Westmoreland

- 1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021

In a city as dynamic and culturally rich as New York, even a simple cafe can be an experience in itself. Tucked away within the prestigious Frick Collection, Westmoreland is far more than your average coffee shop; it is a destination that combines art, history, and culinary excellence. Named after the private Pullman train car used by the Frick family, this cafe offers a glimpse into a bygone era of luxury and refinement. It's a place designed for a "thoughtful pause" during a museum visit, providing a serene and elegant escape from the bustling city streets. The atmosphere is a masterful blend of the classic and the contemporary, with a design that pays homage to the museum's historic finishes while incorporating modern elements. As a result, the cafe feels both timeless and fresh, making it a truly unique spot for visitors. The menu, curated by the talented Union Square Events team, is a reflection of this same philosophy, offering an elevated take on classic American and European fare, complemented by an excellent selection of coffee, teas, and specialty cocktails. Westmoreland is an exclusive amenity for museum ticket-holders, offering an unparalleled opportunity to dine in an environment that is as artful and meticulously crafted as the collection it overlooks. Whether you are seeking a light lunch, a decadent dessert, or a simple coffee, Westmoreland provides an experience that is nothing short of outstanding.

Westmoreland's location is a key part of its allure, as it is situated directly inside The Frick Collection at 1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021, USA. This prime address places it on the Upper East Side, in a neighborhood renowned for its grand architecture and prestigious cultural institutions. The cafe's setting on the second floor, overlooking the beautiful 70th Street Garden, adds to its tranquil and luxurious ambiance. As an integrated part of the museum, access to Westmoreland is tied to having a valid museum ticket or membership. This means that your visit to the cafe is seamlessly connected to an art experience, creating a cohesive and enriching outing. The location is easily accessible for New Yorkers and tourists alike, with various subway and bus routes serving the area. For those who prefer to drive, public transportation is a better option, as street parking can be quite limited and difficult to find in this high-traffic neighborhood. The fact that the cafe is within a fully renovated and accessible building means that guests with disabilities can also enjoy the space comfortably. This thoughtful consideration for accessibility, along with the cafe's stunning design and serene atmosphere, makes it a truly special place to visit in the heart of Manhattan's cultural hub.

As a museum cafe, Westmoreland's services are primarily focused on providing an exceptional on-site dining experience that complements a visit to The Frick Collection. The services are designed to be refined and attentive, ensuring that guests feel well-cared for. Here is a look at the services offered:

• Onsite services: Westmoreland is an exclusive dine-in establishment. It provides a full table service experience in an elegant setting.
• Reservations: Same-day reservations are available and can be made onsite at the museum's admissions desk with a valid ticket or membership. This system helps manage the flow of guests and ensures a pleasant dining environment.
• Dining options: The cafe offers a wide range of dining options, including savory entrees, desserts, and a variety of beverages. The menu changes seasonally to reflect fresh ingredients.
• Seating: The cafe features comfortable and stylish seating for approximately 50 guests, with a design that creates an intimate yet spacious feel.

Westmoreland distinguishes itself from other cafes and restaurants in New York City through a number of unique features and highlights. These attributes, from its design to its menu, are what make it a truly outstanding and memorable place to visit. Here are some of the most notable highlights:

• Art-filled Atmosphere: The cafe itself is a work of art. The design, by Bryan O'Sullivan Studio, incorporates elements that echo the Frick family home, and the space is anchored by a custom mural from artist Darren Waterston. This makes dining here an extension of the museum visit.
• Exceptional Food: The menu, under the direction of a skilled executive chef from Union Square Events, is praised for its quality and flavor. Guests have raved about dishes like the trout, chicken Milanese, pasta, and salads, noting them as "some of the best food" they've ever had in a museum cafe.
• Wonderful Service: The service is consistently described as "terrific" and "excellent." Staff, including the matre' D manager, are noted for being professional, friendly, and attentive, contributing significantly to a pleasant dining experience.
• Unique Offerings: Beyond coffee, the menu includes a range of elevated offerings, such as a focused pastry program and art-inspired cocktails and mocktails, as well as European and American wines.
• Connection to History: The cafe's name and menu draw inspiration from the Frick family's private life, including the Westmoreland train car and historic menus, giving the experience a personal and historic touch.

For more information about Westmoreland or The Frick Collection, you can find them at their location: 1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021, USA. You can reach the museum for general inquiries or to ask about the cafe by phone at (212) 288-0700. It's important to remember that Westmoreland is only accessible to museum visitors, so a museum ticket or membership is required for entry.

Choosing Westmoreland for a meal or coffee is a decision to embrace an experience that goes far beyond simple sustenance. It is worth choosing because it offers a rare combination of fine dining, artistic ambiance, and exceptional service in a setting unlike any other. The food is consistently praised for being of the highest quality, with reviewers highlighting the excellence of dishes like the trout, chicken Milanese, and various salads. While some minor complaints about specific items like the quiche have been noted, the overall culinary experience is overwhelmingly positive and worthy of a visit. The service is another major reason to choose Westmoreland. The staff, from the hosts to the servers, are celebrated for their professionalism and warmth, making guests "feel well taken care of." This level of hospitality, as one review mentions, can make the entire visit "more pleasant." The cafe's atmosphere is also a significant draw. The interior design and the beautiful murals and art within the space make it a true feast for the eyes. It's an environment that encourages you to linger, to appreciate both the art on the walls and the art on your plate. In essence, Westmoreland is not just a cafe; it’s a fully integrated part of the Frick experience. It provides a peaceful and elegant "pause" during a museum visit, allowing you to reflect on the art and history you've just seen while enjoying a delightful meal. For anyone visiting The Frick Collection, stopping at Westmoreland is a highly recommended way to complete a truly memorable and sophisticated day out in New York City.

Westmoreland

1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021, USA