Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson Introduce
In a city defined by its vibrant energy and rich cultural tapestry, Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson stands as a true culinary anchor, offering an experience that is as elegant and sophisticated as it is welcoming. Located within the stunning Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) in Lower Manhattan, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it is a destination where food, art, and community converge. As a black-owned business, it brings a unique and inspired perspective to the New York dining scene, led by the celebrated chef and restaurateur, Marcus Samuelsson. The restaurant’s atmosphere is a masterful blend of class and comfort, featuring a large, open dining space and an outdoor terrace that provide a relaxed and inviting ambiance. One reviewer perfectly captured this essence, describing it as "the epitome of elegance, class, and a culinary masterpiece" with "decadent ambience." The decor, designed by Rockwell Group, is both dazzling and warm, with a design that reflects the glowing marble facade of the PAC NYC building itself. This thoughtful integration of the restaurant into its cultural surroundings makes for a truly unique dining experience. The presence of a live DJ on select evenings and a clear view of live performances in the lobby at certain points adds an exciting, theatrical element to the evening, ensuring that your senses are engaged from every angle. This is a restaurant that feels alive, in sync with the artistic energy of its host building. The staff, described by reviewers as "excellent" and "really good," contribute to a feeling of gracious hospitality that makes every guest feel at home. It’s a place where you can unwind and feel a part of something special, whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a night of exceptional food and entertainment. The restaurant's menu, which changes seasonally, is a reflection of New York's rich culinary traditions and the chef's innovative approach, promising a journey of surprising flavors and textures.
The culinary creations at Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson are the heart of its allure. The menu is a celebration of modern American cuisine with global influences, a signature of Chef Samuelsson’s style. Dishes are both creative and inventive, with flavors that are described as "flavorful and mouthwatering." A customer highlighted the coffee-smoked duck as "perfection," noting its delicious and memorable quality. The menu is known for its seasonal and often limited-time offerings, ensuring a fresh and dynamic dining experience with every visit. Reviewers have praised the overall presentation and the unique twists Samuelsson puts on ordinary dishes, giving each meal "an idea of surprise." The menu offers a range of options, from a raw bar with a "chef's fresh selection of local shucked oysters" to inventive starters like the "Jerk Octopus" and "Beetroot Tartare." Main courses are equally impressive, featuring items such as the "Harissa-Smoked Short Rib" and the "Za'atar Smoked Duck." The bar and cocktail program are also a major draw, with a curated selection of "theatrical cocktails" and a "fun and worldly wine list." The happy hour, available from Tuesday to Saturday, offers handcrafted cocktails for $10 or less, as well as small bites, providing a more accessible way to experience the restaurant's quality. A unique feature mentioned by a customer is the "oyster cart," a nod to the restaurant's playful and interactive approach to dining. Beyond the food, the restaurant’s commitment to providing a full sensory experience is evident in its live music and the palpable energy of the space. It’s a place where every element, from the decor to the service, is meticulously designed to create a harmonious and unforgettable dining journey. The menu's exploration of diverse culinary traditions is a tribute to New York's immigrant history, making each dish a story in itself. This thoughtful and deliberate approach to cuisine is what elevates Metropolis from a mere restaurant to a true culinary destination.
Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson is located at 251 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, and its location within the Perelman Performing Arts Center makes it a particularly special destination. Situated in the heart of the Financial District, it is incredibly convenient for a variety of patrons. The restaurant is located at the center of a major transportation hub, with the Fulton Center and World Trade Center Oculus nearby. This means it is easily accessible by a multitude of subway lines, including the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, Z, R, and W trains, making it a hassle-free trip from almost anywhere in the city. The proximity to iconic landmarks like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory, and Brookfield Place also makes it a perfect dining choice for visitors exploring the downtown area. The restaurant’s design by Rockwell Group includes a landscaped outdoor terrace, which offers a unique al fresco dining option in the warmer months. This space provides a serene contrast to the bustling city and is a beautiful setting for a meal or a drink. The location is more than just a place on a map; it's the final chapter in the rebuilding of the World Trade Center site, adding a layer of historical significance to every visit. This makes dining at Metropolis not only a culinary experience but also a moment to appreciate the resilience and rebirth of Lower Manhattan. The presence of free-to-the-public artistic programming in the lobby lounge further enhances the cultural significance of the location, ensuring that there is always something to see and do. This blend of a central, historic location and a modern, cultural setting makes Metropolis an essential part of the downtown revitalization and a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the best of New York.
