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No matter what style of fine dining you prefer—from that of the molecular– gastronomy whiz, to the latest Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef who re-invents the local scene, to the tried and true haunts that have earned the moniker “classic”—you will fine in these shortlists the pitch-perfect restaurant for a singular night on the town.
Best Fine Dining in....
Best Fine Dining
New York
Del Posto 85 10th Ave., Chelsea, 212-497-8090 delposto.com
The Draw: This opulent Italian dining palace is helmed by the culinary dream team of Batali and the Bastianich clan. The Scene: Soaring ceilings, tinkling piano tunes, and purse stools for the ladies. Amid such self-conscious splendor, you might think Batali’s signature “peasant” fare would be gentrified, but thankfully that’s not the case. Except for the haute presentation, the menu is as boldly rustic as ever: warm bread smeared with house-cured lardo (pork fat), offal every which way, and succulent lamb shoulder. Mon–Tue 5:30–11pm, Wed–Fri noon–2pm and 5–11pm, Sat 4:30–11pm, Sun 4:30–10pm. $$$ Hot Tip: If you’re looking to impress that special someone, this is the place; you can call ahead to arrange for a special cake or personalized floral arrangements.
Harry Cipriani 781 5th Ave., Midtown, 212-753-5566 cipriani.com
The Draw: The swank Midtown Cipriani sets the standard for chic dining in Manhattan. The Scene: Lofty and rich in every way, this window-lined room is dimly lit and opulent. The Italian cuisine is as exquisite as the posh crowd, and reservations are as hard to land. Daily 7am–10:30am and noon–midnight. $$$$ Hot Tip: This place claims to have invented the Bellini. That we can’t confirm, but we do know they’ve perfected it. Also, the Cipriani restaurants sometimes host dazzling events and concerts—check the website.
Jean-Georges 1 Central Park West, Upper West Side, 212-299-3900 jean-georges.com
The Draw: World-renowned French culinary artist Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s spare and airy classic is the barometer by which NYC dining is gauged. The Scene: The two dining rooms are sunbathed in a minimalist weave of earth tones and light. From the a la carte menu, try sea scallops, steak frites, and frog legs. But the best way to really appreciate the chef’s skill is via his seven-course tasting menu. Mon–Thu noon–2:30pm and 5:30–11pm, Fri noon–2:30pm and 5:15–11pm, Sat 5:15–11pm. $$$$ Hot Tip: Dinner reservations can be tough to nab, so try the three-course lunch menu instead, which is prepared with equal care. Also, stay updated on the restaurant’s events and special deals on their twitter page, @jeangeorges.
