Set the Scene
Anything the celebrity Michelin-star chef Daniel Boulud puts his name to is practically guaranteed to have pop and panache, and his sumptuous French steakhouse, La Tête d’Or, delivers on both with an unapologetic oh là là. Coming here is about more than just the meal- it’s a glamorous night out, a full-on event.
David Rockwell, a heavyweight of high-end restaurant architecture and a star in his own right, is behind the grandeur of the space: the interiors are timeless yet unmistakably contemporary. The 120-seat main dining room features soaring ceilings, luxe velvet banquettes, and moody dark-blue tones paired with rich woods. This is the place to see and be seen.
The bar and lounge are noticeably cozier and the go-to area if you want a quicker bite or a more intimate conversation.
What’s the Food Like
Steak may be the main event, but there’s far more to enjoy here. And because this is Daniel Boulud, a known stickler for quality who uses only the very best ingredients, everything lands exactly where it should. I can say this confidently as a longtime fan who has dined at his other establishments. The cooking is precise and polished, never overly heavy, never overloaded with sauces or competing flavors, and never trying too hard.
The tableside Caesar salad, with its ideal balance of crisp romaine, parmesan, and breadcrumbs, is about as good as this classic gets. The raw seafood lineup is equally impressive, clean, fresh, and full of flavor. The filet mignon is exactly what you want from a French steakhouse: expertly cooked, rich without being overwhelming, and deeply satisfying. And the prime rib, a glistening slab of meat, is rolled out on a cart and presented with élan. If you want to look beyond red meat, the Dover sole, grilled beautifully and filleted tableside, is a standout.
The sides are well above par for a steakhouse. Creamed spinach often skews cream-forward, but the version here is brighter and more balanced. Callouts also go to the haricots verts amandine and the crispy, never-greasy pommes frites.
If you’re full, too bad. Dessert is a must. Order the build-your-own sundae, where you choose your soft-serve base, sauce, and toppings, or opt for the chocolate cake layered with whipped ganache, the pecan pastry with praline, or better yet, a bite of all three.
If a midday treat is more your speed, La Tête d’Or has you covered with lunch, available à la carte or as a prix fixe.
Let’s Talk About the Drinks
What isn’t there to drink here? From old-school martinis to signature cocktails like the Minuit Manhattan, made with Macallan 12 Double Oak, Barolo, amaro, and curaçao, to the deep spirits and wine list, there’s something for every taste. I was glad to spot Fortaleza, my all-time tequila pick, alongside other rare finds worth ordering.
Final Thoughts
La Tête d’Or is special. The stylish design, well-dressed diners, and artfully executed dishes see to that. This is the kind of place you come to celebrate milestones: anniversaries, birthdays, promotions, and graduations. My husband and I lingered at our table for hours, turning dinner into a romantic date. We were reluctant to leave and, almost immediately, started talking about when we’d come back.
Fast Facts
Location: Manhattan’s Flatiron neighborhood
Cuisine: French steakhouse
Pricing: $$$$
Takes Reservations: Yes – Resy
Our Favorite Dishes on the Menu: The tableside Caesar salad, filet mignon, Dover sole meunière, creamy spinach, and chocolate amer cake.
Hours: Dinner: Monday- Sunday 5:00 PM - 10:45 PM, Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30 AM - 2:15 PM
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New York City, New York, United States
