Dining
Eating in New York, explained from the operator's side as well as the diner's — inspection grades, menu economics, and how to read a wine list.
Restaurant permits and licenses: the complete NYC checklist
Opening a restaurant requires permits from Health, Buildings, and Fire departments. The process costs around $420 in direct fees and typically takes three to six months.
Why restaurant profit margins stay so thin
Restaurants operate on 4-5% profit margins despite billions in annual spending. Labor and food costs leave little room for operations.
How New York's Restaurant Inspection Grades Actually Work
The letter in the window is the result of a points system, and points are not all about hygiene.
What Goes Into The Price Of A Tasting Menu
The food is rarely the largest cost. Understanding the structure explains the price.
How To Read A Restaurant Wine List Without Guessing
The structure of the list tells you what the restaurant cares about, and where the value sits.