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    J.G. Melon

    3.5 (1.8k reviews)
    ModerateAmerican, Bars, Salad
    Tue 11:30 am - 3:00 AM (Next day)
    Wed 11:30 am - 3:00 AM (Next day)

    J.G. Melon Photos

    J.G. MELON ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Classy
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups

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    A nice burger with cottage fries
    Al H.

    An old timey New York icon of a bar, gets crossed off my bucket list, finally. I will never beat Bobby Flay, but did try his childhood burger joint. I parked myself at the bar as patrons were leaving midday on a sunny May Day Friday. Lines of folks were outside waiting to get in to this very popular place. A noice burger it is. Served on a bed of raw red onion and sliced pickles. I would have liked it more if it was juicier, tho. The "cottage fries" were crinkle cut like the pickles were, and they thankfully were thin, crisp not salty or greasy. Kitty stopped by to serve up my burger. I am not much of a bar guy, to be honest. Never got to know a Norm. Looked to be filled with locals as the person seated at the bar stool next to me called our bartender by name "Bobby". That bar has seen a lot of NewYorkers over the years. Did not appear to be any tourists. A fun experience for me.

    Cheeseburger
    Gordon Y.

    Cuisine: 7 Service: 7 Decor: 7 Value: 7 Overall: 7 Established 1972 in the Upper East Side, this old school restaurant is an institution for burger lovers. I haven't been in a while, but made a pitstop recently. Nothing has changed except for the prices. Same decor since my first visit during college. Same down to earth servers doing their thing. And the same pub style burger that made them famous is still a joy. I hope this place never change.

    Cheeseburger  and Cottage Fried Potatoes
    Stephanie C.

    Walked in for a late lunch around 3ish on a Wednesday afternoon. One of my favorite cheeseburgers in NYC area served with dill pickles and raw red onions. Their cottage fried potatoes are one of my best choices to pair with the burger. Their melon decor is something that is just so very quirky and quaint for as long as I've been coming here. I love the "old school" cozy feel and charm like the tin ceilings painted over in watermelon pink, the stained glass window preserved in their decor and the wood bar. I did not get to finish with their delicious sour cream apple pie, however, I highly recommend it.

    View of bar area from our table
    Jennifer P.

    It was a bright, sunny early evening. Possibility rang in the air for basketball games have been played; the Knicks had won three, the Spurs one. Later that night the Knicks were to make history well history since in the 1970s. Yes, children, I'm telling you the story of the night I had the best hamburger I've ever had. And the best cottage fries, which are very rare. In fact this might be the first time I've ever had cottage fries in a restaurant. J G Melon does not disappoint, and the prices are unbelievably reasonable. It is cash only. It has some very unusual things on the menu such as Cornish game hen. It also has a lots of salads and some very delicious sounding desserts, but I did not try any. The inside of the rest of the iconic tavern is classic New York City. I highly recommend a visit. Oh- and great bartender too. Excellent margarita

    Cheeseburger ($13.50.) Decent though small. Alright
    Glenn C.

    I had passed by this old cash-only relic of a restaurant a handful of times, usually after going into Central Park or something similar. It's always crowded, and I was finally able to get in without waiting much a couple of months ago. They only had bar seating, which I was perfectly fine with. The bartender was my waitress, and she was overwhelmed but friendly, making a whole lot of cocktails. I eventually got an Allagash White from their tap selection for $8, which was tasty as always. For dinner, I ordered a cheeseburger at medium rare and their cottage fries, which are a separate order here. The burger was $13.50 without cheese or $1 more with it, and I got it with cheddar. After a while, it arrived with a good amount of pickles on the side. The burger had a good crisp and was moderately juicy, but it was a bit small for the price and had only a tiny bit of cheese. The fact that it doesn't come with fries or anything else doesn't really help, and if I were really hungry, I probably would have needed to order a second or something else. The cottage fries, or "Cottage Fried Potatoes" as listed on the menu, were good. They were slightly crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and mostly worth it for $8. The food was overall perfectly fine, but it's hard to justify the price given the size and the fact that the fries aren't included. For instance, you can get a juicier burger that is a good three times larger, with a better patty and higher quality cheese, plus waffle fries, at Wollensky's Grill for only an extra $2.50. Not including that place, there are plenty of other places for a similarly priced or cheaper burger that are just as good, if not better (even the pricey P.J. Clarke's fits this narrative, and that's not that common.) The fact that it's cash-only and a hassle to get into doesn't really help either. If you don't mind paying a bit more, go here for the nostalgia, as it is still tasty.

