Frying Pan NYC

This place is purely awesome. I don’t know how I’ve lived in the city this long without having been here before. It is now on my list as a top spot to take friends and family when they visit! The food and drinks are great, which is almost an afterthought considering how enjoyable the experience of just being in the restaurant is. It has a vibe of feeling like you’re out on the water, but while still easily accessible to land. Sort of a cross between a boat and a pier. It’s a truly unique spot to hang out, whether you're sipping cocktails, enjoying a meal, or just soaking in the view of the Hudson. The upper level of the Frying Pan is more of a sit-down, reservation-only area, where you'll find cozy tables with umbrellas and great views of the river. The setup gives off a chic, maritime vibe with nautical accents, including fishing nets and old ropes, but it’s not overly formal, making it a great spot for a relaxed, yet stylish dining experience. The outdoor seating makes it feel like you're cruising along the water, and the breeze off the Hudson adds to the whole experience. The lower level is more casual and walk-up, but still offers plenty of space with picnic-style tables and benches, perfect for larger groups or just hanging out. It’s more of a bar vibe here, with a lively atmosphere and people chatting while enjoying drinks and snacks. The bar area is fun and well-stocked, with an quality range of cocktails, beers, and wines. Plus, there are a few TVs mounted around, which makes it a great spot to catch a game, especially if you’re sitting in the more open space at the back. The whole area feels like a mix between a beach bar and a classic New York hangout. We didn’t have reservations, and since the upper section with waiter service is only for reservations, we’ll have to be back and try that next time! But the walk-up bar area still provides a great view, and it’s fun to watch the boats and ships pass by as you dine. The actual Frying Pan boat sits next to the restaurant, and if you’re into history, the boat has a ton. The Frying Pan is a retired US Coast Guard vessel that was built in 1929. Originally known as the Frying Pan Lightship, it served as a floating lighthouse off the coast of North Carolina for many years, guiding ships through hazardous waters. It had a particularly notable stint during World War II, when it was stationed in the Panama Canal Zone. In 1965, it was decommissioned and eventually moved to New York City, where it became a popular part of the waterfront scene in Chelsea. If you’re into boats, piers, history, railroads (there’s a railroad element to the restaurant with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Float Transfer Bridge used for access and a railcar when you first walk in), good food, good drinks, and good vibes, I highly recommend checking out the Frying Pan!