraîche, caviar, and dill surprise guests with layers of flavors that go beyond typical comfort food. To cap off the meal, desserts like the multi-layer chocolate cake not only satisfy sweet cravings but provide a shareable treat that enhances the celebratory feel of group dining.
How does Maison Pickle’s location add to its appeal for meetups? Located on Broadway in the bustling Upper West Side, Maison Pickle benefits from its easy accessibility by public transport and proximity to popular neighborhood attractions. This makes it a convenient meeting point for groups coming from different parts of the city. The vibrant street life around the restaurant adds an urban charm, encouraging diners to combine their meal with a stroll or another local activity afterward. Being in a well-known and safe neighborhood also provides reassurance for groups planning evening gatherings. The neighborhood’s mix of residential calm and lively commercial spots complements the restaurant’s energetic yet comfortable atmosphere perfectly.
What makes Maison Pickle stand out compared to other restaurants for hosting special occasions? Maison Pickle’s key differentiator lies in its fusion of generous American comfort food with a slightly upscale presentation and a French-Montreal twist, making meals feel special yet familiar. The restaurant’s interior design with elegant light fixtures and a large booze shelf enhances the setting, creating an ambiance that feels suitable for marking occasions without the stiffness of formal dining. Its popularity as a brunch destination and dinner hotspot proves it can cater well to various timeframes and preferences. For groups, the combination of sizable plates, shareable appetizers, and rich desserts that can be passed around turns any gathering into a feast. Whether it’s a casual birthday, a graduation celebration, or just a reunion, the balance of atmosphere, food, and service makes Maison Pickle a memorable venue.
How do regular visitors describe their experiences at Maison Pickle? Frequent diners often highlight the restaurant’s consistency in delivering big flavorful dishes that satisfy cravings for comfort food, noting that the generous portions easily accommodate groups. The lively ambiance and friendly staff are typically praised for creating a welcoming environment. Some repeat visitors appreciate how the upper-level dining room offers a more relaxed space for conversation amid a busy setting. However, there are mixed reviews regarding noise levels and occasional crowding, which suggests that timing your visit—such as early evenings or brunch hours—can enhance the experience. Overall, loyal patrons regard Maison Pickle as a reliable and enjoyable spot for group outings on the Upper West Side.
What should you know before planning your group meetup at Maison Pickle? When organizing a gathering at Maison Pickle, it’s wise to make a reservation, especially for larger parties or weekend visits, to avoid long wait times given the restaurant’s popularity. Consider arriving a bit earlier to secure comfortable seating, as the space can fill quickly. Prep your group for a potentially lively and bustling atmosphere, which suits socializing but might be a bit loud for very quiet conversations. The menu’s large portions mean you can share dishes to try multiple flavors while not leaving anyone hungry. Lastly, leave space for dessert and cocktails, as these finishing touches elevate the group experience beyond just a meal.
Overall, Maison Pickle offers a dynamic and satisfying environment for anyone looking to host a fun and flavorful meetup with friends or family. Its combination of hearty, shareable dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and accommodating service creates the perfect backdrop for memorable moments and joyous celebrations. Whether you come to indulge in the French dip, sample inventive twists on comfort food, or simply enjoy a lively night out, Maison Pickle stands as a top choice on the Upper West Side for group dining.