Insider Pages Reviews for Ben Benson's Steak House

5 Stars: The BEST! (by FrawncisJ)

FrawncisJ — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Bensons has the best steaks in New York. Not much else to say really, ok, the side dishes are very good too(hash browns & creamed spinach).

5 Stars: Those rolls!!!!! (by turtlelover51)

turtlelover51 — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 02:00:00 GMT

I came from out of town(Maryland). The food was absolutely out of this world. I fell in love with the rolls with the raisins & walnuts(I think). The tomato soup was superb. We came up on restaurant week, and had the time of our lives. My Maryland crab cake was terrifc,but it wow, those rolls were something!!!!!
I would gladly come to your restaurant again if I had the money. Everything was outstanding!!!

5 Stars: Great Experience! (by willytj)

willytj — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 01:00:00 GMT

My second time to NYC but my first trip to Ben Benson's. The restaurant was recommended by my NYC friend so I had a feeling it would be good. Benson's surpassed expectations. The steaks were really good as were the sides. I didn't go for dessert as we were full by then, maybe next time.

5 Stars: TREMENDOUS! (by George454)

George454 — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Benson's was tremendous! One of the best meals I've ever had. From the salad to the shrimp cocktail to the porterhouse, I was thoroughly impressed. Everthng tasted great and the service was excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

1 Stars: Wow.....what a total disappointment!!! (by OzerT)

OzerT — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 01:00:00 GMT

Wow.....what a total disappointment!!! We've been to Ben Benson's once previously on a special occassion and were totally and thoroughly impressed. Naturally, we expected a similar experience.....but unfortunately, that was not to be. On a Saturday evening at 9PM, we'd expect the service and food to be tip top. Instead, the quality of porterhouse steak we ordered was sub-standard and clearly not cooked to our requested medium rare. To make matters worse, we we disappointed in the moderately disinterested service. Having a screaming undisciplined child at a table in the backgound in conjunction with a loud roudy bunch of guys did not add anything positive to our experience. Sadly, it is no wonder the restaurant was half-empty during a primetime Saturday evening.

1 Stars: Don't Bother (by tmmrd)

tmmrd — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 01:00:00 GMT

I had a fantansic experience before, but this time was terrible. We went to the bar for a drink before sitting at our table and the bartender made eye contact with us, then walked away and sat at a nearby table to talk on his cell phone. When he was finally finished with his calls, he came back to take our drink order. We were seated for dinner between a loud family with a screaming child and a group of guys that were playing music loudly on their cell phones. Our steak was overcooked and fatty but we did not return it b/c by the time it was served we were totally starving. The steak was $97.00 and nowhere near worth the price. It was tough and chewy. Our bill was almost $200 w/the tip and we left completely irritated. We politely tried to express our dissatisfaction to the manager suggesting that perhaps they have an area for families vs. people who would like to enjoy their meal w/o listening to screaming and he said "what do you want me to do, tell people they can't bring children?" Mind you, it was after 9pm at an expensive restaurant. It may have well have been 5pm at Chilis by reflection of the atmosphere and quality of response from the manager. I will never go back there again.

5 Stars: The real deal steakhouse (by Rima B.)

Rima B. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:33:00 GMT

I've been here several times. My family loves going for lunch or dinner. Their crab cakes or on the lighter side, a Cobb salad at lunch hits the spot. Dinner- hard to decide between a fresh lobster or meat. You can't beat the soft shell crabs (in season), lamb chops or the NY Sirloin. Well, maybe you can because the fried chicken (obscene amount) and the sides are terrific also:creamed spinach, garlic mashed potatoes, home fries (yum). The service is very professional and knowledgeable.

Pros: great food, good service
Cons: noise level, a bit pricey

4 Stars: My Favourite Steak House.. (by Lucydan82)

Lucydan82 — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Ben Benson's Steak House is the best steak house ever! I'm a big meat lover and have been to many steak houses but this still has to be my favorite place to eat. The fillet migon *mediam rare* just melts in the mouth. It has the butter sauce that adds a special touch to it. You can even ask for extra butter sauce. Their service is great and ambiance is perfect for a romantic meal!

