If you are a seafood enthusiast exploring New York City or a local on the hunt for quality oysters and upscale coastal fare Docks Oyster Bar NYC is your go-to destination. Located in the vibrant Midtown East neighborhood of Manhattan, this seafood sanctuary is a blend of fresh ocean flavors, warm hospitality, and timeless NYC elegance.
Let’s dive into what makes this iconic seafood spot a true gem in the heart of Manhattan.
The Story Behind Docks Oyster Bar
Docks Oyster Bar has been a fixture in the New York City dining scene for over 35 years, having been established in 1987. Designed with an elegant Art Deco style, the restaurant aimed to bring the freshest seafood to Midtown East, Manhattan. Its location near major transportation hubs like Grand Central Terminal has made it a convenient and popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a classic New York seafood experience.
Docks Oyster Bar has been a seafood staple for years, drawing in locals, tourists, and seafood lovers alike. Its mission is rooted in quality exceptional seafood, welcoming service, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Whether you are visiting the city for the first time or are a seasoned New Yorker, Docks delivers authentic East Coast seafood with a New York twist.
Ambiance: Classic NYC Elegance with a Modern Touch
Step inside, and you are greeted with an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. Think warm wooden interiors, crisp white tablecloths, and an open raw bar that showcases the ocean’s best.
It’s a mix of classic New York City charm and contemporary comfort perfect for a romantic dinner, business lunch, or happy hour with friends.
No matter your style from casual to business chic you will feel right at home here.
Quick Guide About Docks Oyster Bar
Category | Details |
Restaurant Name | Docks Oyster Bar – Midtown East, NYC |
Rating | 4.3 out of (1,555 reviews) |
Price Range | $50–100 per person |
Type | Seafood Restaurant |
Specialty | Grilled seafood & oysters, lively happy hour |
Dining Options | Dine-in, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery |
Address | 633 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA |
Phone | +1 212-986-8080 |
Website | For more info and reservations, visit the official website here. |
Reservation/Order | Find a table, Menu |
Hours | 11:30 am–10 pm |
Map Code | P2XG+V2 New York, USA |
Menu Highlights: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
🥢 Sushi
Dish | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Torched Hamachi | Sesame ginger ponzu, shaved serrano, cucumber, cilantro | 25 |
Yellowfin Tuna Roll | Nori, sesame | 22 |
Rising Sun Roll | Tuna, avocado, spicy salmon | 25 |
Rock + Roll Maki | Rock shrimp, cucumber, sriracha kewpie | 25 |
Blue Crab California Roll | Jumbo lump crabmeat, avocado | 23 |
Spicy Hamachi | Avocado, tuna, jalapeño | 25 |
Sushi Platter | Blue crab california roll, 2 yellowfin tuna, 2 yellowtail, 2 organic salmon, 2 shrimp | 61 |
Sashimi Platter | 3 yellowtail, 2 shrimp, 3 scallops, 3 organic salmon, 4 yellowfin tuna | 59 |
Spicy Tuna Tartare | Avocado, eel sauce, wonton crisp | 23 |
Sake – Hakutsuru “Sho-une” Japan | — | 11 (glass) / 60 (bottle) |
🍽️ Shareables
Dish | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Shrimp Scampi | Grilled baguette, tomato, scallions, capers | 23 |
Tuna Carpaccio | Capers, chives, crostini | 24 |
Smoked Oysters Rockefeller | Spinach, parmesan, bread crumbs | 24 |
Baked Clams Casino | Bacon, herb butter, bread crumbs | 19 |
Fried Calamari | Marinara, Rhode Island or Thai chili | 21 |
Lobster Kimchi Fried Rice | Ginger, bok choy, spicy sesame oil | 25 |
🥗 Salads
Salad | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Baby Beet Salad | Herb labneh, blood orange, cashews, balsamic | 18 |
Five Lettuce Caesar Salad | Housemade Caesar dressing, croutons | 18 |
Iceberg Wedge Salad | Blue cheese, red onion, bacon, tomato | 18 |
Salad Nicoise | Haricot verts, 6-minute egg, roasted tomato, fingerling chips, olive, anchovy | 20 |
Seafood Cobb Salad | Lobster, crabmeat, shrimp, bacon, blue cheese, avocado | 39 |
Add-Ons | Shrimp – 18, Salmon – 18, Chicken – 14, Tuna – 22 | — |
🔥 Simply Prepared
Dish | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Organic Faroe Island Salmon | — | 41 |
Pan Seared Diver Scallops | — | 42 |
Grilled Yellowfin Tuna | — | 43 |
Pan Roasted Mediterranean Bronzino | — | 39 |
Sautéed Maryland Crab Cakes | — | 43 |
Murray’s Farm Chicken | — | 37 |
Dover Sole | — | 65 |
All items served with fennel purée, haricot vert, oven-roasted tomatoes, fingerling potatoes, olives, lemon dill beurre blanc.
