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42nd Street Oyster Bar Reviews List

42nd Street Oyster Bar

A Raleigh Tradition Serving the Freshest Seafood Since 1931.

The 42nd St. Oyster Bar is one of the South's most famous landmark restaurants, satisfying thousands of grateful patrons since its humble beginnings in 1931 as a grocery store offering oysters and draft beer.

Our Mission: To provide a remarkable experience by recognizing and appreciating that each guest is the most important person in the world while dining at the 42nd St. Oyster Bar.

We invite you to join us for dinner tonight!

“Eat seafood … live longer

Eat oysters … love longer

Eat clams … last longer"

Reservations made through Open Table will be for our Main Dining Room. If you would like to dine at the Oyster Bar, all seating is on a first come first serve basis.
See more 42nd Street Oyster Bar details
308 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
(308 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 308 reviews
5 stars
(159)
4 stars
(102)
3 stars
(37)
2 stars
(7)
1 star
(3)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • good for groups(158)
  • special occasion(147)
  • hot spot(99)
  • fit for foodies(97)
  • neighborhood gem(93)
  • vibrant bar scene(58)
42nd Street Oyster Bar Reviews List
Review 1 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

42nd Street Good as Expected

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My wife and I were celebrating our 10 year Anniversary and the food and service was good as always."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 2 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

You should go...

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I really enjoyed myself. The food was outstanding and the scenery was great."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great first visit!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took my husband and our friends from Atlanta for his 40th birthday. He is an oyster lover and was really impressed by the quality and selection of oysters. Our group was very impressed with the menu but especially with the restaurant and the wait staff. Very good first impression. We're planning our next date night and will definitely be returning to 42nd Street!!!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 4 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food and atmosphere

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We love going to 42nd Street. We drove from Greensboro to eat there. The seafood is excellent. My daughter had the filet and said it was extremely good as well."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: hot spot, special occasion
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Review 5 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Raleigh Classic

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I am so happy I finally went to the 42nd st OB. It is a true classic. The ambience can't be beat and the seafood is among the best in the area. Despite being around for a long time, the place is clean yet still has character. Very much appreciated is that even when full, they have put just the right ammount of sound proofing so you can still hear the others at your table.
My one and only complaint is that even though I ordered a "lightly blackened" fish, it was so salty that it was tough to finish. I know Cajun food, and blackening spice especially, is salty, but this was beyond the needed level. However the quality of fish and flavor was excellent. This wont stop me from returning and next time I will order grilled or fried."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A New Favorite When Visiting Raleig

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We wanted a special weekend for graduation with many of us coming from out of town. We selected the 42nd Street Oyster Bar and now consider it our favorite in the entire area. From start to finish, every meal and every aspect of providing a great dining experience was attended to by a wonderful staff. Thank you! We will return on every visit!"
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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Review 7 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Graduation Dinner Spot

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I loved the seafood bisque. I loved our waitress. And it was a perfect place to go to after graduation. The perfect mix of fancy and casual."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 8 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Continuing a good thing

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My boyfriend has been a loyal customer for many, many years. He was into the night scene, coming from Wilson at least once a week during the 90's. He was a loyal follower of some of the bands that played regularly. Now his children are enjoying the food and ambience on a regular basis with family and friends also. Did I mention we travel from Greensboro? The food is great and just the total package is a pleasure."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 9 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Birthday Dinner

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love the food at 42nd Street. And they give big portions, enough for lunch the next day. However, I do not like how they host so many large groups. The night we were there, they had to have at least 5 parties that had more than 10 people. There was a group of 18-22 right next to our table. They were so loud, crowded the area making it difficult to leave and for our server to come to our table, and they kept staring at our food! Other than that, it was pretty good. I love how you can see directly into the kitchen."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 10 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Seafood

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"First time dining at 42nd Street....but it will not be the last. Fantastic food and really good service, even on Mother's Day evening.
Everything we had was top-quality and the Oyster Sampler was amazing.
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene
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Review 11 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

42nd Street Oyster Bar May 11 2013

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was good as ususal and fresh. Hushpuppies will fill you up before the main course if you are not careful."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 12 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food here was good, although it was very overpriced for the atmosphere and the food in general."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 13 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Some of the best seafood in raleigh. Our waitress was super nice and went out of way to make sure we were taken care of. Also, i tried raw oysters for the first time and I am hooked! Going back next week."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, romantic, late-night find, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 14 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Place

