The Reading Room Introduce
Welcome to
The Reading Room
, a chic and inviting American restaurant located in the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan. Whether you’re a local New Yorker or a visitor to the city, this establishment offers a culinary experience that blends classic American comfort with a modern, sophisticated twist. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere, The Reading Room has quickly become a go-to spot for those seeking a memorable meal. From a casual breakfast to an upscale dinner, it provides a versatile setting that caters to various occasions and tastes. The menu is crafted to appeal to a wide audience, featuring a rich selection of dishes that range from timeless favorites to creative, contemporary plates.Situated at 16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017, The Reading Room boasts a prime location in Midtown East, just a stone's throw away from some of the city's most famous landmarks and corporate offices. This central spot makes it incredibly convenient for a business lunch, a post-work dinner, or a weekend meal after exploring the area. The restaurant is easily accessible by various modes of public transportation, including several subway lines and buses, making it a breeze to get to from anywhere in the city. For those with mobility needs, the establishment offers a high level of accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and comfortable. Paid parking is also available nearby for those who choose to drive, though it’s worth noting that public transit is often the most convenient option in this busy neighborhood. The strategic location and thoughtful accessibility features make The Reading Room a practical and appealing choice for all diners in New York City.
- Dining Options: The Reading Room offers a comprehensive range of dining services throughout the day. You can stop by for a hearty breakfast or a leisurely brunch, perfect for starting your day in the city. The lunch menu provides a great selection for a midday break, while the dinner service offers a more refined experience. For special occasions or group events, catering services are also available. The restaurant provides comfortable table service, ensuring a pleasant and relaxed dining experience.
- Takeout and Dine-in: The restaurant accommodates both dine-in guests and those on the go. You can enjoy the cozy, upscale atmosphere inside the restaurant or opt for a convenient takeout meal.
- Reservations: Given its popularity, dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure you get a table. The restaurant accepts reservations, which you can easily make by calling ahead.
- Great Cocktails and Wine List: The bar at The Reading Room is a standout feature, known for its creative and well-crafted cocktails. From the
The Page Turner
andHot & Heavy
to thePaper Crane
, the drink menu offers a wide variety of options to suit any palate. The wine list is equally impressive, offering a curated selection of great wines by the glass, including both red and white varieties. This makes it an ideal spot for happy hour or a pre-dinner drink. - Fast Service: Customers often praise the quick and efficient service. The staff is known for being attentive and friendly, ensuring that your meal is served promptly, a crucial factor for those on a tight schedule.
- Variety of Offerings: The menu is extensive and diverse, offering everything from classic American comfort food to small plates and full entrees. Notable dishes include the
Reading Room Burger
,Steak & Eggs
, andCrispy Eggs Benedict
. They also offer a wide selection of steaks, seafood, and salads, with options likeSalmon
,Braised Short Ribs
, andHeirloom Tomato Salad
. - Ambiance: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with an upscale touch. It’s an inviting space that is well-suited for a variety of crowds, including groups, solo diners, and tourists. The lighting, while sometimes described as dim, contributes to a warm and intimate setting, particularly for dinner service. The establishment is also LGBTQ+ friendly.
Address: 16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Phone: (646) 396-2708
The Reading Room offers a compelling dining experience that makes it a worthwhile choice for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Its location is a major plus, providing a convenient and accessible spot in the heart of Midtown East. The diverse menu is another strong point, with an abundance of options for every meal of the day. For breakfast or brunch, the
Crispy Eggs Benedict
stands out as a unique and flavorful take on a classic. TheAvocado Toast
is also a popular choice, and for those with a sweet tooth, theLemon Ricotta Pancakes
are a must-try.When it comes to lunch or dinner, the menu truly shines. The
Steak on Toast
andSpicy Crab Cake
are excellent choices for appetizers. For a main course, theReading Room Burger
is a solid choice, while theSteak Frites
andSalmon
offer more substantial and sophisticated options. The selection of dishes from theLand
andSea
categories showcases the restaurant's culinary range, with items like theBone in Rib Eye for 2
andPan Seared Scallops
being particularly noteworthy. The bar menu is another reason to visit, with a reputation for great cocktails that are both creative and expertly prepared. TheEspresso Martini
is a perfect finish to any meal.The ambiance is a significant draw as well. It strikes a balance between casual and upscale, making it suitable for a relaxed get-together with friends or a more formal dinner. The establishment’s commitment to excellent service and a comfortable atmosphere is consistently praised by customers. While some have noted a few areas for improvement, such as the seasoning of certain side dishes, the overall consensus is that the quality of the main entrees, the stellar drinks, and the pleasant environment make The Reading Room a great choice for a fulfilling meal. The restaurant successfully delivers on its promise of a high-quality American dining experience in a location that is both central and easy to access. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or a celebratory dinner, The Reading Room provides a reliable and enjoyable option in the heart of New York City.
