If you’re in the mood to splurge for a special occasion, or just want to check out some of the city’s swankiest eateries, prepare to spend big at these high-end uptown restaurants.
Fresco by Scotto
34 E. 52nd St.
For classic Italian cuisine with a modern twist, check out Fresco by Scotto, where homemade pastas and fresh fish are served. Try the spaghetti alla chitarra, ($21) pasta with a simple combination of simple tomato sauce, garlic and olive oil. For a savory dish, sample the grilled marinated lamb chops with sautéed vegetables and polenta fries ($41).
Afternoon Tea in the Palm Court
768 5th Ave.
The menu offers four different selections of scones, pastries and other goods to go along with your choice of over 10 teas. A special menu for chocolate lovers is available, which includes chocolate truffles and a chocolate fondue ($60).
Red Rooster Harlem
310 Lenox Ave.
Red Rooster Harlem, owned by Top Chef’s Marcus Samuelsson, is a perfect fusion of high-end cuisine and comfort food. From fish and grits made with catfish and shrimp ($28) to mac and cheese made with Gouda and sharp cheddar ($18), there’s nothing on the menu that will leave you hungry.
Ammos Estiatorio
52 Vanderbilt Ave.
For an appetizer, you can’t go wrong with Ammos’ take on the classic spinach pie, Spanakopita, ($13) filo filled with fresh feta, tomato sauce and mint. Also sample entrées, including the fresh Scottish salmon, ($29) which is prepared with a mushroom and saffron orzo.
Sardi’s
232 W. 44th St.
Known for its celebrity sightings, Sardi’s, located in the Theater District, offers both Italian and American cuisines. Try the spinach cannelloni au gratin, ($25.75) or a New York classic, the grilled sirloin steak ($39).
Le Bernardin
155 W. 51st St.
For any seafood-loving New Yorker, Le Bernardin is a must-try. Try the prix-fixe menu ($127), which offers a four-course selection of seafood that begins with raw items, such as fresh oysters, to entrees like the baked lobster.
Peacock Alley
301 Park Ave.
One of the first Sunday brunch eateries to gain fame was Peacock Alley, which is connected to the world-renowned Waldorf Astoria hotel. This buffet-style brunch offers everything from omelets to caviar, and every dessert imaginable ($95 for the buffet).
The Sea Grill
19 W. 49th St.
For excellent seafood and an amazing view of Rockefeller Center, visit The Sea Grill. This eatery offers a wide range of choices, from raw selections, such as a Striped Bass mango ceviche appetizer, ($14) to hot entrees, like the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, ($39) served with a tangy mustard sauce.
The Palm
837 2nd Ave.
For a world famous steak, try The Palm, where their new special three-course option offers a choice of a cut of steak, such as the filet mignon, for a more reasonable price ($49.95).
Daniel
60 E. 65th St.
Located on the Upper East Side, Daniel offers French cuisine set in a modern environment. From their prix fixe three-course dinner menu, ($116) you can enjoy some Florida frog leg fricassee, as well as a perfectly roasted guinea hen with Vadouvan Jus.
Dana Reszutek is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].