Need Recommendation for 40th BDay Dinner

[bgut1]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

Edited August 21, 2006 by bgut1 (log)

[rich]

WD-50, Annisa, Cru, Blue Hill at Stone Barns - worth the drive or train, EMP - any of those will put one in the centerfield bleachers.

[bgut1]

WD-50, Annisa, Cru, Blue Hill at Stone Barns - worth the drive or train, EMP - any of those will put one in the centerfield bleachers.

←

Rich - Thank you for your response. I am however surprised by your suggestion as I never thought of any of them (except maybe Blue Hill) as specail occasion restaurants. I was expecting 4 star restaurants not 2 stars (I believe Blue Hill is 3 stars - not trying to star a flame war here). WD-50 is out as my wife will not be able to "handle" the interesting cuisine. Annisa and Cru are on my try list however, the thought of either one doesn't do it for me for a very special occassion dinner. Blue Hill on the other hand sounds interesting, however, the online menu looks ... I hate to say "pedestrian". I'm sure the food is fantastic however, it doesn't excite me. If it wasn't 5 hours away, I would seriously consider the Inn at Little Washington for dinner and an overnight stay (the same money as staying at a NYC 4 star hotel). Anyway, I may have to cancel my Per Se reservation for 4 as the couple who was coming with us needs to pull out and Per Se doesn't have availability for 2. Although I was there for dinner quite some time ago, I might instead make a reservation for Le Bernadin and try the chef's Tasting Menu (the duo of Eric Ripert and Michael Laiskonis sounds good to me). Again, I appreciate your advice.

[gingersweetiepie]

eleven madison park is *clearly* all the rage right now, why not give it a go? le bernardin, adny, daniel, etc..., while obviously well-established and respected, feel 'old'. if i had the money to blow i'd go try some new talent. quick, before he goes the way of rocco...

[Sneakeater]

If all you're interested in is four-star restaurants, and you're eliminating Per Se, you hardly have to ask. It's not like there are more than four others.

Interesting, though, since you asked, that you then say you're considering a place that NOBODY recommended. I'm not trying to be antagonistic. I'm just saying.

Edited August 22, 2006 by Sneakeater (log)

[Sneakeater]

(FWIW, though, I would say that right now, today, I would eat in EMP over Le Bernadin. FWIW.)

Edited August 22, 2006 by Sneakeater (log)

[weinoo]

Interesting that Platt didn't seem to be totally gaga over EMP in this week's New York Mag.

My most recent meal at Le Bernadin was pretty amazing...doubt you could go wrong there. And Ripert is one of those rare chefs who (other than his consulting gig at Barca) has't expanded his empire, so he may even be in the kitchen.

[rich]

WD-50, Annisa, Cru, Blue Hill at Stone Barns - worth the drive or train, EMP - any of those will put one in the centerfield bleachers.

←

Rich - Thank you for your response. I am however surprised by your suggestion as I never thought of any of them (except maybe Blue Hill) as specail occasion restaurants. I was expecting 4 star restaurants not 2 stars (I believe Blue Hill is 3 stars - not trying to star a flame war here). WD-50 is out as my wife will not be able to "handle" the interesting cuisine. Annisa and Cru are on my try list however, the thought of either one doesn't do it for me for a very special occassion dinner. Blue Hill on the other hand sounds interesting, however, the online menu looks ... I hate to say "pedestrian". I'm sure the food is fantastic however, it doesn't excite me. If it wasn't 5 hours away, I would seriously consider the Inn at Little Washington for dinner and an overnight stay (the same money as staying at a NYC 4 star hotel). Anyway, I may have to cancel my Per Se reservation for 4 as the couple who was coming with us needs to pull out and Per Se doesn't have availability for 2. Although I was there for dinner quite some time ago, I might instead make a reservation for Le Bernadin and try the chef's Tasting Menu (the duo of Eric Ripert and Michael Laiskonis sounds good to me). Again, I appreciate your advice.

←

Don't get caught up in the four-star hype - that's for amateurs, you're better that that. Some places that haven't received the "vaunted" four star rating are doing some interesting things and in most cases are better choices.

