Grill 21

Since its 2005 opening, Grill 21 has never failed in my book. As a Filipino-American who grew up here in NYC, I can say that Grill 21 is reminiscent of the many Filipino flavors I remember as a kid. Many people write mixed reviews about Grill 21 and it's about time to be fair. It's not easy to create a stylized atmosphere - since most of the Filipino eateries in Manhattan have either failed to stay in business or just take no effort in their presentation. Grill 21 provides the right combination of good food and a friendly atmosphere. While no place is perfect and everyone has their faults, it is still one of the strongest contenders for authentic Filipino cuisine with a metropolitan flair. Anyone who is curious about Filipino cuisine or looking for a taste of home, should try Grill 21. I make it a point to go regularly.

The food is just ok, not great. Plus I agree with the comments of the other reviewers. To top it off, the prices are way too steep. I would not recommend this place to anyone.

for a place so out of the way and such a bad location they are really crazy to charge this prices. The place in midtown is more reasonable and better quality, come on you got to be kidding me we know that rents at 21 st st is like renting a studio apartment you guys have the nerve to charge this prices.

The food is good but I swear the portions have shrunk from when I first discovered this place. It's become expensive and the food is good. Not great. But good. I will say their halo halo is excellent. The puti "owner" is creepy and talks too much when you're just trying to enjoy a meal with friends.

Flavorful food, well-portioned and very good presentation. The restaurant, restroom, kitchen (visble from outside) were kept clean. The service by a Filipina waitress, Hannah, along with another charming lady, was very pleasant, attentive withut being oppressive. The restaurant is professionally run. Overall I would go back and bring non-Filipino friends to Grill 21. Their menu, while mostly Filipino is quite varied. There is something for every type of foodie here! Their 'laing' taro leaves cooked in spicy coconut milk with a good portion of shrimps, jalapenos and ginger altho' stylized is delicious! I also had their Filipino pork bacon, 'tocino' which was good, their fried spring rolls, 'lumpia shanghai' was great and fried banana in wrappers was okay. Overall, I found the food to be very good . I would definitely go back and try their other dishes and go for their custard, 'leche flan' which they are known for, so I heard...It's a nice cozy little restaurant. I went on a rainy Saturday and found it enjoyable as the restaurant's front opens out to an outdoor portion with tables.

So I finally tried Grill 21, out of curiosity, since I'm such a loyal customer of the other Pinoy resto on 1st Ave...figured to try something else for a change. I was extremely disappointed...food was bland and service was soooo slow. And for the price...pleeeaaassseee! Not coming back here ever!

so what if they have san miguel beer, it used to be a good deal. no self respecting pinoy would consider paying $15 for pork adobo...and $9.50 for an egg, a scoop of rice and 2 links of longanisa?!? come on! it's not even as good as it used to be (and i admit the food was awesome). it used to be worth it to undure the service. the VERY poor service. but now, if you're craving good filipino food and service, you're better off taking the 7 train to queens. it's so much more worth it.