U.K. badboy Gordon Ramsay made his New York debut in 2006 with the opening of two restaurants at the revamped London Hotel, formerly the Rhiga Royal. After less than enthusiastic reviews for both, Ramsay morphed the more casual of the two, the London Bar, into a clone of his hometown Michelin-starred Maze. While the room hasn’t seen many improvements—it’s still filled with teal, steel, and glass—the globally-inspired, small plates menu has. Standouts include the risotto preparations, whether dotted with lobster under Gilthead bream or as a lush foil to wild mushrooms with parmesan. — Kathleen Squires
Chef’s Menu
Diners can eat a la carte or from a $70 five-course menu.
High Tea Traditional tea is served daily between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
7.5
"Recommended" Average Reader Rating on a Scale of 10
maze at the london is a prime example of a new york restaurant that survives only on its chef's fame. the food is okay but tends to be on the salty side. my biggest problem was with the serving staff, who, for some reason, are all middle-eastern and don't speak english too well (or for that matter pronounce french dishes right). moreover, the sommelier tried to pour me a different glass of champagne from what i ordered without saying anything. it was when I asked to look at the bottle that the bitchy server mentioned that they are out of pol roger. she wasn't apologetic or anything, although they charge $25 for an average glass of champagne. it is astonishing that a restaurant of this caliber and undeserved fame has wait staff who are unprofessional and rude. the food isn't too expensive, but your money can be much better spent elsewhere.
I had high expectations for Maze and Gordon Ramsay's staff did not disappoint. My guest and I were seated promptly and politely when we checked in; immediately, we were offered drinks and recommendations. The food was phenomenal; I had seared scallops with a butternut squash puree to start and then sunchoke cannaroli risotto with truffles - delish! Overall, wonderful experience and fantastic service in a beautiful setting. Warning: finish your food; I didn't and the staff became alarmed - I don't think they're used to people NOT cleaning the plate!