The '21' Club, often simply referred to as '21', is one of the best-known and most prestigious dining establishments in New York City. Tucked away in the heart of Manhattan at 21 West 52nd Street, this American icon is much more than a place to dine - it's a quintessential part of New York's electrical vibe and a veritable time capsule of the city's past. '21' Club is renowned for its exquisite dining, vibrant history, and the allure of celebrity sightings. Whether visiting New York for the first time or a seasoned local, it promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey, making it a must-visit destination.
The impressive history of the '21' Club dates back to the Roaring Twenties, opening its doors for the first time in 1930. As a former speakeasy during Prohibition, '21' served alcohol concealed in the basement and stored in ingenious hiding places. Jack Kriendler and Charles Berns, the founders, operated the club as a hospitality venture where the rich, famous, and powerful could dine and drink in style. Today, the club's secret Wine Cellar reportedly holds more than 20,000 bottles, further cementing its place in New York's culinary and historical fabric.
Dining at the '21' Club serves as a journey through time, with its significant highlights being its Prohibition-era Bar Room, adorned with toys and memorabilia donated by notable patrons such as Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and former Presidents. Every corner of this famed establishment tells a story, inviting you to become part of its storied history. Within its walls, the '21' Club houses ten private event rooms, including the legendary Prohibition-era Wine Cellar, further enhancing the unique and exclusive atmosphere.
One of the many things that make 21 Club such a highlight of New York is the quality of the food served. Under Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique, the menu ingeniously fuses modern tastes with the Club's culinary legacy. Expect classic American cuisine, refreshed and upscale but deeply rooted in tradition. From the '21' Burger, hailed as one of the best in New York, to the succulent steak and Lobster Newburg, the Club's menu offers a medley of flavor for every palate.
In the final analysis, the '21' Club is more than just a legendary restaurant; it's a living testament to New York's rich and exciting past and an active part of its vibrant present. Whether it's the allure of its clandestine history, the delight of its exquisite menu, or the fascination of dining where some of the world's most influential figures have, the '21' Club offers an unforgettable and quintessentially New York experience.
