Eleven Madison Park Michelin stars have long symbolized a fusion of culinary artistry and innovation. Now, the renowned New York restaurant is making headlines with a bold shift—after four years of serving an entirely plant-based menu, it is reintroducing select meat and fish dishes. This change marks a significant turning point for one of the world’s most celebrated dining destinations.
The decision, announced by chef-owner Daniel Humm, takes effect on October 14, 2025. Guests will be able to enjoy both a plant-based tasting menu and an alternative option featuring responsibly sourced animal products. While the plant-based philosophy remains central, the restaurant aims to create a more inclusive dining experience for all guests.
A Legacy of Michelin Excellence
Since earning three Michelin stars in 2012, Eleven Madison Park has consistently maintained its place at the very top of the fine dining world. Its commitment to exceptional service, artistry in plating, and creative menu design has made it a culinary destination for gourmands from across the globe.
In 2021, following the pandemic, the restaurant stunned the industry by eliminating all animal products from its menu. This move made it the first three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the world to go completely vegan. The transformation received global attention and drew both praise and criticism from diners and critics alike.
Despite the risks, Eleven Madison Park retained its Michelin stars in the years that followed, proving that plant-based fine dining could meet the highest culinary standards.
Why the Change Now?
Chef Humm has described the upcoming shift as a step toward greater hospitality and inclusivity. While the vegan menu showcased innovation, some guests felt it lacked the variety they sought in such a prestigious dining experience. Over time, the absence of certain proteins also impacted private event bookings and wine pairings, leading the team to reconsider their approach.
The new menu will preserve the creative, seasonal plant-based dishes the restaurant has become known for while giving diners the option to include items like seafood, poultry, and the restaurant’s famous honey-lavender-glazed duck. This dual-menu format is designed to broaden appeal while maintaining the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability and excellence.
What Diners Can Expect in October
When reservations open on September 1, 2025, guests will have a choice between:
- Plant-Based Tasting Menu – An artistic, multi-course celebration of seasonal vegetables, fruits, grains, and herbs.
- Signature Tasting Menu with Select Animal Proteins – The same plant-focused foundation, enhanced with sustainably sourced fish, poultry, or meat.
Every dish will continue to reflect Eleven Madison Park’s trademark attention to detail, from ingredient selection to presentation. Beverage pairings will also see renewed diversity, with options crafted to complement both vegan and non-vegan courses.
Eleven Madison Park at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Michelin Status | Three stars since 2012 |
| Vegan Era | Fully plant-based from 2021 to 2025 |
| New Concept Launch | October 14, 2025 |
| Menu Style | Plant-based menu plus optional animal products |
| Chef | Daniel Humm |
| Notable Dish Return | Honey-lavender-glazed duck |
Balancing Innovation and Tradition
The move reflects a balance between staying true to a vision and adapting to changing guest expectations. For many, Eleven Madison Park’s Michelin stars represent more than just culinary accolades—they symbolize the ability to evolve without sacrificing quality.
Chef Humm’s philosophy remains rooted in the artistry of vegetables, but the restaurant is now embracing a model where plant-based and animal-based dishes coexist. This strategy aims to keep the dining room full while still pushing boundaries in presentation, flavor, and sustainability.
A Turning Point for Fine Dining
This shift could influence the broader fine dining industry, as other top-tier restaurants may consider adopting flexible menus to meet a wider range of dietary preferences. While the plant-based movement remains strong, the return of select animal proteins at such a high-profile venue shows that adaptability can be just as important as innovation.
For loyal guests, the change offers a chance to revisit old favorites while still exploring new culinary horizons. For newcomers, it presents the opportunity to experience a restaurant that continues to shape the future of gastronomy—without losing sight of its celebrated past.
Eleven Madison Park has proven it can lead the culinary conversation, whether pioneering plant-based luxury or blending tradition with innovation. As October approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most talked-about menu launches of the year. Diners will soon decide for themselves if this new chapter enhances the magic that has kept those three Michelin stars shining brightly for over a decade.