    Bacon burger with fries.
    Anne F.

    Here's the thing about old New York restaurants - they're too over-hyped. Often the food is just ok, but its reputation is bolstered by the mere fact that it's been around for decades. I'm here to tell you the truth -- the food here is decent, but not mind-blowing. I can get the same quality and taste from a cheaper establishment. Hell, I can satisfy the same cravings at Shake Shack! I came here on a Friday evening and had to wait in an hour line. That's the last hour-line I'll ever stand in. I could have spent that time dining, paying, and heading back home if I chose a place elsewhere. And as I said, the burgers were decent, but not worth the wait. The potato chips were fantastic, but again, it doesn't compete against the many other establishments with great fried potatoes. Was the bustling, tightly-spaced bar vibe charming? Yes. Did I think the green gingham tablecloth was a nice touch? Absolutely. Was the overall experience, from the wait to the food to the ambience, worth standing in an hour line? No. If you want to try this just to say you've tried it, be my guest. But be warned -- you're coming for the name, not the food.

    Steven Z.

    Just an all round, really good burger. It's got the retro vibes and the interior feels cozy and classic. Would I wait an hour for it? Probably not, but if you can get in without a wait it's a solid meal. One burger left me a bit hungry, but if you supplement with fries or split a second with a friend, it's a good amount of food.

    Cheeseburger
    ED D.

    This place has amazing atmosphere and charm. The food is superb and they quickly get you your food. The only problem is the service. I know, I know, they are busy BUT by not having water for 15 min and not asking if you need another drink, or not bringing the check makes the turnover slow and then you have people waiting outside. It's not a rush of people wanting in... it's slow service where you have people sitting.

    Cheeseburger
    Joseph S.

    I'd never been to J.G. Melon, it never hit my radar screen - living downtown, I'm not in the neighborhood. Until I recently saw Bobby Flay say he'd been going for decades, and it was his favorite burger in the city. Ironically, 2 weeks after I heard his 'testimonial', I had a doctor's appointment on.......74th St., a few blocks down from J.G. I made plans to have lunch there after the appointment. I ordered the cheeseburger and cottage fries. The burger came with red onions and pickles; however, I like my cheeseburgers with ketchup only - I want to taste the meat. I'll admit to having a few pickles in between bites! The first bite was eye opening! The cheese had blanketed the dark, seared, slightly crisp crust that I rarely find on my hamburgers; I didn't know it was there! It was a perfect combination for the juicy, flavorful and savory interior of the burger! I ordered it medium, and it was cooked perfectly. I could taste the 'quality of the meat' - I'm not sure what cuts they're using, and what the fat content is, but they've mastered the recipe! Next up, the cottage fries. There's a story behind the 'cottage fries' at J.G. - it has something to do with either running low on potatoes...or keeping them in the fryer a little longer, I can't remember which. But when it happened, customers clamored for more. They're crispier and thinner than your typical cottage fries; a few were almost like a thick potato chip. While I found them very tasty, my preference is for a thicker, fluffier fry. I'm glad I saw Bobby's 'Flaylist' - it opened the door to a truly delicious cheeseburger in the city! I'll definitely be back!

    Outside
    Christy K.

    This one lives up to the hype. It is one of those classic New York spots that feels completely untouched in the best way. Cozy booths, a packed bar, and that kind of energy where you know people have been coming here forever. The cheeseburger is exactly what you want it to be. My bestie had the turkey cheese burger. No gimmicks, no overthinking, just perfectly cooked, juicy, and served the way it should be. And those cottage fries. . . Wow! But honestly, what struck me just as much was the service. Warm, fast, and genuinely welcoming even when the place is buzzing. Bobby is super friendly and seems to know all the regulars by name. He took care of us as if we were regulars, though. It's cash only, it's crowded, and you might wait a bit . . . but it's absolutely worth it. Some places are trendy. This place is permanent.

