The Modern

The Modern is really two different experiences: the bar, and the dining room. The dining room is a beautiful, formal space overlooking the MoMa garden with a three-course prixe fixe menu. It’s fine dining for sure, and it’s incredibly good.

The bar area is quite a bit different - it’s more relaxed, with an a la carte menu of share plates. You can get a seat at the counter, grab one of the low two-tops (which are frankly a little awkward if you actually want to eat), or even get a real table - all with the same A plus service as the formal dining room, even if the food isn’t as impressive. But really, this side of The Modern is best used for martinis after the museum, or fancy pre- or post-dinner drinks at one of the only great bars in Midtown.

photo credit: Ellen Silverman

The bar area is quite a bit different. It’s sleek, more relaxed, and on a good night, you’ll find some Action at the Bar. The plates are smaller and a bit more restrained, but you will still get A plus service and have a decent meal. We like the bar just fine, but what it really comes down to is this: That James Beard award didn’t get handed over for restraint and small plates. Chef Kruether is rocking a new neck accessory because of what’s happening in the dining room. It’s a top notch restaurant, but the bar can be a bit hit-or-miss, and if we’re doing it fancy, Eleven Madison park is more our speed.