WD-50 - Innovative, creative food, that will have you and your wife wondering what's coming next. Very nice bar. Perfect for special occasion.

EMP - Pleasant room, terrific bar, excellent service, probably the best variety of unique tasting menus available in the city at present. Perfect for special occasion.

Stone Barns - romantic and elegant site. Food is impeccable and service is professional and friendly - kitchen is very accommodating to specific requests. The Castle (a great hotel) is ten minutes away for a overnight stay and great breakfast. Can't do better for a special occasion.

Cru - Excellent bar, very professional service, outstanding wine list and some of the more interesting food in NYC. Very appealing room - great special occasion dinner/drink spot.

Annisa - simple, yet elegant room with some of the most creative food in the city prepared by a very hard working chef/owner. Bar is fine. Service is outstanding, great area for a walk after dinner - especially if you meander ten feet west to One If By Land for a drink at the bar and listen to the excellent piano player (he does take requests for that special song). A top choice special occasion place and area.

Remember the four-star places are opinions like everything else - some of them deserve their rating, a few don't anymore. Ignore the stars, follow the food - it will lead you to a better place.

Edited August 22, 2006 by rich (log)

[rich]

Just to note - Per Se would be one of the last places I would go for a special occasion. My wife and I went for our 25th Anniversary and while the food was outstanding, we were both turned off by the service. They did everything right, but too right. The hushed tones and formal service went over the top in our opinions. I didn't write that then, but over time it has continued to reverberate in our memories. I think the euphoria of the evening has given way to the reality of passing time.

PS is without question a four-star resto, but for a special occasion, I would rather go to a funeral home - there would be more laughter.

[Sneakeater]

Don't get caught up in the four-star hype - that's for amateurs, you're better that that.

←

Word.

[oakapple]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

←

Given your parameters, I would recommend Jean Georges or ADNY. There's also nothing wrong with your original first choice, Per Se, but if you've been to The French Laundry, I would recommend trying something new. On the other hand, if you were really wowed by TFL, then Per Se will probably wow you too. I've been to Per Se twice, and it is a unique experience.

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

[rich]

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

←

Operating at a lower level - yes. But the food and surroundings make up for the difference. JG and ADNY (as well as PS, as mentioned above) are unquestionably 4-star places, but all three are a bit "stuffy" when he comes to service and ambiance for my taste. If I'm going out for a special occasion, I would prefer something a little less formal and a little more festive.

[bgut1]

If all you're interested in is four-star restaurants, and you're eliminating Per Se, you hardly have to ask.  It's not like there are more than four others.

Interesting, though, since you asked, that you then say you're considering a place that NOBODY recommended.  I'm not trying to be antagonistic.  I'm just saying.

←

Sneakeater - I'm not trying to limit myself by the NYT star system. In my mind 4 stars means exemplary food, service and decor - the full package. I've enjoyed reading your posts in the past and would never take your response as being antagonistic.

Edited August 22, 2006 by bgut1 (log)

[bgut1]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

←

Given your parameters, I would recommend Jean Georges or ADNY. There's also nothing wrong with your original first choice, Per Se, but if you've been to The French Laundry, I would recommend trying something new. On the other hand, if you were really wowed by TFL, then Per Se will probably wow you too. I've been to Per Se twice, and it is a unique experience.

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

←

Rich - I'm here asking for suggestions, so I appreciate your advice. That being said I agree with Oakapple that those restaurants "may" be a notch below the ones I referenced. Annisa, Cru and WD-50 are all places on my short list to try. However, I don't see them as "once in a lifetime meals." Maybe I'm chasing something that is unattainable. I've eaten at quite a few restaurants over the past 20 years with the top four being at Jean Louis at the Watergate, Le Francais outside of Chicago, The French Laundry, and Jean Georges. I'd like to have one of those rarified experiences for my 40th Birthday without concern as to cost. Therefore, its up to that level that I compare the restaurants. Again, I truly appreciate the time you and the other posters have taken to respond to my request. Thank you.

