Michelin Guide Inspectors’ Dining Secrets

You’re a man of secrets.

Lots of them.

So, you’ll appreciate the Michelin Guide’s list of New York City dining “secrets”. The lineup consists of cafés and restaurants that offer good value, off-menu selections, or clandestine eating areas with separate fare.

Michelin’s “Inspector secrets” include the following:



Jean Georges
1 Central Park West in the Trump International Tower (between 60th and 61st Streets), (212) 299-3900, jean-georges.com

Lunch consists of a set menu of three courses – an appetizer, entrée and dessert for $30 – all while experiencing the elegant atmosphere and professional service.

202 at Nicole Farhi
Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Avenue (near 16th Street), (646) 638-1173, nicolefarhi.com

In the midst of the Nicole Farhi store you’ll find this hidden café that features outstanding food. Take a break from shopping to sample salads, sandwiches, fish & chips or a tuna burger – along with a glass of wine.

Del Posto Ristorante
85 Tenth Avenue (between 15th and 16th Streets), (212) 497-8090, delposto.com

Once inside this two-star Italian, do not pass “Go” – take an immediate left and head for the bar and seating area designated “Enoteca.” Here you’ll find an abbreviated version of the main menu with some additional choices.

Café Sabarsky
1048 Fifth Avenue in the Neue Galerie (near 86th Street), (212) 288-0665, cafesabarsky.com

Breakfast is a great choice at this café on Museum Mile, with Austrian coffees and pastries that are considered an art form by local connoisseurs.

Payard Patisserie & Bistro
1032 Lexington Avenue (near 74th Street), (212) 717-5252, payard.com

Dip into the casual café of this Upper East Side favorite for dessert and champagne. Sample canapés with wine or coffee, or take afternoon high tea.

Tamarind
41-43 East 22nd Street (near Broadway), (212) 674-7400, tamarinde22.com

Looking for a light lunch or dinner? Stop by the intimate Tea Room, next door to the main restaurant. A separate menu offers lighter fare, including afternoon tea.

Cacio e Pepe
182 Second Avenue (near 12th Street), (212) 505-5931, cacioepepe.com

In the spirit of dining al fresco, the garden behind the restaurant makes a perfectly lovely setting for dinner (in season).