I’m exploring new dining options in New York City, and I recently learned about Jacob’s Pickles, a popular spot with a unique take on a classic dish.
Discovering a New York Twist
Specializing in Comfort Food
Jacob’s Pickles is known for its big portions and comforting food. It’s a place that seems to focus on making simple dishes feel special.
One item that caught my eye is their version of poutine. This is a dish that originally comes from Canada, made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It’s a hearty meal that many people enjoy.
The restaurant has a warm and welcoming feel, even though it’s quite large. They have comfy booths and a relaxed atmosphere, which is great for families. I’m always looking for places where my kids, Emma and Sofia, can feel comfortable and enjoy their meal.
Jacob’s Pickles Poutine Explained
What Makes It Different
I found out that Jacob’s Pickles does not use cheese curds like the original poutine. Instead, they use shredded mozzarella cheese. This gives it a different texture and melt.
The gravy is also not a typical poutine gravy. It’s described as having a flavor more like American soul food. This means it might have a different blend of spices and richness compared to the French-Canadian style.
When I looked into it, the portions at Jacob’s Pickles are known to be very generous. The menu even has a warning sign that says “INVITE YOUR FRIENDS” for this dish. This tells me you’ll need help to finish it!
This generous sizing is a big plus for family dining. It means you can often share dishes, which is both economical and makes it easier to try different things. It’s something I consider when planning trips with Emma and Sofia.
Taste and Texture
The melted mozzarella covers the fries, and the gravy adds a rich flavor. The fries themselves are hand-cut and have a good potato taste. Even though this version of poutine is different from the classic, it still aims to be a very satisfying comfort food.
Sometimes, less gravy is used, which can help keep the fries from getting too soggy. This is good for anyone who wants their fries to stay a bit crispier. For families, especially with younger children like Emma, keeping food from getting too messy is always a bonus.
I’ve also read that if you have leftovers, they can be reheated well, perhaps in an air fryer. This is handy information for anyone planning to take some food home.
Location and Neighborhood
Upper West Side Charm
Jacob’s Pickles is located on the Upper West Side of New York City. This neighborhood is known for being family-friendly and having a lot of local businesses.
The restaurant recently moved to a larger location on Columbus Avenue, at the corner of West 93rd Street. The new space is twice the size of the old one, offering more seating and a more expansive dining experience.
The owner has a strong connection to this neighborhood, having spent time there since he was young. This deep connection makes it feel like a special place for the community.
You can find amenities like Trader Joe’s right across the street. This can be helpful for grabbing snacks or other items during your visit to the area.
Getting Around
For anyone planning a trip, the Upper West Side is accessible by public transport. This is something I always research when traveling with my family to ensure we can move around easily and safely.
New York City has an extensive transit system, and I’m sure there are options to get you to this part of Manhattan. I’ve found that understanding how to navigate the subway or bus routes greatly improves a family trip experience.
How do I get to Jacob’s Pickles by public transport?
I am still researching the most direct public transit routes to this location. I will be looking into the subway lines and bus routes that serve the Upper West Side, specifically around West 93rd Street and Columbus Avenue.
I will also verify the operating hours to ensure I plan our travel for when the restaurant is open and ready to serve guests.
Menu Highlights and More
Beyond the Poutine
While the poutine is a unique offering, Jacob’s Pickles also has a wide variety of other classic dishes. The menu is quite extensive, with many options that are served in large portions.
They have added new items to their menu, showing a commitment to keeping things fresh and interesting for their customers. I’ve noticed a new focus on seafood, including a “mussels tower,” which sounds like a fun sharable item.
There is also a salad inspired by New Orleans cuisine called a Muffaletta salad. For colder weather, they offer a slow-cooked brisket pot. This is something that sounds perfect for a cozy family dinner.
They even have a special “Sunday Supper TO GO” option. This includes a family-size brisket, which you can pick up on Sunday evenings. This type of service is very convenient for families who might want a special meal without the fuss of cooking.
What other types of food can I find at Jacob’s Pickles?
Beyond their famous poutine, the menu features a range of American comfort food classics. This includes items like their signature pickles, deviled eggs, and larger entrees suitable for sharing.
I am also exploring their seafood options and seasonal dishes, as they seem to offer a good variety for different tastes and preferences.
Community and Farming
An interesting aspect of Jacob’s Pickles is their involvement with urban farming. They have a non-profit called Jacob’s Digs NY, which uses a garden to source ingredients and teach children about agriculture.
This focus on community and sustainability is something I admire in restaurants. It shows a commitment that goes beyond just serving food. For families, learning about where food comes from can be a valuable part of a travel experience.
They also work with local schools and organizations like the Urban Assembly School for Green Careers. They are involved with the West Side Campaign Against Hunger, which shows a strong engagement with the neighborhood.
This community involvement makes me feel good about supporting the restaurant. It’s nice to know that a dining experience can also contribute to local initiatives. It’s a quality I look for when choosing places that are suitable for Emma and Sofia.
Planning Your Visit
Reservations and Hours
Jacob’s Pickles is open from 10 a.m. to midnight on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to midnight on weekends. I recommend checking their exact hours before you go, as they can change.
For weekend brunch, reservations are highly recommended. This is especially true if you are planning to visit with a group or a family, as popular times can fill up quickly.
They also offer pick-up and delivery services. However, their online system might not show the entire menu, so it’s a good idea to call them directly if you want to order specific items, like the Sunday Supper TO-GO.
I’m always sure to check for any special holiday hours or temporary changes to their schedule. This helps avoid any last-minute surprises when we are visiting a new place.
When should I plan to visit Jacob’s Pickles?
I’m considering visiting during weekday lunch or early evening to avoid the biggest crowds. However, their weekend brunch is very popular, so booking ahead is essential if you plan to go then.
I will also check their opening hours closer to my potential visit to confirm the exact times they are open.
The Dish and Price
The Poutine dish at Jacob’s Pickles is priced at $19.00. This is a considerable portion, and the price reflects its size and the ingredients used.
When thinking about the cost for a family, it’s helpful to know that sharing is often an option here. This can make ordering a few different items more affordable and enjoyable for everyone.
I always try to budget for meals when traveling. Knowing the approximate cost of signature dishes helps me plan effectively so we can enjoy our dining experiences without concern. This is particularly important when traveling with children.
What is the cost of the poutine at Jacob’s Pickles?
I found that the poutine is listed for $19.00. This price is for a very large portion, designed to be shared among several people.
I will verify the current pricing directly with the restaurant closer to my visit, as menu prices can sometimes change.
Jacob’s Pickles offers a unique dining experience with its large portions and creative twists on classic dishes. I’m looking forward to exploring more of what New York City has to offer its visitors, and this spot seems like a great place to start.
