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The Modern
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where contemporary American cuisine meets museum-quality artistry, The Modern New York City transforms fine dining into a cultural experience within the hallowed halls of MoMA. This two-Michelin-starred destination offers an unparalleled fusion of culinary excellence and artistic immersion, overlooking the iconic Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden through floor-to-ceiling windows that frame each meal like a living masterpiece.
Since opening in 2005 as part of Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, The Modern has evolved into one of New York City's most distinguished fine dining establishments. Under the current leadership of Executive Chef Thomas Allan, who honed his craft at Eleven Madison Park and DANIEL, the restaurant has maintained its prestigious two-Michelin-star status while continuing to push culinary boundaries. The Modern's founding vision—to create a dining experience as sophisticated as the art surrounding it—has earned recognition through multiple James Beard Awards, including Outstanding Wine Program, and consistent acclaim from critics and gourmands worldwide.
The Modern's contemporary American cuisine celebrates seasonality through meticulously crafted dishes that mirror the museum's commitment to innovation. The main dining room presents an ever-evolving tasting menu featuring signature creations like "Eggs on Eggs on Eggs"—a layered composition starring soft-boiled eggs with sturgeon caviar—and turbot roasted on the bone alongside rich parmesan cream. Each dish reflects Chef Allan's philosophy of refined technique married to bold creativity, utilizing premium ingredients sourced for their exceptional quality. The more casual Bar Room offers à la carte dining with the same seasonal focus, while the exclusive Kitchen Table provides an intimate chef's table experience for up to four guests within the heart of the culinary action.
Designed by Bentel & Bentel Architects, The Modern's interior seamlessly integrates with MoMA's modernist aesthetic through clean lines, Danish furniture by design legends like Arne Jacobsen, and a stunning 46-foot marble bar suspended over a backlit glass base. The restaurant's wine program, recognized with Wine Spectator's Grand Award, features over 3,000 selections displayed in an impressive glass wine wall housing 2,200 bottles. Service operates like a "veritable ballet," with staff expertly maneuvering decanting, carving, cheese, and chocolate carts throughout the dining room—a sophisticated throwback to classic New York dining traditions.
Reservations at The Modern require advance planning, particularly for the coveted dining room experience. Business casual attire befits the museum setting, while the restaurant's location within MoMA allows for a complete cultural immersion. Whether celebrating a special occasion or seeking New York City's finest culinary artistry, The Modern delivers an unforgettable intersection of gastronomy and culture that defines modern luxury dining.
CHEF
Thomas Allan
ACCOLADES

(2024) Michelin 2 Stars

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in North America Ranked #43
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(2025) AAA 5 Diamond

(2025) Forbes 4-Star

(2025) La Liste Top Restaurants: 90.5pts

(2025) Michelin 2 Stars

(2025) New York Magazine The 43 Best Restaurants in New York

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Casual in North America Ranked #58

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Top Restaurants in North America Ranked #107
