Dolly Varden

Restaurant · Midtown West

Dolly Varden

Restaurant · Midtown West

2

302 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019

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Highlights

Elevated food & cocktails, unique train car seating, lively vibe  

Featured in Eater
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302 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019 Get directions

dollyvardennyc.com
@dollyvardennyc

$30–50 · Menu

Reserve

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302 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019 Get directions

+1 212 541 7080
dollyvardennyc.com
@dollyvardennyc

$30–50 · Menu

Reserve

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Last updated

Aug 26, 2025

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@eater

These Local Gems in NYC Come With Serious Rewards | Eater

"This quaint, Hell’s Kitchen-based restaurant is inspired by New York in the 1920s, and the last passenger train locomotive to run up the West Side of Manhattan (hence the name). So expect to see lots of red hues and vintage train car seats, even a streetary inspired by a vintage train car. But what to order? To kick things off, start with a libation, like the Harlem Sunset (Blanco tequila, elderflower liqueur, hibiscus, and lemon juice), the Aristocrat, (bourbon, allspice, and lime juice), and others. Menu favorites include a roasted half chicken with confit onion, pan-seared scallops, and baby back ribs — dishes that taste even better when paired with rewards that can reach up to 23% with Seated." - Vox Creative

https://www.eater.com/ad/maps/best-local-new-york-restaurants
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@eater

Experimental Cocktail Spot Dolly Varden Opens in Hell’s Kitchen - Eater NY

"Experiential cocktails are landing in Hell’s Kitchen at Dolly Varden, a new, bi-level restaurant and bar opening in the first week of March. Located at 302 W. 51st Street, at 8th Avenue, the imaginative project is led by executive chef Forster Sorensen, who previously spent time at Chicago destination Au Cheval, and head bartender Artemio Vasquez, formerly of renowned cocktail bar PDT. At Dolly Varden, the lavishly decorated specialty cocktails, priced between $14 to $16 apiece, stand in the spotlight. Witch of the West Side, a tequila and mezcal-based drink, is finished off with a single, giant liquid smoke bubble that releases citrus aromas when popped, while a pineapple rum-based cocktail comes topped with the spiky leaves from the fruit. In the kitchen, Sorensen will be serving a $17 burger that he’s likely hoping will compete with Au Cheval’s version that drew crowds in Chicago, although Eater senior critic Robert Sietsema panned the burger at the restaurant’s New York location. Other American comfort food staples will fill out the menu, including fried chicken and a hefty sausage spread. The project unfolds over two levels in the building; the downstairs bar caters more towards walk-ins looking to grab drinks in a casual, lively setting while the upstairs restaurant offers more traditional dining options. Both levels accept reservations, and the entire space seats about 120 people." - Erika Adams

https://ny.eater.com/2020/2/7/21128192/dolly-varden-cocktail-bar-hells-kitchen
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Jyll LiPetri

Google
Every bit of the meal was delicious, but what really made the visit special was the service. Erica & Ash were so welcoming and informative. They made great suggestions about lesser known nyc activities, in addition to their knowledge of the menu. Brunch was amazing all around and I will absolutely be back! Lemon pancakes and maple sausage were SO good.

Scott Kriskie

Google
This is an amazing little getaway in the middle of the city the outdoor seating has a garden wall with sunflowers that makes you forget where you are. Our waitress Erica, was absolutely perfect. She was helpful, friendly and very welcoming. I went with the 60 minute bottomless drinks for brunch, definitely a great deal. I tried all of the options as they let you switch becerages as you go. None disapointed. We chose the French omelet and the Dolly French toast. It felt like a crime to call it French toast, it was more like heaven on a plate. This will now be our go to breakfast spot when we are in the area. If you feel like treating yourself to an amazing brunch, I suggest you stop here and give it a try for yourself.

Raysa Cremona

Google
Loved the cocktail tree!!! Each cocktail was so unique and delicious! I tried the Risotto croquetes, the grilled cheese, the steak and fries and the Pasta was amazing! Finished the whole thing! definitely recommend it! Great service and atmosphere! 10/10

Sebastian Thaler

Google
A very cozy and tastefully designed restaurant with a bar. We had a steak with fries for $36 and the salmon fillet with potatoes and vegetables for $30. The quality was excellent! The vegetables served with the salmon were glazed and an absolute treat for the taste buds. We were there on a Friday evening with a small child, and it wasn’t very busy. The waitstaff were very friendly and attentive.

