Imagine slipping out for a quiet dinner before stepping onto the red carpet—that was Kamala Harris’s game plan in Manhattan on Sunday.
Just hours before rumored Met Gala duties, the former vice president and her husband, Doug Emhoff, dropped by one of New York’s most exclusive spots for a low‑key bite.
A Mini Fortress at The Polo Bar
Their table at The Polo Bar in Midtown didn’t come without fanfare.
Around 25 Secret Service agents flanked the entrance and interior, backed up by NYPD officers.
Outside, a motorcade of four bulletproof cars and three SUVs sat idling, ready to whisk the couple away at a moment’s notice.
Mingling With the In‑Crowd Under Close Watch
Despite the heavy guard, Kamala and Doug didn’t hide away.
They spent two hours chatting with fellow diners—many of whom book a month in advance—and happily posed for photos alongside Hollywood types and well‑heeled New Yorkers.
Who Foots the Bill for All That Protection?
While federal law guarantees Secret Service for former vice presidents, the added NYPD escort in city lines raised eyebrows.
Republican mayoral hopeful Curtis Sliwa called it “an outrage,” arguing that local cops should be safeguarding subways and sidewalks, not providing a free VIP convoy.
Political Barbs Over Economic Policy
A few days earlier in San Francisco, Harris had been sparring with former President Trump over tariffs at the Emerge 20th Anniversary Gala.
She labeled his trade measures “the greatest man‑made economic crisis in modern presidential history,” charging that they threatened a recession and betrayed U.S. allies.
Eyes on 2026, Thoughts of 2028
Since leaving office on January 21 and tasting defeat, Harris has been coy about what’s next—considering a California governor run or another White House bid in 2028.
But as she slipped out for dinner and political debate, one thing was clear: she hasn’t slowed down.
The Polo Bar’s Elusive Charm
Getting a table at Ralph Lauren’s ten‑year‑old gem is its own sport.
Reservations open by phone exactly one month ahead, on the dot at 10 am—and they vanish within minutes.
Only the rich, famous, or deeply connected ever snag a slot.
When Cocktails Cost More Than Rent
Once inside, the sticker shock really sets in: $24–$55 cocktails, $35 martinis, and $16 for a single beer.
Bar snacks start at $18 and climb to $140 for caviar and potatoes.
A burger is $35, a 16oz steak $78, and the cheapest wine? A $75 rose from Italy—while the priciest bottle could buy a new car.
Dinner, Diplomacy, and Debates
So while Harris enjoys prime steaks and premium wine, New Yorkers debate whether that police escort was a justified precaution or an extravagant use of taxpayer dollars.
One thing’s for sure: in the city that never sleeps, even a “quiet dinner” can turn into front‑page fodder.