Clara

- 170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024

For New Yorkers who appreciate a dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine with a stunning setting, Clara stands as a premier destination. Situated in a beautiful, quiet, and spacious room within the New York Historical Society, this American restaurant offers a truly unique and sophisticated escape from the city’s usual hustle and bustle. As one delighted customer noted, the space itself is "gorgeous" and "beautifully-decorated," with high ceilings and large windows that provide a serene view of the Museum of Natural History. Clara is more than just a place to eat; it's an opportunity to enjoy a meal in an environment that is both elegant and relaxing. The menu is a thoughtful curation of classic American dishes with a modern, seasonal twist, ensuring that every plate is both familiar and exciting. This commitment to quality, combined with an ambiance that is quiet enough for conversation, makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, from a business lunch to a special celebratory dinner. The restaurant's reputation for providing an exquisite meal in a beautiful space has quickly made it a favorite among locals and a discovery for those visiting the area.

The culinary philosophy at Clara is centered on fresh, high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The menu is divided into thoughtful sections, including appetizers, mains, and small plates, allowing guests to build a meal that suits their preferences. Appetizers like the Chilled Shrimp and Tuna Tartare are highlights, as noted by a reviewer who shared a variety of delicious starters. The mains are equally impressive, with dishes like Seared Diver Scallops and Crystal Valley Farms Roasted Chicken being perfectly cooked and delectable. The attention to detail extends to the sides, with options like Broccolini and classic French Fries that are anything but ordinary. For a lighter bite, the small plates menu, which includes the Salmon Potato Croquette and Tomato And Stone Fruit, offers sophisticated options perfect for sharing or a solo meal. The desserts, such as the Dark Cacao Gelato With Sour Cherry Redux, provide a perfect ending to the meal, complemented by a selection of coffee and tea. This focus on a well-rounded and high-quality dining experience is what sets Clara apart from many other American restaurants in the city.

In addition to its exquisite food, Clara also boasts a notable beverage program. As a bar and cocktail bar, it offers a diverse range of drinks, including great cocktails, an impressive wine list, and a selection of beers and hard liquor. The bar area is a popular feature, providing a sophisticated space for a pre-dinner drink or a casual stop-in. A customer who visited during Restaurant Week mentioned they would "definitely come back maybe for a drink," highlighting the appeal of the bar even for those who have already dined. The great coffee and tea options, including Latte and Sencha Green Tea, are perfect for finishing a meal or for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. The ambiance is both casual and trendy, making it accessible to a wide range of patrons while maintaining an elegant feel. The restaurant's popularity for lunch, dinner, and even solo dining speaks to its versatility and welcoming nature. It’s a place where you can feel comfortable dining on your own, or where a group of friends can gather for a lively, yet refined, evening. The attentive and good service, as noted in the reviews, ensures that every visit is a pleasant one.

The location of Clara within the New York Historical Society is a major highlight. It provides a quiet and serene environment, a rare find in the bustling Upper West Side. The dining room's large windows offer a captivating view, creating a backdrop that is both beautiful and distinctly New York. The restaurant's popularity among locals suggests it has successfully integrated itself into the fabric of the neighborhood, becoming a go-to spot for those in the know. The restaurant's ability to accept reservations is a convenient feature, allowing guests to plan ahead and avoid a potential wait, which is particularly useful for dinner during peak hours. Furthermore, Clara is committed to accessibility, with both a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its beautiful space and delicious food. The combination of a high-end menu, a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, and excellent service makes Clara a true standout in the city’s dining scene. It is a place that promises a consistently high-quality experience, whether for a small plate and a glass of wine or a full, multi-course meal.

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Clara is located at 170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA. Its prime location within the New York Historical Society places it in a beautiful and historically significant part of the Upper West Side, directly across from the Museum of Natural History. The restaurant’s entrance is wheelchair accessible, and it provides wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that it is a welcoming and convenient space for all guests. The area is well-connected by public transportation, making it easily reachable. Its proximity to Central Park and other major cultural institutions makes it a perfect stop for a meal before or after an afternoon of exploring. The tranquil setting within the museum provides a peaceful respite from the city's energy, offering a dining experience that feels both luxurious and comfortable. This ideal location contributes significantly to its appeal as a dining destination for both locals and tourists.

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• Dine-in: Provides a full-service dining experience with table service in a beautiful and spacious setting.

• Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: Offers distinct menus for each meal, catering to a variety of dining needs throughout the day.

• Bar Service: Features a full-service bar onsite, offering a selection of great cocktails, wine, and beer.

• Reservations: Accepts reservations, which is a key feature for planning special occasions or ensuring a table during busy times.

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• Exquisite Atmosphere: Located in a beautiful, quiet, and spacious room with high ceilings and large windows, providing a unique and elegant dining environment.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The bar offers a wide selection of expertly crafted cocktails and a great wine list, perfect for a drink before, during, or after a meal.

• Fast and Good Service: Praised for its attentive and efficient service, which enhances the overall dining experience.

• Delicious, Seasonal Food: The menu features a selection of perfectly cooked, high-quality American dishes with seasonal ingredients.

• Conversation-Friendly: The quiet ambiance makes it an ideal spot for conversations, a valued quality in a city known for its noisy restaurants.

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Address: 170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA

Phone: (212) 337-6071

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Clara is an exceptional choice for those seeking a dining experience that transcends a simple meal. What makes it particularly worth choosing is the combination of its stunning location, elegant atmosphere, and high-quality cuisine. The restaurant’s setting within the New York Historical Society is a significant differentiator. It provides a beautiful and tranquil backdrop that is rare to find in a city with so many loud and crowded dining spaces. The ability to have a conversation without shouting, as a reviewer mentioned, is a major plus and makes it an ideal spot for an intimate date night or a business meeting. The elegant decor, high ceilings, and large windows create a sense of space and calm that enhances the entire dining experience, making you feel as though you've stepped into a different world.

Beyond the ambiance, the food at Clara is consistently excellent. The focus on classic American dishes prepared with a sophisticated touch ensures that every plate is both satisfying and memorable. The perfectly cooked scallops and delectable chicken, as noted in a review, are just a couple of examples of the kitchen's mastery. The diverse menu, which includes everything from small plates to hearty mains, caters to different appetites and preferences, while the superb cocktails and wine list make it a destination in its own right. Clara’s commitment to providing an exquisite meal in a beautiful space with attentive service makes it a top-tier choice for any occasion. It's a place you choose not just for the food, but for the entire refined and peaceful experience it offers, solidifying its status as a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in New York's dining scene.

Clara

170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA