Bring Your Own Wine to Fancy Restaurants?
Absolutely, Say Hosts from Coast to Coast

Here’s another sign of the times and a welcomed trend for wine connoisseurs and budget-conscious Baby Boomers alike: Fine-dining establishments nationwide are inviting patrons to BYOB – bring your own bottle of wine. From the chic Bar Room at the Modern in Manhattan, which offers “sommelier-free Sundays,” to popular Manny’s Steakhouse in Minneapolis, which has dropped its $25 corkage fee, to trendy bistros throughout the West Coast, patrons are now encouraged to savor their personal wine selections with minimal or no corkage fees.

“BYOB without corkage is a great way to have fine wine at a top restaurant without breaking the bank,” writes Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher of the Wall Street Journal  “Take something special. And be especially generous with your tip if your waiters have earned it,” they added.

If you’re considering bringing a bottle, confirm the restaurant’s corkage policy and fees when making your reservation. Plan ahead for menu options that pair with your wine. And, be prepared to leave any remaining wine at the restaurant.

Enjoy!