Ernesto's

- 259 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002

Located at the foot of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, Ernesto's is a culinary destination that brings the vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere of Spain's Basque Country to the Lower East Side of New York City. This upscale and trendy restaurant is a testament to the region's rich gastronomic traditions, known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a social, communal dining style. Ernesto's is more than just a place to eat; it's a bustling getaway that transports you to the heart of Spain, a place where every meal feels like a celebration. The air is filled with an "electric vibe," making it an ideal spot for everything from a romantic date night to a fun evening with friends.

The atmosphere at Ernesto's strikes a perfect balance between cozy and upscale. The interior, with its sleek tables, globe light fixtures, and a long marble bar, exudes a midcentury-modern style that feels both chic and inviting. This elegant setting is complemented by the warm, exceptional hospitality of the staff, who are known for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. As one diner put it, the staff is "amazing and made for a really really fun dining experience." This dedication to service, combined with a carefully curated menu and an impressive wine list, ensures that every visit is a memorable one. The commitment to creating an extraordinary experience is what truly sets Ernesto's apart in the competitive New York dining scene.

Ernesto's is located at 259 East Broadway in a prime spot on the Lower East Side. This area is known for its dynamic energy and eclectic mix of cultural landmarks and culinary hotspots. The restaurant's proximity to major bridges makes it a well-known spot, accessible from multiple parts of the city. The neighborhood is well-serviced by public transportation, with several subway stations within a reasonable walking distance, making a visit convenient for New Yorkers and visitors alike.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all guests. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating. While street parking can be a bit of a challenge in this bustling area, both free and paid street parking options are available nearby.

Ernesto's provides a range of services tailored to a sophisticated and social dining experience.

• Dine-in: The core offering is a full dine-in experience, allowing you to enjoy the full ambiance and menu. There are two main dining areas, including a smaller dining room and a chef's counter.
• Outdoor Seating: On warmer days, guests can enjoy their meal in the outdoor seating area, which is a perfect way to soak in the neighborhood's atmosphere while dining.
• Table Service: The restaurant offers attentive table service from a knowledgeable and engaging staff.
• Reservations Recommended: Due to the restaurant's popularity and intimate setting, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to ensure you get a table.
• Onsite Bar: Ernesto's features a bar onsite, serving a wide array of excellent cocktails, beer, and hard liquor.

Ernesto's is celebrated for a number of standout features that make it a favorite among diners.

• Great Cocktails: The bar serves up excellent cocktails, including Spanish-inspired drinks, which are praised for their skill and flavor.
• Great Wine List: A highlight is the "very large and interesting wine menu with lots of Spanish wines," curated to perfectly complement the food. The beverage director is known for providing expert recommendations.
• Exceptional Hospitality: The staff is consistently praised for their "exceptional hospitality," attentiveness, and ability to make every dining experience fun and welcoming.
• Outstanding Desserts: Don't miss the dessert menu, which is often as celebrated as the main courses. The Creme Caramel and Basque Cheesecake are particular favorites.
• Small Plates & Pintxos: The "Para Picar" and "Entradas" sections of the menu offer a wide variety of small plates, or "pintxos," which are perfect for sharing and tasting a range of flavors.
• Upscale & Romantic Atmosphere: The setting is described as cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or an intimate date night.
• Family-Friendly: The restaurant is "good for kids" and offers high chairs, making it a welcoming spot for family dinners.

For reservations or any other inquiries, you can reach out to Ernesto's directly.

• Address: 259 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002, USA
• Phone: (646) 692-8300

Ernesto's is a true standout in New York City's culinary landscape, and what makes it truly worth choosing is the remarkable combination of authentic, high-quality Spanish cuisine and genuinely warm, top-tier hospitality. While some restaurants focus solely on the food, Ernesto's creates a complete experience that leaves a lasting impression.

The menu is a highlight, offering a delicious journey through the flavors of Spain, particularly the Basque region. The "Para Picar" and "Entradas" sections, with dishes like the classic Croquetas and the delightful Pintxo Matrimonio al Ajillo, are consistently praised and often recommended as the best way to experience the menu. As one diner noted, the smaller bites are "the best options," perfect for sharing and enjoying with a glass of wine. The larger main courses, while sometimes a point of debate among critics, are still part of a well-rounded and traditional menu.

However, what truly elevates Ernesto's is the service. The staff, from the chefs to the servers and the beverage director, are knowledgeable, passionate, and incredibly attentive. A customer's review highlights this perfectly, stating, "I was cranky when I came in and left extremely happy. Delicious food, great vibe, and exceptional hospitality." This level of care and personal attention makes every guest feel valued, transforming a simple dinner into a memorable occasion. The staff's expertise in guiding diners through the extensive Spanish wine list is also a major draw.

The atmosphere is another key reason to choose Ernesto's. It's a place that feels both romantic and lively, offering a different vibe depending on where you sit. The opportunity to dine at the chef's counter provides an up-close look at the culinary process, while the cozy smaller dining room offers a more intimate setting. For those seeking a social and vibrant scene, the bar area and the outdoor seating provide the perfect backdrop. For a dining experience that feels both genuinely Spanish and distinctly New York, Ernesto's is a top choice, promising great food, fantastic drinks, and a level of hospitality that is second to none.

Ernesto's

259 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002, USA