Aquavit Restaurant: A Guide to the Iconic Nordic Dining Experience in NYC

Aquavit Introduce

For New Yorkers seeking an unparalleled culinary journey, Aquavit stands out as a beacon of Nordic excellence right in the heart of Midtown East. As one of the city's most celebrated fine-dining establishments, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers more than just a meal—it presents a deeply immersive and memorable experience. Aquavit skillfully blends traditional Scandinavian flavors with modern, innovative techniques, creating a menu that is both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Nordic cuisine or simply curious about what it has to offer, a visit to this iconic restaurant promises to be an extraordinary and inspiring adventure.

The culinary philosophy at Aquavit is a testament to the rich heritage of Scandinavian cooking, focusing on seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. The menu is a carefully curated exploration of the region’s best, from delicate seafood dishes to hearty, comforting classics. The experience is elevated by an impeccable staff that is both professional and genuinely warm, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the restaurant's ability to accommodate a wide range of dietary needs with creativity and grace, ensuring that every guest can enjoy the full scope of the dining experience. From the moment you step inside, the attention to detail is evident, making every visit feel special and perfectly orchestrated.

## Location and Accessibility

Aquavit is ideally situated at 65 E 55th Street, New York, NY 10022, placing it within easy reach of many major business hubs and cultural landmarks in Midtown Manhattan. Its prime location makes it a convenient choice for both a power lunch and a romantic dinner. Getting there is straightforward, with numerous public transportation options available. The restaurant is just a short walk from several subway stations, including the E, M, and 6 lines, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city. For those arriving by car, paid parking lots and metered street parking are available in the surrounding area, though reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. It is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. This thoughtfulness ensures that everyone can enjoy the exceptional dining experience without any hassle. The entrance is welcoming and the interior is spacious enough to navigate comfortably, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to providing a seamless and inclusive environment for all diners.

## Services Offered

Aquavit provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the needs of its discerning clientele, from quick and convenient options to a full, sit-down dining experience.

Dine-in: Enjoy the full, award-winning dining experience in the restaurant's elegant and serene atmosphere. Both lunch and dinner are served with a focus on impeccable table service.
Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for both lunch and dinner, ensuring you get a table at this popular spot.
Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, Aquavit offers delivery service, bringing its exquisite Nordic cuisine directly to your door.
Takeout: You can also opt for takeout, allowing you to pick up your order and enjoy a gourmet meal wherever you choose.
No-Contact Delivery: In an effort to prioritize health and safety, Aquavit also provides a no-contact delivery option, offering peace of mind and convenience.

## Features and Highlights

Aquavit is celebrated not only for its food but also for a variety of other features that make it a standout destination in New York City's dining scene.

Exceptional Beverages: The restaurant is known for its incredible beverage program. It features a great wine list with selections that perfectly complement the Nordic flavors of the menu. Additionally, the bar crafts great cocktails, offering a wide range of options from classic concoctions to unique, house-made creations.
Michelin-Starred Excellence: Holding two Michelin stars, Aquavit is recognized as one of the world's top dining establishments. This accolade speaks volumes about the quality of the food, the service, and the overall experience.
Perfect for Various Occasions: Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a sophisticated lunch, or a comfortable meal for solo dining, the atmosphere at Aquavit is versatile and accommodating. The restaurant is popular for groups and is a favorite among tourists seeking a high-end culinary experience.
Upscale and Cozy Atmosphere: The restaurant's ambiance is the perfect blend of trendy, upscale, and cozy. It’s a space that feels both modern and intimate, with decor that reflects Scandinavian design principles—clean lines, natural materials, and a sense of serenity. This atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for special occasions or simply an evening of relaxed indulgence.
Thoughtful Amenities: Guests can enjoy the convenience of an onsite bar and a clean, accessible restroom. These amenities contribute to a comfortable and complete dining experience, ensuring that every need is met with professionalism and care.

## What Is Worth Choosing

Choosing to dine at Aquavit is a decision to experience one of New York City’s finest culinary institutions. It’s a place where every element, from the warm welcome to the final dessert, is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable experience. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a flexible choice for various occasions. Its ability to serve an array of guests, from romantic couples to groups and solo diners, highlights its adaptability and welcoming nature. The menu is a highlight in itself, offering a journey through Nordic flavors. Start with the

Herring Sampler

or the

Shrimp Skagen Toast

for a true taste of Scandinavia. The main courses, such as the famous

Swedish Meatballs

or the expertly prepared

Arctic Char

, are always a reliable and delicious choice. For dessert, the

Princess Cake

is a must-try, offering a classic and delightful end to the meal. The rave reviews from patrons often point to the creative and innovative dishes, the impeccable service, and the serene, elegant atmosphere. Guests often receive thoughtful gifts, such as the restaurant’s smoked sea salt, which further adds to the personal and memorable nature of the visit. The seamless, graceful service and the kitchen’s ability to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor are frequently mentioned as standout features. Aquavit truly offers an experience that transcends a typical meal, providing a sensory journey that justifies every accolade it has received. It's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining and an inspiring culinary adventure.

## Contact Information

Address: 65 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (212) 307-7311

Aquavit Menu

FIRST
Nordic Breads $9.00
sourdough, danish rye, cultured butter
Grilled Gem Lettuce $20.00
swedish anchovies, priest cheese, brioche
Herring Sampler $25.00
selection of three , cheese, potatoes
Yellowtail Crudo $28.00
cucumber, sea buckthorn, radishes
Mushroom Soup $18.00
sourdough, brown butter, sour cream
Gravlax $25.00
hovmästar sauce, mustard seeds
Shrimp Skagen Toast $28.00
brioche, dill, lemon

SECOND
Cod $38.00
dill, shrimp, caper brown butter
Swedish Meatballs $36.00
pommes purée, lingonberry, pickled cucumber
Short Rib $52.00
truffle potato, maitake mushrooms, broccolini
Arctic Char $46.00
sunchokes, trout roe, sandefjord sauce
Spätzle $35.00
leeks, squash, priest cheese
Amish Chicken $38.00
carrots, shallots, chicken jus

DESSERT
Princess Cake $18.00
raspberry, whipped cream, marzipan
Chocolate Semifreddo $17.00
coconut, cara cara orange
Rice Pudding $17.00
cinnamon cake, plum, toffee ice cream
Saffron Cheesecake $16.00
rum ice cream, raisin, spiced streusel
Artisanal Cheeses $25.00
marmalade and seeded cracker

Aquavit Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great cocktails
Great wine list

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Lunch reservations recommended
Reservations required
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking

Aquavit Photos

Aquavit Location

Aquavit

New York New York County New York East 55th Street

65 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Aquavit Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 1172 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