Foodie Elite

Google
This gem in Hell’s Kitchen invites you to indulge in creative cocktails that are as stunning as they are delicious. We particularly loved their gorgeous Cocktail Tree, which offered a delightful selection of signature drinks of your own choice. For a stronger sip, don’t miss out on the enticing Smoke Stack. Now let’s talk about food. Just take a look at that pull from the French Onion soup—it was nothing short of epic! The Short Rib Sliders were a mouthwatering bite-sized delight. And let me tell you about their Steak Frites and Short Rib Dinner; they were nothing less than divine! Highly recommended! Whether you're stopping by before or after a show, planning a romantic date night, or simply enjoying time with friends, Dolly Varden is the perfect spot to savor elevated cuisine in an enchanting setting.

Harvey Messing

Google
It is a nice looking restaurant. The restaurant can seat about 40 people, that includes 13 people at their bar. It is a nice looking restaurant that attracted people in their 20s and 30s when I was there on a Friday night. I had their short rib ($35) which was very good, but the accompanying mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, unexplainably, had no taste. The noise level was medium when I was there due to the low ceiling.

Helen

Google
stopped by for drinks with friends and definitely such a fun spot. They have a special on Mondays for martinis and my friend and I got a lemon drop martini and it was done so well. Definitely coming back!

rowdykatie

Google
I'm adding the lemon ricotta pancakes to my list of meals I have to get every time I'm in NY. The staff was so pleasant, especially Hannah! Make a reservation and go early for breakfast, you won't regret it.

Alejandro J.

Yelp
The food was amazing, the atmosphere was great but the show stopping thing about this place was Jorge! He was the nicest and coolest server i have ever had!! He also makes the most delicious drinks ive ever had! If youre lucky enough to get him to serve you, count your blessings!
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Melissa P.

Yelp
Dolly's Hideaway on the lower level of Dolly Varden is a luscious speakeasy with heavenly bar food and out of this world cocktails in an exceptionally cozy and attentive environment - not to be missed! We stumbled upon this gem before our Broadway show and was so enamored with the food, drinks and service that we returned post-show for an encore! We had the Disco Tots, Crispy Cauliflower and The Goat and Mushroom Flatbread. The portions were generous for bar snacks and the the flavors were spot-on. The Disco Tots were accented with spicy peppers, the cauliflower had the most delicious freshly prepared hummus artistically drizzled around the plate, and the flatbread was noticeably fresh out of the oven. Wow. Kudos to the chef! The cocktails were all exceptionally made with artistic prowess, making the experience even more enjoyable: Busy Body - cold brew with chocolate bitters Never too Matcha - vodka and matcha Secreet Gardent - gin and lavender Wooden Nickel - bourbon and rye What a wonderful find - Dolly's Hideaway is not to be missed!
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Melissa I.

Yelp
My husband and I came here for some drinks. We have never been here before but I heard good things. We did not go upstairs so I have no idea what it looks like but the downstairs is very small and rather tight, but I do love the decor. My husband got the 'Wooden Nickel' drink which is a house blend of bourbon and rye, demerara, orange bitters. He absolutely loved it. I got the 'Pinky Tuscadero' to drink which was vodka, strawberry, rhubarb, lemon. This wasn't my favorite drink, but it was okay. We shared the 'Dolly Cheese Board' which had gouda manchego, irish - cheddar port, seasonal fruits, honey, bacon jam, housemade flatbread and we added Salami for an additional $5. They did forget to give us the flatbread, and to be honest... we did not see it listed. Finally when they asked if we wanted more bread and we were very confused and we all realized no one got the bread. They did finally give us the bread which was very good but would have been nice to have with the whole cheese board. Overall, the service was fine. They were fairly quick, and friendly. But the food and drinks were overall just okay. I would give it a 3.5. I personally wouldn't be back but I do think it's fun to check out.
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Darcy D.

Yelp
I wouldn't say DV lived up to the current rating it has on Yelp. The food was average, and the service was mediocre best. We came here for brunch before a show. We had a reservation for 10. When we came in there was nobody there. Is that right down? Our waiter came over. We ordered our food. We didn't see our waiter again until we left the restaurant. They go to the point where I had to go to the bar to ask for my check. Only then did the waiter come back. The food was average. We got the chicken and waffles and the lemon ricotta pancakes. We also got the mimosa tree. Everything was fine enough. I did really enjoy the rosemary in the chicken and waffles. The inside was clean and cute. Nothing to add there. Overall, we had a warm meal on a cold day. It was fine.
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Alan L.

Yelp
Rounded up to 4 stars. The restaurant is cozy, multiple seating areas, some separated by a few stairs. The Tequila cocktails were disappointing, tasting like they were missing an ingredient. The Short Rib Pasta was tasty, but not memorable. The service was attentive.
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Aine O.

