Per Se

Per Se, situated on the fourth floor of the Time Warner Center at 10 Columbus Circle in New York City, is one of America's most celebrated fine-dining destinations, holding three Michelin stars continuously since 2006. Chef-owner Thomas Keller — whose French Laundry in Yountville set the template — brings the same philosophy of rigorous French technique applied to exceptional American seasonal produce to Manhattan. The restaurant offers two prix-fixe tasting menus each evening: the nine-course Chef's Tasting Menu and the nine-course Salon Tasting Menu, both priced at $365 per person and reformulated daily around what is finest at market. Among the dishes that have taken on near-mythic status is 'Oysters and Pearls,' a silky sabayon of Island Creek oysters topped with a generous portion of Osetra caviar — an amuse-bouche served at almost every service and considered by many critics to be one of the greatest single bites in American fine dining. Another beloved signature is a refined 'Macaroni and Cheese': creamy butter-poached lobster served over orzo, a witty echo of American comfort food elevated to the level of haute cuisine. The dining room exudes serenity — pale French grey walls, deeply upholstered armchairs, and panoramic windows overlooking Central Park and the Manhattan skyline combine to create an atmosphere of poised elegance. Staff-to-guest ratios well exceed industry norms, and service achieves a level of attentiveness that anticipates rather than reacts. The wine program is overseen by a Master Sommelier and spans thousands of selections, with exceptional depth in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne. Reservations open online exactly two months in advance at 10 a.m. Eastern, and coveted weekend slots typically disappear within minutes; a persistent guest willing to monitor cancellations may find weeknight availability at shorter notice.