First time dining at a Michelin star establishment. Incredible experience. Walking into the restaurant introduces you to a pleasant, relaxing aroma, as well as kind staff ready to help. The ambient music established a super serene atmosphere, and I was looking forward to dining. The dining experience itself was phenomenal. The staff was incredibly polite and accommodating for dietary restrictions of any kind. The food was incredibly creative. Some dishes were innovative, while some were meant to be cozy and nostalgic. Every dish performed how it was meant to. We were each given a gift: a complimentary container of the restaurant’s smoked sea salt along with the day’s menu. I’m excited to use this sea salt in my own dishes, and I hope to return soon.
August 05 · Victor Borowski
Dining at Aquavit was a refreshing and inspiring culinary experience that fully lived up to its prestigious two Michelin stars. From the moment I stepped through its modern, chic entrance, I knew I was in for something special. The attention to detail, both in the ambiance and the service, was pristine and thoughtful.We were warmly welcomed by Catherine, our server for the evening, whose grace and professionalism, along with the attentive support of the entire team, made the night flow effortlessly. Each course was served with impeccable timing, and dishes were changed seamlessly between courses, every gesture contributing to the seamless dining experience.I opted for the Chef’s Tasting Menu, a seven-course exploration that was nothing short of extraordinary. The kitchen kindly and impressively accommodated my dietary restrictions (no dairy or shellfish), without compromising on creativity or flavor. Every plate was a work of art, visually stunning and masterfully composed with bold, yet balanced Nordic flavors.The starters included a delicate fluke with cucumber, a beautifully presented cod with white asparagus, caviar, and apple, each dish showcasing refreshing elements with a rich complexity of flavor.The entrees featured a vibrant salmon with Meyer lemon, a perfectly cooked Chilean sea bass with turnip, and a standout lamb with morel mushrooms. The fish was impeccably fresh and cooked to perfection, highlighting the natural taste of the sea, while the lamb served medium, was tender, herbaceous, and deeply satisfying.Dessert was a lovely finale: a luscious chocolate mousse paired with strawberry, a sweet and elegant ending to an evening of pure culinary delight.Aquavit is not only a restaurant, it’s an experience. A beautifully orchestrated blend of Nordic innovation, seasonal freshness, and flawless execution, it absolutely deserves every accolade and star it has received. A must-visit for any gourmand seeking something unique and memorable in New York City.
June 27 · Esfira Shakh
Had the best lunch experience at Aquavit! We went with the tasting menu and every single dish was delicious. Amazing technique, finest ingredients, and super warm hospitality. The cocktails are a must-try, and we had fun exploring new liqueurs too. Everything felt thoughtful but not too serious. Totally worth it. Can’t wait to go back!
May 29 · Ravisara L
Aquavit NYC – A World-Class Dining Experience That Earns Every StarI recently had the pleasure of dining at Aquavit NYC, and from the very first moment, it was clear that this was going to be a truly elevated and unforgettable experience. Aquavit isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a masterclass in fine dining, hospitality, and Nordic culinary artistry.The service was truly exceptional across the board. Ray, one of our servers, was gracious, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. Alongside him, another server—a kind and professional Asian gentleman whose name started with a “T”—added a wonderful sense of calm and care to the evening. The female server who helped throughout was equally warm and detailed in her presentation. Together, the service team moved with such harmony and fluidity, it felt like a well-rehearsed performance—graceful and genuine.A special mention goes to the bar manager, who curated a beautiful drink pairing for me. Though I didn’t catch his name, his selections were thoughtful and balanced, perfectly complementing each dish without ever overpowering the food. His understanding of flavor and restraint elevated the meal and demonstrated real expertise.The food itself—led by Chef Emma—was extraordinary. Each dish told a quiet, confident story. The flavors were clean, inventive, and deeply rooted in Nordic tradition while still feeling fresh and modern. The progression of the menu showed great attention to balance and seasonality. Every detail, from temperature to plating to the final seasoning, was executed with precision.A true highlight of the evening was being invited into the kitchen for a tour. It was an honor to witness the incredible calm, discipline, and focus that goes into every plate. The team worked like a symphony—sharp, quiet, intentional. It was inspiring to see.Aquavit deserves every bit of its two Michelin stars. The entire experience—from the impeccable service to the innovative cuisine to the atmosphere of composed elegance—was simply world-class. I would recommend Aquavit wholeheartedly to anyone who values true hospitality, culinary mastery, and an experience that lingers long after the meal is over.
July 18 · Leighton Vignola
An unforgettable dining experience shared with my favorite dining companion. Beautiful technique was executed in each and every dish, with depth of flavor throughout. We started the meal with an Amuse of Elk Tartare which definitely amused the palate and got us ready for the whole experience. We shared a bottle of Timorasso which was perfect with many of the light dishes we enjoyed in the Chef's Tasting. The kitchen is in full sight with a glass wall and we enjoyed seeing them at work. We opted to add the Caviar supplement which was a nice touch. Service was top notch. Highly recommend.
June 09 · The Chef's Table