TOP 10 ICONIC RESTAURANTS FOR BUSINESS MEETINGS: POLITICS, SHOWBIZ, AND NETWORKING – When it comes to sealing deals and forging alliances, the right dining spot can make all the difference. Throughout history, restaurants have served as informal boardrooms, where pivotal conversations and negotiations take place over a meal. Here are ten iconic locations where business has flourished, along with fascinating historical examples from politics and showbiz.
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10 ICONIC RESTAURANTS FOR BUSINESS MEETINGS
POLITICS, SHOWBIZ, AND NETWORKING
1. 21 Club, New York City


© 21 Club
Known for its rich history and celebrity clientele, the 21 Club has long been a favorite among politicians and business moguls alike. In the 1950s, it was the go-to spot for power lunches and secret meetings. It famously hosted the likes of John F. Kennedy and Nelson Rockefeller, serving as a backdrop for pivotal discussions that shaped the American landscape.
With 10 private dining spaces, the 21 Club is still the place to book the finest dining table for your business gatherings and where one can enjoy customized menus that will set the mood for great achievements to happen.
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2. The Brown Palace Hotel, Denver
© Brown Palace Hotel
This luxurious hotel and restaurant has been a hub for politicians and dignitaries since its opening in 1892. Notable guests include several U.S. presidents and famous figures like Queen Elizabeth II. The Brown Palace’s lavish dining rooms provide an elegant setting for both formal and informal meetings.
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3. Café de Flore, Paris


© Cafe de Flore / @instant.eternity
This historic café has been a meeting ground for intellectuals, artists, and politicians since the 1880s. Figures like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre frequented the establishment, using it as a backdrop for philosophical discussions that would shape modern thought. Today, it remains a popular spot for business meetings in the heart of Paris.
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Charla White Outdoor Dining Chair
4. The Ivy, London
© The Ivy
A favorite among showbiz elites, The Ivy has hosted countless high-profile meetings since it opened in 1917. With its plush interiors and discreet atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for celebrities and business leaders alike. The restaurant’s legendary privacy has made it a choice venue for deals that require a bit of discretion.
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5. The Palm, Various Locations
© The Palm
With its origins in New York City in 1926, The Palm has become synonymous with power dining. This steakhouse has attracted political heavyweights and entertainment moguls for decades. Its walls are adorned with caricatures of famous patrons, showcasing its legacy as a meeting place for influential figures, including former presidents and Hollywood stars.
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6. The Four Seasons, New York City
© The Four Seasons Restaurant
A pioneer of the power lunch concept, the Four Seasons has long been a favorite among business leaders and influential figures. Its modernist decor and refined atmosphere have hosted high-stakes meetings, including the founding of the renowned New York Times editorial board.
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7. Balthazar, New York City


© @javila.fto / Balthazar New York
This bustling French brasserie in SoHo is a hotspot for both business and social gatherings. Since its opening in 1997, Balthazar has welcomed notable guests, including politicians and celebrities. Its vibrant atmosphere encourages lively discussions and networking, making it a perfect setting for business meetings.
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8. Le Café Marly, Paris
© Le Café Marly
Overlooking the Louvre, Le Café Marly combines breathtaking views with a chic atmosphere. This restaurant has hosted numerous political discussions and cultural gatherings. Its prime location makes it a popular choice for international business leaders visiting Paris.
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9. The Ritz, London


© The Ritz
With a history dating back to 1906, The Ritz is synonymous with luxury and elegance. This iconic venue has hosted numerous political and business meetings, with leaders like Winston Churchill dining in its opulent surroundings. The Ritz’s reputation for impeccable service makes it a premier location for important discussions.
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10. Morton’s, Various Locations


© Morton’s
Known for its classic steakhouse atmosphere, Morton’s has been a staple for business dining since 1978. With private dining rooms and an emphasis on service, it’s a favorite among executives looking to impress clients or negotiate deals. Celebrities and politicians have graced its tables, adding to its reputation as a business haven.
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Dining for Deals
These iconic restaurants are more than just places to enjoy a meal; they are historical landmarks where pivotal moments in politics and showbiz have occurred. From power lunches to discreet negotiations, the dining table has played a crucial role in shaping the world of business. So, the next time you’re planning a meeting, consider the ambiance and history of your chosen venue—it just might make all the difference in sealing the deal!
This article captures the essence of notable dining locations where business thrives while providing engaging historical context. Looking to book the most iconic restaurants for business meetings? Consider our curated suggestions. And while you are at it, browse through Dining Room Ideas for more on the world of dining rooms.