5 Stars: Top Notch (by Russphj)

Russphj — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

What a great meal....and I'm a picky New Yorker. I'd only been here once before a long time ago and it was as good as I remember. What can I say except delicious steak, sides and desserts. Definitely worth the trip.

1 Stars: Touristtrap/amateur steak house (by NYTMSTR)

NYTMSTR — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Steak this bad shouldnt be allowed to be served. I made the mistake of going once, because I had a brain meltdown and was "open-minded" what a mistake-I'll never make it again and neither should you.

5 Stars: Fantastic Steaks! (by Harry555)

Harry555 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 02:00:00 GMT

I've tried most of the NYC steakhouses and find myself returning to Ben Benson's more often than any other. The steaks are simply fantastic, meaty, juicy and cooked perfectly every time. Of course, sides like creamed spinach and hash browns don't disappoint either. Highly Recommended!

5 Stars: The Best Steak House in New York (by MANNDOCTOR)

MANNDOCTOR — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:00:00 GMT

Rib Steak for my wife,
Porterhouse for my two friends,
T-bone for me.
All cooked to perfection.
Service outstanding!
New York prices $$$$
My favorite Steak House

5 Stars: Love Ben Benson's (by Louisedgh)

Louisedgh — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 01:00:00 GMT

My husband & I have been to many steakhouses in the city but we always return to Ben Benson's. From the delicious meats to the seafood to the desserts, they never disappoint. Recently, we sent our picky Texan friends who were in from out of town. They're always bragging about the steaks in Texas but even they had to admit to loving Ben Benson's.

5 Stars: GREAT Steakhouse! (by johngbf)

johngbf — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 01:00:00 GMT

I've been to Ben Benson's many times over the years and the food is always fantastic. Great cuts of meat, cooked perfectly, every time. Nice wine list, The waitstaff is always attentive and it's great for a group of friends. Ben Benson's, always a good choice

1 Stars: Cold Food! (by claudiakramm)

claudiakramm — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 01:00:00 GMT

We went for lunch during restaurant week with 4 people and were seated way, way in the back. The service was lackluster; the waiters acted as though they didn't really care about serving us. The salads were tasty, but that was about the only good thing I can say about the food. 3 out of 4 of us ordered the sliced filet mignon and the food was COLD upon arrival at the table, no matter how it was cooked. The vegetable dish (a pile of canned mushrooms) was cold also. At least the mashed potato was warm, not hot, but warm.
The cheesecake dessert was so-so; I've had much, much better in NY. Very disappointed; will not be back. Glad I didn't pay full price.

1 Stars: Dinner from Hell (by stinger1)

stinger1 — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 01:00:00 GMT

Do NOT go if just a couple (2) people. Upon arrival, shuttled upstairs to an empty room while the main dining room was 30-35% full. The wait staff does NOT provide same level of service (probably due to size of tip). Bread was cold; steaks were luke warm (sitting due to inattention of wait staff) comment from waiter was "I did not cook it". Vegetables got cold while waiting for steaks sent back for warming. Waiter never returned to see if dinner was satisfactory or ask if we wanted another drink. We had to ask the maitre d? for the check. For $ 170.00 NEVER GO AGAIN, VERY DISAPPOINTING NIGHT. These people are living on a reputation of good food and good service that died many years ago.

3 Stars: Take your date elsewhere (by judonome)

judonome — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Even though I RSVP'd hours in advance, I was not seated promptly upon entering. When I was finally taken to a table, it was in a corner next to the bar. If I wanted to watch the ballgame during dinner, I would have went to my local Fridays or Applebees so I had to ask to sit elsewhere. I made the mistake of not doing my homework prior to eating here for the first time. The environment is very loud and far from romantic. As for the food I ate, the Maryland Crab Cake was delicious, and the Prime Rib Steak was a bit tough on the outside but still tasty. When I pulled a waiter aside to tell him it was my girlfriend's b-day, he almost ruined it by talking so loud that she could hear, and told me to let him know before I order desert, which I obviously couldn't do, because it would have made it obvious! Fortunately, after we looked at the desert menu, and didn't pick anything from it, they still brought a cheesecake out and sang happy b-day. Unfortunately, the "5-Star" restaurant used their last candle on a cake given to a customer earlier that evening. Overall, the place is not bad for groups, but if you want value and a more romantic setting, don't think about coming here.

