Many shoppers are surprised to discover that some of the most iconic dining experiences in the United States are located right inside Macy’s department stores. From historic dining rooms with century-old traditions to modern Italian trattorias with views of the city skyline, Macy’s offers much more than just retail therapy. Whether you are planning a quick lunch during a shopping trip or a formal holiday dinner, understanding your options is the first step to a great meal.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at the various restaurants found within Macy’s locations across the country. We will cover how to find specific menus, where to make reservations, and which signature dishes you shouldn’t miss. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to plan your next visit to a Macy’s restaurant.
Popular Macy’s Dining Locations and Concepts
While many Macy’s stores feature small cafes or coffee shops, several flagship locations host full-service restaurants that are destinations in their own right. These establishments often reflect the local culture and history of the city they reside in.
Stella 34 Trattoria (New York City)
Located on the sixth floor of the Macy’s Herald Square flagship in Manhattan, Stella 34 Trattoria is a modern Italian powerhouse. It is famous for its wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and stunning views of the Empire State Building through massive floor-to-ceiling windows.
This restaurant is an excellent choice for families and groups who want an upscale yet approachable atmosphere. The menu focuses on authentic Italian ingredients, featuring handmade pastas and a curated selection of Italian wines. It is highly recommended to book a table near the window for the best experience.
The Walnut Room (Chicago)
The Walnut Room, located in the Macy’s on State Street in Chicago, was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. It has been a staple of Chicago culture since 1907. The room is famous for its elegant Circassian walnut paneling and Austrian chandeliers.
Visitors flock to the Walnut Room for its world-famous chicken pot pie, a recipe that has remained largely unchanged for decades. During the holiday season, the restaurant hosts the “Great Tree,” a massive decorated Christmas tree that stands in the center of the dining room, making it one of the most popular holiday dining spots in the Midwest.
Rowland’s Bar & Grill (New York City)
Named after Macy’s founder, Rowland Hussey Macy, this restaurant is located on the Lower Level of the Herald Square store. It offers a more casual, gastropub-style environment compared to the fine dining options upstairs.
The menu at Rowland’s features American classics like gourmet burgers, smoked brisket, and hearty salads. It is a great spot for shoppers who want a high-quality meal without the need for a formal dress code or a lengthy time commitment.
How to Find Menus and Pricing
Because Macy’s partners with various restaurant groups, menus can change frequently based on the season and local ingredient availability. Finding the most up-to-date information is essential for planning your budget and checking for dietary accommodations.
- Official Store Website: The most reliable way to find a menu is to visit the Macy’s official website and navigate to the “Stores” section. Select your specific location to see a list of available dining options.
- Third-Party Apps: Many Macy’s restaurants list their full menus on platforms like Yelp or TripAdvisor. These sites are also helpful for viewing photos of the food taken by recent diners.
- Direct Restaurant Sites: Larger restaurants like Stella 34 or The Walnut Room often have their own dedicated websites. These sites usually host the most current PDF versions of their lunch, dinner, and brunch menus.
Prices at Macy’s restaurants range from affordable quick-service snacks to mid-range and upscale dining. On average, expect to pay between $15 and $30 per entree at full-service locations, while cafe items typically fall under $15.
Making Reservations for Your Visit
For full-service restaurants in flagship stores, reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. Walking in without a booking can often result in wait times exceeding an hour.
Using Online Booking Platforms
Most Macy’s restaurants utilize OpenTable or Resy for their reservation systems. You can easily search for the restaurant name on these platforms to see real-time availability. This is often the fastest way to secure a table and allows you to leave notes regarding special occasions or allergies.
Large Groups and Events
If you are planning a visit for a group of 10 or more, it is best to call the restaurant directly. Many of these locations offer private dining spaces or prix-fixe menus for large parties. Calling ahead ensures the staff can accommodate your group comfortably without disrupting the flow of the main dining room.
Quick-Service and Casual Options
If you aren’t looking for a sit-down meal, many Macy’s locations offer quicker alternatives. These are perfect for a caffeine boost or a light snack between shopping for clothes and home goods.
- Herald Square Cafe: Located in the NYC flagship, this cafe offers high-end chocolate, espresso drinks, and light pastries in a chic setting.
- Starbucks: Many Macy’s stores across the country feature full-service Starbucks kiosks inside the building, often located near the main entrances or on the mezzanine levels.
- Auntie Anne’s and Pinkberry: In some larger mall-based Macy’s, you may find familiar snack brands like soft pretzel stands or frozen yogurt shops integrated into the store layout.
Tips for a Great Dining Experience
To make the most of your visit, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid crowds, try to eat lunch before 11:30 AM or after 2:00 PM. For dinner, early seatings around 5:00 PM are generally easier to secure.
- Check for Seasonal Events: Macy’s restaurants often hold special events, such as Breakfast with Santa or Flower Show themed menus. Check the event calendar on the store’s website before you go.
- Validate Your Parking: If the Macy’s is located in a city center with paid parking, ask your server if the restaurant provides parking validation. This can save you a significant amount of money in cities like Chicago or San Francisco.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Some restaurants inside Macy’s are part of larger hospitality groups. Joining their specific mailing lists can sometimes net you discounts or priority booking.
Conclusion
Dining at a Macy’s restaurant is a unique way to blend the convenience of shopping with high-quality culinary experiences. Whether you are enjoying the historic charm of The Walnut Room or the modern flavors of Stella 34, these restaurants provide a reliable and enjoyable break from the hustle and bustle of the department store floors.
By checking menus in advance and securing a reservation through online platforms, you can ensure a seamless experience. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on travel tips and local dining guides to help make your next outing even better.