The Reading Room Food & drink
Appetizers
- Steak on Toast
Filet, Chimichurri, Pickled Red Onion, Arugula
Breakfast
- Avocado Toast $15.00
Goat Cheese, Everything Bagel mix, Olive Oil • Add Bacon $4 I Add an Egg $3 I Add Smoked Salmon $6
- Crispy Eggs Benedict $20.00
Hollandaise, Canadian Bacon, English Muffin, Roasted Potatoes, Seasonal Fruit
- 2 Eggs Any Style $15.00
Roasted Potatoes, Bacon, Toast, Fresh Fruit
- French Toast $18.00
Brioche Bread, Dulce de Leche, Fresh Fruit
- Overnight Oats $12.00
Day Oats, Cinnamon, Peanut Whip, Brulée Bananas, Strawberries | Served Cold
- Seasonal Yogurt Parfait $10.00
Housemade Granola, Fruit Compote
- Breakfast Burrito $17.00
2 Eggs, Sausage, Flour Tortilla, Pico de Gallo, Cheese, Roasted Potatoes
- The New Yorker $17.00
Scrambled Egg, Bacon, Cheddar, Roasted Potatoes, Plain or EverythingBagel
- Gluten Free Toast $2.00
Salad
- Caesar Salad $16.00
Croutons, Shaved Parmesan Cheese, Caesar Dressing
- Blue Gem Salad $19.00
Cherry Tomato, Blue Cheese, Chives, Bacon, Egg
- Mixed Green Salad $14.00
Cherry Tomatoes, Shaved Carrots, Cucumber, Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Tuna Soba Noodle Salad $20.00
Shaved Carrot, Green Onion, Cilantro, Soy Ginger Vinaigrette
- Beet Salad $18.00
Frisée, Arugula, Shaved Fennel. Goat Cheese, Chipotle Almond Crumble, Golden Raisins, Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Persimmon Salad $18.00
Arugula, Spinach, Persimmon, Pickled Red Onion, Feta Cheese, Walnuts, Poppy Seed Dressing
- Heirloom Tomato Salad $19.00
Chipotle Almond Crumble, Burrata, Arugula, Pesto, Saba, Petite Basil
Appetizer
- Steak on Toast $22.00
Filet, Chimichurri, Pickled Red Onion, Arugula
- Oysters $21.00
Mignonette, Cocktail Sauce, Lemon
- Spicy Crab Cake $24.00
Remoulade, Frisée, Arugula, Orange Segments, Watermelon Radish, Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette
- Brussels and Fried Chickpeas $17.00
Crispy Prosciutto, Cured Egg Yolk, Lemon Zest, Buttermilk Dressing
- Curried Butternut Squash Soup $12.00
Toasted Coconut, Chive, Creme
Large Plates
- Steak Frites $36.00
Hanger Steak, Hand Cut Fries, Chimichurri
- Rib Eye $48.00
Garlic Mash, Grilled Asparagus
- Salmon $30.00
Creamy Polenta, Shaved Brussels, Sundried Tomatoes, Bacon
- Peri Peri Chicken $27.00
Half Chicken, Aji Verde, Crispy Plantains
- Seafood Stew $30.00
Clams, Shrimp, Fish, Jasmine Rice, Roasted Vegetables, Cilantro
- Spaghetti with Clams $24.00
Clams, Basil, Pesto, Butter, Parmesan, Crispy Breadcrumbs
Burgers & Sandwiches
- Reading Room Burger $23.00
8oz Burger, Brioche Bun, Cheddar, Chipotle Aioli, Butter Lettuce, Hand Cut Fries
- G&H Burger $24.00
Arugula, Slow Roasted Tomato, Pickled Red Onion, Boursin Cheese, Garlic Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Old Bay Sandwich $27.00
Spicy Crab Cake,Butter Lettuce, Tomato, Brioche Bun, Old Bay Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Fried Chicken Sandwich $19.00
Green Onion, Asian Slaw, Sesame Seeds ,Brioche Bun, Spicy Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich $19.00
Ciabatta, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Hand Cut Fries
- Steak Sandwich $25.00
Horseradish Cream, Ciabatta, Arugula, Slow Roasted Tomato, Hand Cut Fries
- Panino $19.00
San Daniele Prosciutto, Arugula, Garlic Herb Marinated Tomato, Manchego, Ciabatta, Honey Butter
Cold
- Butcher Board $38.00
