At Next, the plate is a foundation. Each course arrives with unique tableware, unexpected vessels, and dramatic presentation designed to enhance the flavor and storytelling. Some dishes arrive on non-traditional surfaces, others with edible elements served in surprising ways. The presentation is as much a part of the meal as the taste, making every bite a discovery.
Tips from diners
Arrive with an open mind. Next is theater disguised as dinner. Each plate will surprise you—don't try to guess what's coming.
The current iteration of Next explores a single moment in time: Wall Street in 1987 when Manhattan ran the world. The tasting menu changes with each seating and includes both courses that directly reference the theme (visual decor, ingredient choices, technique) and dishes that build a narrative of excess, ambition, and refinement. Reviewers praise the creativity and effort in each dish, comparing the experience favorably to Alinea in terms of innovation. The menu runs approximately 15-18 courses.
Tips from diners
Book well in advance—tickets release on a specific schedule and sell out within hours. Plan your visit months ahead for prime dates.
Despite the theatrical presentation, each dish is grounded in ingredient quality and technical execution. Achatz sources premium ingredients and applies classical technique before contextualizing them within the menu's theme. The balance between skill and culinary fundamentals keeps the food from feeling like gimmickry.
Tips from diners
The food is technically sound beneath the theater. Ask your server to explain the technique behind any dish—it's usually worth the education.
The Aviary is a full bar featuring craft cocktails designed by award-winning bartenders. While technically separate from Next's tasting menu, it's integrated into the overall experience. Diners often pre-game or post-dine at The Aviary, and custom cocktails can be arranged to pair with Next's menu.
Tips from diners
Arrive early and sit at The Aviary bar before your Next seating. Order a signature cocktail and soak in the ambiance—it's an underrated part of the visit.
Next offers optional pairing programs. The Aviary bar (located on-site) designs custom cocktails pairing with courses, while a wine pairing is also available. The pairing adds another dimension to the storytelling and plays with the Wall Street theme through drink selection and presentation.
Tips from diners
The cocktail pairing is worth the premium. The Aviary's creativity matches Achatz's food innovation, and the custom drinks elevate the narrative.
Next opened April 6, 2011, introducing a 'ticketed' format where diners purchase pre-priced seats for specific dates and times—like buying theater tickets. Chef Grant Achatz earned acclaim at his first restaurant, Alinea, and applies that inventive philosophy here. Every few months, Next explores a new culinary region, theme, or moment in time with completely new menu, decor, uniforms, tableware, and music. The current menu is 'Wall Street 1987,' a tasting exploration of when Manhattan dominated the world. Next has held a Michelin star since 2024 and won the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in America. The space includes two on-site bars: The Aviary and The Office (invite-only speakeasy).
Tickets release on Tock with an announcement via email. Subscribe to Next's mailing list, set calendar reminders, and be ready to book the moment tickets drop—prime dates sell out within hours.
Next's ticketed system requires all guests in a party to book together. Groups of 2-4 are ideal; larger parties may be split across different seatings.
The service occasionally feels rushed, and the dining room can be loud. This is by design—it's theater. Embrace the energy and stay engaged. The wine pairings are consistently excellent.
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