4 Stars: Juicy-Ness! (by astevensons)

astevensons — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 02:00:00 GMT

I thought this classical edifice in midtown serves some of the best in the city. I would highly recommend.

5 Stars: Fabulous beef (by mommagoo)

mommagoo — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Excellent food and service. Pricey but our filet was fabulous. We split it and chose the carmelized onions & mashed potatoes. Their bread basket was huge and great to have with a glass of wine before your beef arrives.
They offered us Bernaise Sauce with the filet; sometimes it's an extra, they didn't charge us. It was awesome.
Highly recommend this restaurant but bring your wallet.

5 Stars: Delicious steaks and amazing sides (by agapitog)

agapitog — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Another restaurant week venture. Although I do take clients here for business lunches. As always, the steaks here are amazing and grilled perfectly to your preference. I prefer Prime rib, skirt steaks, and filet mignons medium rare and Ribeyes medium well. But the best part is how perfectly the sides accent the steaks. I recommend the garlic mashed potatoes and steak fries. Today I had a vegetarian in my lunch group and even she enjoyed here veggie dish. Well worth multiple trips.

5 Stars: Great overall experience (by nyceater15)

nyceater15 — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Try the Double Porterhouse! I went here for the first time last night, and the steak was superb. The service was also a lot better than other high-end steak houses I?ve been to, such as Peter Luger?s. The meal was around $120 for my date and I, which included sides and drinks. The mashed potatoes with caramelized onions and the cream and herbed wild mushrooms were excellent compliments to the Porterhouse. The quality of both the food and service was outstanding.

5 Stars: A+ for the food and service (by abbyhill)

abbyhill — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 01:00:00 GMT

I frequent Ben Benson's for years and this is by far my favorite steak house. The food is simply the best and the service superb.

4 Stars: Fantastic customer service (by mzx380)

mzx380 — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 01:00:00 GMT

my folks took me here for my birthday after a friend of mine recommended this place to me a billion times. I love steak and found the steak to be on the average side. The potatoes, which were also mentioned were okay. but aside from those two things, the rest of the meal.....WOW. The salad, steak sauce and especially the cheesecake were without a doubt the best i've ever had. The steak sauce was so good, that i practically smothered my steak in it (we even purchased a bottle for home) the cheesecake was so good, i was licking my fingers after i was done it was so tasty. couple that with some of the best service i've had at a restaurant, and you have a place that will be seeing us again.

2 Stars: Does not live up to hype (by network)

network — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 01:00:00 GMT

4 adults for pre-show dinner
Chose it based on radio ad campaign
Gruff and "disengaged" waiter
3 out of 4 steaks tough
2 sides were lukewarm
We never felt the least bit welcome

5 Stars: Not too shabby (by bbaigorri)

bbaigorri — Thu, 16 Nov 2006 01:00:00 GMT

Probably in my top 5 NYC steakhouses. Great meat, good service, and I enjoyed the atmosphere. Prices are what I've come to expect from a NY steakhouse - high.

5 Stars: Something to die for (by smithandheston)

smithandheston — Mon, 08 May 2006 02:00:00 GMT

I have a huge bias writing this review, this has been my fav resturaunt for years now. Nothing comes close, every element of it is just perfect... i realize it is costly, and I am not wealthy by anyones standards, but its worth the big bucks; even if it costs more one day ill save up to go.... I just cant say enough great things about this place

5 Stars: Loved It! (by lyndi17)

lyndi17 — Mon, 01 May 2006 02:00:00 GMT

My husband picked Ben Benson's for our last trip to NYC and it did not disappoint. We were seated promptly, service was good and not over the top, and the steaks and sides were outstanding. I liked the decor as well. I had the filet and it was cooked perfectly. Caesar salad was also awesome, as was the bread they serve. I would go there again and again and again....

