KEENS

A New Chapter for a New York Legend

In a city built on institutions, Keens Steakhouse has always stood apart—a relic of old Manhattan, rich with history, character and the unmistakable aroma of perfectly broiled beef. Founded in 1885 and revered for its mutton chop, pipe-lined ceilings and clubby charm, Keens is more than just a restaurant—it’s a time capsule of New York dining at its most iconic.

In 2025, however, Keens enters a new era, following a recent change in ownership. While the walls remain lined with clay pipes and the air still carries the scent of dry-aged meat and legacy, there is a quiet shift underway. With the transition still fresh, longtime patrons and newcomers alike are watching with curiosity to see how this beloved institution will evolve under new stewardship.

At the heart of the experience, Keens continues to deliver bold, unapologetically classic cuts, with its legendary Prime Rib, Porterhouse and the famed Mutton Chop (a beautifully marbled saddle of lamb) still taking centre stage. The steaks are USDA Prime, expertly broiled and served simply—unchanged, unpretentious and unforgettable. For now, the menu retains its signature offerings, a nod to the weight of tradition that surrounds every plate.

The space remains much as it always has: dark wood, white tablecloths and walls that whisper stories of playwrights, presidents and Wall Street titans. It’s a room that breathes with the soul of New York.

The wine list is extensive and well-anchored in robust reds—Cabernets, Bordeaux and old-school Napa—all chosen to match the richness of the meat. Service, still seasoned and sharply professional, adds to the comforting rhythm of a place that knows exactly what it is.

Yet with the change in ownership, the future of Keens is quietly in motion. Will the new proprietors preserve its storied legacy or steer it toward a more modern identity? Only time will tell. For now, the essence of Keens remains intact and guests continue to return for the flavour, the nostalgia and the sense that some things—at least for the moment—are just as they always were.
Keens stands not only as a steakhouse but as a cultural monument. The steaks are still excellent. The room is still magic. But all eyes are on what comes next.