With the surge in lifestyle dining and increased fortunes, there is plenty room for discussion regarding the top restaurants in NYC. The following restaurants are the top five choices for the budding or seasoned gourmand on his or her next outing in the Big Apple.
Daniel. This is one of the few restaurants that has the namesake of its executive chef. Daniel Boulud, the world renowned chef, is sure to delight your palate with his many creations. Parking may be a problem though, so it is best to come early or just go there via cab. The restaurant in general offers fine European cuisine, specifically French. This great restaurant is located in 60 East 65th Street on Manhattan's Upper Eastside, New York, NY 10065.
Jean Jorges. This restaurant also offers fine French dining. Walk ins are not accepted, so it's best to reserve early. Parking is not a problem, as they have a valet service. For those that want don't want to break the bank, they offer a two course lunch for under forty dollars. Makes you wonder if the course lunch is enough to fill the plate? Jean Jorges is located at 1 Central Park West on the Lobby Level of the Trump International Hotel and Tower, Manhattan, New York, NY 10023.
Le Bernardin. A casual dining experience in the Theater District and Times Square area. Apart from French food they do offer seafood (thank goodness!). Less stuffier than its other French counterparts, you can walk in provided there is space to accommodate you. The restaurant is located in 155 West 51st Street, New York, NY 10020.
Per Se. Another top pick, and unfortunately or fortunately, another French restaurant. However, do not despair, for they do have an ample listing of American choices. The prices in this esablishment are a bit on the high end, with a five course menu starting at $185 and a nine course menu starting at $295. Thank God for credit cards! Per Se is located in Columbus Circle on the fourth floor of the Time Warner building, New York, NY 10019-1219.
Corton. This restaurant offers a less stuffy atmosphere with less strict dress codes. The cuisine is contemporary French, and as with most if not all French restaurants in New York, it seems you need bring along Ulysses S. Grant with you to sample one selection—everything is over US$ 50. A tasting menu is available for a reasonable $145 and a three course prix fixe (fixed price) menu is $145. Should you be interested, Corton is located in the downtown Tribeca area 239 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013.
