The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Met Opera

Forget the over-hyped Lincoln. The Grand Tier restaurant in the Met is a tried and true institution. My father, doctor and opera fan, started taking his referring doctors to an evening out at the Met here ten years ago. Sometimes I got to go when a doctor couldn’t make it and it was always a magical experience. As the name suggests, you sit on the grand tier level (where The White Stripes performed during last year’s fashion week) amidst two enormous Marc Chagall murals and a cascade of chandeliers. Your view is the Lincoln Center plaza and the Met Opera lobby. Everyone else in waiting for the opera to start has a view of you. The food is always great and the best part is that you return to have your dessert and coffee during intermission! I always order the souffle.

Lobster tail:

Plancha seared salmon with fresh green lentils and dijon beurre blanc:

Sautéed sea scallops with melted leaks and black truffle mashed potatoes:

The photos may look seafood heavy, but I actually ordered a really nice filet mignon with potato gratin. Here is a snapshot of the Met Opera interior and then the soufflé I had during the intermission:

Reservations for the Grand Tier can be made online or at 212.799.3400.