Dining Room Ritz Carlton

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Citysearch

The Scene
As befits the storied tradition of the Ritz's lineage, the dining room of this gastronomic grand dame is awash in staid opulence. Crystal glasses and gleaming silverware shine in the dim light; big chairs are equipped with plush cushions. Expert waiters make guests feel at home, pushing gleaming silver-plated carts laden with champagne and cheese.

The Food
Though Siegel is perhaps most famous for being the first American to win Iron Chef, his luxurious menu maintains the Ritz-Carlton's tradition of haute French fare. A regular three-course menu includes Gallic dishes like poularde, a roasted hen breast, and juicy lamb chops served with ratatouille-stuffed squash blossoms. But his talent really shines in dishes like snapper poached in lobster broth and hot foie gras set off by a beguiling flavor of spicy pickled huckleberries. Diners with deep pockets should splash out on the chef's nine-course menu, which boasts a different dish for every diner.