The Restaurant at Gilder

- 200 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024

New York City is home to an abundance of world-class museums, and the American Museum of Natural History stands out as a true icon. With the opening of its new Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation, the museum has introduced a new dining experience that is as impressive as the exhibits themselves: The Restaurant at Gilder. This is not your typical museum cafeteria; it is a contemporary American restaurant that offers a refined, table-service meal in a truly spectacular setting. Diners are treated to views of the stunning, sunlit Kenneth C. Griffin Atrium, a soaring architectural marvel that makes the meal feel like an integral part of the museum experience. The menu is crafted with care, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and a modern take on American classics. It's a place that caters to both the hurried explorer looking for a quick, quality bite and the visitor who wants to sit, relax, and savor a meal. The Restaurant at Gilder seamlessly blends a casual atmosphere with an upscale menu, providing a welcome and impressive respite for anyone exploring this incredible institution. It's a testament to the idea that museum dining can be a destination in its own right, offering a perfect blend of convenience, quality, and a memorable ambiance.

The Restaurant at Gilder is located on the second floor of the American Museum of Natural History's Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation, at 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, USA. This places it directly on the edge of Central Park and the heart of the Upper West Side, making it a convenient stop for locals and tourists. The restaurant is accessible via any of the museum's entrances, though admission to the museum is required to dine here. Its prime location makes it an excellent choice for a meal before or after exploring the museum's many halls. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their dining experience. The presence within the museum means that finding parking can be a challenge, but public transportation, including the subway and bus systems, provides easy access to the area. Visitors can take advantage of the museum's unique service that allows them to put their name on a waitlist, browse the exhibits, and receive a text when their table is ready, a feature that many have praised as a huge time-saver.

The Restaurant at Gilder offers a dining experience that is both convenient and high-quality, perfectly suited for its unique location.

• Dine-in: The restaurant provides a full table-service dining experience, allowing guests to sit and relax after a long day of exploring the museum.
• Takeout: For those on a tight schedule or who prefer to eat on the go, a quick-service takeout option is available.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to guarantee a table without a long wait.
• Lunch & Dinner: The Restaurant at Gilder serves lunch and dinner, with a menu that includes a variety of salads, bowls, and large plates to satisfy any craving.
• Solo Dining: The casual atmosphere and fast, friendly service make it an excellent choice for solo diners who want to enjoy a good meal without a fuss.
• Beverage Service: The restaurant offers a full bar with a great selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, and wine. Their "Wine on Tap" selection is a unique feature. They also serve coffee and other refreshing beverages.

The Restaurant at Gilder distinguishes itself with several key features that set it apart from other dining options in the area.

• Spectacular Setting: Dining in the restaurant offers a unique view of the stunning architecture of the Gilder Center's main atrium. The natural light and modern design create a beautiful and memorable ambiance that enhances the entire meal.
• High-Quality Food: Despite being a museum restaurant, the food quality is a pleasant surprise for many. The menu, which includes dishes like the "Braised Beef Short R" and a popular burger, is described as tasty, and the portions are generous. The restaurant prioritizes locally sourced ingredients from local suppliers and minority- and women-owned businesses.
• Efficient Service: The service is consistently noted as being "fast and friendly," which is a huge plus for museum-goers on a schedule. The ability to put your name on a list and explore the museum while you wait is a major highlight.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, with options for vegans and those looking for plant-forward dishes. The menu includes classic American comfort food, healthy salads and bowls, and creative cocktails, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Great Cocktails and Wine: The bar offers a fantastic selection, with a focus on local breweries, distilleries, and coffee roasters. The unique wine on tap selection provides a fresh and sustainable way to enjoy a glass with your meal.
• Casual and Welcoming Atmosphere: The ambiance is casual and comfortable, making it a great place for groups, families, or solo diners. It's a sophisticated space that doesn't feel stuffy or intimidating.

To make a reservation or inquire about the restaurant, you can use the following information:

Address: 200 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA

Phone: (212) 496-3351

Choosing to dine at The Restaurant at Gilder is a fantastic decision that elevates a trip to the American Museum of Natural History. The most compelling reason to choose this spot is the incredible convenience and quality it offers. It provides a "10000% better option" than the quick-service cafes found throughout the museum, as one reviewer noted. Instead of a hurried meal, you get to sit down, relax, and enjoy a high-quality, table-service lunch or dinner. The food itself is a major draw, with standout dishes like the "Braised Beef Short R," "Hawaiian Fried Chic," and a "super tasty" burger. The generous portion sizes mean you’ll leave feeling satisfied and ready to continue your exploration. The drinks menu is also a significant highlight, with creative cocktails like "The Butterfly," as well as a great wine list. For a museum visit that can often be overwhelming, this restaurant provides a much-needed and enjoyable break. The unique system of getting a text when your table is ready allows you to maximize your time exploring the exhibits without the stress of a long wait. The friendly and fast service further contributes to a positive and stress-free experience. If you're planning a visit to the American Museum of Natural History and want a meal that is both delicious and efficient, The Restaurant at Gilder is a highly recommended and worthwhile choice.

The Restaurant at Gilder

200 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA