Centurion New York — Restaurant in New York

Centurion New York is undeniably one of the most exclusive and beautifully curated dining and hospitality experiences in Manhattan. Nestled atop One Vanderbilt, this American Express Centurion-only space offers breathtaking panoramic views, meticulously designed interiors, and a level of calm, curated luxury that stands apart from anything else in the city.

We visited as long-standing Centurion members with high expectations — and in many ways, those expectations were exceeded. But a few details kept the experience from being flawless.

✦ What Impressed • The Design & Setting The space is stunning. From the elevator arrival to the lounge ambiance and terrace views, everything exudes understated sophistication. The interiors are modern yet warm, blending artistic installations with cozy elegance. Views of the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings from floor-to-ceiling windows are among the best in Manhattan.

• Culinary Experience (Studio & Gallery) Chef Daniel Boulud’s influence is unmistakable. Each course was thoughtful, refined, and beautifully presented — the foie gras, truffle pasta, and duck were particular standouts. The tasting menu was balanced, seasonal, and well-paced.

• Service Our experience with the service team was exceptional. Staff were not only attentive and warm but also intuitive — special thanks to our sommelier and host, who handled the wine pairings and personal details with care and grace. The experience felt private and immersive, without ever becoming stiff or overly formal.

✦ What Could Be Improved • Reservation System & Access Confusion Booking via Resy was unnecessarily complicated — even as a Centurion member. We encountered inconsistent responses from phone support and multiple declined requests before success. Guests who were not fully informed of entry policies or location logistics (such as building security routing you around the block) were visibly frustrated — and that’s not the tone a Centurion space should ever create.

• Value vs. Expectation Pricing is premium, as expected — but in a few instances, the value did not match the cost. A $27 martini or $400 meal for two without a welcome amuse-bouche, palate cleanser, or small touch to open or close the evening (common in other top-tier fine dining venues) felt slightly out of sync with the positioning.

• Atmosphere & Exclusivity Tension While the space is designed for quiet luxury, the energy can fluctuate. The rooftop bar, while stunning, can feel less curated at times, especially if there are larger groups present. The restaurant ambiance leans more business-casual luxury than celebratory or intimate unless booked in the private Gallery — something to keep in mind depending on the occasion.

✦ Final Thoughts Centurion New York is a powerful expression of the American Express brand — exclusive, refined, and elevated. It sets a new standard for member-only hospitality and makes clear that New York City is still capable of surprises. Yet, for an experience crafted around the world’s most loyal clientele, consistency and seamlessness are non-negotiable, and that’s where some refinement is still needed.

Would I return? Absolutely. Would I recommend it to fellow Centurion cardholders? Yes — especially for special occasions or quiet business evenings. But the experience would be even stronger if AMEX ensured the service ecosystem matched the brilliance of the design...

🇺🇸🇦🇱 What It’s Like to Dine at Centurion New York, AmEx’s Black Card Clubhouse. A great Lunch at Centurion, New York Amidst the towering silhouettes of skyscrapers, where dreams are woven into the very fabric of New York City, I find myself seated at Centurion, a hidden gem nestled within the grandeur of One Vanderbilt on 42nd Street. This restaurant isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a celebration of life, a sanctuary for food lovers, and an artistic haven where culinary dreams take flight.

As I gaze through the expansive windows, I’m transported back to the bustling streets below, each corner a memory, each sidewalk a testament to the hustle that shaped my journey. I recall the long days spent developing businesses, the late nights fueled by ambition, and the vibrant energy of this city that never sleeps. The view from here is a breathtaking tapestry of urban life, a reminder of how far I’ve come and the dreams yet to be fulfilled.

Sharing this moment with my great friends and partners, Max, Laura, and Eric adds to the richness of the experience. Together, we dive into a feast that is as inspiring as it is delicious. The dishes before us are not merely food; they are works of art, each plate crafted with intention and creativity.

The appetizers arrive, vibrant and colorful, like the city itself. A delicate tartare, seasoned to perfection, dances with flavors that echo the diversity of New York’s culinary scene. Each bite tells a story, inviting us to savor the moment. Laughter and conversation flow as freely as the expertly paired drinks, a symphony of joy and camaraderie.

As the main courses arrive, the ambiance hums with energy. The perfectly seared steak, tender and juicy, contrasts beautifully with the earthy truffle mashed potatoes, an indulgence that encapsulates comfort and sophistication. I find inspiration in this meal, each flavor igniting a spark of creativity. The artistry of the presentation mirrors the brilliance of the city’s skyline, reminding us that beauty can be found in every detail.

Dessert arrives, a sweet finale to our culinary odyssey. A rich chocolate mousse, decadent and velvety, melts in my mouth, an exquisite reminder that life’s sweetest moments are often shared with those we cherish. The ambiance around us is electric, the service impeccable, and the laughter shared with friends resonates in the air like a cherished melody.

As I sit back, taking in the beauty surrounding me the stunning views, the delectable food, and the warmth of friendship. I feel a profound sense of gratitude. This moment is a fusion of all that inspires me: the city, the food, and the bonds that tie us together. It’s a reminder to savor life, to embrace each experience fully, and to always seek out beauty, even amidst the hustle.

In this haven atop the city, I am not just a visitor; I am part of a greater tapestry, a shared journey filled with passion, artistry, and inspiration. And as we toast to the future, I know that our adventures together are only...

The Centurion. A name that conjures visions of marble halls, golden chalices, and emperors feasting on grapes. What I got instead was a check-in process that felt less “exclusive Roman club” and more “LaGuardia security checkpoint.” First, an ID check. Then, a photo. For a moment, I braced myself for the blue gloves. Apparently, dining here requires not just a reservation but also the surrender of one’s dignity at the door.

An elevator carried me to the dining room, a space with all the charm of a corporate off-site at Deloitte. The room was lined with tables that seemed locked in a death match for the rare commodity of window views. If you landed one, congratulations, you had something to look at besides beige walls and your buyer’s remorse. Without it, you might as well have been in a WeWork with candles.

The menu strutted in with the pomp of an epic novel but delivered less intrigue. A rigid three-course prix fixe, priced at $165 before a single drop of alcohol touched the glass. Cocktails started around $30 and scaled up past $555, while wine followed a similar trajectory with no shortage of bottles priced well above that mark. The food, meanwhile, staggered between underdone proteins and flavors so muted they could join the witness protection program. Dessert capped things off like a lullaby, sweet but sleep-inducing.

By the time the check arrived, padded by two prix fixe meals, a single cocktail, and two cappuccinos, the damage was a cool $500. At that price point, I expected fireworks, or at least food that didn’t resemble a practice round. Instead, I was left in a room that looked like an accounting firm trying on a tuxedo, with a palate that had been both underwhelmed and overcharged.

So here’s the verdict: swipe left on The Centurion. New York is a city brimming with restaurants that deliver atmosphere, cuisine, and views without charging you for the privilege of feeling fleeced. Unless your idea of a night out is playing American Express roulette, you’ll find a better meal, and a better memory, just about...