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.
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.
However, the dishes remain inventive, with a classic foundation.
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.
Next, bread was brought to the table, and I chose a small selection served with salted butter from Maison Bordier.
I’ll be ordering the near veal dish, served with sweetbreads. It will be sublime, perfectly balanced and the right amount for me.
For dessert, I had the macadamia and praline mousse, a bit sweet but absolutely divine.
To finish, a delightful assortment of mignardises was served, adding a final sweet touch to the meal.
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.
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:
| # | Type | Post |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diary | Conference in New York |
| 2 | Lounge | Delta SkyClub, Boston Logan A8 |
| 3 | Flight | Delta Domestic First, Boston Logan – New York JFK, Airbus A220-100 |
| 4 | Lounge | Delta SkyClub, New York JFK T4 |
| 5 | Hotel | JW Marriott Essex House, New York |
| 6 | Restaurant | Daniel, New York |
| 7 | Lounge | Delta SkyClub, New York JFK T4 |
| 8 | Flight | Delta Domestic First, New York JFK – Boston Logan, Airbus A220-100 |















