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Altair NYC
Master Critic Review
Altair NYC
8.2
Altair is a modern-American room built around sleek plating and a menu that toggles between polished raw/seafood starters and richer, technique-driven mains. When it’s hitting, the kitchen shines on clean crudo, structured pastas, and a steak program that reads upscale without turning fussy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi, Ricotta Gnocchi, Beef Tartare
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A high-design Modern American menu anchored by precise seafood and pastas.
Who should go: Date nights and celebrations with a reservations mindset.
When to visit: Weeknights for calmer service and better pacing.
What to order: Hamachi, ricotta gnocchi, beef tartare.
Insider tip: Start with two cold plates, then split a pasta.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet. Metered street parking is limited; nearby garages on W 38th–39th St typically run $25–$40 in the evening.
Dress code: Dressy casual to upscale — heels, jackets, and tailored looks fit the room; jeans are fine if polished.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can talk comfortably, but the room has energy, especially after 7pm.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait or short seating delay.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-driven starters and at least one composed vegetarian main or pasta.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications; best to flag to the server.
Gluten-free options: Yes — seafood, steaks, and select starters work well; staff is knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it reads upscale and intentional without being stiff, which helps set a confident, celebratory tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights early or late, but weekends are tough; the bar is the most realistic walk-in option.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — there’s no kids menu and the vibe skews adult; better for teens at celebratory dinners than young children.
Best For
Better for: Sleek plating, refined seafood starters, and a modern luxury feel that works for dates and milestones.
Skip if: You want a casual neighborhood spot, large family-friendly portions, or a budget-conscious dinner.