Restaurant in New York Serves Meat After Going Vegan
New York's world-renowned restaurant, Eleven Madison Park, has announced a significant change in its culinary approach. After four years of serving exclusively vegan dishes, the establishment will once again offer meat and fish on its menu.
In an Instagram post, Swiss chef Daniel Humm, the restaurant's owner, revealed the decision, emphasising the need for change and growth. Humm stated, "Our foundation remains plant-based, but we want to create an environment where everyone feels welcome around the table."
The revised menu will consist of seven to nine courses for $365, with the final bill, including wine pairing, taxes, and generous tip, likely closer to $700. The menu will still mainly consist of plant-based dishes, but will now include individual dishes featuring animal products such as fish, meat, and the signature duck with lavender honey glaze.
When Eleven Madison Park reopened in 2021, it retained its three Michelin stars despite mixed reviews. Many guests associate certain wine pairings with eating meat, and Humm acknowledges this, saying, "Many guests have requested this change, and we want to accommodate their preferences while continuing to celebrate the art of plant-based cuisine."
Humm also addressed the decision to go vegan four years ago, stating that it was seen as a political statement and led some meat-eating guests to feel unwelcome. He emphasised that the return to animal products does not mean a departure from the plant-based approach at Eleven Madison Park.
Guests will have the option to choose between plant-based and animal components in the menu. This move aims to make the dining experience more inclusive and financially viable, especially by appealing to groups hosting private events, which proved challenging with an entirely vegan menu.
Eleven Madison Park's return to serving meat and fish reflects a strategic decision to balance sustainability goals with business realities and inclusivity in fine dining. The restaurant continues to prioritize vegetables as the core of its culinary identity while adopting a more flexitarian approach. Those who wish to continue with a fully vegan menu can still request it at Eleven Madison Park.
[1] New York Times, "Eleven Madison Park to Resume Serving Meat and Fish After Four Years as Vegan Restaurant" [2] Bloomberg, "Eleven Madison Park Drops Vegan Menu to Attract More Customers" [3] CNN, "Eleven Madison Park Returns to Serving Meat and Fish" [4] Forbes, "Why Eleven Madison Park is Reintroducing Meat and Fish to its Menu" [5] Eater, "What's on the Menu at Eleven Madison Park Now That It's Serving Meat and Fish Again"
