THIS FRENCH-BORN CHEF OPERATES ONE OF THE MOST EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE RESTAURANTS—FOR ADULTS ONLY—IN NEW YORK. HERE’S WHERE HE EATS WITH HIS WIFE AND SMALL CHILDREN…
01
For Sunday Breakfast.
I’m up early, thanks to my kids. We are out the door by 7 a.m. and off to Bread Story. When we arrive, the croissants and baguettes are still warm from the oven. My kids are total bread snobs, which I love. It makes the Frenchman in me very happy and proud.
02
For a Grown-Up Experience the Kids Will Also Enjoy.
Frenchette hits that sweet spot. It feels like one of my old restaurants. It has a grownup vibe, yes, but there’s a playfulness to it that makes it perfect for anyone of any age.
03
For Dim Sum.
My kids are the toughest critics—since they have been spoiled with great dim sum throughout their lives, and even they agree, Hutong is the closest we’ve found to proper Hong Kong–style dim sum. The chef is from Hong Kong, and I worked with the group years ago, so there’s a real connection between the spot and me.
04
For Birthdays.
Hawksmoor has become our family tradition—we go for every birthday for the kids, every year since we landed in New York. The kids have their routine: steak, then the chocolate cake (which, I’ll admit, I look forward to too). There’s something comforting about returning to the same place, same table. It’s how we mark time.
05
For an Easy Night Out.
Lavagna is my go-to when I want comfort without effort. It's cozy, Italian, very authentic, and the chickpea artichoke dish is something special. Or Novita, if I’m in the mood for something just a bit more polished. Either way, it’s no-fuss, full of heart, and exactly the kind of place a chef wants when he’s off-duty.
06
For a Romantic Dinner.
Our secret little escape is Chambers. Just me, my wife, Crystal, and sommelier Pascaline Lepeltier, who is so knowledgeable about wines. She studied philosophy and brings that knowledge into how she selects wine for each customer. It’s not for the kids; this is our place where we don’t look at the time, and we can have a great conversation and enjoy each other.
