ZipPicks Awards
Best Tasting Menus in Midtown Manhattan
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Midtown Manhattan
Best Michelin Star Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
Best Farm to Table Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan
Master Critic Review
Per Se
9.0
A landmark fine‑dining institution offering meticulous multi‑course tasting menus with sweeping views and refined service — a go‑to for once‑in‑a‑lifetime meals. The precision of execution and consistency night after night make it a standout even among NYC’s upper crust. Great for milestone celebrations or indulgent evenings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal nine‑course tasting menu, Vegetarian tasting menu option, Wine‑paired dessert course
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 9.4
Consistency: 9.5
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Meticulous multi‑course tasting menu with park views and stellar service.
Who should go: Gourmands celebrating something special.
When to visit: Dinner, with advance reservation (weeks ahead).
What to order: Seasonal nine‑course tasting, wine pairing, dessert.
Insider tip: Request a window seat overlooking Central Park for best experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available for $25, limited street parking in the area, especially difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Formal attire is recommended, business casual is acceptable but lean towards elegant.
Noise level: Low to moderate - intimate enough for conversation, though it can be a bit lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes without a reservation, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - a dedicated vegetarian tasting menu is available upon request.
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegan options are available, but they must be requested in advance.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options are available, with a separate prep area for safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely - Per Se offers a romantic, luxurious atmosphere, perfect for making a lasting impression. The intimate setting and exceptional service make it a memorable experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's highly recommended to book weeks in advance due to high demand. Without a reservation, securing a table, especially on weekends, is unlikely.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly - Per Se is an upscale, fine-dining experience suited for adults. Children under 12 are not typically accommodated, but the ambiance may not appeal to younger guests.
Best For
Better for: Per Se excels in offering a luxurious, once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with world-class service and extraordinary views of Central Park. It's perfect for milestone celebrations and those seeking a high-end, curated tasting menu.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more casual or family-friendly dining experience, or if you prefer a quicker, more laid-back meal, you may want to explore other options.