Updated July 18, 2021

Are you heading to New York City anytime soon? Or, perhaps you live in New York. If chasing unique New York City experiences interests you, consider making a reservation for lunch at the United Nations New York.

Lunch at the United Nations New York

It’s more than a restaurant. Step into international territory and dine alongside delegates, ambassadors, international dignitaries, and other visitors in the Delegates Dining Room. It’s both a culinary and culturally diverse adventure, and definitely one worth experiencing.

Delegates Dining Room

The Delegates Dining Room offers magnificent sweeping views of the East River, Greensboro Bridge, Roosevelt Island, and the Long Island City waterfront. During the time of my visit in October 2016, the dining room was temporarily located in the West Terrace overlooking the UN fountain, Chrysler Building, and Manhattan skyline. While the view was appealing, I think the floor-to-ceiling views of the East River might have been better. My next visit to New York will put that premise to the test. 

The prix-fixe luncheon is available from Monday to Friday, from 11:30 to 14:30, notwithstanding other events such as a pandemic, special event, or an activity requiring an enhanced level of security.

A superb menu

The menu consisted of three courses, with four choices for each course.

It reflected the changing of the seasons, as well as ingredients and culinary trends from around the globe. The food was superb, and the servers were courteous, attentive, and efficient.

For visitors, the cost is $44.99 per person (2021 price). Beverages, gratuities, and tax are extra. We each ordered a glass of wine and the serving was generous. As lunches go, it was a bit pricey, but we all agreed the whole experience represented superb value.

While each course arrived promptly, allow yourself two hours for lunch. Reservations can be made online.

Be prepared for security screening

Access to the Delegates Dining Room requires two passes: one to visit UN Headquarters, and another to access the dining room on the fourth floor.

All visitors 18 years and older require a UN Security pass to enter United Nations premises. It’s available at the Visitor Check-in Office at 801 1st Avenue (corner of 45th Street, opposite UN Headquarters). Government-issued photo identification for everyone 18 years and older must be shown to receive a pass.

Prohibited items include most liquids, and backpacks larger than 14 x 13 x 4 inches. See Visitor Centre Security for the complete list. Allow as much as an hour to obtain a security pass and clear screening.

A pass to visit the Delegates Dining Room is obtained from the Information Desk on the main level. In exchange for a pass, your government-issued photo identification is retained. It’s returned when your pass is handed in after lunch.

An escort accompanies all guests to and from the dining room. It’s wise to arrive at the Information Desk fifteen minutes before the time of your reservation.

Spend time at the UN

Stroll past the alphabetically arranged flags of member states along 1st Avenue.

Wander within the beautifully landscaped grounds with its impressive views, and sculptures from member states.

Image by Said Abu Hmud, Pixabay

The UN Visitors Centre offers free exhibits, as well as in-person guided tours. The standard tour lasts an hour and is available in six languages.

At the UN Stamp Shop on the lower level, present your passport to have it stamped. Mail a postcard with a United Nations stamp and postmark.

Check out the UN Gift Centre and UN Bookshop. Free materials are available, and make perfect gifts for curious young minds. If you don’t have time to have lunch in the Delegates Dining Room, the Visitors Café serves a variety of international dishes and culinary classics.

For a little background on United Nations New York and what will be experienced on a tour, see the video, A short tour of the United Nations Headquarters.

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