This now-classic seafood palace sails on victoriously with its ocean-traveling menu.
(212) 675-9500
31 Union Sq W
(16th Street)
New York,
NY
10003
40.7367
-73.9908
Neighborhoods: Midtown, Union Square, Flatiron District
Hours:
Mon 11:30am-11:30pm
Tue-Thu 11:30am-12am
Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am
Sun 10:30am-11:30pm
Price:
$$$
Blue Water Grill
Last updated 11.10.09
What People Are Saying About Blue Water Grill
The Owner
Blue Water Grill
Owner
Be Scene at Blue Water Grill Voted 11th Most Popular Restaurant in New York in the 2008 Zagat Survey & applauded as a restaurant that is "perfect for dates" and "never disappoints," Blue Water Grill is a dining destination in the heart of Union Square. Loyal guests and curious visitors are drawn to the former Metropolitan Bank space that features sexy, dimly-lit red chandeliers illuminating the intimate dining room, a spacious people-watching outdoor cafe and a cozy subterranean lounge featuring live jazz music. In the midst of the marble and majestic urban setting, Executive Chef Matthew…
The Editor
Justin Hartung
Citysearch
This Union Square classic is such a well-oiled machine, it can feel a little like dining on an cruise ship, albeit an elegant one. Located in a former bank, the three-floor, heavily marbled space is decorated with red and gold antler-shaped sconces, and is filled to the gills with business diners and tourists. The menu executes so consistently, it's obvious why it hasn't changed much over a decade. Nearly every oceanic region is represented: Plump, clean Pacific Northwest oysters can be topped with classic or Thai mignonette, cocktail sauce or horseradish, while the Red Bull sushi roll--a…
11/12/09
turn the volume down
by salvij1
Other than the very loud atmosphere, the place was fantastic. THE ATLANTIC SALMON MADE MY MOUTH WATER. thumbs up!! brought a date there and she enjoyed herself as well.... the only thing i'd consider changing is the noise level. tune it down a notch. otherwise, food-phenominal. service-very welcoming. decor-beautiful.
10/01/09
best crab cake and Chilean sea bass
by nyclocal25
I went to Blue Water Grill last night, for my husband’s birthday. We had a table in the jazz room. Excellent atmosphere, a little crowded and noisy for my taste, but acceptable considering what it was coming. Their food is AMAZING! Their Chilean sea bass is perfectly prepared. This fabulous tasting white fish is served on a bed of greens drizzled with soy sauce and accompanied by a pyramid of sticky, flavored white rice which gives this delicate and flaky, buttery and mild fish an Asian twist. The crab cake is melting in your mouth. In my opinion, it is the best I’ve had in NYC. The freshly made potato chips are adding a crisp note to the softness of the extremely fresh crab meat. The calamari is served on a bed of cilantro leaves and grated carrots, drizzled with a perfectly matching sauce. The music is fine and completes the atmosphere. What I didn’t like was the hostess’s sour face and the waiter’s service. In the end, the complimentary champagne drinks were offered to make up for the little unexpected behavior of our server and for the uncomfortable table setting that we were assigned for the evening. A little bit more attention to that would make the place perfect, and who is not thriving for perfection these days?
- Pros: food
- Cons: sour hostess and rude waiter
The Details on Blue Water Grill
Know Before You Go:
Despite an otherwise well-run front of house, half hour waits can accompany reservations.
The Extras:
The seafood-wary only have a few options, but a hearty, perfectly cooked filet mignon shouldn't garner any complaints.
Where to Sit:
The party is in the main room, thanks in part to the hopping bar scene, while the upstairs balcony provides a more sedate experience. Live jazz happens downstairs--ask the reservationist if interested.
What to Drink:
The wine list is long and pricey, and servers may have trouble recommending one of the few bottles in the $40s. That said, a bump up to a $58 bottle of Dobbes Grand Assemblage Cuvee yields a stellar, light bodied red that pairs well with both fish and meats.
The Extras:
The downstairs Vault Room seats up to 35, has its own prix fixe menu and is available for private parties or corporate events.
Live Music:
The Jazz Dining Room features live music--call for schedule.
Category:
Restaurants, Nightclubs, Bars & Clubs
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Brunch, Lunch Spot, Group Dining, Live Music
Cuisine:
Bar & Club Type of Music:
Message from Blue Water Grill
- Seafood & Sushi
- Jazz Brunch, Sidewalk Seating
- Private Parties/Private Room
Be Scene at Blue Water Grill
Voted 11th Most Popular Restaurant in New York in the 2008 Zagat Survey & applauded as a restaurant that is "perfect for dates" and "never disappoints," Blue Water Grill is a dining destination in the heart of Union Square. Loyal guests and curious visitors are drawn to the former Metropolitan Bank space that features sexy, dimly-lit red chandeliers illuminating the intimate dining room, a spacious people-watching outdoor cafe and a cozy subterranean lounge featuring live jazz music. In the midst of the marble and majestic urban setting, Executive Chef Matthew Hughes' menu highlights a variety of seafood delicacies. From our Sushi Bar to our Oyster Bar, we've got your seafood cravings covered! If late-night isn't your scene, Blue Water Grill also offers up Sunday Brunch-with-a-view overlooking the Union Square Park Farmer's Market featuring Seasonal menus.
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