Yelp
Small spot with high tops or bar seating but food was amazing, ambiance is top tier, and service was great as well. Recommend for sure!
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Lily W.

Yelp
I had such a great time here and our servers were fantastic! I don't usually get brunch but when I do, I'm always conflicted on what to get. Since I came with some friends, I was able to try the chicken and waffles from them but I had ordered the Eggs Benedict with salad, fries, and substituted the bacon with short ribs. As conflicted as I was on menu choices, I was so happy that what I got was delicious. It was so tender and juicy and full of flavors. I nibbled on a bit of the chicken and waffle and next time I return, that will be the one I get! Everyone really seemed to enjoy the food and it was such a generous portion as well. I can't wait to come back!
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Veronica G.

Yelp
I stopped in here with my colleagues after work and we were not disappointed. we were seated quickly choosing an outdoor seat in their little train car dining area. I found out that the restaurant name has something to do with the train car so we should ask about the history. We all ordered different dishes. I had the elevated short rib grilled cheese. It was perfectly crisp on a thick cut toasted bread with the inside soft and gooey from cheese and tender short rib. The sandwich delivered on flavor. My colleagues were equally as satisfied with their choices, though I don't remember what they ate. Although we were seated outside, we had plenty of excellent service. We all give this restaurant two thumbs up!
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Jessica K.

Yelp
The place is SO CUTE! Great service as well. We went after watching drag the musical around the corner. I'd also recommend that
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Deborah W.

Yelp
Rating: 3.5 Stars I stopped by with a friend on a rainy Saturday night around 6:30 PM. The restaurant had two floors and the lower level was pretty narrow. Even though the restaurant was packed, we were able to be seated right away at a high top on the lower level bar without a reservation. The high top chairs were really tall for some reason and I was having trouble getting on. It would have been nice if these chairs had a back in them. Our server came over right away to get our drink orders. He was very friendly but seemed quite busy since he was taking care of all of the tables on the lower floor. Therefore, we didn't really see him during the meal until we paid. A good part about the service though is that we did receive our food and drinks very quickly. I started off with a pear lemonade mocktail which was very tasty. I really enjoyed the pear purée (I think?) that was in there. The granular texture was surprisingly a great addition. For food we split a few items: DEVILED EGGS: Tasty appetizer! LOADED TATER TOTS: The tots were fried well but definitely could have been crispier. The toppings themselves were ok but they felt incomplete. Like the flavor was a bit flat. SHORT RIB RAGU: It was fine. The flavor of the short rib did not feel like it was braised enough. The flavor felt like it could have been stronger. It just felt a little bland compared to other short rib ragus I've had around the city. Additionally, the cherry tomatoes overpowered the flavor of the ragu itself. All in all, an ok experience with nice drinks; however, the food was unfortunately pretty average.
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Michele S.

Yelp
I was looking for a nice spot to meet up with friends and have a conversation. Came across Dolly Varden in my feed and decided to make a reservation. When I first walked in, the downstairs bar area/restaurant was buzzing and was a bit concerned that it would be difficult to talk since the noise level was so high but they took us upstairs to sit. The ambiance was warm and welcoming and much quieter than downstairs. The service was good. We all ordered the Pinky Tuscadero for drinks and the cheese plate for an appetizer. The appetizer came out first and when the waitstaff came over to check on us to see if we needed anything that's when she realized we didn't get our drinks yet. The cheese appetizer was a bit dissappointing. Three big blocks of cheese and three little pieces of bread. There were three of us sharing so the lack of bread was really noticeable. We didn't have cheese knives to cut so it was really awkward stabbing the cheese and trying to cut it. For the main meal, my friend wanted to order a flatbread but they didn't have one of the main ingredients so she ordered the short rib grilled cheese, and I ordered the crispy cauliflower. I thought i would be getting a tempura style dish but it was basically cauliflower on top of hummus. It was ok. I think the ambiance outweighed the drinks here. With so many other places in this area, I am not sure if I would come back here.
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Barton F.

Yelp
We did a little research and shortlisted Dolly Varden based on some other yep reviews and were extremely pleased with everything! It was a Sunday Brunch about 9:30. We sat at the bar and I highly recommend it just due to the atmosphere! We shared the Dolly Varden burrito and the Skillet along with a Bloody Mary and Mimosas! Amazing food and fantastic service!
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Shirley H.

