Toledo Restaurant

- 6 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016

For over fifty years, Toledo Restaurant has served as a cornerstone of classic Spanish fine dining in New York City. Having opened its doors in 1975 and settling into its elegant Murray Hill location on East 36th Street, Toledo is lauded by patrons and critics alike—including recognition from The New York Post—for delivering some of the city's best authentic Spanish cuisine. It is a destination that consciously preserves an "old-world" charm, making it a reliable and refined choice for a special occasion, an important business dinner, or simply an upscale evening out.

The atmosphere at Toledo is distinctly Upscale, Romantic, and Cozy, with a traditional décor featuring Spanish artifacts that transport diners straight from the bustling streets of Manhattan to a classic European dining room. This regal environment, coupled with the long-tenured, professional staff, ensures an experience that is both consistent and welcoming. While categorized simply as a Spanish restaurant and Restaurant, its extensive menu and high service standards place it firmly in the fine dining category, specializing in both traditional tapas and elaborate entrées. The restaurant is popular for both Lunch and Dinner, appealing to Groups, Family-friendly occasions, and visiting Tourists seeking a traditional, celebratory meal.

The culinary focus is broad and ambitious, covering a remarkable range of Spanish specialties. While the menu offers highly refined seafood, steaks, and poultry dishes—such as Prime Filet Mignon, Broiled Wild King Salmon, and Milk Fed Veal a la Toledo—the restaurant's true hallmark is its paella. Dishes like Paella a la Valenciana (saffron rice, chicken, chorizos, and seafood) and the luxurious Paella a la Marinera (with lobster, shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels) are described by critics as "stellar." This dedication to classic preparation and high-quality ingredients defines the Toledo experience.

Toledo Restaurant is located in the accessible and convenient neighborhood of Murray Hill, positioned centrally between Fifth and Madison Avenues. This location makes it an ideal spot for Midtown professionals and those arriving from various parts of the city.

The full address is: 6 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016, USA.

For diners, accessibility is prioritized with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible seating, and a dedicated Wheelchair accessible restroom. Parking in this area of Midtown is typically challenging; therefore, the venue notes that Paid parking garage and Paid street parking options are available nearby. Given the elegant setting and popularity, patrons should be aware that Reservations are required and Dinner reservations are recommended, ensuring a smooth and timely seating experience.

Toledo provides the comprehensive services expected of a premium, classic New York City establishment, focusing on the quality of the dining experience itself.

• Dining Experience: Full Table service with dedicated Seating available for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. The atmosphere is generally Cozy and Upscale.
• Private Events: The restaurant features a Private dining room and is explicitly set up to host various celebrations, including birthdays, anniversaries, corporate events, and family reunions.
• Beverage Program: A full Bar onsite offering a wide selection of Alcohol, Beer, Wine, Hard liquor, and highly-regarded Cocktails, supported by an expansive wine list often called the "Bible" by staff.
• Convenience and Technology: Wi-Fi and a public Restroom are available amenities. The restaurant accepts Credit cards and Debit cards for payment.
• Dining Options: Patrons have the options of Takeout or Dine-in, though the atmosphere strongly favors the in-house experience.
• Menu Flexibility: The menu includes Small plates (Tapas), Vegan options, Vegetarian options, and dishes categorized as Organic dishes, offering diverse choices for various dietary needs.
• Crowd Appeal: The environment is welcoming for Family-friendly gatherings and is popular for accommodating large Groups.

Toledo’s highlights center on its adherence to classic Spanish culinary traditions, high-quality ingredients, and a service model that prioritizes elegance and attention.

• Exceptional Paella and Seafood: The restaurant is known for having a stellar paella, including the seafood-focused Paella a la Marinera. Other key seafood specialties include Zarzuela De Mariscos a la Toledo (a specialty of the house) and the highly recommended Baked Red Snapper, "House Specialty."
• Classic Spanish Appetizers: The Tapas menu is expansive, featuring authentic Spanish classics like Spanish Croquetas, Spanish Serrano Ham, Spanish Cheese “Manchego,” and Octopus “A La Gallega.” Party menus offer various combinations of these small plates.
• Meat and Poultry Excellence: Beyond seafood, the menu features classic meat preparations, including Prime American Spring Lamb Chops, Aged Prime NY Sirloin, and poultry dishes such as Chicken Ajillo (hot garlic sauce) and Chicken and Rice with Chorizos.
• Distinguished Beverage Program: Patrons praise the quality of the Great cocktails and the Great wine list, with special mention of the refreshing and delicious Sangria.
• Old-World, Romantic Atmosphere: The traditional, wood-paneled, and low-lit rooms create a rare, Romantic and Old-world setting in Midtown, ideal for dates and intimate celebrations. The interior is consistently described as "beautiful" and "regal."
• Attentive and Professional Service: The staff, described as "superb," "attentive," and "nonjudgmental," is a major highlight, with specific commendation for their warmth, professionalism, and consistent service over decades.

For making reservations—which are strongly recommended—or for any inquiries about private dining and menu details:

• Address: 6 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016, USA (Murray Hill)
• Phone: (212) 696-5036 (Also listed as Mobile Phone: +1 212-696-5036)

Choosing Toledo Restaurant means opting for a consistent, classic Spanish fine dining experience that stands in contrast to the city's fleeting trends. It is worth choosing for New Yorkers who prioritize a traditional, highly professional environment and authentic, time-tested Spanish recipes, particularly those focusing on seafood and paella.

The restaurant’s long tenure in the city (since 1975) is a testament to its reliability and commitment to a high standard of classic cuisine. When visiting, one should focus on the restaurant’s strengths: the seafood specialties and paellas. A former patron who has visited since 2005 confirms that it "never ever disappoints" and praises the paella as a favored dish. The house specialty, the Baked Red Snapper, and the elaborate Zarzuela De Mariscos a la Toledo, are excellent choices that reflect the kitchen's mastery of Iberian seafood preparations. While one review noted some dishes could be heavy-handed with olive oil, the staff's professionalism and willingness to accommodate are consistently praised, offering reassurance that feedback would be well-received.

The atmosphere alone is a major draw. In a city of rapid turnover, Toledo offers a beautifully decorated, classic, old-world sanctuary that makes a meal feel like an event. It’s an ideal setting for romantic dinners—where the Great wine list and Great cocktails complement the elegant dining rooms—or for hosting a formal corporate or family celebration using one of the detailed Party Menus. The ability to reserve a Private dining room for groups is a significant advantage in Midtown. For the New York diner seeking a reliable, upscale restaurant with historical credibility and a menu that delivers on traditional, lavish Spanish flavor, Toledo remains a top-tier choice.

Toledo Restaurant

6 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016, USA