Eric Ripert’s NYC Picks: A Culinary Journey Through the City’s Finest

Eric Ripert, legendary chef and mastermind behind the three-Michelin-starred Le Bernardin, shares his ultimate selections for dining in New York City. His highly curated list includes elite restaurants that represent the pinnacle of culinary artistry and intimate dining experiences.

Masa: The Ultimate Sushi Experience

The Shops at, 10 Columbus Circle Floor 4, New York, NY 

Ripert hails Masa, located in the Shops at Columbus Circle, as the king of sushi in NYC. Chef Masa Takayama’s omakase-only restaurant offers a rare blend of tradition and innovation, with dishes like delicate sushi rice balls rolled in white truffle that dissolve exquisitely on the tongue. Masa’s meticulous craftsmanship and the restaurant’s tranquil ambiance make it a once-in-a-lifetime luxury dining destination.

César: Japanese-Influenced Fine Dining

333 Hudson St, New York, NY 

Opened by acclaimed chef César Ramirez, César combines Japanese precision with avant-garde European techniques. The two-Michelin-starred venue on Hudson Street features refined small bites like the famous uni toast served on brioche and a 13-course tasting menu that delivers freshness and creativity with every dish. The restaurant embodies a sleek downtown glamour perfect for special occasions.

Daniel: Iconic French Elegance

60 E 65th St, New York, NY 

Daniel Boulud’s namesake Upper East Side establishment is synonymous with elevated French cuisine. With a legacy of multiple accolades, including Michelin recognition, Daniel delivers meticulously crafted dishes like the kataifi-crusted salmon and macadamia mousseline. The refined atmosphere and art-adorned interiors make Daniel a timeless choice for celebration and fine dining lovers.

Jean-Georges: A Blend of French, American & Asian

1 Central Prk W, New York, NY 

Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s flagship restaurant near Central Park offers an impeccable fusion of flavors with a changing seasonal menu dominated by local produce. The two-Michelin-starred destination is famed for its masterful balance of ingredients and stunning views of Central Park, paired with impeccable service and a chic setting.

Favorite Dish in NYC: Pike Quenelles at Le Coucou

138 Lafayette St, New York, NY

Among New York City’s culinary delights, Eric Ripert holds a special place for the Pike Quenelles at Le Coucou. This classic French dish features pike mousse delicately shaped and served with a rich lobster sauce, exemplifying the finesse and tradition of Parisian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Manhattan. Le Coucou’s elegant setting and careful attention to detail in every dish make it a favorite for gourmands seeking authenticity and charm.