    Bacon cheeseburger and fries
    Jillian B.

    Pretty much exactly what I expected!! As others have noted, it's cash only so make sure to bring cash. Burger was decent but I do wish it came with more bacon. Fries were just okay. Given the location, not sure I'm rushing back since there are other burger spots I prefer, but I was glad to have tried it!

    Perfectly crisp and delicious cottage fries, served with great cheeseburger.
    Amy G.

    J. G. Melon is an iconic Upper East Side burger institution. It also most definitely has the nostalgia factor. Located on Third Ave, there sometimes can be long waits. Even when there is a wait, it's worth while. For me, dining at J. G. Melon holds many memories. Since I was a teenager have eaten many burgers here with my family over the years. Eating here, feels like coming home again The decor is old school and, holds onto its charm. Service is friendly and welcoming. Don't forget it's cash only. The cheese burger, turkey burger and their cottage fries are delicious. The quality of food has not changed over the years. If you are in the mood for desert, my favorite is the apple sour cream walnut pie. A sweet way to end a true New York burger experience.

    Outside

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    7 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Burgers are the thing to have here for lunch. Fries are fun. Otherwise, limited menu. Cash only. Wouldn't go back

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    2 years ago

    This place is a classic, it is paramount ppl visiting the UES dine here for lunch or dinner. This will always be a favorite of mine!

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    2 years ago

    Lousiest service in NYC. They walk right past you. Too much attitude. The food is good but service is the worst.

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    Page 5 of 44

    J.G. Melon Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - J.G. Melon

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    $10

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    On a Sunday street parking is free. Plenty of spots on the avenue where you should get parking in front or within walking distance.

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    Fer

    Fer

    4.4
    (117 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    The restaurant has a clean, cozy industrial-style interior with comfortable seating and nice…read morelighting. It's the kind of place where you can sit and relax without feeling cramped or stuffy. I ordered the beef tripe noodle soup (non-spicy). The tripe was really tender and well braised, and although the broth looked light, it had a subtle sweetness and plenty of flavor. It wasn't heavy or overly rich, and the whole bowl was just really comforting. The Wan Za Noodles were probably my favorite. I haven't really seen this style at other places before. It's a mixed noodle dish with minced meat, greens, and beans that you mix together yourself. Every bite had a different combination of flavors, and the sauce was just right--not too dry and not greasy. Overall, I really liked how satisfying everything felt without being heavy. Nothing was overly oily, salty, or rich. It's the perfect spot for when you want a good, comforting meal without making it feel like a big production.

    We stopped by here for dinner on a Friday - we came in at 5:30 pm and there was no wait at all but…read moreby the time that we were leaving they got pretty full. Their menu is not huge but there is a good amount of items and everything sounded delicious. -Supreme Beef Ban Ban Noodles; This was so good, they also have this in a soup option but we got the dry option and it was so good. The flavors were good and it was a little bit spicy but not too bad. -Saucy Sesame Cold Noodle: this was also very good, very refreshing and the portion size was also very pretty large -Chilli Wonton: This was also very yummy, low key comparable to the ones from DTF. Overall - highly recommend checking this place out for lunch or dinner! They have great noodle dishes and the service was great!

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    SUPREME BEEF
    SUPREME BEEF
    MAPO TOFU

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    Safir Mediterranean

    Safir Mediterranean

    4.6
    (153 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    Located in Hunter's Point, LIC, this spot is a gem. The ambiance is casual and cozy and the staff…read morewas absolutely so friendly and welcoming. As it was my boyfriend and I's first time trying Turkish food, they helped explain some of the dishes to us. We got their appetizer spread, their lamacun, and their manti. Everything was phenomenal, but I highly recommend their appetizer spread and their lamacun. I loved the spread as you got the chance to try multiple different dips and it was a huge portion. Their lamacun was also the first I've ever had and it made me think: "Why haven't I had this before?" It was so good. Will definitely be coming back.