🥪 Sandwiches
Sandwich | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Maine Lobster Roll | Lobster, remoulade, buttered bun | 38 |
Crab Cake Sandwich | Jumbo lump crab cake, sesame bun, remoulade | 33 |
Docks Sirloin Burger | Smoked tomato aioli, pickled red onion relish, iceberg lettuce, sesame bun | 28 |
Served with house-cut fries and cole slaw.
🍟 Frites
Dish | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Docks Fish + Chips | Nordic cod, house-cut fries | 33 |
Prince Edward Island Mussels | Mariniere or Provençal, house-cut fries | 32 |
Steak Frites | Parmesan herb steak fries | 39 |
8 oz Filet Mignon | Steamed broccolini, soy tahini, crunchy garlic, bordelaise | 56 |
14 oz Prime NY Strip Steak | Parmesan herb steak fries | 60 |
🦪 Oyster Bar
Item | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Royale Plateau | 8 oysters, 3 littlenecks, 3 cherrystones, 4 jumbo shrimp, 1/2 lb cold poached lobster | 80 |
Grand Plateau | 18 oysters, 6 littlenecks, 6 cherrystones, 6 jumbo shrimp, 1 lb lobster, crabmeat | 150 |
Oyster Sampler | Daily east/west coast oysters | 48 |
Clams | Littleneck, middleneck, or cherrystone | 28 |
Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail | — | 25 |
Colossal Crab Cocktail | — | 30 |
🍽️ Sides
Side | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Baby Bok Choy + Shiitake | Sesame ginger ponzu | 15 |
Creamed Spinach | Gruyere, crispy onion gratin | 15 |
Steamed Broccolini | Soy tahini, crunchy garlic | 15 |
Parmesan Truffled Fries | Rosemary | 15 |
Sautéed Asparagus | Feta, salsa verde | 15 |
Yukon Gold Potato Purée | — | 15 |
🍝 Pasta
Dish | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Blackened Shrimp Risotto | English peas, asparagus, pesto, mascarpone | 41 |
Linguini Clam Sauce | Fresh shucked littlenecks, marinara or white wine sauce | 34 |
Maine Lobster Ravioli | Lemon, tarragon, parmesan crema | 36 |
🍸 Non-Alcoholic Cocktails
Drink | Ingredients | Price in USD ($) |
Spring Awakening | Tonic, lemon, rosemary, pineapple | 10 |
Leave It Out | Bare reposado tequila, nightcap, lime, thyme | 10 |
Peach & Basil Mule | Peach purée, lime, basil, ginger beer | 10 |
🍹 Craft Cocktails
Cocktail | Ingredients | Price in USD ($) |
Clockwork Orange | Tito’s vodka, Italicus, lemon, basil, orange, soda | 19 |
Raspberry-Mint Margarita | Patron silver, lillet blanc, lime, mint, raspberry | 20 |
Giving Garden | Roku gin, lime, St. Germain, celery | 19 |
Off the Coast | Pineapple rum, lime, allspice, cointreau | 20 |
Smoky Finish | Amaras mezcal, lemon, ume plum, rosemary | 19 |
More Than Plane | Angel’s Envy, lemon, Aperol, amari, Campari | 20 |
⏰ Happy Hour
Item | Description | Price in USD ($) |
Happy Hour Oysters | Bar service only, 3–7 PM, all week | 1.50 each |
New England Clam Chowder | Bacon, potatoes, cream | 20 |
1½ lb Baked Stuffed Lobster | Lump crab, herb butter, baked potato, coleslaw | 85 |
Location & Hours Right in the Heart of Manhattan
📍 633 3rd Avenue, New York, NY 10017
🚶♂️ Located just steps from Grand Central Terminal and Bryant Park, it’s easily accessible by subway or on foot.