Chefs Selection of Meats. Cheese and Accompaniments
- Oysters $21.00
Mignonette, Cocktail Sauce, Grilled Lemon
- Heirloom Tomato Salad $19.00
Chipotle Almond Crumble, Burrata, Arugula, Pesto, Saba, Petite Basil
- Caesar Salad $16.00
Croutons, Shaved Parmesan Cheese, Caesar Dressing
- Bleu Gem Salad $19.00
Cherry Tomato, Bleu Cheese, Chives. Bacon, Egg
- Baby Beet Salad $18.00
Frisée, Arugula, Shaved Fennel. Goat Cheese, Chipotle Almond Crumble, Golden Raisins, Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Strawberry Salad $18.00
Arugula, Spinach, Orange, Strawberry, Feta Cheese, Walnuts, Poppy Seed Dressing
Hot
- Bone Marrow $21.00
Soy Glaze, Bacon Onion Chutney, Microgreens, Sourdough
- Grilled Octopus $22.00
Romesco, Baby Potatoes, Watermelon Radish, Parsley
- Steak On Toast $22.00
Filet, Chimichurri, Pickled Red Onion, Arugula
- Brussels & Fried Chickpeas $17.00
Crispy Prosciutto, Cured Egg Yolk, Lemon Zest, Buttermilk Dressing
- Spicy Crab Cake $24.00
Remoulade, Frisée, Arugula, Orange Segments, Watermelon Radish, Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette
- SHRIMP SCAMPI $20.00
Wine, Butter, Orange Juice, Cream
Sea
- Salmon $34.00
Creamy Polenta, Shaved Brussels, Sundried Tomatoes, Bacon
- Halibut $38.00
Clams, Pork Belly, Baby Carrots, Jasmine Rice, Thai Green Curry
- Seafood Stew $34.00
Clams, Shrimp, Fish, Jasmine Rice, Roasted Vegetables, Cilantro
- Lobster Fra Divolo $40.00
Linguine , Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Basil, Tomato, Cayenne Pepper, Parmesan Cheese
- Pan Seared Scallops $40.00
Roasted Cauliflower Puree, Baby Beets, Carrots, Crispy Prosciutto, Lemon Zest, Micro Basil
- Mussels & Frites $26.00
Shallots, Garlic, Butter, White Wine, Chili Flakes, Heavy Cream, Hand Cut Fries
Land
- STEAK SELECTION
Served with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus, Compund Butter
- 8oz Filet $58.00
- Bone in Rib Eye for 2 $120.00
- 12 oz Rib Eye $48.00
- 12oz NY Strip $55.00
- Steak Fries $36.00
Hanger Steak, Hand Cut Fries, Chimichurri
- Reading Room Burger $23.00
8oz Burger, Brioche Bun, Cheddar, Old Bay Aioli, Butter Lettuce, Tomato, Chipotle Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Peri Peri Chicken $30.00
Half Chicken, Aji Verde, Crispy Plantains
- Braised Short Ribs $38.00
Butternut Squash Risotto, Grilled Broccolini, Orange Gremolata
- Butternut Squash Risotto $30.00
Butternut Squash Risotto, Grilled Maitake, Orange Gremolata
- Seared Tofu Green Curry $26.00
Baby Carrots, Jasmine Rice, Beech Mushrooms
- Old Bay Sandwich $27.00
Spicy Crab Cake, Butter Lettuce, Brioche Bun, Old Bay Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Pork Chop $36.00
Fondant Potatoes, Maple Glazed Carrots, Apple Compote, Balsamic Glaze
- Seared Duck Breast $38.00
Sweet Potato Purée, Broccolini, Poached Apples, Red Wine Sauce
Red By The Glass
- Banshee Cabernet Sauvignon $16.00
- Elouan Pinot Noir $15.00
- Felino Malbec $15.00
- Conundrum Red Blend $16.00
- Brendel 2019 Cooper's Reed $28.00
White By The Glass
- Cambria Chardonnay $18.00
- Chalk Hill Sauvignon Blanc $16.00
- Cave de Lugny Chardonnay $16.00
- Villa Puccini Pinot Grigio $15.00
Prosecco By The Glass
- Benvolio Prosecco $15.00
Rose By The Glass
- Listel Rose $16.00
- Faire la Fete Brut $16.00
Whisky
- The Fireside $18.00
Old Overholt Rye, Cherry Heering, Antica, Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters
