During the 1990s, New York City was often captivated by the presence of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, a couple whose daily lives, from leisurely brunches to evening strolls with their dog Friday, drew considerable attention. Beyond their public appearances at fashion events and charitable functions, they cultivated a collection of preferred dining locations across the city. Many of these establishments, which were integral to their social and personal lives, continue to operate today, offering a glimpse into their past routines and the enduring charm of these urban gems.
New Yorkers from that era vividly recall encountering the couple, whether it was spotting a celebrity along Bleecker Street or a supermodel at a local bar. JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy were particularly observed frequenting various eateries, forming a pattern of beloved spots that reflected their tastes. Their choices ranged from unpretentious burger joints to more sophisticated dining experiences, illustrating their diverse culinary preferences and their engagement with the city's vibrant restaurant scene.
Ryan Murphy's television series, 'Love Story,' portrays an early date between the couple at what appears to be Panna II, an Indian restaurant known for its string lights on First Avenue in the East Village. While the accuracy of this specific location for their first date is not definitively confirmed, the show does depict other real-life venues where they spent time. Elizabeth Beller's book, 'Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy,' which served as source material for the series, also references the now-defunct nightclubs like Tunnel, Nell's, The Limelight, and Palladium, which Bessette frequented before her relationship with Kennedy.
Among their favorite spots was Walker’s, a classic neighborhood bar situated next to their former Tribeca loft at 20 North Moore Street. Established in 1987, Walker’s was known for its relaxed atmosphere and popular burger, providing a casual retreat for the couple. Another prominent establishment in their circuit was The Odeon, a downtown institution since 1980, celebrated as a hub for artists, writers, and actors. Bessette-Kennedy, in particular, was fond of their hamburgers, often opting for sautéed spinach instead of fries. The Odeon remains a beloved locale for its martinis, fries, and delectable desserts.
For breakfast, Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy were frequent visitors at Bubby’s, a well-known brunch spot that opened in 1990. Kennedy reportedly enjoyed oatmeal and a café latte, demonstrating his early patronage as recounted by owner Ron Silver. Furthermore, the couple was occasionally seen dining at Nobu, Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s renowned sushi restaurant co-founded by Robert De Niro and Drew Nieporent, likely indulging in its signature dishes. Indochine, the French-Vietnamese restaurant in Noho, was another fashionable destination where Bessette-Kennedy attended various events, including a party for Kelly Rector (Calvin Klein’s wife at the time) and dinners with Kennedy as newlyweds.
The culinary journey of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy through New York City's dining landscape highlights their connection to the urban environment. Their patronage of these establishments, from casual diners to upscale eateries, paints a picture of their lifestyle and preferences during the 1990s. These venues, many of which still thrive today, serve as living landmarks of their time in the city, offering a tangible link to their presence and the cultural milieu they inhabited.