david rockwell curates daniel boulud's NYC restaurant la tête d'or

chef daniel boulud’s new steakhouse opens at one madison ave

Located at One Madison Avenue, overlooking Madison Square Park, La Tête d’Or marks Chef Daniel Boulud’s newest restaurant. Designed by Rockwell Group, the project combines classic French brasserie charm with contemporary sophistication. Found within the newly transformed office tower by Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), the space serves both the public and tenants of the building.

Designing the restaurant’s warm interiors — at once opulent and welcoming — Rockwell Group drew inspiration from French brasseries and Chef Boulud’s Lyonnais roots. With this influence, the team created an interior that celebrates the craft of cooking. The open kitchen, featuring a wood-burning grill, anchors the restaurant, connecting the artistry of cuisine with the surrounding design. Rich hues of blue, dark marble, wood, and leather set the tone for an atmosphere that is as inviting as it is luxurious.

images © Jason Varney

a luxurious and inviting restaurant in new york

From the street outside the restaurant, La Tête d’Or’s double-height glass facade emits a warm glow, framed by wood accents. Inside, guests are greeted by a vestibule which the design team at Rockwell Group curates with Italian stone flooring, deep red walls, and custom amber glass light fixtures. This transition from busy Madison Avenue to the restaurant’s refined interior sets the stage for an elevated dining experience. The host area, enclosed by curved red paneled walls and a softly lit ceiling, introduces the restaurant’s vibrant palette. A blue lacquer host stand with wood detailing, paired with a custom red rug, creates a sense of understated luxury.

A corridor leads guests to the bar, with Port Laurent marble flooring, bronzed antique mirrors, and a wine display enhancing the ambiance. The bar itself is a focal point, featuring a quartzite countertop, copper tile accents, and blue leather stools. Leather wall panels and velvet armchairs add texture and comfort, while the high-gloss ceiling with metal inlays ties the space together.

One Madison Avenue hosts Chef Daniel Boulud’s new restaurant designed by Rockwell Group

rockwell group draws from art deco influences

The main dining area at La Tête D’Or blends Art Deco influences with contemporary warmth. Walnut wood flooring, ebony parquetry, and silk-look upholstered walls create a harmonious backdrop. Banquette seating offers flexibility, while a decorative art hood above the open kitchen, designed in collaboration with Belgian artist Jesse Willems, serves as a stunning centerpiece.

For intimate gatherings, the North Dining rooms offer secluded spaces with custom sliding doors and warm wood finishes. The Wagyu Room, featuring a horseshoe-shaped stone table, enables table-side grilling, making it ideal for special celebrations. The private dining area, accessible through a pre-function cocktail space, is finished with silk-look wallpaper, custom carpets, and floral murals by Glamora. Large windows provide views of the Met Life tower, while ribbed glass pendants and brass details bring elegant details.

the design draws inspiration from classic French brasseries and Lyon’s cultural heritage