Yelp
Love their cocktail tree! The presentation is absolutely stunning! You can select five different cocktails for the tree. We also tried an array of delicious dishes. We had mussels, risotto balls, lamb shank, buttermilk fried chicken burger, and dessert. Everything is so good and has huge portion sizes!! Highly recommend the appetizers and lamb shank! The space is so cute! They have such nice interior decoration! The staff is also so friendly!
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Kamara S.

Yelp
It was a late Monday night after coming out of a taping that I needed something to eat. This place had a cool name and on its website said it had an all day happy hour so I decided to go. Even though it had a 1920s theme, there wasn't anything that stuck out to me other than red curtains near the entrance. There was a party happening upstairs since you could hear the cheers. I had sat at the bar which had TVs playing Wheel of fortune. Even though on its website it said Industry Happy Hour Monday All Day, the menu inside the restaurant said it was TUESDAY that had the all day happy hour. That changes the vibe on things. Speaking on happy hour, they only had a bunch of drinks and a selection of oysters on discount. I ordered the fries, deviled eggs with bacon and the "never too matcha" a vodka based drink with matcha, cream and caramel. The bartender and the menu offered a mocktail version of the drink but I opted out this time. The eggs were fine but they did this thing where they put some of the yolk mixture between the egg and the plate like as a glue or for aesthetics. It made the dish a bit messier for consumption. The fries were great and I enjoyed devouring them. But shout out to the matcha based drink. It was perfectly creamy and not grassy but I could tell matcha was in it. It was my favorite choice of the night. The bartenders were decent and I had an overall fine time.

Valerie S.

Yelp
Very good Caesar salad and great Fig and Mushroom flatbread. Weak drinks unfortunately, and we had to ask for our food twice. Finally the manager offered us another drink and 15% off our bill. If you're going pre-theatre, allow 2 hours
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Amelia S.

Yelp
Great hidden gem in midtown. Close to the theater district. Came here because they're doing 10% off a meal with your same day ticket stub from The Great Gatsby on Broadway (through May 2024). Staff was able accommodate us earlier than the reservation which was nice. Waiter was fantastic. It took a bit for the food to come out but they apologized with the kitchen being backed up. Short rib pasta was delicious and a generous portion. Steak frites with the chimichurri was super flavorful. A bit undercooked for my friend. Espresso martini was strong and delicious.
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Alvin A.

Yelp
This is my first time to Dolly Varden as my work colleague suggested to stay nearby our hotel as it was raining on a cold and wet Cinco de Mayo Sunday. Their location is right in Hell's Kitchen near Times Square right in Midtown. Came here for an early dinner and although there were lots of seating options either downstairs at the bar or upstairs in the restaurant area, me and my friend choose to sit more comfortably upstairs in the dining room. I ordered the steak frites while my friend she ordered the seafood pasta. My steak was tender, juicy and very flavorful and I particularly like their chimichurri sauce. While my friend was enjoying her seafood pasta which included mussels, calamari, shrimp and full of fettuccine, she could not finish it all and requested a box to go. Our first round of Cabernet Wine took some time to arrive, we both found our glass to be delicious and complicated well with our large dishes. After our third glass, we both agreed we should have ordered an entire bottle instead. Service was good and polite. The space is decent size, with an outdoor dining area curbside built to seat a few tables in the form of a street car or Trolley. This would definitely be a place for you to hang out for a very long time. But also a great option for a quick bite before your broadway show or after show dessert and night cap.
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Snehal D.

Yelp
Good ambiance, was very Christmasy then! Got the bottomless drink and a food option! Omelette was lil watery and sangria was okish. but overall good service. They were pretty quick with drinks too!
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Nicole C.

Yelp
We went here before our Broadway show on a Monday night. We sat and had a few drinks at the bar before dinner. The bartender was very friendly and talkative. He made us a variety of different drinks and offered good conversation. Afterwards, we made our way upstairs to our dining table and ordered a pizza appetizer and our entrees. I had the salmon and my husband the steak. We enjoyed the meals although I thought my salmon was a bit overcooked. The atmosphere was nice.
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Cherylin L.

Yelp
This spot is not just serving up creative cocktails but also amazing food . You can choose any 5 cocktails and turn them into one spectacular cocktail tree! Right in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, Dolly Varden is a TRUE gem! Imagine a beautiful restaurant, delicious drinks, and incredible food - it's the perfect for date night, girls' night out, or just a casual brunch. Here's what we enjoyed: Cocktail Tree Dolly Grilled BEC Egg Benedict with Salmon Crispy Cauliflower Korean Pork Sliders Chocolate Mousse The vibe here is unmatched - from the vibrant atmosphere to the impeccable service and mouthwatering dishes. You don't want to miss out on this one! Pro tip: The cocktail tree is an absolute game-changer. It's perfect for sharing and makes your brunch or dinner extra special. Be sure to follow @spinx17 for more delicious recommendations.
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Giacomo C.

Yelp
A solid choice both for food and drinks. I'd probably make a reservation on weekends, as I was barely able to get a table on a Thursday at 6pm. Happy Hour until 7pm. Service is efficient and helpful. Keep in mind that portion sizes here are gigantic, so don't order too much. I was here with a friend (both hungry), ordered 3 dishes and ended up not being able to finish any of them. Crispy cauliflower: really tasty; the pieces of the cauliflower could be smaller (to add more flavor), but it was a good choice nonetheless. Truffle mushroom flatbread: delicious; get it if you're a mushroom lover. Lots of cheese. Buttermilk fried chicken sandwich: this was recommended by our waiter. The thing is huge (look at my picture). Layers upon layers of fried chicken! I don't think it was the best fried chicken I've ever had, but the sandwich was good. I'd definitely return to taste other options.
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Sandy Y.

Yelp
Dropped by this time for Boozy Brunch. The Brunch Cocktail tree is a sight to behold! Five cocktails, from your choice of five offerings: mimosa, rum punch, sangria, spicy margarita, bloody mary. We tried each one and they were sweet but on the strong side. Our favorite of the five was the rum punch and mimosa. For food, we got the Smoked Salmon Egg's Benedict, Dolly's Grilled BEC, and a side of fries. The Smoked Salmons Egg's Benedict was classic, nothing less nothing more. The side salad, made of kale, radish, and coleslaw mix was dressed in a vinaigrette (raspberry perhaps?). The wow-factor were the home fries - crispy and well-seasoned on the outside but warm and fluffy in the inside. Grilled in between two slices of sourdough bread, Dolly's Grilled B.E.C was good but heavy - cheddar cheese and a fried egg on top of bacon and shredded short rib. The fries were okay - crispy but a tad too salty (for my liking).
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Jonathan L.

Yelp
Hello hello!l allll! Soooo this was an Amazing restaurant with happy hour 3-7 pm M-F & Sunday I think starts at 5 pm! with $11 select cocktails, $2 oysters and $9 mixed drinks! & More importantly!! with a freaking cocktail tree !!! So much fun!! The food is also sooo gooood! check below what we ordered! :) MAKE IT A COCKTAIL TREE:choose any five cocktails $68 MAC & CHEESE rigatoni, housemade cheese sauce, herbed breadcrumbs $16 FRIED CALAMARIsriracha aioli, spicy marinara $18 SHORT RIB PASTAbraised short rib, tomato, parmesan, fresh basil, tagliatelle $24 LAMB SHANKgarlic mashed potatoes, rainbow carrots, au jus $28 The staff were super friendly and accommodating would def come back! And the bar was full of people having a good time enjoying the happy hour def fun! @dollyvarden
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Ashley T.

Yelp
Don't even think about it, just make the reservation! I recently dined at Dolly Varden and it was an unforgettable experience! The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, with a chic decor that perfectly blends modern and vintage elements. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, making excellent recommendations and ensuring we had everything we needed. We enjoyed dinner so much we went back the next morning for brunch! The menu was diverse and creative, with a range of delicious options to choose from. We started with the truffle fries, which were crispy and seasoned to perfection. For the main course, I had the seafood pasta, which was seasoned well, perfectly portioned, and bursting with flavor. My friend opted for the caesar salad with a side of salmon, which was fresh, hearty, and beautifully presented. The cocktails were another highlight--crafted with precision and flair. The spicy margarita was a refreshing twist on the classic, and the house specials were equally impressive. Overall, Dolly Varden offers a top-notch dining experience in NYC. Whether you're out for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this place delivers on all fronts. I can't wait to return and try more of their delectable dishes!
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Ashlyn K.

Yelp
My friends and I went to Dolly Varden at 1pm on a Sunday. We made a reservation, which I highly recommend if you plan to eat here. I tried one weekend to get in as a walk-in, and the wait was really long. The ambiance is slightly elevated casual, and the noise level was fine. I got the Captain Crunch French Toast ($19), and my friends split the Dolly's Grilled B.E.C. ($22). This is totally on me, but I should have looked up an image of the french toast before. Captain Crunch is my favorite cereal, especially with the crunch berries, and I was expecting to delve deep into a sweet monstrosity. However, it was just regular french toast coated with grated cereal. So in that regard, I was disappointed. I thought the french toast itself was light and moist, helped with a thin layer of cream in the middle. The ice cream was... interesting. If you're a fan of the Try Guys, they did a video where Keith's ice cream came out with a gum-like consistency, which is kind of how the ice cream felt. My friends both mentioned the B.E.C. was average, and nothing stood out to them. Our waiter was friendly and accommodating and did multiple check-backs. Overall, for a restaurant located so close to the touristy things, the prices are not bad. If you're in the area looking for decent food, definitely check out Dolly Varden.
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Elana B.

Yelp
Knocking off the one star is mostly because we didn't really like our appetizers. But the entrees we had were all delicious and the portions were huge. Our waiter was so great and was very good at checking in with us and making sure we always had water in our glasses. The restaurant is 2 levels. They have covered booths outside, small tables downstairs in the bar area, and tables that can accommodate larger parties upstairs. There are restrooms on both levels. Overall we were happy with this dinner choice.
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Jamie L.

Yelp
We came specifically for the mimosa tower, but unfortunately, the mimosas were more juice than alcohol. The fried chicken from my chicken and waffles was overcooked and a bit burnt, making the dish just average. Overall, I wouldn't return--there are definitely better brunch spots out there.
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Alyssa J.

Yelp
This place is interesting. I looked up the menu I beforehand and thought I'd enjoy it more than I did. Each food we ordered lacked salt, which was surprising because the presentation is so great. The space downstairs is small and loud so it was hard to hear my friend. Cocktails are nice though and they do offer mocktails for non drinkers. Waiter was friendly too. More salt on each of my delicious looking meals would've made it 5 stars.

Eazy P.

Yelp
Fantastic, reasonably priced cocktails and excellent atmosphere. Have been here a few times and it never disappoints, great DJ on the weekends as well. Jorge, Sydney and Ang are some of the best bartenders in Manhattan and always show my friends and I a good time. Highly recommend you go in when they're tending!
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Desiree F.

Yelp
When I arrived I parked on the street nearby. I walked in and saw Dolly's Hideaway downstairs, and it was super cute. I was served by a few servers, and honestly, they were all great! I started with the espresso martini and vesper martini, and they were delicious! For my meal, I had the deviled eggs, which weren't my favorite. I then had the salmon crispy rice, which wasn't too bad. For my meal I had the seafood pasta which I loved! And dessert I had the keylime pie which was delicious! All in all I had a good experience.
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Yan T.

Yelp
Not sure how long this place has been around but it's a real gem in the neighborhood. The upstairs bar area is great for happy hours because, unlikel most of the trendy cocktail joints and pubs nearby, there's no thumping, deafening music and you can actually have a conversation, at least from 5-7. Reservations are very easy and highly available (hope I don't jinx us for next time). The happy hour menu is quite generous for 2024: $11 Old Fashioneds, Pinot Noir, and some decent beers, for instance. You can also partake in the $1.50 oysters during HH and the oysters are fresh and well shucked! The regular food menu leans asian fusion. Most things are tasty. The pork belly buns are just OK (not tender enough IMO) but just about everything else was good, including the wings and flatbread (more or less pizza).
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Kera W.

Yelp
I had high expectations for Dolly Vardens and was excited to visit this restaurant. The ambiance upstairs and the music playing created a lively and exciting atmosphere. I decided to try the chicken and waffles, a dish I was really looking forward to. Unfortunately, the chicken thigh was incredibly dry, which was disappointing since it was my first time trying it. My sister also had the chicken and waffles and had a similar experience. The waffle was actually pretty good, and the sweetness of the captain crunch added a nice touch. Surprisingly, the waffle outshone the chicken. It seemed like the chicken had been cooked multiple times and lacked flavor. On the other hand, my brother ordered the captain crunch French toast, and he seemed to enjoy it. The restaurant itself had a cute atmosphere, and I would recommend it for that reason. I tried the strawberry mimosa, and it was enjoyable. However, based on my experience with the food, I don't have any plans to return to Dolly Vardens in the future." I hope this helps! Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with.
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Alex H.

Yelp
Dolly Varden in Hell's Kitchen is a 1920s inspired restaurant and cocktail bar near the heart of the Theatre District. We came for a brunch and shared the extra thicc captain crunch French toast topped with brûléed bananas, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce and ice cream. We also had the BEC and breakfast burritos for some savory contrast. Dolly Varden makes for a playful backdrop for an affordable brunch. For those looking for a boozy brunch they offer aesthetically pleasing brunch cocktail trees as well
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Alexandra A.

Yelp
Delicious brunch! Walked by with my husband on New Year's Eve, and super glad we picked this spot. Great Bloody Mary, prickly non alcoholic drink was delicious. Steak and eggs were fantastic, we also got really good deviled eggs. Hostess in the front and our waiter Cesar were both great.
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Iris F.

Yelp
Solid food and portions for this neighborhood. At first it kind of feels like a gimmicky spot for tourists to go after a Broadway show but they have some great brunch selections that left us full for about $35/person after tip and tax. We made a reservation for party of 2 at 11am on a holiday but it wasn't necessary as there were barely any other customers there until 12 ish. Out of the dishes we got, our favorites were the pork bao and home fries. Pork was juicy and tender, went well with pineapple even though I'm usually not a fan of savory+pineapple. Home fries were the perfect thickness and super crispy/fresh. Avo toast was pretty standard and the BEC was a little too greasy for my liking but my bf enjoyed it.
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Christine C.

Yelp
This place has such a cute, chic vibe! I loved the decor - lots of little nooks for pics. We arrived early for a brunch reservation and also needed to add an additional person on. The hostess couldn't accommodate us at a dining table but directed us to the upstairs bar. Very comfortable bar stools here and the bartender was great! Personable and helpful. I enjoyed the breakfast burrito - I liked that it came with potatoes and salad. I opted for the $28 unlimited brunch cocktail special and loved the spicy margarita. Perfectly balanced drink.
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Jessica L.

Yelp
This is a hip restaurant named after a train, not the singer (so google tells me). There are some nice happy hour options, including a good sangria. I liked the truffle mushroom flatbread and loaded tots the most, although everything was good. I would give 4.5 stars since service was a little slow when we arrived for an earlier dinner. We were also sat upstairs, with a nice window view but a little far from where the servers were. But I'll round up since the food was good and it was a nice pre-theater dinner.
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Kelly H.

Yelp
Came for the drink tower, stayed for the amazing food! I saw the drink tower with the 5 different flavors and knew I had to try this spot out. We were so surprised by how delicious the lavender mimosa was! This was a MUST for brunch! We ordered the short rib benedict, steak and eggs, and the pancakes. WOW - those pancakes might be the best I've ever had. They were so incredibly thick and delicious. I would come back to NY just for those! Overall, great spot and super awesome menu! It was clean, great decor, with amazing customer service!
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Ken L.

Yelp
Ordered the steak frites ($34). Steak was 1/3 fatty and unchewable. The 'edible' parts weren't much better. My friend and I were actually joking at how difficult it was to cut through the steak. I can't even believe this was served to me. No flavor either. Worst meal I've eaten at a restaurant in 2024. Luckily the French fries were ok.
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Heather C.

Yelp
We came in on Saturday night and were seated right away with reservations after a 2pm broadway show before seeing another 8pm show. We Sat upstairs by the window and the chairs were very comfortable. We ordered the drink tree since there were so many delicious choices. It came right away and we enjoyed all of them. Our waiter Manny was wonderful he was so friendly and attentive and chatted with us. I ordered the lamb shank which was huge and my friend had the salmon and subbed the broccolini for rainbow carrots which wasn't a problem. The lamb shank was sooo tender and delicious. We will definitely come back when we see another show!
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Kristi L.

Yelp
Had brunch with my bf here last weekend, and it was pretty good. The restaurant itself is decorated really nicely. Very art deco. Feels plush but for everyone, almost like an upscale diner. Service was friendly and attentive. It was simple to make a reservation same-week. I ordered the eggs benedict with short rib (additional charge). There were a few issues with it that prevented me from really enjoying the dish. First, one of the eggs was overcooked, which is an absolute mood killer for an eggs benedict dish. Second, it was not seasoned well. It could have used some salt at the very least. Third, there was a distinct lack of hollandaise, which is one of the best parts of eggs benedict! I was pretty disappointed with this entrée, but it was edible. I would not recommend it to anyone. My bf, however, got the breakfast burrito, and it was really good. I had one bite and regretted getting the benedict all over again. Plus sides: the side salad was very refreshing, and the coffee was very good. They only have oat milk as a creamer though, which is strange considering this is clearly not a vegan restaurant, evidenced by all the meat dishes. I wouldn't be opposed to coming back here, especially since some of the other patrons' dishes looked really good (like the pancakes).
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Ingrid S.

Yelp
Came here the other night to catch up with a friend that works nearby. I did a whole google/yelp search for spots in midtown west because I don't even know where one goes for happy hour anymore and I'm not too often in this neighborhood. Anyway, this popped up and I know I've passed it a bunch of times before and have always been curious. They have a nice menu until 7pm of: $11 cocktails, $9 wine, $9 mixed drinks, and $7 draft beers. I think the basement might be a new addition to Dolly Varden with 'Dolly's Hideaway' which was where the hostess guided us after I asked if we could just sit at the bar. Same menu as Dolly's happy hour though so I was pleased and the decor is fun. Kind of a hidden tiki oasis. I ended up going with the coconut espresso martini. Slams hands down on the table. Lemme tell you. . . . this was one of the best espresso martinis I've had in my entire life. It was a very subtle tropical coconut vibe to it, creamy, decadent, a little sesame taste to it as well. I didn't just like this drink. I LOVED it. In love. LOVE. If you love espresso martinis, do yourself a favor and run here. My friend ordered the old fashioned and it was alright. I mean, it tasted like an old fashioned. There was nothing wrong with it but also nothing that stood out. He was genuinely shocked at how good my espresso martini tasted though and really had the same thought 'I had no idea it would taste this good'. For my second drink I tried the Dolly Varden punch and that was honestly kind of like a pineapple daiquiri. I wasn't mad at it. It was nice and refreshing and pleasant tasting. We also split an order of their loaded tots because my friend had to eat something. I thought it was over-priced for what it was. I just can't justify spending $16 on tater tots. But they were delicious. I liked the aioli and the bacon was scrumptious. I'd definitely come back and keep this spot in mind.
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Maria M.

Yelp
Nice restaurant with 2 bars upstairs and downstairs. Popular place for pre theatre dinner. Food is basic. Lots of choices that are tasty. Service was very good. Our server even accommodated a late addition to our party and brought the food out in enough time to make the show
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Shernell H.

Yelp
Before visiting Dolly Varden, we skimmed through the reviews which seemed very very promising, but unfortunately that wasn't the case. I opted for a simple dish, the DV burger. When my burger came out, I must say that my belly was excited as I thoroughly enjoy a good burger, whenever I do decide to indulge. However, my bun kind of gave the taste of stale, and my patty was missing seasoning/flavoring. I definitely tried to push through and finish my meal, but I just couldn't. Needless to say I was beyond disappointed. I'm hopeful though that there other dishes may have been what caused the disconnect from my experience and the average rating of this place.
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Jessica F.

Yelp
A good midtown bar if you're looking for a few drinks. Unfortunately the food didn't do it for me. We ordered the short rib grilled cheese but I felt the short rib was a little bland. It was grilled very nicely though. The fig and pomegranate flatbread was flavorless as well. The service was great. Our bartender was personable and very attentive. The bar itself was quite cozy with great seats. Would def go back for drinks.
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Maria N.

Yelp
Visiting from out of town and decided to stop by for a quick bite and a glass of wine. Very friendly atmosphere at the bar & wonderful happy hour specials!
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Michelle J.

Yelp
Very cute spot. Stopped in after attending a show at Radio City. It was walking distance and opened late. We grabbed some mushroom flatbread that was yummy and calamari that was also yummy. They have two mocktails that they serve during the summer (two additional warm mocktails they serve during cold weather months). It's not a huge place but it is perfect to grab something after the theatre or before. The staff was nice. Very out of the way and very New York in all the best ways.
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Rosanna N.

Yelp
The service was noticeably slow here, but the seating and ambiance for outdoor dining was quite nice. DV Truffle Fries (6/10) : These were mostly fine, but kinda oily. There were not that many fries for $12. Chicken & Waffle (5/10): The waffles were supposedly jalapeno cheddar waffles, but I could not taste either of those flavors. Captain Crunch French Toast (7/10): We got this to share and it was definitely one of the better dishes we ordered. The flavoring for the actual toast was pretty good and it came with a lot of fruit. Dolly's Grilled BECs (7/10): This was also one of the better dishes we got. The flavors were decent but it did not come with that much short rib in the sandwich. Salmon Bowl (8/10): It was fresh and a healthy option if you wanted to go for something less oily. This place was more on the pricey side.
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Ashley A.

Yelp
I love how the place look, very chic inside and out. They have two floors, the first seems to only have a bar from what I saw. The second floor is for dining, another bar, and rooms for private events. They had outside seating too where you can make it private by closing the given curtains. It seemed like a very busy spot! From the hosting to dining experience, everyone was very genuine and sincere. I will say my favorite part of my experience was our server, Manny. He recommended the best plates to eat, and the most delicious beverages. He has the best personality and makes you feel at home. He truly made the overall dining a 10/10. Thank you Manny for the hospitality!!