- Paper Crane $18.00
Makers Mark 46, Aperol, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Angostura Bitters
- Penicillin $18.00
Suntory Toki, Fresh Lemon Juice, Ginger Honey Syrup, Float of Laphroaig
- Coco Old Fashioned $17.00
Widow Jane Paradigm Rye infused with CoCo Crisp, Vanilla Syrup, Mole Bitters
Gin
- Lavender Sage Bees Knees $18.00
Blue Coat Gin, Honey Sage Syrup, Lemon Juice, Lavender Bitters
- Basil Collins $18.00
Roku Gin, Basil Syrup, Lemon Juice, Soda
- Enzoni $18.00
Grey Whale, Grapes, Select Apertivo, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Peychauds Bitters
Tequila, Mezcal
- Tristessa $18.00
House Made Spicy Tequila, Vanilla Syrup, Pineapple Juice
- Hot & Heavy $18.00
Ilegal Mezcal, Hot Honey, Lemon, Bitters
- Cantarito $18.00
Tequila, Orange & Grapefruit Juice, Fresh Lime, Simple, Grepefruit Soda
Rum
- Jungle Bird $18.00
Rum, Pineapple Juice, Simple, Lime Juice, Passion Fruit Floa
- The Honourable Company $18.00
D’Usse XO Cognac, Pineapple Gum Syrup, Pierre Ferand Curacao, Maraschino, Lemon Juice
- Caribbean Old Fashioned $18.00
Santa Teresa Rum, Boiled Cider Syrup, Amaro, Nonino, Falernum
Vodka
- Spa Water $18.00
Kettle Cucumber Mint Botanical Vodka, Cucumber Mint Simple, Fresh Lime Juice
- The Page Turner $17.00
Spring 44 Vodka, Strawberry Mint Puree, Fresh Lemon Juice Topped with Prosecco
- Apple Empire $18.00
Harridan Vodka, Clarifed Red Jacket Apple Cider, Lemon, Cinnamon
Dessert Drinks
- Espresso Martini $18.00
- Irish Coffee $14.00
- Nonino Amaro $15.00
- Dolce Dessert Wine $25.00
Spritz
- Aperol Spritz $16.00
Aperol, Prosecco, Soda
- Strawberry Limoncello Spritz $16.00
Limoncello, Strawberry Puree, Lemon Juice, Prosecco, Soda
- Italicus Spritz $16.00
Italicus, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Prosecco, Soda
Bottles
- Coors Light $8.00
- Amstel Light $8.00
- Corona $8.00
- Heineken $8.00
- Doc's Cider $8.00
- Allagash $10.00
Cans
- Guinness $9.00
- Athletic NA $7.00
- Monopolio $8.00
Draft
- Seasonal IPA $9.00
- Seasonal Pilsner $9.00
Breakfast
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes $19.00
Ricotta, Lemon Zest
- Avocado Toast $15.00
Goat Cheese, Everything Bagel mix, Olive Oil • Add Bacon $4 I Add an Egg $3 I Add Smoked Salmon $6
- Steak & Eggs $29.00
Hanger Steak, Roasted Potatoes, Chimichurri
- Crispy Eggs Benedict $20.00
Hollandaise, Canadian Bacon, English Muffin, Roasted Potatoes, Seasonal Fruit
- 2 Eggs Any Style $15.00
Roasted Potatoes, Bacon, Toast, Fresh Fruit
- French Toast $18.00
Brioche Bread, Dulce de Leche, Fresh Fruit
- Seasonal Yogurt Parfait $10.00
Housemade Granola, Fruit Compote
- Breakfast Burrito $17.00
2 Eggs, Sausage, Pico de Gallo, Cheese, Flour Tortilla, Roasted Potatoes
- The New Yorker $17.00
Scrambled Egg, Bacon, Cheddar, Plain or Everything Bagel
- Lox & Bagel $20.00
Smoked Salmon, Capers, Pickled Onion, Dill, Cream Cheese, Plain or Everything Bagel
Appetizer
- Spicy Crab Cake $24.00
Celery Root Remoulade, Fried Capers, Orange
- Brussels and Fried Chickpeas $17.00
Crispy Prosciutto, Cured Egg Yolk, Lemon Zest, Buttermilk Dressing
- Maple Glazed Pork Belly $18.00
Maple Syrup, Crushed Peppercorn, Chili Flakes, Thyme, Rosemary, Cumin
Salad
- Caesar Salad $16.00
Croutons, Shaved Parmesan Cheese, Caesar Dressing
- Beet Salad $18.00
