Per Se – New York City

Thomas Keller has opened what could be considered The French Laundry East, in New York City’s Columbus Circle Mall. Per Se boasts stunning views of Central Park, along with a roaring fireplace in the midst of a large dining room, all of which make it the very opposite of what gives The French Laundry much of its charm: The small size, the quaint cottage, the lack of distractions. What Per Se can offer is much of the same food: Yes, there are the oysters and pearls, the luxurious tasting menu, the stunning wines, the excellent service, and it can boast of being one of only five restaurants to get the New York Times’ highest rating of four stars. But leaving The French Laundry to walk down a beautiful lane in Napa Valley ends the meal on a much different note than emerging from Per Se to take the escalator to Godiva Chocolates and Hugo Boss.

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