When you dine upscale, you should expect to pay upscale prices.
Compared to a local eatery that may cater more towards family audiences, or mid-pricing levels, upscale dining is a whole new world. If you’ve never been, I highly recommend you indulge at least once or twice in your life, whether it’s a date, an anniversary or just because.
Choosing an upscale establishment means that you’re not only paying for exemplary service, you’re paying for an exquisite meal, the atmosphere surrounding the meal, and the experience as a whole.
Here are some of the most expensive meals in America according to Eater and MSN. Note that these may not be the most expensive meals in America, but checking the prices won’t be doing you or your wallet any favors nonetheless.
- Daniel–New York City
An absolute classic and very well-known establishment from one of my favorite cities in the United States. I have actually mentioned Daniel in this blog before; Daniel was the featured restaurant in the “What Happens When Kids Try Fine Dining” blog entry and accompanying video. Clearly, the children in that video ate quite well that afternoon, despite not appreciating every food served.
Tastings are often incredibly expensive, understandably so. An eight-course tasting at Daniel will run you $220 per person.
- Empire Steakhouse–New York City
You can see a trend developing–with New York City’s wide array of restaurants and upscale atmosphere, you’re bound to find an accompanying wealth of high-priced foods. A 10-ounce Kobe sirloin at the Empire Steakhouse will run you $345. While this seems like an obscenely high price for a steak, consider the fact that Empire is one of just two restaurants in New York that serves real Kobe beef.
- Masa–New York City
Back to New York for number two, Masa serves up some of the most expensive, and certainly the tastiest Japanese food you’ll find in the US. Masa screams exclusivity, and has the menu to back it up. Chef Masayoshi Takayama has worked since his youth to perfect the art of cooking, and you won’t hear that many complaining. The $450 price point for a meal–not including drinks–makes Masa one of the most expensive eateries in the US.
- Serendipity 3–NYC/Las Vegas
The perfect after-meal sundae treat, Serendipity 3’s Golden Opulence Sundae contains Tahitian vanilla ice cream, Madagascar vanilla and, of course, a golf leaf. Caviar and Venezuelan chocolate are just two more of the incredibly lavish “toppings” on this sundae that will run you $1,000.
- Fleur–Las Vegas
If you like a good burger–maybe the best burger in America–Fleur is your restaurant. Having some disposable income also helps, as the most expensive item featured on the menu is the Fleur burger. Wagyu beef, foie gras, truffles and a bottle of Chateau Petrus brings the price of this entree at Fleur to $5,000.