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Great place to eat with friends or couple. bartender needs to smile but was friendly enough. owning a nightclub, know how important a bartender is. Waitress was fabulous. food outstanding"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: romantic, hot spot
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Review 15 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

great food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"the food was impeccable - hush puppies and oysters to start (go raw or go home) were 10/10, had the shrimp creole which was outstanding if you like it peppery. the experience could be improved - not so much "fun" as there could be but the restaurant is great looking. good choice of beers."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 16 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was good and it came to the table hot service was friendly and good."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly
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Review 17 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Very Disappointed

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I the chose the 42nd St Oyster Bar for my birthday dinner because my friends had very good meals. The server was nowhere to be found during most of our dinner. My entree was favor-less and bland. Although it was my night, my wife's dinner was tasteless too, which she mentioned after we left the building. So instead of returning to have another fine meal, I'll have to look elsewhere."
Dined on 5/07/2013
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Review 18 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Really enjoyed the raw and baked oysters. Our server was very nice but seemed overworked! We went early at 5pm and it was already very busy. Reservations definitely reccommended."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 19 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food very good...however not sure whether the poor service was due to size of our party but some of our guests complained they never received their drink orders. I hope I didn't pay for these drinks because my guests never mentioned that they didn't receive their drinks until afterwards."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 20 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Best oysters on half shell and I live in charleston s c. Friend had soft shell crabs and raved"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 21 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It has probably been 20+ years since I've been to 42nd Street and I was impressed all over again. We were seated right away and our server was attentive but not pushy. The Oysters were fresh and tasty and for what I ordered, the best part of the meal. I look forward to coming back soon and with my Step-Daughter at NCSU I'm sure I will."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 22 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Nite!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took my boyfriend to 42nd St Oyster Bar for his Birthday! We have both been to the resturant before, but not together.
We had a great, fun time. The food and service was Awesome!! We will defiently return!
"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 23 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Not sure if they were undermanned or what the problem was but our waiter rarely came by our table. I had to flag them down to get refills and again to order desert."
Dined on 4/29/2013
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Review 24 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Scott Ritchey, Director of Quality

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful place! Great combination of Food, service, and Ambiance! If you have the three of these you cannot loose!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 25 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Bad nite at 42nd Street Oyster Bar!

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Saturday nite @ 7:00 so it was crowded-very noisy & the service was less than stellar. We were put in the corner reserved for prom nite even though there were several open tables in the dining room. Ordered one of the specials for the nite (black grouper) and the waiter had to check to see if there was any left -at 7:30? Was told there were only 6 portions left so "I was lucky". My lucky portion was quite small/thin from the tail end section of the fish and was left on the grill too long so it was dry! My wife's shrimp/grits was very thin and runny. This was our worst experience at 42nd Street. It will be a while before we go back, if ever."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups
-1point
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Review 26 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I brought my husband since

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I brought my husband since he'd never eaten at 42nd. St. The atsmosphere was defintely energetic and the food was great. I use to frequent during the lunch hour and wish you all could bring this back.
Overall my husband enjoyed and we will be back."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 27 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We were seated quickly, though

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were seated quickly, though we were early, Food was great, served efficiently. A very nice experience"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 28 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First time for raw oysters

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I are from the midwest and this is our firt time at an oyster bar wanting to try raw oysters. Our server was very helpful in selecting what to try and explaining the whole process. The food is great, service was fast and attentive, and the reasturant is very unique looking and fun."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion, hot spot
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Review 29 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food! Lots of good

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food! Lots of good choices on the menu for everyone."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 30 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Such a unique restaurant ...

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Such a unique restaurant ... Wish I was closer!"
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 31 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always enjoy 42nd St! Stayed

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always enjoy 42nd St! Stayed at the new Hampton Inn nearby just so we could walk to the restaurant!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 32 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service at the oyster bar

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Service at the oyster bar is really great, plus you fill special with all the great servers that help make your dining at the restaurant one to remember."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I took my date there for dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took my date there for dinner and we enjoyed everything about the restaurant. The food was great. Our waiter was very knowledgeable about the items on the menu and provided excellent service. I would definitely recommend 42nd Street Oyster Bar to my friends."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 34 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Bacon wrapped scallops and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Bacon wrapped scallops and pan seared Mahi Mahi were awesome!"
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 35 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I had an awesome time celebrating

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I had an awesome time celebrating my cousin's 40th birthday. This was my husband's and I first time here and we really enjoyed it,the food was great! W e plan to return again."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 36 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

nothing particularly special

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"nothing particularly special about the ambience. The food was good."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 37 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

oysters, lobster, crab legs

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Fantastic food and great ambience! Worth every penny"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2012
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Review 38 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We were in town to celebrate

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We were in town to celebrate my Dad's birthday - he went to NC State in the 60s and wanted to come back to town to reminisce. The 42nd Street Oyster bar was the perfect place to do that. Surrounded by vintage pictures of Raleigh, we had a delicious meal. The staff couldn’t have been more attentive to our needs, making sure to seat us in a quiet booth because my dad is hard of hearing and making sure that every person who came to our table wished him a happy birthday. Sarah our server was incredibly patient and kind, encouraging us to take our time and enjoy the evening, especially when she surprised my Dad with a slice of his favorite pie. I'm so grateful to the entire staff!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
 2010
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 39 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Consistency keeps us coming

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Consistency keeps us coming back."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 40 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A Gem in Raleigh

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"With a night to kill in Raleigh, I tried the 42nd Street Oyster Bar with an old friend. The seafood was fresh and well prepared and the service was professional. This was an excellent restaurant with the ambiance being amazing. I do not live in Raleigh, but if my travels ever get me back there, I will definitely return to this gem."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 41 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We had not been to 42nd Street

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had not been to 42nd Street for a while and decided to celebrate a birthday there. Our waiter was outstanding; very attentive and prompt. The food, however, was mediocre. Our crab dip was cold, both times, but we were not charged for it. My oysters were good and there was a nice selection. We will definitely go there again and hopefully have a better experience."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2009
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Review 42 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

always a great spot in raleigh

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"always a great spot in raleigh - have never complained and been back several times!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 43 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Absolutely top quality food.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Absolutely top quality food. Have never had anything but first class service everytime we been to 42nd St. Prices are moderate and they have some great wines at reasonable prices. Dinner for 2 and a bottle of wine for $75 makes for a great night out."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2007
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Review 44 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a wonderful time! The

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a wonderful time! The food was amazing, the service was great, and the atmosphere was really fun! It will definitely be a must on our trips to Raleigh!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 45 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was awesome as always!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was awesome as always! We had the raw oysters and clam chowder with some locally brewed beers.
Great start to First Friday events!
"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 46 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I saw you featured on PBS

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I saw you featured on PBS and invited a guest to join me for the evening. We were new to the restaurant and had a lovely time together. My guest ate way too much and complained that that the hush puppies were so good that he just could not stop eating them... and is hoping to come back soon! He commented twice later in the evening " what a nice time"! The portions are quite generous and the food was of great quality. Thank you for a nice time."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 47 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

excellent raw oysters. my

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"excellent raw oysters. my favorite was the nassawaddox. we sat at the bar and it is the only place you can get the steamed sea food. the seating at the bar is first come first serve and not a reservation that is made on open table. i reserved a table in case the bar was full. we got the hawaiian ahi tuna and the surf and turf. the rare ahi tuna was spectacular. very thin layer that was seared was perfect. i prefer sushi grade fish most of the time so i wouldnt have minded the tuna rare throughout. the steak was a perfect medium rare just the way it was ordered."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2009
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 48 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

As usual food was great.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As usual food was great. Oysters on the half-shell were excellent. Service was attentive."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2011
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Review 49 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Made reservations for my son's

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Made reservations for my son's last weekend in US before being deployed. Given it was a Saturday night,the waitress was very busy. She kept our water glasses full, and checked on us frequently. It was loud so I didn't feel it was a romantic spot. The food was very good,had a great selection of seafood. Even though I explained the special occassion when I booked through open table, they did nothing to recognize our reason for celebrating. We live 1000miles away from my son and wanted to make this special, and I guess we did, but expected a better table away from the noise. I often use open table to make reservations, and note in the reservation box if it is a special occassion, and the restaurants usually make an effort to reflect my comment"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
-1point
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Review 50 for 42nd Street Oyster Bar
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We came to the restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We came to the restaurant with friends from Germany. Klaus is a chef, who has travelled extensively and really appreciated the quality of food and service provided. We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and happily recommend your restaurant to our friends."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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