Valerie turns a Midtown stop into an occasion, pairing seasonal American fare with a polished cocktail-bar rhythm just steps from Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central Terminal, and the Theater District.
Its long hours make it easy to drop in for a weekday lunch, linger over dinner, or settle into a late-night drink after the city’s marquee attractions have dimmed.
The result is a lively all-day address where New Yorkers can meet, celebrate, unwind, and return for Sunday brunch with live jazz.
How Valerie won locals’ hearts
Valerie earned its following by giving Midtown an excuse to slow down and stay awhile.
The restaurant combines lunch, brunch, dinner, happy hour, and late-night bar service under one stylish roof.
That flexibility suits a neighborhood where plans can shift from a business lunch to an after-work toast in a matter of blocks.
Its location on West 45th Street places it near some of Manhattan’s busiest landmarks, yet the experience is designed for lingering rather than rushing.
The menu gives regulars plenty of reasons to come back, moving from shareable starters to hearty mains and brunch favorites.
Creative seasonal American dishes keep the offerings feeling more considered than a quick Midtown pit stop.
Ahi tuna tartare, crab-filled zucchini blossoms, and Wagyu carpaccio bring distinctive opening acts to the table.
The Valerie Signature Burger offers a familiar comfort-food anchor for diners who want something direct and satisfying.
Weekend brunch adds another layer of appeal with signature Benedicts, including a crab cake version with yuzu hollandaise.
Sunday service becomes more memorable with live jazz from 11 AM to 3 PM, giving brunch a proper New York soundtrack.
Weekday happy hour from 4 PM to 7 PM invites the after-work crowd in with cocktails, wines, draft beer, light bites, and $1 oysters.
The beverage program deepens the draw with signature cocktails, classic drinks, gin and tonics, and freezer-door martinis.
Late bar hours help Valerie remain part of the evening after nearby shows, dinners, and celebrations have ended.
Its private and semi-private event options also make it practical for group gatherings without losing the feeling of a night out.
The room’s 1920s-inspired details, including antique smoked mirrors, burlesque-style murals, and a cushioned ceiling, give the place a theatrical personality that fits Midtown’s energy.
In short, Valerie wins repeat visits by making food, drinks, music, and timing work together for almost any kind of Manhattan day.
Food Highlights
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Ahi Tuna Tartare: Pickled heirloom carrots, avocado, Kewpie mayo, fried capers, micro cilantro, sesame, and blue corn tortilla chips give this bright starter plenty of texture and contrast, making it an excellent shareable opener. 🐟
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Zucchini Blossoms: Lump crab and herbed ricotta are tucked inside tempura-battered blossoms, then paired with ramp and lemon aioli for a rich, crisp specialty worth ordering for the table. 🌼
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Wagyu Carpaccio: Thinly sliced Wagyu makes an elegant start for diners looking for a more indulgent small plate with a refined steakhouse feel. 🥩
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Valerie Crab Cake: This crab-focused plate comes with avocado tartar sauce, fennel salad, and chives, delivering a seafood-forward choice with fresh, herbaceous balance. 🦀
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Crab Cake Benedict: Heirloom tomato, yuzu hollandaise, and a poached egg bring a bright twist to this brunch specialty, making it a natural pick for a more elevated weekend meal. 🍳
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Roasted Pork Belly Benedict: A richer alternative among the signature Benedicts, this brunch dish is a good choice for diners craving something savory and substantial. 🥓
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Valerie Signature Burger: This house burger is a reliable main-course move for anyone who wants a classic, satisfying handheld from the menu. 🍔
Atmosphere
Valerie feels lively, polished, and a little theatrical, with a 1920s-inspired interior that includes antique smoked mirrors, burlesque-style murals, and a cushioned ceiling.
The energy shifts naturally through the day, from weekday lunch to social happy hour, dinner, and late drinks.
Sunday brunch brings live jazz, adding an easygoing soundtrack to the room.
Bottom Line
Visit Valerie for its central Midtown location, seasonal American menu, inventive bar program, weekday happy hour, late-night hours, and live-jazz Sunday brunch.
It works just as well for a quick lunch as it does for a celebration, post-show drink, or leisurely weekend meal.
Address: 45 West 45th Street between 5th & 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10036
📞 (212) 302-4545
🕔 Open Mon–Fri, 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM | Sat 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM | Sun 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM