It's on 3 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Address113 MacDougal St, New York, NY
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
If you’re keen on old-school vibes (think buttery-soft leather booths, cozy wood panels and waiters in waistcoats), make a beeline for Minette Tavern.
Dating back to 1937, Minetta Tavern is a storied West Village establishment that served the likes of Ernest Hemingway and E.E. Cummings. And you know what I usually say, “if it’s good enough for Hemingway, it’s good enough for me.”
But the pièce de résistance these days is the heart-stopping Black Label burger which is made from a blend of prime dry-aged beef enhanced by the unusual addition of caramelized onions. The burger strikes a delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication, earning it a spot on our list of the best burgers in New York City.
You Might Enjoy. 20 Exciting Things to Do in the Charming West Village
Dating back to 1937, Minetta Tavern is a storied establishment that has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway and E.E. Cummings. But the real star of the show these days is the heart-stopping Black Label Burger. The patty made from a selection of prime dry aged beef cuts sits alongside caramelized onions and a side of pomme frites.
Considered a gourmet masterpiece, the burger strikes a delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication. Earning it a spot on this list of the best burgers in New York City.
As for ambience, Minetta Tavern is one of those endearing establishments that feels like Old New York. Handsome leather booths, cozy wood panels and waiters in waistcoats, when it comes to iconic restaurants in the West Village, this place gets my vote.
Dating back to 1937, Minetta Tavern is a storied establishment that has served the likes of Ernest Hemingway and E.E. Cummings. Dining at Minetta Tavern gives you a chance to experience the city’s rich history in a historic New York City restaurant that exudes old-world charm and timeless elegance.
The pièce de résistance these days is the heart-stopping Black Label burger which is made from a blend of prime dry-aged beef enhanced by the unusual addition of caramelized onions. The burger strikes a delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication, it’s a personal favorite of mine.