VIBE

Aptly named not only for its big-top décor (the main room is filled with whimsical animal art and crowned by a glowing lampshade-esque ceiling suggestive of a circus tent) but also for the sheer number of rich and famous faces it ushers in on a daily basis. Le Cirque is one of this city’s choicest French eateries, and it shows in the fact that owner Sirio Maccioni continues to seduce the wealthy and well-coiffed with his haute French cuisine (now boasting organic greenmarket ingredients). Many come for the food–Chef Craig Hopson has constructed an exquisite collection of dishes like comté cheese soufflé and duck confit–but most enjoy taking in the show as well-trained waiters twirl about the room, delivering artful platters to Manhattan’s stars du jour.

CROWD

The city’s rich and famous, media moguls, corporate kings (and their clients), and romantic twosomes out for a splurge.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Dressy; jackets are required for men; by night, try a sleek cocktail dress with some sparkling jewels, killer heels, and a matching clutch.

GO HERE WITH

Clients or colleagues; your parents; significant other; an expensive date

WHY WE LIKE IT

What can we say? The décor, the service, and the food are all equally stunning. It’s also a bit of a trip to dine amongst Manhattan’s most powerful.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Unless it’s Restaurant Week, you will pay dearly for your experience.

GOOD TO KNOW

Le Cirque used to only offer prix fixe options, but à la carte menus are now available (though, if you still prefer, there’s a dinner prix fixe from USD 95 and Tasting Menu from USD 135). For a much less expensive experience, try the adjacent café, which requires neither jackets nor reservations. Sirio Maccioni’s other ventures include Osteria del Circo (New York), Sirio Ristorante at the Aria Resort and Casino (Las Vegas), Le Cirque at The Bellagio (Las Vegas), Osteria del Circo at The Bellagio (Las Vegas) The Leela Palace (New Delhi), Beach Club by Le Cirque Casa de Campo Resort (Dominican Republic), and La Caña Restaurant & Lounge by Il Circo (Dominican Republic)

OTHER LOCATIONS

Le Cirque at The Bellagio (Las Vegas)

CLOSEST COMPS

Daniel (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.