Indulge in Pre-Opera Dining: Where to Eat Before the Met

The lights dim, the orchestra tunes their instruments, and the curtain rises to reveal a breathtaking production at the Metropolitan Opera. As you prepare for an evening of unparalleled cultural experiences, one question remains: where should you dine before the show? The Met Opera is nestled in the heart of New York City, a city renowned for its diverse and delectable culinary offerings. Narrowing down all the options can be overwhelming, but fear not! We have curated a guide to some of the top restaurants near the Met Opera that are sure to satisfy your palate and create an unforgettable pre-show dining experience. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the ultimate gastronomic journey before your night at the opera.

The Metropolitan Opera, located in New York City, is one of the most prestigious opera companies in the world. Boasting a rich history and world-renowned productions, the Met Opera attracts opera lovers from all over the world. As a result, before attending a performance, it is only logical that patrons would want to have a memorable dining experience. Luckily, there are plenty of options for delicious and upscale pre-opera dining near the Met Opera. In this guide, we will explore some of the top places to eat before catching a show at the Met Opera.

1. Lincoln Ristorante

Located right next door to the Met Opera at Lincoln Center’s beautiful outdoor plaza, Lincoln Ristorante offers an elegant dining experience perfect for pre-opera meals. The restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of Lincoln Center and its iconic fountain. The menu focuses on contemporary Italian cuisine featuring fresh handmade pasta and locally-sourced ingredients.

For those looking to make their evening even more special, Lincoln Ristorante offers a pre-show prix fixe menu which includes three courses with options for each course. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list featuring both Italian and local wines, as well as specialty cocktails.

2. Nougatine at Jean-Georges

For a true fine dining experience before attending the Met Opera, Nougatine at Jean-Georges is an excellent choice. Located just a short walk from Lincoln Center at Columbus Circle, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers modern European cuisine with French influences created by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Nougatine features sophisticated interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of Central Park. The prix fixe menu includes three courses plus dessert and can be paired with hand-selected wines or specialty cocktails.

3. Per Se

Per Se, another Michelin-starred restaurant, is located just a few blocks away from Lincoln Center and is perfect for a pre-opera meal. The restaurant offers a prix fixe menu featuring nine courses of French and American-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

Per Se features stunning interiors with panoramic views of Columbus Circle and Central Park, providing an elegant atmosphere to enjoy a pre-show meal. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring rare and exclusive wines from around the world.

4. Bar Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental

Located inside the luxurious Mandarin Oriental hotel, Bar Boulud offers a unique pre-opera dining experience. The menu highlights classic French brasserie dishes with a modern twist created by world-renowned chef Daniel Boulud.

The restaurant features dark wood interiors with sleek design elements, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for pre-show dining. Bar Boulud also offers a pre-opera prix fixe menu with three courses plus dessert, as well as an extensive wine list showcasing both local and international selections.

5. Empellón

For those looking for a more casual pre-opera dining experience, Empellón is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of the Upper West Side just minutes away from Lincoln Center, this upscale Mexican restaurant offers creative dishes made with fresh and local ingredients.

Empellón’s modern and vibrant interior make it a great option for a relaxed dinner before catching an opera performance. The menu includes small plates ideal for sharing as well as larger entrees. The restaurant also has an impressive tequila selection to complement your meal.

Whether you are looking for fine dining or a more casual experience before attending the Met Opera, there are plenty of options near Lincoln Center to satisfy your taste buds. From upscale Italian to Michelin-starred French cuisine, these restaurants offer a variety of pre-show menus and stunning atmospheres to enhance your opera experience. So the next time you are headed to the Met Opera, be sure to check out one of these top dining destinations for an unforgettable evening.

Overview of the Met Opera

The Metropolitan Opera, commonly known as the Met Opera, is one of the most prestigious performing arts organizations in the world. Founded in 1880, it is located in New York City’s Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and showcases some of the best opera productions in the world. The Met Opera’s season typically runs from September to May and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The Met Opera is renowned for its high-quality productions, world-class performers, and impeccable orchestra. It has been home to some of the greatest opera singers including Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, and Renée Fleming. The opera house itself is a magnificent architectural masterpiece with a seating capacity of 3800 making it one of the largest indoor performance venues in the world.

About ‘Where To Eat Before The Met Opera’

Attending an opera performance at the Met Opera is a grand experience that many people look forward to. Aside from the spectacular performances, another thing that makes a night at the Met Opera special is dining before or after the show. With New York City being a foodie’s paradise, there are countless options on where to eat before heading to watch an unforgettable performance at this iconic venue.

