08/08/09

Abysmally poor (i.e., non-existent) service

by josegarcia

A trio of us have been on a summer long quest for the perfect lobster roll as a sort of compensatory gesture to the rainiest summer in memory. So we're more than accustomed to cramped small places serving amazing lobster and to the somewhat precious, though ultimately very efficient, manner in which seating is handled at these places. When we got to Ed's last Thursday at 6:45 and there wasn't a line, we felt fortunate. When we told them there were three of us and they said they had a table right away? Score! Turns out they'd misunderstood and there were only tables for two, so back to the front where we all three find a seat on the cushions to wait for a table. So life is good. Then three seats at the bar open up and when the host offers them to us we jump. Total wait time 20 minutes. Not bad at all. That's when things began to sloooowwwww. It took much longer than it should for us to be offered even a glass of water. Having achieved basic hydration and having never been to Ed's before, we did have the temerity to ask what "Snow Vodka" is as we didn't know if "snow" refers to a brand name or perhaps a house speciality. We quickly regretted not just ordering a glass of wine as it took an inordinate amount of time to get that answer. Once we'd ordered everything we sat back to enjoy the lovely ambiance and to chat amongst ourselves. And we sat and chatted. And we sat and chatted. And we began to notice drinks arrive for other people who'd shown up at the bar way after we did but who seemed to be regulars or at least known to the heavily tattooed man who may have been either Ed or his surrogate (who knows?) When this happened a few times we finally said, "what's up?" to which the bartender responded by hastily beginning to make our drinks. But by this point we'd been waiting very, very patiently only to be nearly ignored for over a half hour (which sums to nearly an hour in total with only a glass of water to show for our patience) and so we very politely announced our departure. Honestly this place should consider installing a velvet rope, BETWEEN BARSTOOLS IF NEED BE, so one knows in advance precisely where one stands (or sits as in this case) in the pecking order. One of the earlier reviews here says the service at Ed's is much better than at Pearls. At least at Pearls they are quite clear about what the rules are, and if one is content to abide by them, an amazing culinary experience awaits. In the case of Ed's, we'll never know. What we do know is there in an amazing French bistro across the street on Cleveland with a lovely garden and great service. Vive la France!

06/09/09

are you people on something

by speakyourmind

reading the reviews, what are you people on, For lobster rolls there is only really one place...Marys fish camp, nothing else compares in the city, ed's lobster is alright dont get me wrong but very very dry and small..

and the same price as marys

CHECK IT OUT

• Pros: great location
• Cons: loster roll

04/19/09

One of my favorite places in NYC

by ny2mi

as a long time NY-er (who has moved out of town) this is one of my favorite restaurants. I have been craving a lobster roll and when I visit next week I am definitely going to visit Ed's. Great atmosphere (even if it is a bit cramped). Never had a bad meal here. Worth every penny. Great wine recommendations. Love the marble bar and wainscotting.

• Pros: awesome lobster roll, chill atmosphere and good service
• Cons: hard to go with a group, need to go early for a seat

03/22/09

disappointing!

by lmsnyc

We used to love it, but Ed's lobster has really deteriorated: prices have gone up and the quality of the food has gone down. There's not much to recommend it any more -- eating there is not a pleasant experience. The prices on the web menu need updating -- they don't reflect what the restaurant now charges. Value for $$$ is poor.

• Pros: nice waitstaff
• Cons: overpriced, overrated, food just average

03/02/09

Amazing lobster roll incredibly good value!

by dlavan

Overstuffed lobster roll brightened with a hint of lemon and complemented by crispy, buttery roll. Accompanied by great fries and homemade bread and butter pickle. Also great were the Maine prawns special, the scallop entree and lobster bisque. Soho very lucky to have in the neighborhood. Watch out Pearl! Highly recommend.

• Pros: Fresh seafood, well prepared, great value. Adorable spot, friendly service.
• Cons: Seating a little tight

11/01/08

Actually loved the brussels sprouts! No kidding!

by 4will

Special food in an unpretentious setting. Great non-alcoholic drinks from the bar. Try the freshly made limeade. Lobster rolls were as they should be: immaculately fresh, uncomplicated, and tasty versions of an American roadside classic. We've eaten there several times, and Ed's always exceeds our expectations. Nice balance of informality (a little more New York than Maine coast) and urban smooth. The tight quarters made it easy to chat with staff and the guys (gals) sitting next to us--and Ed is there too!

Good stuff!

10/13/08

Great steamers - lobster roll - a real surprise

by Drrich195

I've been to Ed's many times, I've never had a bad meal and I've had several great ones. I enjoy the friendly attentive service and the best steamed clams I've ever had. The bluefish is also great, and my wife loves the linguine and clam sauce. The caesar salad is outstanding, garlicky and just right with anchovies - I live way up town - but still come down for lunch when I can. I also really enjoy the lemonade and limeade (spiked or not) - freshly made and great with the seafood.

I bring my friends to Ed's and they really enjoy it.

10/12/08

great food, small space

by dsmom

you go there for lobster, then you find the clams and the linguine with clam sauce; it's hard to imagine getting distracted from the lobster, but it's all so good, including the caesar salad....the bar's a great place to sit, the decor is fun, but it IS small, so be prepared to wait...

10/08/08

Great Place to eat out in the City

by Flaca123

This place is close to public transportation..first pro. The food is great, so is service, friendly staff and great atmosphere. Go and check it out yourself. Bon Apptite.

10/06/08

See for yourself and you'll be back.

by RonnyM

I'd move in and pay the rent if they'd just let me at the steamers, fries and lobster rolls 24/7. I'd like to keep this place a secret but my civic duty compels me to share it publicly. Staff friendly, coureous and knowledgable. Informal in like everyone's family.