The New York Journal · Dining
Where to Eat in New York for a Special Occasion
Birthdays, anniversaries, a long-awaited trip: the New York restaurants with a real sense of occasion.
By Luxury Travel NYC Editorial··5 min read
In brief
- Mention the celebration and any allergies when you book, not when you arrive.
- Tasting-menu restaurants plan for dietary needs in advance.
- Plan arrival and pickup so the evening is not rushed.
A special evening in New York depends on three things: the room, the pace and the plan. These are the restaurants where all three come together.
For a long, leisurely dinner
Per Se — Columbus Circle
Thomas Keller’s tasting-menu restaurant overlooks Central Park. The experience is leisurely and formal, built for a celebration rather than a quick dinner.
Good to know: Allow a long evening. Columbus Circle is congested at dinnertime, so arrange your arrival and pickup in advance.
Le Bernardin — West 51st Street
Eric Ripert’s celebrated seafood restaurant remains one of the city’s most consistent fine-dining experiences, with precise cooking and exceptionally attentive service. A natural choice before or after a Broadway evening.
Good to know: Prime times go quickly. Jackets are customary for gentlemen — confirm when booking.
For theater and a crowd
The Grill — Park Avenue, Midtown East
Set in the landmark Seagram Building, The Grill is a theatrical, high-ceilinged room with a clubby energy that suits business dinners and big occasions alike.
Good to know: Best for groups and celebrations. The Park Avenue entrance makes it easy for a chauffeur to drop off at the door.
Carbone — Greenwich Village
A glamorous, nostalgic take on mid-century Italian-American dining, with tuxedoed waiters, tableside service and a scene that is part of the appeal.
Good to know: One of the hardest reservations in the city; plan well ahead and be flexible on timing. Your hotel concierge may be able to help.
Start or end with a drink
Bemelmans Bar — Upper East Side
Inside The Carlyle, the whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans and live piano make this one of the most charming bars in the city.
Good to know: Busy in the evenings; go early or late for a better chance of a table.
King Cole Bar — Fifth Avenue & 55th Street
The St. Regis bar, centered on the Maxfield Parrish mural, is the classic spot for a quiet cocktail in Midtown and the home of the Red Snapper.
Good to know: Smart-casual dress is advised. It works well as a pre-dinner stop before an evening on Fifth Avenue.
Planning the evening
- Say it is a celebration when you book, and mention allergies then.
- Allow a long evening at tasting-menu restaurants.
- Plan the pickup. Columbus Circle and Midtown are congested at dinnertime, so arrange arrival and pickup in advance.
FAQ
Questions, Answered
Which restaurant is best for an anniversary?
Should I tell the restaurant it is a celebration?
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