The restaurant’s location and accessibility are among its greatest assets. Its prime position within a major cultural center and transportation hub makes it a convenient and exciting destination. The thoughtful design of the space, including the outdoor terrace, ensures that every dining option is a beautiful one. This combination of a desirable location and a commitment to creating a welcoming and elegant environment makes Metropolis an ideal choice for any occasion.
Services Offered:
- Dine-in: A full-service dining experience in a beautiful, open dining space.
- Outdoor Deck: A landscaped outdoor terrace is available for al fresco dining.
- Happy Hour: Offered Tuesday to Saturday from 5-7 PM with special prices on drinks and small bites.
- Catering and Private Events: The restaurant has a private dining room and can be booked for special events and celebrations.
Features / Highlights:
- Black-Owned Business: A key identifier that adds to the restaurant's unique and meaningful identity.
- Chef Marcus Samuelsson: The restaurant is a creation of the renowned and celebrated chef, known for his innovative culinary style.
- Live DJ and Performances: The presence of a live DJ and a view of the lobby's live performances adds an artistic and vibrant touch to the dining experience.
- Decadent Ambiance: The elegant and inviting decor, designed by Rockwell Group, creates a visually stunning and comfortable setting.
- Inventive Dishes: The menu features a rotating selection of creative and flavorful American dishes with global influences.
- Outdoor Terrace: A beautiful and relaxed outdoor space for dining and drinks.
Contact Information:
Address: Located in, Performing Arts Center, 251 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, USA
Phone: (212) 266-3018
What is worth choosing:
Choosing Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson is an excellent decision for anyone seeking a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. What makes this restaurant truly worth choosing is its harmonious blend of exceptional food, a captivating atmosphere, and a meaningful cultural context. The cuisine, crafted by a world-renowned chef, is inventive, flavorful, and presented with an artistic flair that makes every dish a memorable surprise. Whether you're enjoying the "perfection" of the coffee-smoked duck or a classic cocktail, the quality is consistently top-tier. Beyond the food, the ambience is a major draw. The stunning design and the presence of live music create a lively yet relaxed environment that is perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out. It’s an upscale setting that doesn’t feel stuffy, allowing guests to truly relax and enjoy themselves. The location within the Perelman Performing Arts Center is another key selling point. It’s a destination that offers a full evening of culture, where you can enjoy a world-class meal before or after a performance. The accessibility of the location, with its proximity to multiple subway lines, also makes it a convenient choice for New Yorkers from all over the city. Moreover, the fact that it is a black-owned business led by a chef who is a pillar of the New York culinary scene adds a layer of significance that makes your visit feel even more impactful. In a city with countless dining options, Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson stands out as a unique and elevated choice that delivers on all fronts: from the quality of the food and service to the beauty of the space and the richness of the experience. It is a true testament to New York's diverse and dynamic food scene and an essential stop for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable meal.
Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson Photos










Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson Location
Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson
Located in, Performing Arts Center, 251 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, USA
Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson Reviews
This beautiful black-owned restaurant is the epitome of elegance, class, and a culinary masterpiece. From the selection of inspired and exquisite dishes, tasty cocktails, excellent service, and decadent ambience, you absolutely must experience Metropolis. Located in the Perelman Perforning Arts Center, Metropolis features a large open dining space, and an outdoor deck, which both offer a relaxed and inviting ambience. There is a live DJ present and a clear view of the live performances featured in the lobby at certain points during the evening. In addition to the beautiful setting, Metropolis offers creative and inventive dishes that are flavorful and mouthwatering. Every item we had was absolutely delicious, especially the coffee smoked duck (though I wish they gave me a bit more duck) which was perfection.They offer a happy hour deal Tuesdays to Saturdays from 5 to 7, which includes drinks for $10 or less, and small bites.
July 01 · Shakara McNeishFrom the ambiance to the service and food everything was great. The two times I’ve visited I sat at the bar and received really good service and the server staff was great as well. The first time was dinner the second time for happy hour. From the oyster cart to overall presentation of the food. Marcus Samuelsson is known to make ordinary dishes a bit different which gives the meal an idea of surprise. He keeps the menu fresh, so if you see something it might be for a limited time or seasonal.
July 10 · ShieshaOverall rating: 4.4Price: $156 w/ tip (split for 2)I walk by this spot on my way to work weekly and have been wanting to check it out for awhile. I’m not familiar with the theater which is my mistake, bc I did come in thinking the audience would be more… cultured. When I sat, it felt like I was with a few tourists to realize it’s the lobby of the theater inside.My friend and I had a reservation around 6 which I understand is early for the crowds. Okay. But we didn’t get served until 6:25 and it took a lot of eye contact with the host, waiters, for someone to come by. I am not still fully convinced we even had a waiter assigned to us because there were a few other times it was questionable. Things we ordered:- Oysters: 0/5 - do not get. These taste weird.- Fluke crudo: 5/5 - absolutely delicious- Brussel sprouts: 4/5 - nothing special- Seaport lasagna: 6/5 - mouth-watering so good- Crispy snapper: 4.5 / 5 - good but the curry was mehI also went online and just noticed we didn’t get served their happy hour menu. Very interesting. I’m glad I went because I would always wonder, but this place isn’t worth it to me based on the poor service.
April 21 · Olivia NThis was great! Fun location with beautiful decor. The stand outs were the coffee duck, “steak & eggs”, the cheese fries, coconut rice, and the banana pudding. Staff was super nice and the cocktails were also great! Highly recommend if you’re in the financial district.
June 12 · Jonah WillisWhat a full on sensory experience! Food, ambiance, entertainment, hospitality, decor, all immaculate.Booked a reservation for two for my significant other’s birthday. My partner and I try to out-do each other every year with amazing dining experiences but thanks to Metropolis by Marcus, I think I have him beat for at least the next few.Menu:-Concise number of menu options that all work together. We ordered the Steak and Eggs (which our amazing server, Ira, described as a take on a traditional Ethiopian dish), the Cornbread, the Sugar Hill Nights (the juiciest fried chicken I’ve ever had outside my mother’s kitchen), and the M Steak. Every dish was not only delicious but also intriguing as there were various tastes, textures, colors, and fragrances all beautifully plated.Ambiance:-Walking up the staircase to enter the restaurant, we felt as though we were a part of the city yet entering a specially curated experience. The security staff were thorough and friendly.-A live music performance by a lovely songstress (apologies I did not get her name but she performed 05/02/25) began around 5:30PM. She sang one of my favorite songs, Allen Stone’s Give You Blue, and I was sold!Hospitality:-Our main server Nelly was absolutely excellent. She communicated effectively, inquired about allergies, checked in, and even made sure we left on time to travel from the restaurant to our Broadway play on time.-Ira who I mentioned earlier was kind and very informative about the menu’s intention and design.-Isaiah politely stopped us on our way out to invite us to return soon on a Thursday-Saturday evening and enjoy once again.-There was a gentleman at the entrance who confirmed our reservation and escorted us to our table who was very kind and made us feel welcomed!Absolutely recommend, run—don’t walk! See attached photos if you’re a foodie :)
May 25 · F Taylor
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