Restaurant Daniel, New York: Excellent as Always!

For one of my New York evenings on this trip, I made a reservation at one of my favorite restaurants, Daniel.

The concept

This is the flagship fine-dining restaurant of French chef Daniel Boulud, who has been a fixture in New York for many years.

The setting

The restaurant is divided into two main areas: the main dining room, which offers the chef’s signature tasting menu in either 5 or 9 courses, and the lounge area, which features an à la carte menu.

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I reserved in the latter, allowing me the flexibility to order just one main course.

The menu

The menu has barely changed since my last visit, which was five years ago.

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However, the dishes remain inventive, with a classic foundation.

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The meal and the dishes

As an aperitif, I’ll be ordering one of the house cocktails that intrigues me, the Liqueur de René, made with whisky, calvados and pineau des Charentes. Very balanced and not too sweet, unlike Negroni, for example.

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Next, bread was brought to the table, and I chose a small selection served with salted butter from Maison Bordier.

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I’ll be ordering the near veal dish, served with sweetbreads. It will be sublime, perfectly balanced and the right amount for me.

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For dessert, I had the macadamia and praline mousse, a bit sweet but absolutely divine.

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To finish, a delightful assortment of mignardises was served, adding a final sweet touch to the meal.

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The service

As expected in a Relais Châteaux establishment of this caliber, the service was exceptional—attentive without being overbearing. Just perfect.

The atmosphere

In the lounge area where we were seated, the ambiance was quiet and intimate, with only one other table occupied.

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Quite unusual for a Thursday evening, which would normally be busier.

Bottom line

An excellent dinner, with a flawless meal and outstanding service.

Itinerary

As a reminder, here is the itinerary followed:

#TypePost
1DiaryConference in New York
2LoungeDelta SkyClub, Boston Logan A8
3FlightDelta Domestic First, Boston Logan – New York JFK, Airbus A220-100
4LoungeDelta SkyClub, New York JFK T4
5HotelJW Marriott Essex House, New York
6RestaurantDaniel, New York
7LoungeDelta SkyClub, New York JFK T4
8FlightDelta Domestic First, New York JFK – Boston Logan, Airbus A220-100
Today’s itinerary
Olivier Delestre-Levai
Olivier Delestre-Levai
Olivier has been into airline blogging since 2010. First a major contributor to the FlyerTalk forum, he created the FlyerPlan website in July 2012, and writes articles with a major echo among airline specialists. He now co-runs the TravelGuys blog with Bertrand, focusing on travel experience and loyalty programs.
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