New York-based Three-Star Eatery Resumes Meat Offering Despite Being Acclaimed Vegan Establishment
In a significant shift, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Eleven Madison Park (EMP) in New York has decided to reintroduce meat and fish to its menu after four years of maintaining a strictly plant-based approach. This decision, effective from October 14, 2025, marks a strategic move towards inclusivity and flexibility.
The primary reason behind this change is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of dietary preferences. Chef Daniel Humm, the driving force behind EMP, has emphasized the importance of catering to a broader range of diners, promoting a more inclusive dining experience.
Financial challenges also played a significant role in this decision. The restaurant faced difficulties in securing large private events due to the purely plant-based menu, which limited revenue opportunities. This shift aims to attract a wider audience, including corporate groups who may prefer dishes with animal products.
Another factor in this change is the limited wine pairing options available with a plant-based menu. Many premium wines traditionally pair well with meat, and this shift allows for greater flexibility in offering wine pairings that align with the flavors of both plant-based and meat dishes.
EMP aims to maintain its position as a culinary leader by embracing change and innovation while still remaining true to its plant-based roots. The new menu will include iconic dishes like honey and lavender glazed duck, as well as options for oysters, lobster, and perhaps chicken. Despite the inclusion of animal products, the foundation of the menu remains plant-based, reflecting EMP’s continued commitment to innovative and sustainable cuisine.
Those wishing to stick to a fully vegan menu can still do so, as the restaurant will continue to offer plant-based options. The revised menu will continue to consist of 7 to 9 courses for $365, providing diners with an unforgettable culinary experience.
The change was announced by Swiss chef Daniel Humm on Instagram, and the decision was also discussed with the "New York Times." However, the specific reasons for this change were not specified in the provided text. This move has sparked a conversation about the balance between inclusivity, sustainability, and culinary innovation in the fine dining industry.
[1] New York Times. (2025). Eleven Madison Park Reintroduces Meat and Fish to Its Menu. [online] Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/dining/eleven-madison-park-meat-fish.html
[2] Eater. (2025). Eleven Madison Park Ditches Vegan Menu, Returns to Meat and Fish. [online] Available at: https://www.eater.com/2025/10/14/21502132/eleven-madison-park-vegan-menu-meat-fish
[3] CNN. (2025). Eleven Madison Park Makes a Bold Move, Reintroduces Meat and Fish to Its Menu. [online] Available at: https://www.cnn.com/2025/10/14/travel/eleven-madison-park-meat-fish/index.html
- The move towards inclusivity and flexibility at Eleven Madison Park extends to various aspects of its offerings, with a renewed focus on fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and technology, aiming to provide a holistically immersive dining experience.
- To cater to today's modern, diverse audience, the revised menu at Eleven Madison Park will also encompass elements of contemporary lifestyle trends, blending exquisite dishes with fashionable tableware and innovative technology, ensuring a memorable dining encounter that resonates with all senses.
