Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park will reintroduce meat and fish to its menu this October, ending its four-year vegan experiment while chef Daniel Humm shops a book about the restaurant’s celebrity-filled history. The dual developments mark a significant pivot for one of the world’s most acclaimed dining establishments, balancing culinary idealism with business realities.
Daniel Humm, the award-winning chef and owner of Eleven Madison Park, is orchestrating both the menu reversal and literary project. The Swiss-born culinary innovator transformed the New York City fine-dining landmark when he eliminated animal products in 2021, making global headlines. His forthcoming book would chronicle experiences at the restaurant frequented by celebrities like David and Victoria Beckham.
The menu change will take effect October 14, 2025, while Humm is currently shopping the unpublished book to publishers. Both developments became public knowledge on August 13, 2025. The restaurant operates from its flagship location at 11 Madison Avenue in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, where it has held three Michelin stars since 2012.
Humm cited financial pressures and customer exclusion as primary reasons for reintroducing animal products. Corporate bookings declined because ‘it’s hard to get 30 people for a corporate dinner to come to a plant-based restaurant,’ while wine sales plummeted as ‘grand cru goes with meat.’ The chef acknowledged the vegan menu ‘unintentionally kept people out’ despite initial environmental motivations. The simultaneous book deal seeks to capitalize on the restaurant’s storied history.
Implementation involves offering meat and fish as optional additions to the $365-per-person tasting menu while maintaining plant-based foundations. Vegan options remain available at the same price point. The book proposal highlights celebrity anecdotes including Hollywood agent Ari Emanuel’s alleged ‘hissy fit’ over service speed during his three-hour meal.
The announcement sparked immediate backlash from vegan advocates and disappointed customers. Farm Sanctuary president Gene Baur called the reversal ‘unfortunate,’ while patron Lily Adams, who traveled from Nevada specifically for the vegan experience, lamented the ‘epitome of hypocrisy.’ Social media criticism accused Humm of prioritizing profit over principles. However, industry observers note the move may broaden the restaurant’s appeal.
Looking forward, Eleven Madison Park will monitor reception of its new hybrid menu when launched in October. Humm’s book deal negotiations will determine whether insider accounts of the restaurant’s operations and celebrity encounters reach publication. The developments may influence other high-end restaurants considering plant-based transitions, demonstrating the challenge of balancing ethics, exclusivity and economics in contemporary fine dining.