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400 5th Avenue, 2nd Level • The Langham NYC, New York City, NY 10018 • Tel:212.613.8660

Best 5th Avenue Restaurants in New York City for Upscale Dining

By Aifiori
10-04-2025

When people think of 5th Avenue, they often picture luxury fashion houses and iconic NYC landmarks. But for food lovers and discerning diners, 5th Avenue restaurants offer an equally impressive experience. From haute cuisine to designer cafés, dining in Midtown NYC reaches new heights along this famed boulevard.

If you’re searching for upscale restaurants in NYC, especially around 5th Avenue, there’s one name that rises above the rest: Ai Fiori.

Ai Fiori: Fifth Avenue’s Crown Jewel of Upscale Dining

Tucked within the elegant Langham Hotel at 400 Fifth Avenue, Ai Fiori is a standout among restaurants on Fifth Avenue. Operated by the Altamarea Group, this fine dining destination has carved out its niche with a bold and contemporary reinterpretation of coastal cuisine.

A Taste of the Riviera in the Heart of Manhattan

Recently reimagined, Ai Fiori now draws culinary inspiration from the Italian and French Riviera. The atmosphere is a romantic blend of dusky elegance and modern luxury—think deep velvets, warm lighting, and textures that nod to 1920s glamour. But it’s the menu that truly transports you.

Executive Chef PJ Calapa (formerly of Nobu and Bouley) has crafted a selection of refined yet approachable dishes:

  • Coastal-inspired antipasti like crudo and tuna tartare
  • An expanded verdure section, with vibrant vegetable-forward dishes
  • Signature handmade pastas like Trofie Nero with scallops and lobster, or the beloved Agnolotti
  • Riviera-style entrées such as Mediterranean branzino and braised veal

Ai Fiori also shines in its beverage program. From rare wines to expertly crafted cocktails (including Riviera-inspired spritzes), the bar menu complements the food experience perfectly.

Elegant Yet Relaxed Dining

While Ai Fiori delivers the sophistication expected from a top-tier Midtown restaurant, it avoids the stiffness often associated with fine dining. The team embraces a philosophy of celebration and joy, creating an environment where both locals and international guests feel welcome.

Whether you’re closing a business deal, planning a date night, or celebrating a milestone, Ai Fiori combines atmosphere, service, and cuisine for an unforgettable evening.

📍 400 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
🌐 Visit Website

Other Notable Restaurants on Fifth Avenue for Upscale Dining

While Ai Fiori leads the charge, 5th Avenue is home to several other upscale restaurants in NYC worth mentioning:

Café Carmellini – Elevated Dining at The Fifth Avenue Hotel

Located at 250 Fifth Avenue, Café Carmellini is the signature restaurant of James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. The menu seamlessly blends French and Italian classics with a New York twist, served in a romantic, gold-accented dining room.

Armani Ristorante – Fashion Meets Fine Dining

Inside the Armani flagship at 717 Fifth Avenue, this minimalist, mirror-wrapped space offers beautifully plated modern Italian cuisine. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a luxurious feel, it’s a perfect spot for fashion-forward food lovers.

Harry Cipriani – Classic Italian at Its Best

For a timeless experience, Harry Cipriani at the Sherry-Netherland Hotel (781 Fifth Ave) serves up Cipriani family staples in a classic Venetian atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking tradition, style, and impeccable service.

Le Café Louis Vuitton – French Fare in a Designer Setting

On the fourth floor of the Louis Vuitton boutique, Le Café Louis Vuitton delivers refined French cuisine in an ultra-chic setting. With a menu curated by Michelin-starred chefs, this spot offers a unique twist on Midtown Manhattan dining.

Final Thoughts

If you’re exploring restaurants on Fifth Avenue, the options for upscale dining in NYC are as diverse and refined as the city itself. From timeless classics to bold new experiences, each venue tells its own story.

Yet, if you’re looking for a destination that blends culinary artistry, modern elegance, and Riviera charm, Ai Fiori remains the clear standout. It’s not just one of the best 5th Avenue restaurants—it’s one of the best restaurants in all of New York City.