Listen to this article now |
As a New Yorker, I’m spoiled when it comes to food. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting dining experiences. But if you’re looking for something truly exclusive – a restaurant that’s hard to get into and worth the splurge – then you’re in luck. Here are ten of the most exclusive restaurants in New York City, and why they’re worth the effort to get a reservation.
Eleven Madison Park
Let’s start with one of the most famous and exclusive restaurants in the city: Eleven Madison Park. This three Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a beautiful Art Deco building in Madison Square Park, and the tasting menu features creative and inventive dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. But getting a reservation isn’t easy – you’ll need to plan ahead and be prepared to spend some money. The tasting menu starts at $335 per person, but the dining experience is truly unforgettable.
Per Se
Another three Michelin-starred restaurant, Per Se is the brainchild of renowned chef Thomas Keller. Located in the Time Warner Center, the restaurant offers stunning views of Central Park and a menu that focuses on French cuisine with a modern twist. Reservations can be hard to come by, so plan ahead and be prepared to pay upwards of $350 per person for the tasting menu. But once you’re there, you’ll see why it’s one of the most exclusive dining destinations in the city.
Masa
If you’re a fan of sushi, Masa is a must-visit. This restaurant serves some of the freshest and most inventive sushi in the city, and Chef Masa Takayama oversees every aspect of the dining experience, from the sourcing of the ingredients to the preparation of the dishes. To get a reservation, you’ll need to be prepared to spend at least $595 per person for the omakase menu. But for sushi lovers, it’s a small price to pay for one of the most exclusive dining experiences in the city.
Le Bernardin
Le Bernardin is a three Michelin-starred seafood restaurant that’s a favorite among food critics and seafood lovers alike. Chef Eric Ripert creates stunning dishes that highlight the flavors and textures of the sea, and the dining room is elegant and refined. Reservations can be hard to come by, so plan ahead and be prepared to pay upwards of $200 per person for the tasting menu. But for seafood lovers, it’s one of the best dining experiences in the city.
The Grill
Located in the iconic Seagram Building, The Grill is a classic New York steakhouse with a retro vibe. The menu features classic steakhouse fare with a modern twist, and the dining room is elegant and refined. Reservations can be hard to come by, so plan ahead and be prepared to spend around $150 per person for the tasting menu. But for fans of steak and classic New York dining, it’s a must-visit.
Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare
This three Michelin-starred restaurant is located in a grocery store in Brooklyn, but don’t let the humble surroundings fool you. The tasting menu features inventive dishes that showcase the best of seasonal and local ingredients, and the wine list is extensive. To get a reservation, be prepared to pay around $395 per person.
Atomix
This Korean restaurant has quickly become one of the most sought-after dining destinations in the city. The tasting menu features creative and innovative dishes that showcase the flavors and textures of Korean cuisine, and the dining room is intimate and elegant. Reservations can be hard to come by, so plan ahead and be prepared to spend around $250 per person for the tasting menu.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns
If you’re willing to venture outside of the city, Blue Hill at Stone Barns is a truly unique dining experience. Located on a farm in the Hudson Valley, the restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that features ingredients sourced from the farm and surrounding area. To get a reservation, be prepared to pay upwards of $300 per person.
Cote
This Korean steakhouse in the Flatiron District is a favorite among meat lovers. The menu features high-quality cuts of meat that are cooked over an open flame, as well as Korean-inspired sides and sauces. The dining room is sleek and modern, with a lively atmosphere. Reservations can be hard to come by, so plan ahead and be prepared to spend around $150 per person for the tasting menu.
Sushi Yasuda
Sushi Yasuda is a high-end sushi restaurant that’s a favorite among sushi aficionados. The focus here is on the quality of the ingredients and the precision of the preparation – no gimmicks or trendy ingredients here. To get a reservation, be prepared to spend at least $200 per person for the omakase menu.
These are just ten of the most exclusive restaurants in New York City, but plenty of other dining destinations are worth the effort to get a reservation. Some tips for snagging a table: plan ahead, be flexible with your dining time and be prepared to spend some money. And don’t be afraid to call the restaurant directly to inquire about availability – sometimes cancellations or last-minute openings can be a great opportunity to snag a table.
New York City’s exclusive dining scene is a foodie’s dream come true. These restaurants are more than just places to eat – they’re experiences that you’ll never forget. So if you’re willing to plan ahead, be flexible, and spend some money, then you’re in for a treat. Just remember: if you want to get a taste of the city’s most exclusive restaurants, you’ll need to be persistent, savvy, and ready to pounce when a table opens up. Good luck, and happy dining!