    Safir is a small, cozy restaurant that makes for a great, relaxed meal. The service was warm and…read moreattentive, and it ended up being the perfect way to wrap up the weekend. The atmosphere is comfortable without feeling crowded, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the meal. The food was excellent from start to finish. The sigar borek were perfectly crispy, cheesy, and just the right amount of salty. The lamb beyti kebab was packed with flavor, and the accompanying sauces really elevated the dish. We also had the manti, Turkish dumplings that were well-seasoned and incredibly satisfying. Portions were generous across the board, and everything tasted fresh and high quality. It's the kind of place that leaves you looking forward to your next visit.

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    Safir Mediterranean
    Safir Mediterranean
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    Poke Burrito

    Poke Burrito

    4.2
    (21 reviews)
    2.0 mi

    Small shop tucked away from the busy streets of LIC, blink and you might just miss it! Huge…read moreportions for an affordable price. They have premade bowls but you can also customize your own. No limit for toppings, some will cost extra but all the basics are no additional costs. Will be coming back here again when the poke cravings hit again.

    I was in the mood for a light and healthy lunch and the thought of poke struck me. My coworker…read morerecently mentioned Poke Burrito so I decided to check them out. While walking over I realized I'd never been down this street before and started to question if I was going the right way. Then I noticed delivery bikes pulling up so I knew I'd was close by. Inside it was pretty quiet as the staff were busy preparing online orders. I was the only person in the restaurant. As I looked up at the menu, the manager directed me to the paper sheets they have and instructed that I should make my selections on one of them. I went for the create your own option which gave me 2 proteins. I chose salmon and yellowtail, with white rice, wasabi yuzu sauce, and various toppings. When I took my menu to the register, the manager suggested I try either their crab or seaweed salad as they're both popular options. I went for the crab salad. The total for my order was about $14, a welcome difference from a newer poke spot that charges the same for less than half of what I got in my bowl. I was very satisfied with the flavor and freshness of the fish. The rice was well prepared and I did indeed like the crab salad. I can easily see myself adding Poke Burrito to my rotation of lunch locations.

    Photos
    Poke Burrito
    Custom bowl
    Custom bowl
    Poke Burrito

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    Lately Cafe

    Lately Cafe

    3.8
    (88 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    Such a cute cafe! I like the diverse menu. I tried the braised pork over rice (new menu) and I was…read moresurprised by how good it was! I also had a very refreshing yuzu green tea. The staff were very kind and attentive.

    Drinks: 3/5 Service: 3/5…read more Ambiance: 3/5 A cute little coffee shop by a Target and the train station. I've passed by here multiple times but never really had a chance to try it. Me and my girl was looking for a coffee shop that was laptop friendly and closed late since we came after work. I was a bit disappointed that they did not serve any alcoholic beverages as I saw a lot of good reviews on that portion. We came, we sat down on a Saturday night. There was only one person at the front and it seemed she was also managing the serving part so it did get pretty hectic at some point. We decided to order the Budae Jigae (Hot Pot), there is no way to alter the spicy level so for those who love spicy spicy, this is for you. Me and my friend was really disturbed by the fact that we were treated some type of way. Maybe it's because we weren't Korean or? Service was slow asf. It took a really long time for them to serve me my iced strawberry matcha drink. And even longer for the food. It was also hard to tag her down, and she seemed pretty annoyed that we had to ask her for multiple items. We were a party of 2 and she only gave us one set of items. I went again by myself the next day to see if it was better service and it was pretty packed. There was actually 3-4 people at the front but even then it was so hard to get someone to take my order, ask for napkins, for the check, etc. While there was no time limit on Saturday, there was a time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes on Sunday. would I go again? Maybe, but it's def veering towards the no side.

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    Lately Cafe
    Lately Cafe
    Cold brew

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    Cold brew

    J.G. Melon - tradamerican - Updated August 2026

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