Refined French & New American fine dining; exceptional cuisine & service, though with a high price tag.
Per Se, helmed by Thomas Keller, provides an exceptional fine dining experience where the focus is on the exquisite cuisine, complemented by impressive views and design. Diners can choose between a standard or vegetarian tasting menu, both celebrated for their balanced, seasonal offerings and elaborate dessert courses. While the restaurant is known for its high price point and potential for upcharges on premium ingredients, many consider it a worthwhile splurge for its impeccable service and memorable culinary journey.
Per Se offers a refined French and New American fine dining experience with tasting menus that are praised for their balance, variety, and seasonal focus, culminating in an elaborate dessert finale. While the 'oysters and pearls' and 'bon bons' have been specifically highlighted positively, one review mentioned basic or oversalted flavors in some dishes. Upselling of supplements like white truffles is noted as a potential point of caution for some diners.
"The 'oysters and pearls' and 'bon bons' have been specifically mentioned as standout dishes. The restaurant is also noted for its comprehensive vegetarian tasting menu."
Customers generally have a very positive sentiment towards Per Se, often describing the experience as exceptional, memorable, and living up to the hype, with particular praise for the service and food presentation. However, some find it too expensive or that it hasn't maintained its former high standards, citing specific dishes as underwhelming or oversalted.
Important Note
Some reviewers noted aggressive upselling of supplements like white truffles and that the restaurant may have lost some of its former luster over the years.
"This user states that Per Se pales in comparison to The French Laundry and calls it another 'Fauxmakase'."
Negative"The user was underwhelmed by Per Se, though not as much as they were by Cesar. They also had positive experiences with other restaurants."
Neutral"This user advises passing on Per Se, stating it has definitely lost its shine over the years."
Negative"This user loves both Per Se and The French Laundry, visiting Per Se more often as they live in NYC. They find the food comparable but TFL has better ambiance and more consistently impeccable service."
Positive"This user suggested Per Se as a romantic restaurant option."
Positive"timexconsumer suggested the 'Salon' at Per Se as a potential dining option."
Neutral"Per Se was listed as a high-end dining option."
Neutral"Recommended as one of the best restaurants in the city, with a high price point."
Positive"Per Se is named as one of the expensive Midtown restaurants that could be appropriate for clients, though no further details are given."
Neutral"Per Se is described as lovely with fantastic and personable service, and it offers an excellent view, making it a suitable high-end dining option."
Positive"The commenter jokingly suggested visiting Per Se to get a Long Island Iced Tea."
Neutral"This commenter believes Per Se and The Modern are not comparable, and if the budget allows for Per Se, it should be the chosen option, implying Per Se is a superior experience."
Positive"This user mentioned that Per Se, along with EMP and Le Bernardin, offers vegetarian tasting menus that are well-received."
Positive"The user recommends Per Se due to its ability to handle dietary restrictions effectively, noting it has a full vegetarian menu available for substitutions. This suggests it would be a reliable choice for a group with varied dietary needs."
Positive"Per Se is considered to have better service and drink options compared to The Modern, although the non-alcoholic options at both are not exceptional. This commenter suggests Per Se for its overall experience, distinct from the food and vibe focus on The Modern."
Positive"Per Se is noted for having exceptionally beautiful food presentation."
Positive"Per Se is listed as a recommended restaurant for a unique NYC dining experience."
Positive"Per Se is recommended."
Positive"Per Se offers a style of fine dining that was popular in previous decades, described as very French and old-school, which they execute well."
Positive"The user had their most recent visit in May and found the food and service to be immaculate, as always."
Positive