4 Stars: Excellent! (by sadid)

sadid — Wed, 26 Apr 2006 02:00:00 GMT

Excellent! The French Onion Soup was delicious, as well as the Goat Cheese Salad. Prime Rib, garlic, spinach and peppers was fabulous. The Portabella sandwhich and Grilled Rib Eye are also delicious choices at this fine establishment. With dessert at Ben's, you can't go wrong. Try the Chocolate Exquisite!

4 Stars: Come for the Roast Prime Rib (by gastronomicon)

gastronomicon — Sun, 26 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

I only eat the Roast Prime Rib, not the Prime Rib Steak. The former is cooked as part of a larger piece of meat and then carved off while the latter is individually cooked. It makes a *HUGE* and crucial difference. I don't go much for the steaks as I like mine pan-seared and then oven-cooked while most steakhouses broil their's. However, the Creamed Herbed Wild Mushrooms and Creamed Spinach are my favorite sides and the Lump Crabmeat Casserole and Salmon Tartare my favorite appetizers. The only bad thing I can say is that George the Maitre d' treats people, even regulars, shabbily.

5 Stars: Great meal, top to bottom (by cjfifteen)

cjfifteen — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 01:00:00 GMT

I've heard a lot about this classic steakhouse but had never been. A buddy and I went for lunch one day and Benson's did not disappoint. The steaks were delicious and perfectly cooked. We shared a couple of sides(creamed spinach and hash brown potatoes) and they were both delicious. The waitstaff was very friendly and knowledgable. Even though we didn't have room for dessert we split a piece of cake. This place is the REAL DEAL!

5 Stars: Wonderful (by rchstocsm)

rchstocsm — Sun, 29 Jan 2006 01:00:00 GMT

I ate here at the age of 18 with my brother and four of our friends. The service was great so if some say it isn't its because they must have had no respect for the server. The food was even better true its a bit price but well worth it. I consider the atmosphere to be fun for the lack of a better word.

5 Stars: One of the BEST (by jjedson)

jjedson — Thu, 05 May 2005 02:00:00 GMT

This classic NY Steakhouse lives up to its reputation. Great steaks, sides(creamed spinach, potatoes, etc.) and delicious desserts. The wine list was very good and the bar area was a cool place to hang before we sat down for our great meal. Highly recommended.

1 Stars: Under 30, Don't Go!! (by s_donald)

s_donald — Wed, 27 Apr 2005 02:00:00 GMT

We were treated like children. We are in our mid-twentys and the waiters gave us no attention to us after we received our meals. We sat at our table over 25 minutes even had a wine spill and still noboby came. There was a group of older gentleman sitting beside us and the waiter came to their table several times while passing by our wine spilled table. Overall our first and needless to say last experience was unacceptable and unenjoyable.

5 Stars: Nice Place for Preshow Dinner (by deanly)

deanly — Tue, 07 Dec 2004 01:00:00 GMT

Ate here last weekend before a show. We were seated promptly by Ben himself. Had a 5 p.m. reservation and the place wasn't crowded. Gave us time to walk off dinner before the show which I highly recommend. My filet was the largest I've had; not the best, but still a very good steak. The green beans and mashed potatoes were outstanding. Creme brulee with fruit was to die for - devasted I didn't have room to finish it. I liked the decor a lot - very comfortable. Pictures make it appear brighter than it actually is.

3 Stars: Stick with the Steak not the Cheesecake (by leahmalinowski)

leahmalinowski — Thu, 04 Nov 2004 01:00:00 GMT

The steaks are good and the desserts are big but leave something to be desired. The cheescake is dry, pound cake bland, and bread pudding chewy.

The wood is old and needs to be re-worked and the lights need to be dimmed. Service is good though.

1 Stars: Disappointing (by lennon)

lennon — Fri, 12 Mar 2004 01:00:00 GMT

I found this restaurant to be very disappointing, the waiter was very snobbish and rude.he made no attempt to be polite. I did not feel welcome or comfortable at all. The steak was tough and inedible. We dont usually frequent very expensive restaurants so this was supposed to be a treat for us. I will never go to this pompous overrated place again!

