America's First Fine-Dining Restaurant Resurrected After Three Years

Delmonico's is reopening in New York City in September, and is already accepting reservations.

July 24, 2023 Callie Evergreen

Following a three-year hiatus, the iconic Delmonico's is poised to make a return to New York City's dining scene. The restaurant underwent a massive transformation after shuttering its doors due to the pandemic in early 2020, and is now reopening for dining beginning September 15 (though it's currently open for private events and groups this summer). Delmonico's is well known for being America's first fine-dining restaurant, though it began as a humble cafe and pastry shop in 1827.

Located in the famed Financial District at 56 Beaver Street, Delmonico's made extensive renovations and redesigns during COVID to a contemporary look, plus an all-new modern menu that pays homage to its history. The restaurant is also reopening with a new executive chef at the helm: Edward Hong, who has experience in some of New York City's notable Michelin-starred kitchens.

“Delmonico’s has always been in the unique position of serving guests from around the world,” Hong said in a statement. “The restaurant is known for its high culinary standards and signature dishes, and I’m excited to enrich Delmonico's dining experience by introducing the option of new global flavors and techniques while also celebrating its classic dishes.“

Stefan Lenz/Wirestock Creators

First opened by Italian-Swiss immigrants and brothers Giovanni and Pietro Delmonico, the restaurant has changed hands several times throughout its 186-year history.

The new menu features dishes such as Myung Ran Cesar Salad (Little Gem, Parmesan, White Anchovies, Chives, Creamy Myung Dressing); and Sea Urchin & Abalone Risotto (Koshihikari Rice, Abalone Liver Sauce, Nori, Crispy Shitake, Shaved Frozen Oysters). To celebrate and honor the restaurant’s culinary heritage, Hong will also offer incarnations of American classics that Delmonico’s is known for including its Baked Alaska, Lobster Newberg, Chicken a la Keene, and of course, the Delmonico Steak (18 oz Brandt Beef). The restaurant will also feature a 14 oz Prime Dry-Aged Bone-In Ribeye topped with Uni Butter.

The historic establishment also welcomes Max Tucci, a TV personality, best-selling author, and culinary professional, as its global brand ambassador. Tucci's grandfather was one of the owners who opened Delmonico’s after Prohibition in the 1920s. His family operated the restaurant for over 60 years, and now Tucci will oversee and support the restaurant’s guest experience. Tucci is also the author of the cookbook, "The Delmonico Way; Sublime Entertaining and Legendary Recipes from the Restaurant that Made New York!"

Dennis Turcinovic, owner and operator of Delmonico’s Restaurant Group, and his partner Joseph Licul signed a 15-year lease for the building after its previous agreement expired at the end of 2022. Turcinovic has been involved with the renowned restaurant since 1999, and is an industry veteran with more than 25 years experience in hospitality.

With five newly renovated private dining areas, Delmonico's can now accommodate seating up to 500 guests.

“Delmonico's is a restaurant with deep-rooted history," Turcinovic shared. "It was the first to use the term restaurant, the first to have a cookbook, and the first to serve women sitting at their own table. It is a part of New York City’s restaurant legacy and we are excited to welcome back returning guests, but also introduce Delmonico’s to a new generation of New York City diners."