Kamala Harris, along with her husband Doug Emhoff, recently enjoyed a night out at one of New York’s most exclusive restaurants, The Polo Bar in Midtown Manhattan.
The couple was protected by an extensive security detail, including a fleet of Secret Service agents and NYPD officers, as they dined in the high-profile venue, adding an extra layer of security to what was otherwise a relaxed evening out.
A VIP Experience at The Polo Bar
The Polo Bar, known for its upscale atmosphere, was the setting for Harris and Emhoff’s dinner on Sunday night, just before the anticipated Met Gala.
As they exited the restaurant around 9:30 p.m., a convoy of bulletproof cars was waiting to whisk them away.
The couple interacted with diners, taking photos and mingling with those fortunate enough to secure a reservation.
While enjoying their meal, which lasted about two hours, they were closely monitored by at least 25 Secret Service agents, with additional NYPD officers stationed outside.
The security detail included a motorcade consisting of four bulletproof vehicles and several SUVs.
As a former Vice President, Harris is entitled to such protection, which is funded by federal resources and supplemented by a police escort, all at the expense of New York City taxpayers.
Controversy Surrounds the Use of NYPD for Protection
The public’s reaction to Harris’ security detail was mixed.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa criticized the use of NYPD officers for the protection of Harris, arguing that such resources should be focused on protecting the general public.
He voiced his concerns about the extensive security, especially for what he considered a routine night out at a bar.
Sliwa suggested that the presence of so many officers could have been better used to address public safety issues like crime on the subways and streets.
The criticism continued, with Sliwa questioning why Harris, who once claimed to be a champion for the people, would accept such an elaborate security detail for a simple dinner outing.
A High-End Dining Experience in NYC
The Polo Bar, a hotspot for celebrities and socialites, opened its doors a decade ago as part of Ralph Lauren’s venture into the hospitality industry.
Its reputation for exclusivity and luxury has made it one of the hardest reservations to secure in New York.
Securing a table at the Polo Bar requires calling months in advance, and even then, many hopeful diners are left on hold for hours or denied outright.
The restaurant’s menu lives up to its high-end image, with dishes ranging from $35 burgers to $78 steaks.
Drinks are equally expensive, with cocktails ranging from $24 to $55, and martinis priced between $35 and $38.
While some diners find the food overpriced and not worth the effort to secure a table, others continue to flock to the Polo Bar for the chance to rub elbows with celebrities like Larry David, Jerry Seinfeld, and Peyton Manning.
The Cost of Luxury
Despite its polarizing reputation, The Polo Bar remains a symbol of wealth and status in New York City.
Those who manage to land a reservation often find themselves paying a premium for the privilege of dining in a space frequented by the elite.
While the experience may not be for everyone, it continues to attract high-profile individuals, including Kamala Harris, who find the allure of the restaurant’s exclusivity hard to resist.
As for the future of Harris’ public appearances, it remains to be seen whether her next ventures will continue to stir up similar debates over security and the use of taxpayer-funded resources.