4 Stars: One of the Best. (by dboy11sswr)

dboy11sswr — Fri, 12 Mar 2004 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Benson's serves one of the best tasting steaks in town. Not to mention, their crab cakes truly are as good as everyone leads you to believe. They also have the best wine selection of any steak house I've been to on the east coast. Although a bit pricey and host to NY's elite, the food here is an experience for anyone. Must make an attempt to eat here at least once in your lifetime.

5 Stars: pricey but well worth it (by cp48851)

cp48851 — Sun, 04 Jan 2004 01:00:00 GMT

took my girlfriend here for dinner on new years eve, and the experience was outstanding...we were seated promptly, and the service was teriffic...hands down the best skirt steak i have ever eaten, and the mashed potatoes w/horseradish are also superb...if you are looking for a great place for a special occasion this is a good choice

5 Stars: awesome (by lilcat19)

lilcat19 — Sat, 27 Dec 2003 01:00:00 GMT

When my family took a trip to NY this summer, my dad took us there after we saw a show on broadway. It was raining, and we got there a little early, and they went ahead and seated us. The service was great. My dad goes there when he takes people out to dinner in NY for work. He said they have always had great service. The food was flat out amazing. I had the filet mignon, and it was the best thing i have ever eaten. I would definitly go to Ben Bensons!

1 Stars: Very Overrated (by vpecoraro)

vpecoraro — Sun, 14 Dec 2003 01:00:00 GMT

After reading positive reviews in both Citysearch and Zagats, I decided to try Ben Bensens yesterday. To say that we were dissapointed is an understatement. To begin with, we were seated in the hallway. The food was mediocre at best. The mozzerella and tomato was very bland. I had the t-bone which was plain, dry, and flavorless. I could have gotten a piece of meat at Waldbaums, broiled it, and it would have tasted better. My wife had the prime rib. Again, it was flavorless, and very tough. She was having a hard time cutting it. The hash browns were very good. Service was horrible. It took about 1/2 hour to clear off the table after we finished dinner. Even the cappucino did not have much taste. Keep in mind that this is a very expensive restaurant that was not worth 1/2 the price. Next time, I'll stick with Mortons.

5 Stars: Better than Peter Luger's (by rudy_lee)

rudy_lee — Sat, 15 Nov 2003 01:00:00 GMT

My wife Jenny and I, always have a good time at Ben Bensons Steak house. This time was even more special when our waiter, Mario # 2 and the entire staff sang Happy Birthday to my wife. It was a pleasant surprise and one that my wife and I will never forget. The wait staff worked as a team to ensure that our requests were satisfied. So make that reservation, and ask for Mario # 2, I am sure you will have an exceptional time.

2 Stars: No Seasoning (by ashorty)

ashorty — Thu, 11 Sep 2003 02:00:00 GMT

The wait staff was very stiff, no personality was so ever!!! The food had NO seasoning. Portions were excellent, however, the food was bland. Would never go back

5 Stars: Great.Great. Great!!! (by thsteakdoc)

thsteakdoc — Thu, 31 Jul 2003 02:00:00 GMT

Wow, what a place!!!
Its amazing how Ben Bensons makes us happy with great steak, wine and friendly service. Feel
great every time I visit. Thank you.

3 Stars: should have had steak... (by elvistaco1)

elvistaco1 — Wed, 23 Jul 2003 02:00:00 GMT

yes, i know it's a steakhouse, but we wanted a Maine lobster. It was very dissappointing, dry, over-cooked and tasteless. Howver, the Crabcake was awesome! Creamed spinach was tasty, but the hashbrowns were a greasy mess. Service great. Will go back for a steak, because they looked wonderful.

5 Stars: FANTASTIC (by lzr)

lzr — Fri, 18 Jul 2003 02:00:00 GMT

What a treat, again...
Great Steaks!!!
Great service!!!
Who cares about decor.....