Whether you’re looking for a pre-show fine dining experience or a quick bite before rushing off to catch your seats, there are plenty of excellent restaurants near Lincoln Center. From trendy bistros to classic steakhouses, you can find something to suit every palate and budget.

Best Pre-Opera Dining Options

If you want an unforgettable pre-opera dining experience, there are several renowned restaurants just minutes away from the Met Opera. For an elegant yet modern fine dining experience, head over to Lincoln Square Steak. This upscale steakhouse serves mouth-watering USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood dishes prepared by award-winning chefs. It also offers a pre-opera prix fixe menu, making it a popular choice among opera-goers.

For a more intimate dining experience, try Cafe Fiorello, conveniently located next to the Met Opera. This charming eatery serves delicious pasta dishes, wood-fired oven pizzas and delectable desserts in an inviting and cozy setting. It’s the perfect place for a pre-show romantic dinner.

If you’re on a budget or prefer something quick and easy, there are several options for fast food and takeaways in the nearby shopping complex at Lincoln Center. Pick up your favorite sandwich from Pret A Manger or treat yourself to some delicious macarons from Bouchon Bakery.

Where To Eat After The Met Opera

After watching an outstanding performance at the Met Opera, you may find yourself hungry again. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent restaurants open late near Lincoln Center. One of the most famous is The Smith, serving contemporary American cuisine 24 hours a day. The Smith is always bustling with activity and offers an extensive menu featuring everything from salads and sandwiches to burgers and steaks.

If you’re in the mood for something more refined after the show, head over to Bar Boulud only five minutes away from Lincoln Center. This Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in French-inspired dishes and has an impressive wine selection to go along with them. The relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it perfect for discussing your favorite moments from the opera over a glass of wine.

For dessert or an indulgent late-night treat, check out Levain Bakery for their famously gooey cookies or Lady’M Confections in Columbus Circle for delicious Belgian chocolates.

The Met Opera is not just about fantastic performances but also about creating a complete night out experience. Dining before or after attending a show at this iconic opera house is an important part of the experience that shouldn’t be missed. With countless dining options available in the area, you can choose to have a lavish fine dining experience or grab a quick bite before heading to the show. Whatever your preference, one thing is for sure – dining at one of these fantastic restaurants near the Met Opera will only add to an already unforgettable evening.

1) Where should I have dinner before attending the Met Opera?
Most people opt for a pre-opera meal either at Lincoln Center, as it is conveniently located next to the Met Opera House, or in one of the nearby restaurants in the Upper West Side.

2) Are there any special dining options for those attending the Met Opera?
Yes, there are several restaurants that offer pre-opera prix fixe menus specifically for opera-goers. These menus often include a set three-course meal and sometimes even a shuttle service to and from the opera house.

3) Do I need to make reservations in advance?
While it is not always necessary, especially on weekdays, we highly recommend making reservations in advance to avoid long wait times or not being able to get a table at all.

4) What type of cuisine can I expect at restaurants near the Met Opera?
The restaurants near Lincoln Center offer a wide range of cuisines including Italian, French, American, and more. However, due to its location, most places tend to have a higher price point than other areas in NYC.

5) Is it possible to grab a quick bite before the show?
Yes, there are some fast-casual options available nearby such as Chipotle or Joe Coffee Company. Keep in mind that these places may still have lines during peak hours.

6) Do any of the nearby restaurants offer special discounts for opera-goers?
Some restaurants do offer discounts or special offers for those attending the Met Opera. It is best to check with each specific restaurant before making your reservation or inquire about any promotions upon arrival.

In conclusion, attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera is a special and exciting experience, and finding the right place to eat beforehand can enhance the overall evening. After exploring various options, it is clear that there are many fantastic dining choices near the Met Opera House, whether it be for a quick bite or a leisurely pre-show meal.

Whether one desires a classic New York City dining experience or a more modern approach, there are various options available in close proximity to the Met Opera House. It is also worth considering factors such as budget, dietary restrictions, and time constraints when choosing where to eat before a performance.

Furthermore, several restaurants offer special pre-show menus or discounts for opera-goers, making it even more convenient and appealing to dine before attending a show at the Met Opera.

One important takeaway from this discussion is that reservations are highly recommended at most of the recommended restaurants near the Met Opera House. Booking in advance will not only save time but also ensure that one’s dining experience is seamless and stress-free.

Ultimately, whether one chooses to dine at Lincoln Square or explore other nearby neighborhoods for food options, there is no shortage of delicious and diverse cuisine within walking distance of the Met Opera House. With some planning and consideration of personal preferences, one can have an enjoyable dining experience