BEST CONTEMPORARY IN GRAMERCY/MADISON PARK
An integral part of Danny Meyer's ever expanding restaurant empire (Gramercy Tavern, Union Square Cafe, Tabla et al.), Eleven Madison Park is quintessential Gotham. Marble floors, impossibly high ceilings, elegant wrought-iron chandeliers and tall windows overlooking the park distinguish this art deco dining room that was once a bank. The visually striking Gramercy restaurant has revamped and gained serious momentum since James Beard award-nominated chef Daniel Humm took the helm in 2006. Colorful and aesthetically intriguing food presentations and reputably unpretentious and helpful service render EMP a crowd favorite and dining destination for out-oftowners. Humm has taken the progressive cuisine in a more French direction, and indulgent menu standouts include foie gras, Vermont suckling pig, Muscovy duck for two with lavender honey, and Black Angus beef tenderloin with Bordelaise sauce. Diners can choose a three-course prix fixe meal or opt for the tasting menu with optional wine pairings. While you're splurging, you might as well kick back with a Monkey Gland (gin, absinthe, grenadine, orange juice) or a Mississippi Buck (bourbon, ginger-infused lime syrup and soda). Reservations suggested. Full bar with award-winning wine list. Serving lunch Mon-Fri, dinner Mon-Sat. Closed Sun.
Where the Locals Eat Rating
Top 100 Restaurant, New York City
Best Contemporary in Gramercy/Madison Park
"Set in a magnificent art deco dining room with soaring ceilings and lush views of historic Madison Square Park, Eleven Madison Park is an elegant restaurant serving Chef Daniel Humm's modern, pure and market-driven French cuisine."
– Eleven Madison Park website
"Every time I left Eleven Madison Park, it was with at least one dish, and usually several, lingering in my thoughts and prompting me to rave to somebody the next day."
– Frank Bruni, The New York Times, Jan. 10, 2007
"[Chef] Daniel Humm, has come up with a condensed version of suckling pig that is part indulgence, part high-minded haute cuisine showpiece, and part pure barnyard pleasure ... you'll be tempted to finish, then order it again."
—New York magazine
"New chef Daniel Humm has replaced the rustic New American menu at Danny Meyer's vast Art Deco jewel with one that's more refined and far-reaching."
—Time Out New York
"In a city filled with hyper-decorated restaurants that look more like Hollywood stage sets than places to dine, Eleven Madison Park stands apart, exuding glamour that seems inborn."
—Newsday
"Service is fussy, and the fare tends toward the opulent."
—Village Voice
"Don't skip dessert here; creative confections from the talented pastry chef warrant your full attention."
—Michelin New York City
How Others Rate Eleven Madison Park
The New York Times: *** (Excellent); Top Pick
New York magazine: *** (Generally Excellent); Critics' Pick; Best of New York 2007: Best Pig
Zagat: 26 Food Rating (Extraordinary to Perfection)
James Beard Foundation