REVIEW: La Tête d’Or by Daniel Boulud

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This last Thursday, I had the distinct pleasure of dining at Chef Daniel Boulud’s gorgeous French-style steakhouse, La Tête d’Or. We had some dear friends visiting, so a special dinner was in order, and we were not disappointed. This restaurant is everything you want in a memorable night out. From the glittery bar and lounge area when you first walk in, to the lush, plush dining room complete with sweeping ceilings and a view into the kitchen, every nook of this restaurant feels luxurious. The banquettes are cozy and the lighting dim, but not too dim. 

Upon being seated, we were brought sliced sourdough bread with salted butter and ordered cocktails. Mine, the Gold Digger, was champagne based with gin, Lillet, chartreuse and St. Germain—a slight twist on a French 75. My husband Kevin had the Pomme d’Or made with Scotch, Calvados, vermouth and bitters. Both were perfectly balanced and a lovely way to start our meal. 

We then ordered some starters. Our friends ordered the crab cake and we enjoyed the seafood salad “louie” with fresh crab and avocado on Bibb lettuce. It was light and flavorful. The crab was sweet and cooked perfectly—the perfect palate opener and start to dinner. 

Next came the main course. Our entire party ordered steak, although there were other options including Dover sole, lamb, and salmon that looked wonderful as well. My husband had the Wagyu steak with peppercorn sauce, and I ordered an off-menu special of filet mignon served with brioche and foie gras. Both were cooked perfectly medium-rare and melted in our mouths. My filet was incredibly luxurious with the creamy, buttery texture of the foie and tender texture of the brioche blending into the bite of filet. 

Along with our steak, we ordered sides for the table: their duo of BBQ and Crispy Onions, Spicy Broccolini, Gruyere-Potato Gratin, and Haricots Verts Amandine. The onions were a sophisticated take on an onion ring, with light breading and seasoning. The broccolini was tender and flavorful with just the right amount of spiciness. The haricots verts were buttery and crisp, but my favorite side was the Gruyere potato gratin. The potatoes were tender but not mushy, in a lovely rich béchamel sauce underneath a toasted and bubbly layer of Gruyere cheese. Truly delectable and definitely worth ordering, as was my filet with foie gras. 

When dessert was offered, we couldn’t resist and ordered the citron-framboise tart, and their house-made soft serve ice cream. The tart was a gorgeous rose-shaped meringue with lemon curd and raspberries—almost too beautiful to eat. The soft-serve came with a chocolate sauce and assortment of delightful toppings—homemade sprinkles and marshmallows, meringue kisses, brownie pieces, and cookie dough bites. It was not only so delicious, but so much fun to eat—adding different topping in with each bite. 

If you are looking for the perfect place for a special night out in Manhattan, I cannot recommend La Tête d’Or enough. The energy of the space, the service, and especially the food were all impeccable. It was warm, cozy, and inviting, while feeling elevated but not snobby. The staff was welcoming and informative, answering all our questions and looking after us well. I look forward to a return trip soon.