Elegant French fine dining w/ classic techniques & sophisticated ambiance. A timeless NYC gem, but recent reviews hint at a changing experience.
Daniel, a long-standing French fine-dining institution on the Upper East Side, offers an elegant escape reminiscent of a bygone European era. With a focus on classic French techniques and top-tier ingredients, the tasting menus, alongside à la carte options in the lounge, provide a sophisticated culinary journey. While the ambiance and service are often praised, recent feedback suggests a potential decline in quality for some diners.
This French fine-dining establishment offers tasting menus featuring classic preparations of high-quality ingredients, with dishes like artichoke ravioli and black cod mentioned. However, some diners have reported negative experiences, including exceptionally hard bread and unappealing plating, particularly of the cheese course.
"The port marinated duck is mentioned as being good, though served in a small portion. The canelé is also highlighted as a fabulous pastry, though only available with a full dinner."
Customer sentiment is mixed, with some praising the elegant atmosphere and excellent service, while others express disappointment with recent experiences, citing issues with food quality and perceived outdatedness.
Important Note
Some recent reviews suggest a decline in quality and that the restaurant may be perceived as stuffy or outdated. The bread has been specifically called out as being exceptionally hard.
"Daniel is highly recommended for service, with the commenter stating it's the best they have ever experienced, surpassing Le Bernardin, EMP, and Per Se."
Positive"This user clarified that the cab driver reviewer often refuses complimentary bills and pays them, and that regular patrons may also receive complimentary items."
Neutral"This user observed a cab driver reviewer receiving significant complimentary food and attention from the chef at Daniel, resulting in a small bill."
Neutral"Daniel is listed as a restaurant with an impressive dining room design."
Positive"Daniel is suggested as a high-end dining option that offers a three-course pre-fixe menu, suitable for the original poster's desire for a fancy experience."
Positive"Daniel was suggested as a dining option."
Positive"Daniel is mentioned as a potential option for upscale dining in the city."
Positive"This user criticized the description of Daniel in the article, calling it a "horribly worded run on sentence about how a tasting menu works.""
Neutral"This user questioned Daniel's inclusion on a "best of" list, stating there are significantly better French fine dining options in NYC and that other restaurants by the same chef are superior."
Negative"The original poster mentioned being gravely disappointed with Daniel during a recent visit."
Negative"Daniel is suggested as a place to dress up, implying it's a fine-dining establishment suitable for special occasions."
Positive"This user mentioned that Daniel used to give out beautifully packaged caneles as a souvenir/gift and they were incredible."
Positive"The original poster thanked the commenter for their recommendations."
Positive"Daniel is mentioned as a restaurant likely to be quiet and good for conversations."
Positive"This commenter suggested trying Daniel if the user can afford it, implying it's a high-end dining option."
Positive"Daniel is recommended for its atmosphere that can transport diners."
Positive"This user states that Daniel is 'garbage'."
Negative"This user suggests Daniel as a good option for solo diners looking for walk-in seating or bar availability."
Positive"Daniel was recommended as a dining option."
Positive"The commenter believes that Daniel would be a perfect choice for the occasion being celebrated."
Positive