Location on Map:
Operating Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Happy Hour: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner begins at 4:30 PM)
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner begins at 4:30 PM)
Reservations & Private Dining
Docks is popular reservations are highly recommended, especially during dinner hours.
You can reserve a table by calling (212) 986-8080 or booking online via OpenTable.
Private Events
Need a space for a celebration or corporate gathering? Their private dining room can accommodate up to 72 seated guests and is ideal for:
- Birthday parties
- Receptions
- Team dinners
- Rehearsal meals
The team will even help you customize your event menu.
Gift Cards – Give the Gift of Great Taste
Looking for a thoughtful gift? Docks Oyster Bar gift cards are a perfect way to treat seafood lovers, colleagues, or friends visiting NYC.
Available for purchase in person or on their website.
Social Buzz – Join the Conversation
Stay in the loop on seasonal specials, menu updates, and behind-the-scenes stories:
Tag your visit using #DocksOysterBar and maybe you will get featured!
What Are People Saying? 🗣️
Overall Google Rating: 4.3 / 5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) Based on 1,555 reviews
i) Holly Fettinger: 5/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) (04-01-2025)
Wow! What an incredible experience.
I’m usually cautious about restaurants that do not label gluten-free options on the menu (it really helps us celiacs!), but I have to give this place a pass. The server went above and beyond to ensure that everything I ordered met gluten-free standards.The service was outstanding attentive without being overbearing. And the food? A total knockout. I’m a self-proclaimed wedge salad expert, and this one ranks among the best I have had. The oysters Rockefeller (no breadcrumbs!) and truffle fries were also excellent. While they do not have a dedicated fryer, I’m not overly sensitive and had no issues.
We stayed for after-dinner drinks, and the service remained fantastic. Without a doubt, we will be back next time we are in NYC!
ii) Ash Hancock: 4.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) (03-27-2025)
Food: 5 | Service: 4 | Atmosphere: 5
Absolutely loved our experience here!
The happy hour was fantastic, and the bar staff were exceptional. The restaurant has a great vibe and the food was top-notch.The only downside was our waiter, who seemed a bit disinterested—almost annoyed at times. That’s the reason for the 4-star rating. Otherwise, the rest of the team more than made up for it. Phenomenal service overall!
For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.
FAQs Quick Answers for Curious Diners
Is Docks Oyster Bar kid-friendly?
Yes! While upscale, it’s welcoming to families and children.
What’s the best first-timer dish?
Go for the Grand Plateau if you love variety, or the grilled salmon for a safe and satisfying pick.
Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. Let your server know your preferences.
How close is it to public transportation?
Just a 5-minute walk from Grand Central Terminal, making it super accessible.
Is the restaurant suitable for group events?
Absolutely! Their private dining room is ideal for events up to 72 guests.
Can I walk in without a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.
Final Thoughts Why You will Love Docks Oyster Bar NYC
Docks Oyster Bar NYC is more than just a seafood restaurant it’s a Midtown Manhattan staple that blends tradition with innovation. From the ambiance to the fresh catches, every visit offers something special.
Come for the oysters, stay for the atmosphere, and leave planning your next visit.
Ready to Savor the Best Seafood in Manhattan?
If you are near Midtown East, do not miss out on Docks Oyster Bar NYC a place where quality seafood, New York ambiance, and great service meet.
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I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!