1 Stars: Sub-human treatment during "Rest. Week" (by kitkatfau)

kitkatfau — Wed, 25 Jun 2003 02:00:00 GMT

Surfing the web, I came across the NYC Visit website. I saw the ad for restaurant week, and was intrigued. I noticed that Ben Bensons was listed as one of the participants. I thought to myself what a great deal! I had been to Ben Bensons before, and paid full price, this had to be too good to be true, and IT WAS! The promotion was not even available, and I was treated rudely, and I was made to feel like I was sub-human. Maybe it was because the last time I was there, I arrived by limo, that it made a difference, or maybe it had something to do with the fact the that both my boyfriend and I look very young, and the waiter was concerned with getting a big tip! Whatever the case, that type of disrespectful service, from a supposedly top tier restaurant, is inexcusable.

4 Stars: Good beef (by LBeatsfood)

LBeatsfood — Wed, 18 Jun 2003 02:00:00 GMT

It's a lot of meat! Good meat if you're into beef. Not much seafood.

4 Stars: Satisfied Single Diner (by malille)

malille — Wed, 28 May 2003 02:00:00 GMT

Single woman on a holiday Sunday night, treated like I really belonged. Best Cosmopolitan I've had. Delicious fresh crab cocktail, which was recommended by the waiter. Wonderful rib steak, cooked perfectly, but does it have to be big enough for a family of 4?? Thank goodness I didn't order side dishes!!!

3 Stars: ordering is such trouble! (by toujours28)

toujours28 — Sat, 19 Apr 2003 02:00:00 GMT

Had dinner here with 2 other people; this restaurant has seen better times. Wanted my meat medium well, was told it would have to be medium rare and treated to a lecture by the waiter on why exactly. Someone else ordered the chicken (from the menu) and was told it would unfortunately take an hour and a half to cook since it was a whole chicken, and that he could have a single grilled chicken breast instead. Whatever. The food was good, but not that special, and the waiter was simply annoying.

1 Stars: OVERRATED (by 1236)

1236 — Fri, 04 Apr 2003 01:00:00 GMT

The good reviews must be from their friends. There was nothing I liked about Ben Benson's. Go to SPARKS.

4 Stars: what a steak (by NYCConcierge)

NYCConcierge — Wed, 12 Mar 2003 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Benson's serves up amazing food and they do it quickly. I rolled out of there after one dinner. The crab cakes are probably some of the best I've ever consumed. Their steak was cooked to perfection as were all the trimmings. A perfect pre-theatre restaurant. Highly reccomended!

5 Stars: Perfect pre theater feast (by ruffy)

ruffy — Wed, 12 Feb 2003 01:00:00 GMT

This was the perfect pre-theater feast, unless you care to be awake for the performance. My sleepiness was well worth the trade off with this fine meal. Salad was fresh, steaks were huge, juicy, and cooked to perfection. Dessert was fabuluous. Next time you crave a steak, this is the only place to go.

5 Stars: outstanding (by johnczajka)

johnczajka — Wed, 05 Feb 2003 01:00:00 GMT

Always feel at home excellentservice, friendly atmosphere, and outstanding steaks.

5 Stars: best absolutely (by johnmlalli)

johnmlalli — Tue, 04 Feb 2003 01:00:00 GMT

Ben Bensons is a 10 to New Yorkers..food is superb, ambience perfect, comfy, cozy, safe

3 Stars: no privacy (by idilsuzgun)

idilsuzgun — Mon, 13 Jan 2003 01:00:00 GMT

As good as the food may be the atmosphere is "nonchalant". Alot of tables and eating elbow to elbow with the next table is not exactly ideal for a romantic night. This also slows the service. An ideal place for a night of brilliant food but dare I say again... no privacy...

5 Stars: Perfect! (by jim_clark)

jim_clark — Mon, 13 Jan 2003 01:00:00 GMT

A wonderful place. The food is excellent along with the service. I highly recommend this place.

5 Stars: Not a dog in the house (by alanw730)

alanw730 — Fri, 03 Jan 2003 01:00:00 GMT

Never had a bad meal. Largest drinks in town take a hungry drunk.

5 Stars: The Best! (by RadioPeter)

RadioPeter — Wed, 01 Jan 2003 01:00:00 GMT

I go there several times a year, and it's always a great experience. The waitstaff is friendly, courteous, and not stuck-up. The food always comes as you request it and you're allowed the time to enjoy it and relax.