When it comes to dining out, most of us are happy with a delicious meal that doesn’t break the bank. But for those with a taste for luxury and a wallet to match, the U.S. offers a variety of restaurants where the experience is as lavish as the price tag. These 15 restaurants push the boundaries of dining out, creating experiences worth every penny.
Masa – New York, NY
Masa is not just a sushi restaurant; it’s an intimate journey into the world of Japanese culinary art. Chef Masa Takayama crafts each dish with such precision and respect for tradition that dining here feels like participating in a centuries-old ritual. The fish is flown in from Japan’s most exclusive markets, and the minimalist decor, devoid of distractions, ensures that the focus remains entirely on the exquisite food.
Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare – New York, NY
Hidden within a grocery store, Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare redefines the concept of “hidden gem.” This three-Michelin-starred establishment offers an exclusive 20-seat dining experience where Chef César Ramirez’s Japanese and French-inspired dishes are served in a luxurious and personal setting. The intimacy of the space, combined with the chef’s almost theatrical presentation of food, makes it a unique spot.
Joël Robuchon – Las Vegas, NV
Opened by the legendary chef Joël Robuchon, the restaurant has garnered numerous accolades, including a prestigious three-star rating from the Michelin Guide in 2009. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience, featuring only 12 tables in the main dining area. Guests can choose between a prix fixe menu or an à la carte selection, with dishes prepared using the finest ingredients.
Atelier Crenn – San Francisco, CA
At Atelier Crenn, food is poetry—literally. Chef Dominique Crenn’s menu is a poem, with each line corresponding to a course that embodies her deep connection to nature and her French heritage. The dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious, with each plate resembling a piece of art. The restaurant’s intimate, gallery-like setting enhances the experience, and this makes it feel like dining in a modern art museum.
The French Laundry – Yountville, CA
In Napa Valley, The French Laundry is synonymous with culinary perfection. Housed in a charming stone building with a beautiful garden, the restaurant feels like a hidden oasis of tranquility. Thomas Keller’s dedication to using the freshest, most exceptional ingredients is evident in every bite. The nine-course tasting menu changes daily to ensure each visit is a new and memorable experience.
Per Se – New York, NY
Overlooking Central Park, the restaurant’s tranquil ambiance is matched by Chef Thomas Keller’s meticulous approach to French cuisine. The dishes, which are as visually stunning as they are delicious, reflect a deep respect for ingredients and a passion for innovation. It’s a place where every detail, from the delicate flavors to the seamless service, is crafted to perfection.
Alinea – Chicago, IL
Over here, Chef Grant Achatz is known for his avant-garde approach to cuisine, where each dish is a work of art designed to surprise and engage all your senses. The interactive elements—edible balloons and dishes that change form before your eyes—make dining at Alinea feel more like attending a cutting-edge art installation than simply having dinner. It’s a place where creativity knows no bounds.
Eleven Madison Park – New York, NY
Eleven Madison Park celebrates New York’s culinary diversity. Chef Daniel Humm’s dishes are inspired by the city’s rich history and culture, with each course telling a story that is uniquely New York. The restaurant is known for its innovative plant-based menu. Dishes like the faux butter served with freshly baked vegan rolls and a unique donburi “caviar” highlight Humm’s commitment to elevating plant-based dining to new heights.
The Inn at Little Washington – Washington, VA
The Inn at Little Washington is a luxurious spot that allows you to escape into a world where whimsy meets sophistication. Chef Patrick O’Connell’s playful yet elegant dishes often feature unexpected combinations that surprise and delight. The inn itself is a picture of charm, with each dining room offering a different, enchanting theme. It’s a place where you’re as likely to be charmed by the decor as you are by the food.
Saison – San Francisco, CA
At Saison, Executive Chef Richard Lee uses fire as a central theme in his cooking. His dishes highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient through live-fire cooking techniques. The restaurant’s open kitchen allows you to witness this artistry firsthand, creating an intimate and awe-inspiring dining experience. Reservations are a must, and the restaurant operates from Tuesday to Saturday.
Le Bernardin – New York, NY
Le Bernardin is a masterclass in seafood excellence. Chef Eric Ripert’s approach is all about letting the quality of the fish shine with dishes that are as refined as they are flavorful. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design and impeccable service make it the go-to spot for those seeking the ultimate seafood experience. Their menu has three sections, “Almost raw,” “Barely touched,” and “Lightly cooked.”
SingleThread – Healdsburg, CA
SingleThread is more than just a restaurant—it’s a farm-to-table experience that embodies the essence of California’s wine country. Chef Kyle Connaughton and his team grow much of the produce used in the restaurant on their farm, ensuring that each dish is as fresh and seasonal as possible. The Japanese-inspired menu is a tribute to nature, with each course carefully crafted to reflect the changing seasons.
The Restaurant at Meadowood – St. Helena, CA
Chef Christopher Kostow led the restaurant, which focused on hyper-regional Napa Valley cooking, utilizing ingredients foraged from the surrounding areas and emphasizing seasonal produce. Unfortunately, the Glass Fire destroyed the restaurant on September 28, 2020. Following the fire, the team has been involved in temporary residencies across California while plans for rebuilding are underway.
Quince – San Francisco, CA
Quince is where Italian-inspired cuisine meets Californian innovation. Chef Michael Tusk’s menu is a celebration of seasonality, with each dish reflecting the best of what the region has to offer. The main offering is a ten-course Gastronomy menu showcasing dishes crafted from local produce, often sourced from their partner farm, Fresh Run Farm. A shorter, four-course menu is also available for those seeking a quicker dining experience.
Sushi Nakazawa – New York, NY
Chef Daisuke Nakazawa, a former apprentice of the legendary Jiro Ono, brings his masterful skills to New York, where each piece of sushi is crafted with precision. Their 21-course meal showcases a variety of sushi, including standout items like Hokkaido cherry salmon and live Massachusetts sea scallops. The progression of flavors is carefully curated to enhance the dining experience, often culminating in a handroll of finely chopped fatty tuna.