[bgut1]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

←

Given your parameters, I would recommend Jean Georges or ADNY. There's also nothing wrong with your original first choice, Per Se, but if you've been to The French Laundry, I would recommend trying something new. On the other hand, if you were really wowed by TFL, then Per Se will probably wow you too. I've been to Per Se twice, and it is a unique experience.

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

←

I agree that those recommended may be a notch below Per Se, Daniel, etc. I would gladly go to JG however, I've been there before and wanted to try something new. I've also have been to Le Bernardin however prior to Chef Ripert taking command.

Edited August 22, 2006 by bgut1 (log)

[Sneakeater]

I personally have a problem with planning on a "once in a lifetime" meal.

To me, it puts too much pressure on it. One likely response is that you almost have to be disappointed. Happily, though, the other likely response is that it's so important to you that it be of the highest possible excellence that you'll convince yourself that it is, no matter what.

What a useless post. Sorry.

All I can add in an attempt to be useful is that I don't think the food is "once in a lifetime" by any stretch, but if what you want is a party, go to Daniel.

Edited August 22, 2006 by Sneakeater (log)

[bgut1]

I personally have a problem with planning on a "once in a lifetime" meal.

To me, it puts too much pressure on it.  One likely response is that you almost have to be disappointed.  Happily, though, the other likely response is that it's so important to you that it be of the highest possible excellence that you'll convince yourself that it is, no matter what.

What a useless post.  Sorry.

All I can add in an attempt to be useful is that I don't think the food is "once in a lifetime" by any stretch, but if what you want is a party, go to Daniel.

←

Sorry Sneakeater, but I'm having a hard time not taking offense to your response. The reason for this forum is to have a discourse about food. To say a post is useless is obnoxious. If you truly think so then please read it and move along and try not to insult the OP.

Edited August 22, 2006 by bgut1 (log)

[Sneakeater]

WAIT! SORRY!

I MEANT MY POST WAS USELESS!

WHICH WAS WHY I TRIED TO ATONE FOR IT BY ACTUALLY TRYING TO MAKE A USEFUL SUGGESTION AT THE END.

I'M REALLY SORRY. I TOTALLY SEE HOW I WAS PRACTICALLY BEGGING TO BE MISREAD. I SHOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH CLEARER.

SORRY AGAIN!

Edited August 22, 2006 by Sneakeater (log)

[rich]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

←

Given your parameters, I would recommend Jean Georges or ADNY. There's also nothing wrong with your original first choice, Per Se, but if you've been to The French Laundry, I would recommend trying something new. On the other hand, if you were really wowed by TFL, then Per Se will probably wow you too. I've been to Per Se twice, and it is a unique experience.

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

←

Rich - I'm here asking for suggestions, so I appreciate your advice. That being said I agree with Oakapple that those restaurants "may" be a notch below the ones I referenced. Annisa, Cru and WD-50 are all places on my short list to try. However, I don't see them as "once in a lifetime meals." Maybe I'm chasing something that is unattainable. I've eaten at quite a few restaurants over the past 20 years with the top four being at Jean Louis at the Watergate, Le Francais outside of Chicago, The French Laundry, and Jean Georges. I'd like to have one of those rarified experiences for my 40th Birthday without concern as to cost. Therefore, its up to that level that I compare the restaurants. Again, I truly appreciate the time you and the other posters have taken to respond to my request. Thank you.

←

You are seeking that rarified air type place - a once in a lifetime night to rank with your top four meals.

I think Stone Barns would qualify if you let them cook for you and if you booked a room at The Castle, but I think the Inn at Little Washington would work just as well. Aside from that, I don't think there's a place in NYC which would qualify - they all have strengths and weaknesses.

Here's a thought. Make a chef an offer he/she can't refuse and have one of them come to your house to prepare dinner. That would be a once in a lifetime experience. Maybe Bouley or Mario or Bobby would do it for the right price (not money, but PR/photo opportunity). Hey, it would be worth a shot to contact them.

[johnder]

I wouldn't pick Le Bernadin personally. If you want specific reasons why, you can check out my post in the Le Bernadin thread..

