Read our previous posting: “My best moments with Woody Allen in New York City!”
For ambiance and unique décor, a big slice of NY 20th century history, elegant traditional cuisine, top-notch service and panache — head to the 21 CLUB, located almost opposite the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) in Midtown Manhattan.
Most memorable was the “21 Burger” made from a unique mixture of ground short ribs, top round, and sirloin and served with the 21 Club ketchup, which I would liken to a tangy pureed tomato chutney.
Also superb was the Faroe Islands Scottish Salmon with braised endive, balsamic pickled heirloom tomatoes and tempura zucchini blossom, finished off with a subtle fennel tapenade – original and perfectly prepared.
Although the 21 Club is most assuredly a restaurant for celebrating a special event, I was still surprised to see a chic bouquet of red roses at the table with a card from Denis as we sat down at a prime corner table, and surprised once again with a personalized chocolate cake made specially by the bakery chef at Denis’ request.
If the 21 Club is good enough for President Kennedy’s Inaugural dinner celebration, it certainly was good enough for my belated (hence the “surprise”) birthday celebration. Denis, take me back for any and all celebrations in the future!
Stay tuned to BonVoyageurs.com for more Countries of the World as we share our joie de vivre from around the world. Luxury escapes and city breaks to Quebec City, New York, Washington, Buenos Aires. In Europe, places like Paris France, Nice France, Provence and the Cote d’Azur (French Riviera), Tuscany and Florence in Italy, Rome, Napoli and the Amalfi Coast. In Asia, countries like China, India, Nepal and so much more!
Betsy Wuebker | PassingThru says
Back when I traveled to NYC regularly in the late 70’s, the 21 Club was our “go-to” place to feel worldly and sophisticated. I see very little has changed with this iconic gem.
Michele Peterson ( A Taste for Travel) says
21 Club looks like a beautiful spot for a special occasion and the location is super convenient too.
Irene S. Levine says
Looks like a wonderful celebration!
Hope you had a great birthday!
santafetraveler says
The 21 Club was a legend in NYC when I was growing up. All the society ladies who lunched showed up there as well as A-list celebs. I used to read the celebrity beat in the NY Post- Earl Wilson and Cindy Adams were two that covered the glitterati at the time. Now it’s Page Six. What a wonderful birthday treat. Denis sure pulled out all the stops!
Donna Janke says
Looks like a delightful birthday celebration. I hope to visit New York City some day. Maybe I’ll get a chance to get to 21 Club.
Shelley says
We had lunch at the 21 Club a few years ago during restaurant week and loved it. Great place for a birthday!
Carole Terwilliger Meyers says
The 21 Club sounds like THE place to celebrate a birthday. Did you take the leftover cake home?
Anita @ No Particular Place To Go says
Someday I hope to revisit NYC again and of course, the 21 Club is a landmark that I’d love to “dine”in. I’m really interested to taste a true gourmet burger and that chocolate cake looked divine!
alison abbott says
What an iconic place to celebrate a special day. I could use a piece of that cake right about now!