The first Monday in May has become something of legend in New York City (and around the world). The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute hosts its annual gala filled with celebs, fabulous fashion, and often a delicious meal (this year's menu was overseen by Tatiana chef Kwame Onwuachi). However, it takes a very strong character to take on fashion's biggest night with a party of their own but that's exactly what New York restaurant icon Keith McNally did Monday evening. To celebrate his memoir I Regret Almost Everything, McNally celebrated in grand style with a dinner at, where else, Balthazar.
Inside the Soho boîte were a cavalcade of stars from the worlds of art, film, stage, and fashion who lingered over the iconic seafood towers and steak frites. (Editor's note: Le Bernadin's Eric Ripert says they are the best fries in the city). As the actor Richard E. Grant narrated excerpts from McNally's memoir (he also voices the audiobook), guests luxuriated in the easy splendor inherent to Balthazar. And as the literati mingled and chatted, performances by Sandy Dalziel and Lily Kershaw serenaded them into the bar for a nightcap where McNally held court. Clearly, no regrets about partying.
Below, McNally opens up his New York address book and make sure to check out more insights from our Inspectors, celebrities, and chefs.
What are your overall favorite restaurants in NYC?
Raoul's on Prince Street, Bar Pitti on 6th Avenue and Elio's on 84th Street.
For a classic NYC meal?
Since Ratner's on Delancey St closed in 2004, Katz's Deli on East Houston St.
For first timers to NYC?
River Cafe in Brooklyn.
For a big celebration?
Carmine's in Times Square.
For dining alone?
For a meal with your kids?
McDonald's at 160 Broadway.
For simple comfort food?
Amy Ruth's in Harlem
Best British food?
Tea and Sympathy in the West Village.
Any hidden gems?
Balthazar at 80 Spring Street
Favorite hotel?
Unrelated to food, where would you go on a day off?
The sofa in my living room to read.
What can readers expect in I Regret Almost Everything?
Nothing about food.
What’s been your favorite memory working in the restaurant industry?
If I were honest, I'd say having sex in the basement of Maxwell's Plum with a waitress. If I were dishonest, I’d say it was the day in 2010 when Minetta Tavern received a Michelin Star.
Who’s your favorite diner that’s come in? And still comes in?
I don't have one favorite customer. I hate them all equally.
Who’s been the most difficult diner, and what was that experience like?
James Corden for making one of my waitresses cry.
What advice would you give to restaurateurs?
Carve your own path and don't listen to restaurant 'experts'.
Who would you invite to eat at one of your restaurants that you think hasn’t dined there yet?
Before he died, I always wanted Gene Hackman to eat at my restaurants. A great man and actor who never kowtowed to anyone.
What would you like your legacy to be?
He outlived his enemies.
Address Book
Amy Ruth's in Harlem
113 W 116th St, New York, NY 10026
Balthazar
80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Bar Pitti
268 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Carmine's
200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Elio's
1621 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC
18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Katz's (Bib Gourmand)
205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
McDonald's
160 Broadway, New York, NY 10038
The River Café
1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Raoul's
180 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Tea and Sympathy
108 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Via Carota
51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Hero image: Victoria Dearing / Keith McNally
