Etats Unis Restaurant
(212) 517-8826
242 E 81st St
New York,
NY
10028
40.7751
-73.9555
Neighborhoods: Midtown, Yorkville
What People Are Saying About Etats Unis Restaurant
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Inside, it looks more like a minimalist gallery than a dining room, with shiny white plaster walls, sandstone panelling and tendrils of green leaves artfully arranged on a single windowsill. Despite the diminutive size, harsh acoustics and tightly arranged tables, the Rapp family makes diners feel exceedingly comfortable. Service is personalized, tableware is elegant and a reverent mood surrounds the open kitchen. But don't even attempt an impromptu visit--a tony crowd keeps this hidden find's reservation line on speed dial.
The Food
The seasons inform this internationally-inspired menu, where top-notch ingredients and careful preparations fetch top dollar. Mexican influences shine through beautifully roasted, shrimp-stuffed poblano with sweet corn emulsion, and succulent Niman pork shoulder falls from the bone in a chili-powdered mole. Homemade pappardelle is simple and sublime, but more ambitious dishes, like rosemary-laced lamb with sweet figs with a potato-broccoli rabe gratin, are worth the splurge. Though the name is French for "United States," the only Gallic hint is an underdone--though insanely rich--soufflé.
User Reviews
tbrax
December 11, 2008
We enjoyed our meal here, but for the price I expected a bit more. The food was good and the portions more than adequate, but there wasn't any real creativity or excitement about it. The paella was probably the most interesting item we saw in that it was deconstructed--rather than being integrated there was some arborio with seafood and sausage nicely arranged on top. Nice presentation, but the rice ended up being a bit bland for a paella. I did think the appetizers were more interesting and a bit better than the entrees; if I go back I may just have two apps instead of hitting the main courses. And the prices...wow. It cost more to eat here than in most other upscale restaurants and I didn't see enough difference in the food to justify the expense. Service was a tad sluggish but not bad by any means, and I like the more casual vibe of the place. It is a small room but wasn't overly loud and didn't feel that crowded once we were seated, though getting from the door to the table required some contortions to avoid the various obstacles in the way.
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sonia10021
August 14, 2007
Creative but simple. I have never left Etats-Unis disappointed. The Restaurant side has a better seating arrangement to fully enjoy your dinner and company. My favorite!
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charlesmstam
July 02, 2007
As an Upper East Side resident, I am often frustrated by the overpriced and underwhelming restaurants in my neighbordhood. Eating at Etats Unis is always a lovely experience. I have been eaten at Etats Unis twice and have come away pleased both times. The food interesting and creative and the service is attentive and unpretentious. The decor isn't anything fancy, but it suits the restaurant well. The only downside to this place is the cost, but if you order wisely you could avoid a big check. The winebar across the street is very cute but can be cramped and uncomfotable and the no reservation policy doesn't help. I would stick to the main dining room.
read full reviewThe Details on Etats Unis Restaurant
What to Drink:
There are just a few under-$40 options on the international list, and none are as exciting as La Planella, a chocolatey, oaky red from Tarragona, Spain ($48). It's one of the 20 wines by the glass ($8-12).
The Extras:
Directly across the street is a hip little nook of a bar illuminated by an impressive abstract paper lantern arrangement. There's banquette seating for sandwiches (prepped across the street) and fantastic guacamole (freshly smashed-to-order at the bar).
When to Go:
The bar is open until 11pm every night.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, Debit Card
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Special Occasion Dining, People Watching, Dine At The Bar, Bar Scene, Notable Wine List