Frisée, Arugula, Shaved Fennel. Goat Cheese, Chipotle Almond Crumble, Golden Raisins, Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Persimmon Salad $18.00
Arugula, Spinach, Persimmon, Pickled Red Onion, Feta Cheese, Walnuts, Poppy Seed Dressing
- Tuna Soba Noodle Salad $20.00
Shaved Carrot, Green Onion, Cilantro, Soy Ginger Vinaigrette
Burgers & Sandwiches
- Reading Room Burger $23.00
8oz Burger, Brioche Bun, Cheddar, Chipotle Aioli, Butter Lettuce, Hand Cut Fries
- Old Bay Sandwich $27.00
Spicy Crab Cake,Butter Lettuce, Tomato, Brioche Bun, Old Bay Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Fried Chicken Sandwich $19.00
Green Onion, Asian Slaw, Sesame Seeds ,Brioche Bun, Spicy Aioli, Hand Cut Fries
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich $19.00
Ciabatta, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Hand Cut Fries
- Steak Sandwich $25.00
Horseradish Cream, Ciabatta, Arugula, Slow Roasted Tomato, Hand Cut Fries
- Panino $19.00
San Daniele Prosciutto, Arugula, Garlic Herb Marinated Tomato, Manchego, Ciabatta, Honey Butter
The Reading Room Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Parking
The Reading Room Photos










The Reading Room Location
The Reading Room
16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
The Reading Room Reviews
brunchbarhotelsteakeggs benedictcrab cakesalmonoystersbooksevening
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1The grilled octopus was delicious. The burger was mediocre, with a stale brioche bun and a serious deficit of sauce or flavour. Way too many fries. And the fries were really mid. Service was >30% slower than it should have been - for the price point.I like the name / theoretical concept but there was nothing book or reading really about this place. I think they could have learned into it more.Nice ambient environment, slightly loud.Would not go out of my way to come back.Walked in on a Thursday at 7:30 and got a bar seat.
May 04 · Isabella GrandicThe crispy eggs Benedict ($20 plus tax) was a novel take on a brunch classic The eggs and Canadian bacon on the English muffin were good, but the accompanying potatoes were bland. The small fruit serving could be more seasonal and fresher.The interior, maybe in the attempt to make it cozier, felt rather dimly lit, which would have suited dinner service better. For brunch, I wish it were just a tad brighter.
March 23 · Augusto PaulinoMy mom and I came here for brunch before seeing a Broadway show! The service was great and ambiance was nice! The food was delicious! Good portion sizes and good prices! We didn’t make a reservation so we ate at the bar but that was fine. I would recommend making a reservation so you’re guaranteed a spot. Would definitely recommend and come back again!
March 30 · Aiyana WilkinsonIn the unique Gotham Hotel, The Reading Room has read my vibe completely. A quiet happy hour not crowded, comfortable plush seating, with plenty of space a skylight —-in an otherwise darker themed lounge—-to brighten the mood with Sade’s smooth operator playing in the background…it’s a must I stumbled upon whilst next door at Gregory’s Coffee.
July 11 · Gracey AcholonuGreat spot that isn't too far from Grand Central. We tried several seafood dishes and they were all fantastic. Staff were very friendly and the soundtrack was legit.
July 25 · Chris Albert
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