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The Modern
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
The Modern
8.8
A sleek, contemporary fine‑dining room with art‑world vibes — seasonal French‑American tasting menus paired with exceptional service and curated wine selections. It’s a go‑to when you want a sophisticated, modern experience right near MoMA and Midtown energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Tasting Menu (varies), Duck à la Presse (when available), Chocolate Dessert with Citrus Gel
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin‑starred seasonal menus inside a museum‑adjacent modern dining space.
Who should go: Art lovers, modern‑cuisine fans, business diners.
When to visit: Dinner after museum visit or business lunch.
What to order: Chef’s seasonal tasting menu, duck à la presse (if on menu), dessert with citrus gel.
Insider tip: Book ‘Kitchen Table’ for a more intimate, chef‑focused vantage.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for $25, limited street parking in the area, difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual, dressy attire encouraged but not mandatory.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation is comfortable but quieter during business lunches.
Weekend wait: Expect 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially on busy weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, reservations recommended for guaranteed seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – seasonal vegetarian options available, but may not be extensive.
Vegan options: Limited – typically 2-3 options, depending on the season.
Gluten-free options: Yes – separate prep area and gluten-free menu items available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – The intimate, luxurious atmosphere and exceptional service make it perfect for impressing someone special.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as the restaurant fills up quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? While it’s not geared towards young children, older teens or kids with an appreciation for fine dining may enjoy the experience.
Best For
Better for: Better for a refined, art-inspired dining experience in a sophisticated setting, with an emphasis on modern French-American cuisine.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a casual dining experience or a quick bite; this is more suited to leisurely, high-end meals.
The Modern
8.9
A sleek, art-forward dining experience inside MoMA where contemporary American–French cuisine meets impeccable execution and polished ambience. Diners come for refined seasonal tasting menus and appreciate the quiet elegance and attentive service. A top pick for special occasions or stylish nights out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Tasting Menu (multi‑course), Duck à la presse, Chef’s Table seasonal special
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Art‑gallery ambience meets refined seasonal tasting cuisine under MoMA roof.
Who should go: Couples or food lovers seeking elevated fine dining.
When to visit: Dinner for special nights or celebrations.
What to order: Seasonal tasting menu, duck à la presse, wine pairing.
Insider tip: Book the chef’s table for a more intimate, art‑meets‑kitchen experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available for $25, street parking difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are acceptable but lean dressy for the upscale atmosphere.
Noise level: Moderate – perfect for intimate conversations, though ambient music creates a subtle backdrop.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – dedicated menu section with creative vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited – 2-3 vegan options available upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – separate prep area for gluten-free dishes to ensure safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The intimate ambiance, luxurious setting, and impeccable service make it an ideal spot for an unforgettable first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s strongly recommended to make a reservation, especially for dinner on weekends, as the restaurant is quite popular. Walk-ins may have to wait, especially on busy nights.
Is it kid-friendly? While The Modern is primarily focused on fine dining for adults, children over 12 may enjoy the experience, but it is not specifically designed for young kids.
Best For
Better for: The Modern excels at offering an art-forward, luxury dining experience paired with exceptional tasting menus. Ideal for those looking for a refined, quiet setting to enjoy contemporary American-French cuisine in an upscale environment.
Skip if: If you're seeking a more casual or family-friendly dining experience, or if you're not in the mood for a multi-course tasting menu, you might want to explore other options.
The Modern
8.6
With refined contemporary fare and views of the sculpture garden at MoMA, The Modern balances artistic ambiance and elevated dining. Its seasonal menus and polished service make it a solid choice for upscale, well‑rounded meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal fish entrée, Duck à la presse, Chef’s pâté en croûte
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Contemporary cuisine with museum‑garden ambiance.
Who should go: Art lovers wanting refined dining.
When to visit: Evening after museum visits.
What to order: Seasonal fish, duck à la presse, pâté en croûte.
Insider tip: Ask for garden‑view table for quieter ambiance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available for $25, limited street parking after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual, with a touch of sophistication. Avoid overly casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate - can easily hear conversation, though ambiance is lively.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated menu section with creative dishes.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options, ask server for current offerings.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The intimate setting and refined menu create a romantic, yet relaxed atmosphere ideal for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's not recommended, especially for dinner. The Modern is popular, and reservations are strongly advised to secure a spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The atmosphere is more suited for adults, especially couples or small groups. Children are welcome but might not enjoy the upscale ambiance.
