Table of Contents
VALERIE Review
In the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, nestled on West 45th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Valerie emerges as a reimagined New York classic. This vibrant destination seamlessly blends sophisticated dining, inventive imbibing, and lively socializing, drawing visitors into an atmosphere where creativity meets timeless elegance. Patrons step into a space that channels the spirit of Manhattan’s Golden Age, complete with Art Deco influences, moody lighting, and plush seating that invites lingering conversations. Whether arriving for a weekday lunch, a leisurely brunch, or an evening of cocktails, guests discover a venue that caters to every palate and occasion with effortless style.
The Dining Experience at Valerie
Under the guidance of Executive Chef JC Colón, Valerie’s menu showcases modern American fare that balances indulgence with refined finesse. Seasonally driven and thoughtfully curated, the offerings span small bites perfect for sharing to hearty mains ideal for full satisfaction. Weekday service features an array of appetizers that set the tone for culinary adventure, including crispy shrimp bao buns with sticky sauce and gochujang aioli, Valerie truffle fries tossed in duck fat and parmesan, and roasted wild mushrooms paired with stracciatella and gremolata. Salads add freshness, such as the ponzu ginger chopped salad with shaved cabbage, edamame, and roasted peanuts, while mains like the New York strip steak frites with hand-cut fries and green garlic chimichurri elevate the classics.
Sandwiches and burgers provide casual yet elevated options, from the Valerie signature burger with grass-fed beef and French onion jam to the fried chicken sandwich on a Japanese milk bun with confit black garlic aioli. Weekend brunch transforms the space into a celebration, highlighted by signature benedicts—ranging from spinach and heirloom tomato with basil hollandaise to roasted pork belly with sriracha hollandaise—all served alongside home fries and mixed greens. Other brunch favorites include croque madame brioche with prosciutto cotto and gruyere, as well as hibiscus-cured salmon bowls topped with panko-crusted poached eggs.
A World-Class Bar Program
Valerie’s bar stands as a true ode to craft and creativity, with a gin-focused selection that tells a story in every glass. The cocktail lineup dazzles with signature creations like the bold effervescent milk punch blending Bluecoat and Neversink gins with pear, apple, and elderflower tonic, or the herbaceous warming sour riff of brandy, Citadelle gin, and saffron-spiced elements. Freezer door martinis, served at below-freezing temperatures, offer chilled perfection in varieties such as Christian Drouin Le Gin with house-made dry vermouth and pickled pearl onion.
Gin and tonics shine with infusions like St. George Valley gin paired with caramelized mandarin and Franklin & Sons light tonic, while low-ABV options and naked Valerie non-alcoholic elixirs ensure inclusivity. Complementing the cocktails, an extensive wine list spans Pinot Grigio from Valdadige to Barolo from Italy, alongside draft beers like Radeberger Pilsner and Brooklyn Lager. Weekday happy hours in the semi-private main bar area amplify the energy, featuring select bites and beverages in Midtown’s liveliest setting.
Signature Spaces and Private Events
The venue’s multi-level design enhances its versatility, with distinct areas tailored for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. The Blushing Bar on the mezzanine provides an intimate enclave for 30 to 75 guests, boasting rich tilework, brass accents, and a full private bar under moody lighting. Adjacent, the Gatsby Lounge (26 capacity) evokes Art Deco glamour with velvet seating, burlesque murals, and antique smoked mirrors, ideal for curated cocktails and family-style dinners. The Gatsby Den offers semi-private charm for 30 to 50, while the Dining Hall and Front Parlor accommodate standing receptions up to 45 and 25, respectively.
For larger occasions, full venue buyouts welcome up to 280 standing guests across both levels, ensuring seamless flow and personalized service. Sunday brunch features live jazz from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., pairing elevated favorites with musical ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Modern American with seasonal, shareable plates |
| Location | 45 W 45th St, Midtown Manhattan |
| Signature Specials | Weekday Happy Hour (4-7 p.m.), Sunday Live Jazz Brunch |
| Bar Focus | Gin-centric cocktails, extensive wines and drafts |
| Event Capacity | Up to 280 standing for buyouts |
Why Visitors Return to Valerie
Valerie distinguishes itself through its harmonious fusion of culinary innovation, masterful mixology, and atmospheric allure. Diners appreciate the warm service and quality ingredients that shine in every dish, from vibrant salads to luxurious benedicts. Cocktail enthusiasts revel in the bar’s playful riffs on classics, each pour crafted to complement the meal or stand alone. The private spaces cater to corporate gatherings, milestone celebrations, or casual group happy hours, all executed with inventive menus and meticulous attention to detail.
- Crispy Shrimp Bao Buns: Umami-packed with scallion and aioli
- Valerie Truffle Fries: Duck fat indulgence with truffle aioli
- New York Strip Steak Frites: Grass-fed with chimichurri flair
- Fried Chicken Benedict: Gochujang twist on brunch perfection
- Bluecoat Gin Milk Punch: Effervescent and bold
- Freezer Door Martinis: Chilled to perfection
Proximity to Times Square and Bryant Park makes Valerie an ideal pitstop for theatergoers, tourists, and locals alike. Reservations are recommended via the website, ensuring seamless access to this Midtown gem. Visitors will find Valerie not just a restaurant, but a vibrant chapter in New York’s enduring dining narrative, where every visit promises discovery and delight.
Photos of VALERIE
Address of VALERIE
45 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
Phone Number of VALERIE
(212) 302-4545
Website of VALERIE
https://www.valerienewyorkcity.com/
Weekday working hours of VALERIE
Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Contact Us for Guest Post or Cocktail Accessories
As a dedicated cocktail accessories supplier at YopaCocktail, we're passionate about more than just crafting premium barware—we're also avid explorers of the vibrant cocktail scene across American cities.
Our team regularly dives into hands-on research to spotlight hidden gems and must-visit spots, sharing insights that elevate your mixology game.
Write For Us.
If you're running a fantastic cocktail bar and would love us to feature it in one of our glowing reviews, we'd be thrilled to collaborate—reach out today! And whether you're stocking up on custom cocktail pitchers, elegant stirrers, or any of our bespoke accessories, we're here to make your sourcing seamless.
Let's raise a glass together: contact us to chat about features, wholesale, or that perfect OEM partnership. Cheers to great bars and even better tools!
