From Anna Wintour and Marc Jacobs to Diane von Furstenberg, The Standard Grill in the Meatpacking District is a mainstay in the New York dining scene. Tucked inside the Standard High Line, this iconic institution has been the perfect stop for tourists, regulars, and fashion week icons.
This year marked 15 years of delicious classics for the restaurant, and with it, the return of Chef Dan Silverman (formerly of Minetta Tavern), who is returning to The Standard to spearhead the kitchen—and his famous Million Dollar Chicken.
“Although some things have changed over time, the DNA of the restaurant remains the same,” explains Chef Silverman. “We strive to serve responsibly sourced, seasonal local products that are cooked properly and seasoned well with love and attention to detail.”
Below, the chef takes us on a journey through his favorite spots in New York, the inspiration behind his signature dish, and everything in between. And make sure to check out more insights on where to go from our Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities here.
How would you describe the New York culinary scene?
The food scene in New York is better than ever. There's more variety, new restaurants, and different cuisines are having their moment—there is truly something for everyone. New York is more of an international dining destination than ever before.
What was the idea behind the Million Dollar Chicken—one of your most popular signature dishes?
In the U.S., many people think of chicken as a sort of second-class entrée or protein, and consequently it gets taken for granted. However, taking the time to source very flavorful, local, heritage-bred chickens, and then cooking them not only with the right amount of seasoning but also with love, attention, and respect, results in a memorable and delicious meal. Crackling crispy skin, moist and flavorful meat with just a touch of chicken jus…I can think of few things more satisfying. It's worth a million dollars!
Who is The Standard Grill diner?
The Standard Grill diner is as diverse as New York City itself, and that's what makes our restaurant so special. Our customers are a great mix of neighborhood folks, local businesspeople, hotel guests, and tourists.
On any given night, you might see fashion industry insiders rubbing elbows with finance executives, artists having a drink with tech entrepreneurs, and longtime neighborhood residents dining alongside tourists who are experiencing the city for the first time. Some come for the food, some for the great cocktails, and some for the great energy of the packed dining room.
Where do you like to dine out in New York?
Le Veau d’Or. Because old school is the best school.
What's your favorite MICHELIN Guide hotel?
The Standard, High Line, of course!
Where’s your hidden gem in the city?
La Vara. As a former longtime Brooklynite, I love this place (and the rest of Alex and Eder’s restaurants).
Which museum is your must see in New York?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a short walk across Central Park from where I live now…I just lose myself and wander.
Where do you like to shop?
Favorite bookstore
Three Lives offers an amazing selection of books and an extremely knowledgeable but unassuming staff.
Best cookbook shop
Kitchen Arts and Letters offers cooking inspiration in too many languages to count.
Favorite greenmarkets
81st and Columbus because it’s right up the street from me. Union Square because it is the mothership of them all.
Address Book
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Three Lives & Company
154 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Kitchen Arts & Letters, books on food and drink
1435 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128
81st Street Greenmarket
79th Street &, Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
Union Square Greenmarket
Union Square W &, E 17th St, New York, NY 10003
Hero image: Purple PR Lifestyle / Chef Dan Silverman
