Au Cheval (NYC)

Cuisine	American
Price	$$$ (31-50)
Rating	7/10
Last Visit	June 28, 2019
Location	New York: Lower Manhattan (Central)

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General Notes

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Au Cheval is an upscale American diner originating in Chicago; I visited their New York location. Apparently, the phrase "au cheval" comes from a phrase which roughly translates to "putting a fried egg on it", which is certainly pretty appropriate looking at their menu. Au Cheval is most well-known for their burgers, and they are certainly pretty solid, but I think their other dishes are comparable or better. This is a true Chicago institution - blatantly unhealthy and rich, but so incredibly delicious. Perhaps you might want to visit the original Chicago location, but regardless I'd recommend giving Au Cheval a try!

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Positives

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> The food is really, really good. In true Chicago institution style, the food is pretty blatantly unhealthy, but so incredibly delicious and satisfying. Definitely not a place for the faint-hearted.
> The burgers are solid, but from my (single) experience plus what I've heard from others, the other dishes are even better. The roasted bone marrow was incredible. I'd also love to try the honey-fried chicken, potato hash with duck heart gravy, and the prime rib sandwich.
> If you order a burger, I'd definitely recommend adding bacon to it. The bacon is super thick cut and has a really nice sweetness that beautifully complements the rest of the burger.

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Negatives

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> Service can be a bit slow, particularly during busier times.
> The restaurant itself can be a bit difficult to find. The entrance is located down a somewhat sketchy alley. I definitely got a bit confused looking for this place.

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Dishes Tasted

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• ★★★☆ Single Cheeseburger, Egg & Bacon -- Au Cheval is most famous for their burgers, which certainly did not disappoint. The highlight of the burger was definitely the bacon, which was VERY thick cut and had a sweetness to it that complemented the rest of the burger really well. The egg was rich and added a nice textural component. It was a bit too greasy though. Be warned: the single cheeseburger actually includes two 4-oz patties, and the double includes three.
• ★★★★ Roasted Bone Marrow, Beef Cheek Marmalade & Toast -- One of the most satisfying dishes I've ever had. The bone marrow is rich, tender, and intensely savory. The toast is buttery and has the perfect texture. The beef cheek marmalade is super flavorful, and the acidity is the perfect complement to all the rich elements. I'd absolutely recommend getting this to share!