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Theater District: The Best of NYC Dining - Restaurant

21 Club

A timeless New York landmark with traditional American fare at untraditional prices.

The Scene

A clubby lair for corporate lion kings and media celebs. This expensive former speakeasy is a New York classic in every way. The space hasn't been altered since the La Guardia administration--burnished oak bar, red leather banquettes, neighborly tables and, dangling overhead, a curious collection of model trucks and airplanes. Old-school waiters in crisp white jackets anticipate your every need, as does the unpretentious sommelier who oversees one of the great wine cellars in the city.

The Food

Some of the most popular dishes have been on the menu forever, like the exceptional Caesar salad, excellent steak tartare and lavish bouillabaisse. And you won't find a better grilled Dover sole anywhere. Chef Erik Blauberg has a masterful touch with game (get the mixed grill) and layered, lusty sauces. When the kitchen tackles more au courant fare, the results can be mixed; go with the waiters' candid recommendations. Among the better efforts are dishes like black sea bass with truffled potatoes, and the lavender- and-honey brushed roasted duck.

Best Cellar

Ask a captain to arrange a tour of the Prohibition-era wine cellar. Inside are priceless bottles of French wines tagged with names like Richard Nixon, Ivan Boesky and Burgess Meredith--none of whom will be uncorking them soon.

Dining Down Under

In the newer part of the wine cellar is a magnificent private dining room with a table that accommodates up to 20.

Bargains

While "21" is exorbitantly expensive, you can soak up the ambience and dine very inexpensively from the "in-between" menu, served from 2:30pm to 5pm. The pre-theater menu is a bargain, too: A $33 three-course dinner is available from 5:30pm to 6:30pm.

21 W 52nd St
New York ,  NY   10019
Phone: (212) 582-7200