L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon
New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 350-6658
- Cross Street:
- Between Madison Avenue and Park Avenue
- Directions:
- 4, 5, 6 at 59th St; N, R at Lexington Ave
- Best of Citysearch:
- French Food 2007, Hotel Dining 2007
- Hours:
- Daily 11:30am-11pm
Editorial Review for L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon – by Justin Hartung
The Scene
As in its Paris, Tokyo and Vegas incarnations, L'Atelier's signature wraparound counter seats provide devout foodies a peek into their demigod Joel Robuchon's kitchen. Giant palms, bright red vases and colorful mosaics effortlessly create a hybrid of Robuchon's Japanese-influenced style with the stately Art Deco flourishes of the Four Seasons. Fur-draped matrons and hotel guests sup more anonymously at cozy tables.
The Food
With eye-popping flavors, presentations and price tags, Robuchon's inventive creations work best in bite-sized portions. Meaty, crispy frog leg repose in tiny ponds of pesto; a basil leaf peeks through light-as-air langoustine wrapping; and delicate sweetbreads, impaled with a leafy stem, resemble summer fruit. Foie gras stuffs an already succulent quail entree, while, in a rare stumble, too-mustardy steak tartare is formed into an oversized patty and served with krinkle-cut fries. Cloud-like almond souffle with pears and pistachio crumbs ushers diners gently back into the night.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe jet-setting wine list ranges from around $50 to $5,000. The cheapest glass on the list, a mellow petite Syrah, pairs well with a multitude of Robuchon's creations.
Where to SitThe U-shaped counter provides lots of casual conversation with neighbors, while the table seating, though more secluded, picks up a bit of noise from the bar just outside the restaurant.
Know Before You GoReservations for tables can be made up to 30 days in advance, but the bar accepts walk-ins.
Look GoodRead up on the first U.S. outpost of L'Atelier in Vegas.
User Reviews for L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon
09/10/2008 Posted by ari81
I went to Joel Roubuchon with my mother while on a recent business trip to NYC (from LA). It was a celebratory dinner of sorts, so we wanted to go big. We sat at the counter and had the best most attentive server, Katchie. This restaurant did not disappoint. The food was amazing, probably the best I've ever had. The service was impeccable, every detail timed with perfection. The counter was fun to watch the chefs "behind the scenes". I'm a big HELLS KITCHEN fan, so I appreciated their craft. One chef was placing the smallest bit of tarragon on the dish with surgical tweezers! The appetizers (day boat scallops), main course (hangar steak) and dessert (chocolate mousse!) was so tasty! I would recommend this restaurant to anyone - a bit pricey, so it's not your every day kind of place, but for special occasions for sure!
Pros: The food! So gourmet, a true palette pleaser!
Cons: Harsh on the wallet
03/14/2008 Posted by parisnyc8
We had 3 different appetizers and they're all very good, especially the foie gras. The wine selection is excellent, as well as the service. This place reminds me so much of Asiate in Mandarin hotel, less the view. The restaurant is next to the hotel bar which I thought was just ok. This is great for lunch but if you wish to have a romantic dinner, this might not be the place because the people sitting on the next table can hear everything that you say even if you're speaking in a normal tone of voice. But the food is exceptional!
Pros: Great food and wine list!
Cons: A bit pricey and not a lot of privacy
Users Like You Also Viewed
230 Fifth
230 5th Ave
New York, NY 10001
Knife + Fork Restaurant
108 E 4th St
New York, NY 10003