Best For
Better for: An elevated dining experience with museum views, perfect for art lovers and a refined crowd.
Skip if: Looking for a casual or family-friendly restaurant. The Modern is best for special occasions and date nights.
The Modern
8.5
Refined contemporary‑American cuisine in a sleek dining room overlooking the sculpture garden at MoMA — polished yet approachable for special dinners. Great balance of creativity and consistency with a sophisticated but not stuffy vibe. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal amuse-bouche trio, Duck confit with seasonal vegetables, Chocolate sable dessert
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Elegant dining with modern cuisine and MoMA views in prime Midtown location.
Who should go: Art‑ and food‑savvy diners celebrating milestones.
When to visit: Dinner after museum visits or theater nights.
What to order: Seasonal amuse‑bouche, duck confit, chocolate sable.
Insider tip: Bar Room offers slightly earlier seating and a la carte options.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available for $25, street parking is limited and difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual, upscale but not overly formal. Jeans are acceptable, but lean towards dressier attire.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easy to follow, but the ambiance is lively, especially during peak times.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without a reservation, longer on special occasions.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, reservations recommended for lunch on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple vegetarian options available with a dedicated section on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited - around 2-3 vegan options, best to inquire about availability upon arrival.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area and several gluten-free options on the menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The refined atmosphere, MoMA views, and elegant cuisine make it ideal for setting a romantic, yet not overly formal tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's unlikely, especially during peak hours or weekends. A reservation is highly recommended to secure a table, especially for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? While The Modern is a refined dining spot, children are welcome. However, it's best suited for older kids who can appreciate the dining experience. The menu may not be particularly tailored for younger children.
Best For
Better for: The Modern excels in offering a high-end dining experience with creative, seasonal American cuisine and stunning views of MoMA, making it perfect for special occasions.
Skip if: If you're looking for a casual meal or a more family-friendly environment, there are other spots in the area that offer a more laid-back atmosphere.
The Modern
8.7
Overlooking MoMA’s sculpture garden, The Modern pairs a polished, light-filled room with contemporary American cooking that leans artful but not fussy. The tasting menu’s strengths are seafood and vegetable courses with bright, precise sauces.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs on eggs on eggs, Maine lobster with seasonal garnish, Chocolate “kit kat” dessert
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Two-star dining with museum-garden views and modern American finesse.
Who should go: Art-and-food day trippers, polished date nights
When to visit: Lunch after MoMA or early dinner
What to order: Eggs on eggs, lobster course, signature dessert
Insider tip: Bar Room is a great walk-in backup with the same kitchen.
The Modern
9.1
A MoMA-adjacent tasting temple where the kitchen’s playful precision spotlights peak-season produce, pristine seafood, and quietly inventive sauces. The bar room is more relaxed but still deeply ingredient-driven, making this a destination for both art-night dinners and celebratory splurges.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs on Eggs on Eggs, Lobster Potage, Araguani Chocolate Dessert
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Two-Michelin-star seasonal cooking inside MoMA with meticulous sourcing.
Who should go: Art lovers, food pilgrims, milestone celebrators.
When to visit: Pre-theater dinner or long weekend lunch.
What to order: Eggs on Eggs on Eggs; lobster potage; chef’s tasting menu.
Insider tip: Book the Bar Room for faster access and à la carte flexibility.
The Modern
8.6
MoMA’s fine-dining anchor pairs contemporary American plates with a serene sculpture-garden backdrop. The private dining room is one of Midtown’s most elegant, ideal for creative corporate dinners or museum-day celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs on Eggs on Eggs, Duck with Seasonal Accents, Chocolate Crémeux Dessert
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Museum-level setting with a dedicated private room overlooking MoMA’s garden.
Who should go: Art-minded groups wanting refined, modern dining.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to enjoy garden light.
What to order: Eggs on eggs, roast duck, seasonal dessert.
Insider tip: Ask for the garden-view room for the full effect.
The Modern
8.9
Two-Michelin-star contemporary cooking inside MoMA with a serene garden backdrop that keeps lunches calm and focused. The bar room offers a faster a-la-carte route, while the dining room leans more formal. Ideal for high-stakes meetings when you want elegance without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Araguani Chocolate Dessert, Lobster Potage, Seasonal Tasting Menu
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Museum-level setting with refined, modern American plates.
Who should go: Art lovers hosting clients.
When to visit: Lunch before or after MoMA visits.
What to order: Lobster potage, market vegetables, chocolate dessert.
Insider tip: Book the Bar Room for a quicker business lunch.