Restaurants in NYC Worth the Indulgence

Who better to consult for restaurant recommendations?

Le Bernardin, Midtown

New York has several bastions of exquisite dining, but none has been at the top of the heap for as long as Le Bernardin. Eric Ripert's dining room exudes a tranquil ambiance that reflects his meditative approach to preparing fish. His training is traditionally French, as exemplified by his renowned tuna with foie gras, however his inspirations are global. Indulge in lunch (tables become available on Resy), select a bottle of white wine (curated by a renowned sommelier), and enjoy one of the premier dining experiences globally.

Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019

L’Veau d’Or, Lenox Hill

This French restaurant has been established on the Upper East Side for numerous decades; nevertheless, it was recently renovated by the proprietors of Frenchette in TriBeCa and is now ascending to the pinnacle of every food critic’s 'best of' list. This establishment serves frog legs sautéed in garlic butter, gigot of lamb accompanied by 'coco' beans, and an outstanding Île Flottante (meringue in crème Anglaise). It is the location my spouse selected for my birthday celebration, and I was exceedingly delighted.

Location: 129 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022

Smithereens, East Village

Let us divert this list by proceeding to the East Village for a more casual atmosphere—jeans are not merely acceptable at Smithereens, they are anticipated—accompanied by cuisine that is remarkable in its innovation and sophistication. My friend Diana drove me to this restaurant for my birthday, where I always indulge in extravagant meals. I was particularly impressed with the buckwheat pancake with bluefish, the fried whiting accompanied by tartar sauce—essentially the finest fish stick imaginable—and the entire BBQ mackerel. If you believe this restaurant does not merit inclusion on the same 'splurge' list as Le Bernardin, the entire BBQ mackerel was priced at $56. Incorporating beverages and wine results in a costly evening, yet one that offers a sense of relaxation akin to being in a friend's home room. That is a restaurant that aligns with my preferences.

Location: 414 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009

Tatiana By Kwame Onwuachi, Lincoln Square

The initial visit to Tatiana resembled a celebration. Kwame Onwuachi’s renowned restaurant near Lincoln Center is among the most difficult reservations to secure in New York, and upon obtaining a reservation, one feels as though they have won a lottery. The cuisine emerging from that kitchen is vibrant and dynamic: from the crunchy okra to the curried jerk patties to the braised oxtail and 'take-out' mushrooms. I discovered a tactic: arrive at 4:15 PM and queue in the cancellation line. Upon opening at 5 PM, there is a high likelihood of securing a table. Subsequently, you may attend a performance at Lincoln Center upon completion.

Location: David Geffen Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023

Torrisi, Nolita

Including Torrisi on such a list is somewhat unkind, as access is virtually unattainable. Consequently, if you succeed in securing a reservation (setting alerts on Resy is beneficial!), brace yourself for an extraordinary experience. Imagine if your favorite Italian red-sauce joint went to finishing school and you’ll get the concept. Torrisi is mostly focused on New York cuisine rather than Italian cuisine. The diverse array of ethnicities is exemplified by dishes such as chopped liver with Manischewitz, Cavatelli with Jamaican Beef Ragu, and Beef Steak and Broccoli (a variation of the Chinese classic), making it as integral to the New York eating landscape as the Empire State Building is to the skyline.

Location: First Floor, Puck Building, 275 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012