The Culinary Capital of the World
New York City is a global center for art, theater, music, fashion, and, above all, cuisine. Its fine dining history dates back to Delmonico’s, which opened in 1837 and became the first restaurant reviewed by The New York Times. Introducing Manhattan’s first à la carte menu, French-inspired cuisine, and an extensive wine list, Delmonico’s set the stage for the city’s culinary evolution
The Michelin Guide: A Star-Studded Legacy
Meanwhile, in France, André and Édouard Michelin sought to boost travel (and tire sales) with a small red guidebook. Launched in 1900, it offered maps, travel tips, and dining recommendations. Over time, it evolved into the prestigious Michelin Star rating system, now one of the highest honors in the restaurant world.
Michelin Stars: What Do They Mean?
- ⭐ One Star – "A very good restaurant in its category"
- ⭐⭐ Two Stars – "Excellent cuisine, worth a detour"
- ⭐⭐⭐ Three Stars – "Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey"
These stars elevate a restaurant’s reputation and cement its place among the world’s best.
New York City’s Michelin-Starred Scene
As of 2024, New York City boasts 74 establishments with Michelin Guide ratings, reflecting its ever-evolving culinary greatness. Of them, six Manhattan spots received three stars, the highest honor. With Eleven Madison Park closed for renovations that summer, here’s a look at the five other restaurants that define fine dining in New York.
Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare - ⭐⭐
Located at 431 West 37th Street, Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare offers a 2 1/2-hour tasting menu centered around shellfish and seafood. Fusing Japanese cuisine with classic French technique, Chef César Ramirez unobtrusively announces each course himself, amid a handsome dining room of copper pots and fine china, serving what NY.Eater describes as “one of the city’s most comfortable and compelling expressions of haute cuisine."
Jean-Georges - ⭐⭐
The elegant and intimate dining room at Jean-Georges’ 1 Central Park West location offers not only spectacular views of Central Park, but masterful dishes inspired by the local farmer’s market and Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s passion for the “exotic and aromatic flavors of the East.” Trading meat stocks and creams for lighter bases of vegetables, fruits and herbs, Chef Jean-Georges delivers fresh and inventive takes on traditional dishes that burst with flavor, aroma, and color. Three-course prix-fixe, two-course lunch, and six-course tasting menus are great opportunities to experience Chef Jean-Georges’ signature creations.
Per Se - ⭐⭐⭐
Also offering glorious Central Park views and exceptional cuisine is Chef Thomas Keller’s Per Se, at Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle. Featuring classic French technique, an extensive wine list – that boasts both aged and smaller-produced varieties – and recognition for the “highest international standards for hospitality and culinary excellence,” Per Se prides itself on carefully selected ingredients and a team of highly-skilled chefs working in tandem to achieve perfect execution. Nine-course chef’s tasting menus and vegetable tasting menus are offered daily. A five course tasting menu is also available to walk-in patrons at The Salon.
Masa - ⭐⭐⭐
Chef Masa Takayama provides an elegantly simple and almost spiritual culinary experience for his patrons at Masa, 10 Columbus Circle at Time Warner Center. Striving to “bring 100 percent of the essence of something, the umanmi to the outside,” Chef Masa’s entire approach – from his expertly prepared cuisine to the natural and sensual interior details of his dining room – brims with integrity and grace. Masa’s menu of Japanese cuisine and sushi is prepared and served quickly in order for the diner to experience it in its “living, being state.” Although Masa’s fixed dinner price is considered high, it practices the Japanese custom of not accepting gratuities.
Le Bernardin - ⭐⭐⭐
Le Bernardin at 155 West 51st Street boasts an almost dizzying list of the highest industry accolades and recognitions, and awards for everything from restaurant design to wine service. Yet Chef Eric Ripert and co-owner and founder Maguy Le Coze see to it that the true star is the magnificent fish they serve. In their private dining room, modern event space, Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, and separate lounge (with its own menu), seafood is celebrated and revered in the most succulent ways imaginable. Dining room menus include lunch, dinner, a Chef’s Tasting menu, and Le Bernardin Tasting menu.
Stay With Us
For a one-of-a-kind and delectable experience, visit a Michelin-starred restaurant. You will not be disappointed.
To be close to some of the best restaurants in New York City, book a stay at the Marmara Park Avenue hotel.