I have always had a great meal at Danube. The room is pretty amazing, and when I was last there (granted it was about a year ago) the service was spot on.

I haven't been to Robuchon yet, but from the inital reviews of it, it seems pretty awesome. Depending on how soon you go, the service may not be 100% up to snuff.

Bouley is another great choice. I don't want to sound like shill for DB, but I had an awesome meal there a few months ago, and like Danube, service was terrific.

Just my thoughts...

john

Edited August 22, 2006 by johnder (log)

[Sneakeater]

As someone who's been to Robuchon: not grand enough for a "special" meal.

[bgut1]

WAIT!  SORRY!

I MEANT MY POST WAS USELESS!

WHICH WAS WHY I TRIED TO ATONE FOR IT BY ACTUALLY TRYING TO MAKE A USEFUL SUGGESTION AT THE END.

I'M REALLY SORRY.  I TOTALLY SEE HOW I WAS PRACTICALLY BEGGING TO BE MISREAD.  I SHOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH CLEARER.

SORRY AGAIN!

←

That's fine. I understand completely how things can be misconstrued. I apologize for my rant.

[bgut1]

I've requested that my wife not throw me the obligatory 40th Birthday Party but instead do dinner and a night in NYC. I really want to "knock this one outta the park" and wanted to try the best the city has to offer. My first thought is Per Se and I currently have a reservation for Oct. 7. However, having read the entire thread on this board, I am having second thoughts. Others being considered are Daniel and ADNY. By way of background, we have dined at the French Laundry, Daniel and Bouley (both prior locations), and Jean Georges. I'm looking for a WOW experience and money (within reason) is not an issue. Thanks for your input.

←

Given your parameters, I would recommend Jean Georges or ADNY. There's also nothing wrong with your original first choice, Per Se, but if you've been to The French Laundry, I would recommend trying something new. On the other hand, if you were really wowed by TFL, then Per Se will probably wow you too. I've been to Per Se twice, and it is a unique experience.

All of Rich's suggestions for "non-amateurs," although very fine restaurants, are operating at a lower level than Per Se, ADNY, or JG.

←

Rich - I'm here asking for suggestions, so I appreciate your advice. That being said I agree with Oakapple that those restaurants "may" be a notch below the ones I referenced. Annisa, Cru and WD-50 are all places on my short list to try. However, I don't see them as "once in a lifetime meals." Maybe I'm chasing something that is unattainable. I've eaten at quite a few restaurants over the past 20 years with the top four being at Jean Louis at the Watergate, Le Francais outside of Chicago, The French Laundry, and Jean Georges. I'd like to have one of those rarified experiences for my 40th Birthday without concern as to cost. Therefore, its up to that level that I compare the restaurants. Again, I truly appreciate the time you and the other posters have taken to respond to my request. Thank you.

←

You are seeking that rarified air type place - a once in a lifetime night to rank with your top four meals.

I think Stone Barns would qualify if you let them cook for you and if you booked a room at The Castle, but I think the Inn at Little Washington would work just as well. Aside from that, I don't think there's a place in NYC which would qualify - they all have strengths and weaknesses.

Here's a thought. Make a chef an offer he/she can't refuse and have one of them come to your house to prepare dinner. That would be a once in a lifetime experience. Maybe Bouley or Mario or Bobby would do it for the right price (not money, but PR/photo opportunity). Hey, it would be worth a shot to contact them.

←

Thanks Rich. I will look into Blue Hill and the Castle. Not a bad idea about cooking in my home but I doubt they would want to come to my home in Jersey. I would however consider a chef's/kitchen table and might email the restaurant inquiring about a special menu. Great ideas thanks.

[bgut1]

My luck ... the Castle on the Hudson is booked solid for the first weekend in October. What is is about October? When did people start to love the Fall so much?

Edited August 22, 2006 by bgut1 (log)

[rich]

My luck ... the Castle on the Hudson is booked solid for the first weekend in October. What is is about October? When did people start to love the Fall so much? 

←

It's probably "leaf season" there.