07/04/06

Hidden Gem

by desti

It is tricky to find this place, but it is well worth the search. It sits in central park at 69th street not far from tavern. All the food is grilled near your table. I had the Ribs and I thought they were the best I've had since I left North Carolina. My wifes trout was the best grilled fish I've had anywhere. The cook really knows his stuff, and I ask you where else can you have a backyard barbeque with a place as nice as Central Park as your backyard? The prices are reasonable and the quality is incredible. Do your self a favor and find this place now while it is still relatively unknown. You will love it guaranteed.

• Pros: Great food, reasonable price, romantic setting
• Cons: No indoor space, so if it rains, you get wet

07/28/04

Charcoal-grilled delights in the heart of Central Park.

by Contributor

The Scene
A snack bar by day, this establishment on the edge of Central Park's Sheep Meadow transforms into a dinner joint in the evening. On a patio of its historical building, with a pleasant view of the park, tables and chairs are set up, and a charcoal grill lit. The crowd is a mix of Upper West and East Siders, tourists and curious passers-by from all over.

The Food
Disposable plates notwithstanding, the simple food is prepared with care. The grill turns out a thick sirloin steak full of flavor; a light and juicy trout butterflied and rubbed with herbs and a magnificently crispy skin; tender and succulent baby back ribs with a mild barbecue sauce; and a few other entree options. Non-grilled items--namely the appetizers--are less appealing: limp green salad, overly sweet gazpacho, pedestrian crostini. Desserts, though they come from elsewhere, are enjoyable and refreshing.

05/30/04

Delish!

by choppedliva

fresh ingredients grilled right before your eyes make for a delightful meal. beautiful surroundings . .you'll forget you're in the middle of NYC. Friendly staff, relaxing atmosphere, delicious food . . .what more could you ask for?

• Pros: food, ambience, servers

08/28/03

A Rather Sorry Performance

by Omnivore

Given the lovely location, the outdoor hardwood grill, and moderate prices, one might expect at least the kind of simply-prepared, but fresh and vibrant dishes that a careful, modest home cook might prepare: moist chicken with crisp brown skin, top-quality ingredients, etc. Unfortunately, the SheepMeadow Cafe does not deliver. The chicken is hideously salty and obviously cooked prior to being reheated on the grill, the salad leaves are brown around the edges and doused in poor-quality oil. Even the bread and butter are terrible. How about some loaves from Balthazar or Tom Cat, guys? Why is the butter filled with chives? If they clean up their act, this place would be lovely, but it is quite a disappointment in its present state.

• Pros: Location
• Cons: Food, Price