At Essential by Christophe, dinner is an invitation to slow down and savor. Our Upper West Side dining room offers an elegant escape where guests may choose between our three-course and four-course prix fixe menus, each designed to highlight Chef Christophe Bellanca’s French mastery. Seasonal ingredients are transformed into artful plates, with the option to enhance the experience through thoughtfully curated wine pairings or refined non-alcoholic pairings. Whether for a romantic evening, a special celebration, or a refined night of fine dining near Lincoln Center, our dinner menu captures the essence of Michelin-level French cuisine in New York City.
Three Course Experience Un or Deux / Trois / Dessert 175 prix fixe 70 wine pairing | 105 reserve wine pairing | 40 non-alcoholic pairing
Four Course Experience Un / Deux / Trois / Dessert 205 prix fixe 95 wine pairing | 140 reserve wine pairing | 50 non-alcoholic pairing
Our offerings may vary based on ingredient availability and chef inspiration. We appreciate your understanding.
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
The Essential Menu is the signature expression of our kitchen ~ a full tasting journey that reflects Chef Christophe’s philosophy of precision and elegance. This multi-course experience showcases the harmony of French technique with modern refinement, paired seamlessly with either distinctive wines from our collection or bespoke non-alcoholic creations. Dining here becomes a narrative, unfolding course by course in one of the most sophisticated fine dining restaurants on the Upper West Side. Ideal for discerning guests seeking a Michelin-caliber tasting menu near Central Park and Lincoln Center, this is Essential by Christophe at its most inspired.
Mushroom Cappuccino
sweet potato / madeira reduction
choice of
Madai
sashimi / cucumber / lemon verbena / ajoblanco
gluten free
Wild Red King Crab
foie gras / oxalis / bouillon corsé
gluten free
Langoustine
slightly cooked / stuffed zita / swarnadwipa / green curry
The Essential Experience 255 prix fixe 170 wine pairing | 245 reserve wine pairing
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Our offerings may vary based on ingredient availability and chef inspiration. We appreciate your understanding.
Our bar is where refinement meets ease. Perfect for those seeking a more casual yet upscale dining experience on the Upper West Side, the Bar Menu offers a curated selection of à la carte dishes alongside a collection of wines, champagnes, and cocktails. Guests may enjoy dinner at the bar or linger over artisanal cocktails crafted with French elegance and modern creativity. It is a setting for both spontaneous evenings and polished nights out, where every sip and every bite reflects the signature sophistication of Essential by Christophe.
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Our offerings may vary based on ingredient availability and chef inspiration. We appreciate your understanding.
Cocktails
Lychee Prélude
yanagita shochu / lychee / umeshu / lillet blanc
$18
The Essential Martini
gin / vodka / cyril zangs eau de vie de cidre / thai bitters
$24
Me Thyme
helix vodka / pomegranate juice / elderflower / thyme
$21
Harvest Highball
brooklyn gin / strawberry / yuzu / soda
$22
Autumn Sky
toki japanese whisky / routin vermouth / aperol / peach bitters
Henriot Wine Dinner Thursday, October 23rd 6:00 pm Seating is limited
Join us for an exclusive evening celebrating the dynamic house of Champagne Henriot guided by Alice Tetienne, Chef de Cave. The well-regarded house was founded in 1808 by Appoline Henriot, a young widow who had a deep love for the region and its vines. With a powerful interest in terrior and viticulture, Apolline desired to "shed a light on her land through Champagne" and this philosophy exists at Henriot to this day, with the house's Tete de Cuvee "Hemera" after the Greek goddess of light. Alice Tétienne, will illuminate Henriot’s commitment to excellence and terroir-transparency across decades through their superb lineup of Champagne. Each wine will be thoughtfully paired with a 4-course menu curated by acclaimed Chef Christophe Bellanca, designed to elevate and complement the unique character of every pour. This extraordinary culinary and wine experience promises an unforgettable night of artistry and flavor. Each ticket is priced at $390 per person.
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Our offerings may vary based on ingredient availability and chef inspiration. We appreciate your understanding.
Thanksgiving Day 12:30 pm - 8:00 pm 4-course menu $205 per person + beverage, tax, and gratuity.
Celebrate Thanksgiving in the heart of Manhattan with a special four-course holiday menu. Located just steps from Central Park West and the Thanksgiving Day Parade route, Essential by Christophe offers an elegant dining experience for guests looking to enjoy Thanksgiving lunch or dinner near the parade. Whether you’re watching the floats on West 77th Street or spending the day exploring Midtown, join us for a festive, chef-driven meal featuring seasonal ingredients and modern French cuisine. Perfect for families, parade-goers, and visitors seeking one of New York City’s best Thanksgiving restaurants near the parade route. Please note we do not offer parade viewing.
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Our offerings may vary based on ingredient availability and chef inspiration. We appreciate your understanding.
