NYC Lunch Prix-Fixe

Looking to have a five star meal in NYC without the hefty price tag- the answer is lunch.  Many of the city's best restaurants offer prix-fix deals during the week that showcase the same amazing food and atmosphere at a fraction of the cost.  Here are some of my favorites:

Nougatine

It seems strange to think that so many dishes in American restaurants today were created by Jean George.  The glorious Tuna Tartare, the decadent Chocolate Molten Lava cake...this man made these dishes popular and the originals can still be enjoyed at his casual sister restaurant Nougatine today.

The Deal- $38 Three Course Prix-fixe

Pro Tip- There is an outdoor terrace hidden at the base of Columbus Circle open for dining during nice weather.


Del Posto

A meal at Mario Batali's sprawling Meatpacking restaurant can add up very quickly at dinner time with a menu starting at $126 per guest.  Instead try out his exceptional Italian cooking in all its glory at lunch when the luxurious space streams in the sunlight and the amuse bouche are plentiful.

The Deal- $49 Three Course Prix-fixe  $10 Additional Taste of Pasta

Pro Tip- Make reservations well in advance.  Del Posto's lunches have become very popular with the Meatpacking work crowd.

Bouley

Whenever I'm looking to completely escape the city I head to Bouley where the gorgeous interior and fabulous food make me instantly feel like I'm in the countryside somewhere near the south of France.  Expect complete opulence from start to finish and a Chariot of Bread in between.

The Deal- $55 Five Course Tasting Menu

Pro Tip- Bouley requires men wear a suit coat at both lunch and dinner.



Gotham Bar and Grill

It's been over 30 years since Gotham Bar and Grill first opened it's doors on 12th Street.  This restaurant helped to define fine dining back in the 80's and continues to be at the forefront of the culinary scene today.  Alfred Portale's lunch prix-fix changes often but you can always order their famed Gotham Chocolate Cake with salted almond ice cream at the end.

The Deal- $38 Three Course Prix-fixe

Pro Tip- While lunch reservations book up quickly there's almost always open spots at the bar perfect for dining.


Tocqueville

Tucked away on a busy corner in Union Square, Tocqueville feels like some sort of urban oasis.  The gorgeous artwork on the walls and high ceilings create a serene atmosphere that's impossible not to enjoy.  The menu changes daily based on the offerings from the Union Square Green Market next door ensuring everything is always fresh and seasonal.

The Deal- $29 Two Course Prix-fixe  Two Course Wine Pairing $16

Pro Tip- The wine list is exceptional but expensive.  If your dining solo the wine pairings are a much better option than by the glass both for value and enjoyment.


The Nomad

Good luck scoring a dinner reservation at the perennially packed Nomad.  Reservations fill up 30 days in advance and the trendy scene can feel a bit overwhelming.  Opt instead for lunch when the crowds are quieter and the same fabulous food will cost half as much.  It's true the Chicken for Two isn't available but the Chicken Burger has that same foie gras stuffed goodness and the incredible Carrot Tartar makes a special appearance.

The Deal- $20 Two Course Prix-fixe   Update: The Nomad no longer offers a prix fix lunch just a la carte options

Pro Tip- The Cookies and Cream Ice Cream is only available for dessert during lunch in the main dining room or the bar next door.   Order and devour.


ABC Kitchen

The "other" Jean George restaurant on the list; this one more casual and focusing on fresh seasonal food that are all GMO-free and locally sourced.   Expect stunning vegetable dishes like the Roasted Carrot and Avocado Salad and staples like the creamy Crab Toast with lemon aioli.  But always leave room for dessert...the Salted Caramel Sundae with popcorn, candied peanuts and chocolate sauce is one of the best sundaes in the city.

The Deal- $34 Three Course Prix-fixe

Pro Tip- Oprah listed their Spinach, Goat Cheese and Herb Pizza as one of her favorite instant mood boosters in 2013.


Comments

Patrick23 said…
Fantastic list! I plan to check out Tocqueville on my next NYC trip!
Roze said…
Tocqueville is fantastic. I could sit and relax in their fabulous dining room all day and be quite happy. Enjoy!