Frankie & Johnnie's Steakhouse

A New York City institution since 1926, Frankie & Johnnie’s Steakhouse started out as a whiskey joint and carnivorous speakeasy during Prohibition. True to the unlawful ways of that era, to enter the speakeasy the watchword was “Frankie;” the password was “Johnnie.” And so it began…

Cut to 1985. A long-time waiter at Frankie & Johnnie’s, Peter Chimos, purchases the landmark restaurant with his brother-in-law. They carry on the tradition, staying true to its original concept and the history that is not only embedded into its walls, but to the legacy that’s told through the photos and Broadway show posters that adorn every level of the momentous space. Perfectly Char-grilled steaks, hearty potato sides and creamed spinach are mainstays on the menu. Over the years the menu has evolved with added raw bar items, fish dishes and more side dishes to further appeal to the Broadway crowd and tourists.

The 90th anniversary of Frankie & Johnnie’s Steakhouse marked the end of the 45th Street location and the opening of its new location up the road at 320 West 46th Street, a much larger space featuring 2 levels and a 140-seat restaurant with a private dining room (25 pl) and an expansive bar. The revitalized space will now house the numerous vintage posters and snapshots of an era gone by and the people, celebrities and politicos who frequented Frankie & Johnnie’s Steakhouse and helped shape what a true New York City steakhouse embodies.