First, the service is about as good as anyone would ever want. The main server was knowledgeable and helpful with menu choices. And the Captain was a local who gave great background information about the rich history of the restaurant and how your order was sourced.
Dowling's was renovated and the decor is stunning. The atmosphere is amazing which keeps it far from the madding crowd of restaurants-in-hotels vibe.
The tuna tartare was light, cheerful and a great way to start off.
The dover sole is a rarity in the city. It is prepared and deboned table-side. It has a light, lemon, taste that melts in your mouth.
Similarly, the lamb shank is tender and falls off the bone.
Do not pass up on Dowling's at the Carlyle! The staff made us feel like VIPs. And the food backed it up. It was a wonderful experience that we will definitely have again.
Anastasia M -
I loved it. But let it be known I’m a fan of the classics.
It may not be Gen Z friendly, (Though parts of the service are TIkTok content worthy. Namely the preparation of table side dishes, A flambe station adds a touch of drama to the steak Diane dish for instance, set on fire with a pour of cognac). But where Dowling’s “lacks” in the trendy it excels in service, ambiance and decor.
The menu isn’t adventurous or ground breaking. Mainstays you might expect - Branzino, Salmon, Steak… But you don’t come to a place like Dowling’s for a culinary challenge or quirky cocktails. You come for the old school Manhatten charm that many have forgotten . In this area Dowling’s excels. One of the earlier reviews described it as “stuffy” and I agree. But luckily for me that was exactly what I was in the mood for !
I would say run, don’t walk over especially while it’s restaurant week pricing. But that behavior would be frowned upon, so maybe just walk briskly over to Dowling’s. ?
Neha Luthra -
Loved it! So classy and elegant. Such a beautiful space. Such good service. The food was also really good. The drinks were good too. They almost make a show of it. I would highly recommend.
Michelle Kuehn -
Really disappointed with the food here. We had the dry aged steak & eggs, and the salmon. Both were underwhelming and bland. With so many wonderful restaurants in this area, this place is not worth the visit. The ambiance was awkwardly quiet and felt very stuffy during Sunday brunch. Neither of us could finish our plates, and we're not very picky.
Jessica Reyes -
Great food, ambiance and service!! The staff went above and beyond to provide an exceptional dining experience for lunch. Can’t wait to go back for dinner.
Dong-Ling Chen -
Typical NYC steakhouse. Great service but place is just a little bit on the stuffier side.
Food was of good quality. Service was friendly and attentive.
Andrew Hawthorne -
Another wonderful experience. Brought my parents here visiting from out of town, and had yet another amazing experience. Amazing service, delicious food, great ambience. Dowling’s is a special treat.
sylvia heerens -
Service over the top. Excellent.
Ambience great
Food OK
On the Restaurant week menu surcharge on one item was not clearly marked, so that you felt tricked when you got the higher bill. Why increase a restaurant week dish $18 over the $45 restaurant week special? That is not fair.
If you wanted to spend more you could have ordered from the regular menu to begin with
