If you seek the finest dining available in New York City, look no further than the esteemed "Michelin Guide for Hotels and Restaurants." First published in 1900 in France by the famous tire manufacturers to promote car tourism, the guide is now published in editions that covers many cities. It rates restaurants, using anonymous judges, on a three-star system, three stars being reserved for restaurants of superlative quality. These are the five restaurants in New York City that were awarded three stars for 2010. There may be arguments that some restaurants may be equal to these five, but these establishments are unsurpassed. All of these restaurants have extensive wine lists, and expect the prices to match the heights of the cuisine. The online menus will have most recent offerings and prices. Make your reservations well in advance.
Daniel, run by chef Daniel Boulud, is known for pristine flavors and superior, discreet service. Some of the presentations are extremely intricate and impressive. It has recently been redecorated by designer Adam Tihany so that its decor matches its cuisine.
Daniel
60 E. 65th Street
New York, NY 10065
(212) 288-0033
danielnyc.com
Jean-Georges Vongerichten's eponymous restaurant Jean George, combines French cuisine with spices and flavors from around the globe. Subtlety and balance describe his approach, and often sauces are lighter and more aromatic than those found in classic French cooking.
Jean Georges
Trump International Tower, 1 Central Park West
New York, NY 10023
(212) 299-3900
jean-georges.com
Le Bernardin, famous primarily for exquisite seafood, is run by French chef Eric Ripert. The fish and other seafood dishes are perfectly prepared, and often feature added Asian flavors and ingredients such as coconut milk, cardamom or wasabi. There are less fireworks in the presentation than in some of the other three-star restaurants, and the decor is less dramatic. The focus is on depth of flavor.
Le Bernardin
155 W. 51st Street
New York, NY10019
(212) 489-1515
le-bernardin.com
Chef Masayoshi Takayama is the proprietor of Masa, an extraordinary sushi restaurant. There are no selections on the menu, as diners eat what the chefs prepare right before your eyes. The dinner is focused on a succession five appetizers and 15 or more small dishes, and can last several hours. The decor is restrained, and there are only 26 seats in the restaurant.
The Time Warner Center, Columbus Circle at 60th Street
New York, NY 10023
(212) 823-9800
masanyc.com
Per Se, the New York outpost of California-based chef Thomas Keller, also known for The French Laundry, the restaurant that make him famous. Per Se is distinguished by luxurious ingredients and precision. Dishes with ingredients, such as Kobe beef, lobster and foie gras, prevail. The decor in the 16-table restaurant is both richly appointed and warm.
Per Se
10 Columbus Circle
New York, NY 10023
(212) 823-9335
perseny.com
