L’Avenue at Saks — Restaurant in New York

When I found myself in L’Avenue, I remembered Harrod’s in London and TSUM in Moscow. It’s quite normal for an upscale department store to have a café on the top floor that attracts not only shoppers but also locals looking for a good meal. I entered through a separate entrance located opposite St. Patrick’s Cathedral, on 50th Street, although it seemed the creators wanted me to stroll through the stores and spend some money.

The hostess didn’t find my reservation but seated me at a cozy corner table where we both settled on a curved sofa. The waiter took our order in a friendly and professional manner and provided excellent service throughout our visit. However, the bill appeared on the table before we asked for it, which is something many restaurants in the city do. The crowd was wonderful, and the interior was stunning. So elegant that it felt like I was in Paris during Coco’s time. It was either a bar, a lounge, or a Parisian salon where all the high society had gathered. Hats off to architect Philippe Starck.

Everything looks beautiful in daylight, but the evening magic of the table lamps and the caramel-colored hall with glass display cases filled with art pieces may be even more appealing. The atmosphere becomes truly enchanting, creating the perfect place for dinner or a special occasion. This time, I managed to try a little, which gives me a reason to return. But I have something to share. All guests are treated to bread, which is quite good. For the main course, I ordered shrimp risotto — the portion was modest, but the four plump royal shrimp and parmesan chips (an outdated presentation) made it enjoyable. The pavlova was magnificent — from the moment the waiter pours the berry sauce over it to the last spoonful: a perfect combination of meringue, cream, and fresh berries.

Unfortunately, the tea selection is, as always, limited to earl grey or English breakfast, which brought me back to reality — no, we are not in Paris. And indeed, just looking at Rockefeller Center outside the window confirms...

If you're looking for a stylish and sophisticated dining experience in the heart of New York City, L’Avenue at Saks at Fifth Avenue is the perfect choice. The restaurant exudes French elegance and charm, from the decor to the menu, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that transports you to a different time and place.

The restaurant's decor is truly stunning, with high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and plush furnishings that create a warm and inviting ambiance. The French-inspired design details are evident throughout, from the ornate moldings to the beautiful artwork that adorns the walls.

But it's the food that really steals the show at Saks. The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist, expertly prepared using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. I started off my meal with the escargots, which were tender and flavorful, served in a rich and buttery garlic sauce.

For my starters , I chose the foie gras and carpaccio which was perfectly prepared and expertly seasoned. For the main I ordered scallops and the steak, which were super delicious . The dessert was a true standout as well, with the crème brûlée being particularly noteworthy for its perfectly caramelized top and silky-smooth custard.

Throughout the meal, the service was impeccable. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, offering expert recommendations and making sure that every detail was taken care of.

Overall, L’Avenue at Saks at Fifth Avenue is a must-visit for anyone looking for a stylish and sophisticated French-style dinner in NYC. The stunning decor, delicious food, and top-notch service all combine to create a truly memorable dining experience that you won't...

I have been coming to the various iterations of the Saks restaurant since the 1990s. I always try to have lunch there whenever I’m visiting the city for more than a couple days. Over the years my experiences have always been exceptional and special. This past Friday (october 6) was the first time I had been in the revamped space. And my overall experience was just as wonderful as it had been in the past. From the moment we walked in for lunch you could feel the buzz , excitement and overall good cheer permeating the room. The restaurant was packed with people yet still felt intimate and cozy at the same time. The decor and overall design of the space exudes a spirit of fashion, art and food. From the hostess to the servers , the staff was very accommodating and amazing. I had the butternut soup and spicy lobster pasta for lunch. Both dishes were delicious and well prepared. I ordered the Cress (?) martini which was also phenomenal. The women I dined with as well as the women we met at the adjourning table visiting from California, all agreed that the food and atmosphere were amazing. We all said how glad we were to have chosen to come here for lunch and we truly enjoyed a memorable overall dining experience. There as so few department store restaurants still around. They generally offer elegant lunch experiences. So it’s sooo nice that Saks still offers this gem of a space. L’Avenue is a welcome respite in the busy city and it never disappoints in delivering a timeless and elevated experience. I can’t wait to visit again when I’m in the city for the...