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The Met Opera’s Doors Are Now Open to the Public (Even If You Don’t Have a Ticket!)

The Metropolitan Opera House is one of New York City’s most beloved venues. Its magnificent architecture and design have made its façade as iconic as the renowned opera performances that take place within its walls. Home to an enormous roster of operatic performances, award-winning vocalists, and a lush interior that is recognizable around the world, the Metropolitan Opera is one of Manhattan’s most treasured gems. While the Met Opera was only open to ticket-holders in years past, it will now be opening its doors to the public for the first time in its history, making it even more accessible to visitors locals alike.

metropolitan opera house lincoln center

Sundays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Not sure how to spend your Sunday in NYC? Well the Metropolitan Opera House has solved that problem for you. Now open to the public as part of an “open house” initiative, visitors can lay their eyes on all of the Met Opera’s front-of-house spaces. The Gallery Met will also be open to the public on Sundays, allowing visitors to peruse rotating contemporary art exhibitions that relate to the opera. Additionally, the Founder’s Hall will be home to a special exhibition that celebrates the Met Opera’s move to Lincoln Center 50 years ago. 

In addition to the new open house policy on Sundays, the Met Opera’s Grand Tier Restaurant is now open for a brunch dining service on Sundays between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. For those who choose to dine-in the Grande Tier Restaurant between 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., a free 20 to 30 minute recital will be given by one of the Met Opera’s acclaimed Lindemann Young Artist Development Program members. Brunch… and a show!

The Grand Tier Restaurant  

And if you needed any further convincing, the The Grand Tier Restaurant’s menu should do the trick, with entrees like Brioche French Toast and Benedict Royale making regular appearances on the menu, along with a Charred Corn Remoulade Crab Cake and Chorizo & Goat Cheese Frittata. If you’re looking for something with a little more seasonal appeal to it, the restaurant’s Roasted Pumpkin Soup or Wild Mushroom Risoto are both delicious options.

A Champagne Bar completes The Grand Tier Restaurant’s brunch experience, giving patrons the option of choosing a champagne and combining it with a Grand Tier Bellini (peach purree, aperol), Otello’s Kiss (orgeat, lemon, cardamom bitters), or Lulu’s Disposable Lover (grapefruit-jalapeno shrub, green chartreuse).

 The Metropolitan Opera

Weekdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Members of the public will be granted free access to the Metropolitan Opera House’s public spaces on weekday mornings and early afternoons, so make sure you stop by to take in the sight and sounds of the famed music hall. From exploring the opera’s grandiose lobby to its sputnik chandeliers, there’s no shortage of beauty to be seen. Visitors can even peek in at a dress rehearsal from the Met Opera’s iconic red steps.

Make sure you plan your visit to The Metropolitan Opera House during the 2016/2017 season to take in all that it has to offer (free of charge)!

The Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center Plaza, 212-362-6000, metopera.org. The Grande Tier Restaurant, 150 W 65th St., 212-799-3400, patinagroup.com

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