After 176 years of existence, America’s first and oldest restaurant is still going strong. Delmonico’s remains a favorite for Wall Street power brokers and doing so well that the venerable institution recently opened two New York outposts, Delmonico’s Kitchen at 36 and Eighth and Delmonico’s of Southampton in Long Island.

Think about it. Delmonico’s in Lower Manhattan first opened its doors in 1837. This was the first dining establishment in America to be called by its French name, “Restaurant.” It was the first to have a printed menu, to offer a separate wine list, to have tablecloths, to offer private dining rooms and the first to have a “star” chef.

The original site takes up nearly the entire block and has a décor that’s classic and sophisticated with dark rich woods, cozy tables and comfortable banquettes. You know you are dining somewhere truly special. There are several private dining rooms surrounding the main hall, each with a distinct design, but all with the same overall opulent feel.

In a city where restaurants close every couple of months you don’t last almost two centuries if your menu and service doesn’t stand the changing taste of demanding diners. Fortunately Delmonico’s has created some classic dishes, copied by fine restaurants all over the world.

The Delmonico’s Steak, Lobster Newburg and Baked Alaska were born here and are some of the classic dishes responsible for the restaurant’s longevity. In addition Roasted Red Snapper (Fregola Sarda, Braised Baby Fennel, Sauce Vierge) Seared Atlantic Halibut (served with Maine Lobster, Charred Corn, Roasted Mushroom, Basil, Escarole, Potato) Double Cut Lamb Chops and Grilled Veal Chop should be among your main course menu selections.

For appetizers try Iceberg Salad (Jasper Hill Blue Cheese, North Country Smoked Apple-Wood Bacon, Red Onion, Tomato) Wagyu Beef Carpaccio (Grilled Zucchini Artichoke Salad, Sicilian Olives, Shaved Parmesan, Bottarg)Shellfish Chateau (Oysters, Lobster, Crab, Jumbo Shrimp) “Cape Cod” Day Boat Scallops (Meyer Lemon Jam, Pistachio, Chorizo) or Cage Free Foie Gras.

You can’t forget dessert! It goes without saying that the Baked Alaska should be a must. But also give a try to Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Mousse (White Chocolate Ice Cream, Valhrona Chocolate Sauce) or Peach in A Blanket (Sweet Crepe, Mascarpone Ice Cream, Yogurt, Fennel Green Apple Salad).

The outstanding menu has been carefully crafted by Chef Billy Oliva whose broad international experience has exposed him to new flavor profiles and techniques, which garnered him a Michelin Bib Gourmand. At Delmonico’s Oliva brings a globally-inspired, seasonal approach to the oldest restaurant in the country using organic and local ingredients.

With Oliva as Executive Chef and under the guidance of visionary Managing Partner Dennis Turcinovic, the Delmonico’s name is on a quest for world domination. They have now joined forces with Neal Sroka, founder and president of Douglas Elliman’s DE Worldwide, an international real estate consulting group to expand the brand. Together they are working on a global licensing partnership to bring the traditions of America’s oldest restaurant to Sao Paulo, Bogota, Panama City and Rio de Janeiro. It seems that after more than 176 years Delmonico’s will no longer be a luxury afforded exclusively to New Yorkers, or those international foodies in search of a magnificent meal. Get ready to soon experience the brand on your next trip to Latin America.

However, until that time comes, remember, if you want to be a part of history while experiencing an extraordinary meal, head down to 56 Beaver Street. The original is still the best.

Delmonico’s
56 Beaver Street
New York, NY 10004
(212) 509-1144
www.delmonicosny.com‎