Since 1969, restaurant, hotel, travel & other witty reviews by a handpicked, worldwide team of discerning professionals—and your views, too.

The National

The Benjamin
557 Lexington Ave. (50th St.) Send to Phone
New YorkNY 10022
212-715-2400 | Make Restaurant Reservations | Menu
thenationalnyc.com
Your Opinion
Add your own review
Modern American cuisine from chef Geoffrey Zakarian at The Benjamin. The National Restaurant is one of GAYOT's 2013 | Top 10 NY Brunch Restaurants |

Cuisine

Open

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner daily, Brunch Sat.-Sun.

Features

* Click here for rating key

The National Restaurant Review

: After chef Geoffrey Zakarian’s initially successful but ultimately failed eateries Town and Country closed, this Midtown restaurant may have some staying power. The handsome space, with tiled floors and dark leather booths, was designed by David Rockwell. One would be wise to start with the grilled octopus, matched with chorizo, fennel and cannellini beans, a terrific take on surf ‘n’ turf. Cinnamon-dusted ribs are also a hearty, memorable starter. The “Ugly” burger, as it’s called, may be a homely sight, but with bacon and pickled jalapeños, it tastes very attractive. We also recommend the truffle-laced rabbit, and the large pork chop arrives tender and juicy. End the meal with the delectable malt gelato with soft devil’s food cake. The wine list is small but affordable, with a dozen selections by the glass.

User Ratings & Reviews for The National
 
New York City Top 10 Restaurant Lists

Discover the top restaurants in the New York for various cuisines and categories like sushi, steakhouses, happy hours, romantic dining and even gourmet food trucks. Find the best restaurants in New York here!

Discover the best restaurants in New York for sushi, steak, a romantic night out and more



RESTAURANT AWARDS 2013
RESTAURANT AWARDS 2013

Check out the 2013 edition of GAYOT's Annual Restaurant Issue, which features the Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S., Rising Chefs and more.

DINING ON A BUDGET

Check out GAYOT's lists for the best cheap eats in your areaSplurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area.