Category Archives: Dining
Park Avenue Kitchen, The Latest from Celebrity Chef David Burke, Opens In New York City
Park Avenue Kitchen is located in the heart of midtown next to Grand Central. Two restaurants in one, with one entrance a casual or to go eatery and the other a 106 seat brasserie with a menu filled with David Burke specialties such clothesline bacon, spicy lobster dumplings, and swinging tomahawk steaks.
The menu offers unique items like the bread service, forget the usual, bead and butter, instead try gruyere popovers, jalapeño corn bread, sweet and spiced butter, radishes, and grapes.
Our favorite dishes were the tuna & salmon tartare, black seabass “tika masala”, spicy lobster dumplings, and the 12oz. prime dry aged sirloin.
The vibrant eatery is perfect for a business lunch, dinner with friends, or to celebrate a special occasion. Located at 514 Lexington Avenue New York, NY 10017 (646) 847- 4166. parkavekitchenbydb.com
Encourage Kids Foundation “Serving Up Smiles” Premier Tasting Event
The enCourage Kids Foundation (EKF) hosted their annual Serving Up Smiles, a premier tasting extravaganza, overlooking the waterfront venue at the beautiful Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. The night included decadent dishes from world-renowned chefs and top named restaurants, VIP Lounge, world-class wines, spirits, and incredible auction items.
“It was wonderful to celebrate the joy, hope, and healing enCourage Kids Foundation has provided to pediatric patients across the country at our culinary tasting event, Serving Up Smiles” stated Jean Butler, President & CEO enCourage Kids Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to all of our sponsors, chefs, restaurants and guests who gave so generously and enabled us to amplify our impact and help even more sick children.”
ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field emceed the evening alongside Culinary Chair Chef Ralph Scamardella (Chef & Partner TAO Group Hospitality). DJ CHEF played the top hits as guests ate, drank, and danced the night away.
Participating restaurants included Beauty & Essex, Bryant Park Grill, Cardinali Bakery, Dolce Bella, F. Ottomanelli By The Water, Hunt & Fish Club, LAVO New York, Ocean Prime, Robert, Sfoglia, TAO Downtown, and The Curry Blossom. Beverage sponsors included Dr. Perricone Hydrogen Water, Fever-Tree, FIJI Water, Gelston’s Irish Whiskey, Jade Sparkling Wine, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Landmark Vineyards, Newburgh Brewing Company, Owl’s Brew, Whitley Neill Gin, and Zyr Vodka.
Celebrate Father’s Day at Ocean Prime This Sunday June 18th. #OceanPrimeNYC #OceanPrime
Ocean Prime is an elegant/chic restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. The menu is loaded with fresh seafood and premium steaks along withy sushi, pastas, and other delicacies. The wine list is expansive and the handcrafted cocktail list isa must try.
Father’s Day is this coming weekend and Ocean prime is the perfect place to celebrate Dad with a sumptuous dinner. Make a reservation now for a special afternoon or evening.
Father’s Day Brunch Menu:
BRUNCH COCKTAILS
CITRUS RHUBARB MIMOSA
Giffard Rhubarb, Fresh Orange Juice, Dry Curacao
EQUILA SOUR
Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Velvet Falernum, Grapefruit & Lime Juice, Orange Bitters
BLOODY MARY
House Made Pepper Infused Vodka, Shrimp Cocktail, Cornichons
TO SHARE
WARM CINNAMON BREAD
Cream Cheese Icing
ENTREES
LOBSTER TOAST
Avocado Pea Puree, Pea Shoots, Sunny Side Egg
CRABCAKE EGGS BENEDICT
Toasted English Muffin, Maryland Crab, Poached Eggs, Hollandaise
BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST
Cinnamon Sugar Whipped Mascarpone, Sausage, Maple Syrup
SHORT RIB SURF & TURF
Lobster, Gouda Potato Cake, Poached Egg, Hollandaise
SMOKED SALMON LATKE
Tomato, Hard Boiled Egg, Arugula, Caviar, Chive Sour Cream
PRIME STEAK & EGG
6oz NY Strip, Poached Egg, Crispy Potatoes, Citrus Truffle Vinaigrette
BLACKENED SALMON SALAD
Basil Poppyseed Dressing, Goat Cheese, Spiced Walnuts, Strawberries, Grapes, Cantaloupe
SIDES
CANDIED BACON
SEASONAL FRUIT, Greek Yogurt
RUFFLED POTATOES
BREAKFAST SAUSAGE
For Reservations Please Visit: ocean-prime.com
Ocean Prime 123 west 52nd street. New York, NY 10019 (212) 956-1404
Weekend Getaway to Boston on a Seaplane
Tailwind Air offers quick, safe, and super fun flights from New York City to Boston and to several other cities on the Eastern Seaboard including the Hamptons and Cape Cod.
The seaplanes are 8 seaters, outfitted with comfy leather seats, power outlets, with a selection of onboard snacks and drinks. Operated by an experienced 2 man or woman crew, from takeoff, in our case from the East River on 23rd street to landing in beautiful Boston Harbor, the flight was about 75 minutes long, with amazing views and a unique travel experience. There are no long rides to the airport, no TSA lines, check- in takes about 10 minutes, so when traveling for business or a quick weekend getaway, there are no hours wasted getting to and from the plane.
For more info and to book your flight please visit: flytailwind.com
The Lenox Hotel located in the upscale Back Bay Area of Boston is the perfect boutique hotel for a weekend getaway. Part of The Historic Hotels of America Hotel Group, the rooms are decorated, with modern design, comfy bedding, and yes some even have real working fireplaces. The hotel itself is steps away from Newbury Street, filled with restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping options.
To book your next stay visit: lenoxhotel.com
City Table is located in the Lenox Hotel. The casual eatery offers a largely seafood inspired menu, including the must have fresh oysters, as well as a creative cocktail menu, and a very popular weekend brunch. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the service is very friendly and the vibe is chill yet sophisticated. citytableboston.com
New York Restaurants To Visit This Fall
By Maya Litovsky
This Weekend Dan’s Taste Presents GrillHampton on 8/20 at Nova’s Ark
By Maya Litovsky
NYC Is Open: Great Restaurants To Visit Now, From Fancy to Casual
La Grande Boucherie is a traditional French Bistro and Steakhouse. The newest location in midtown occupies prime real estate taking over an entire block of 6 1/2 avenue of the americas. The outdoor plaza, allows for year round dining with an outdoor piazza ambience yet guests are protected from the elements with a soaring skylight and heated floors. The menu is traditional French with classics like the perfectly prepared French onion soup, escargot and salade nicoise. Specialties include dry-aged steaks like the wagyu bar steak or the 18oz. dry aged strip steak, feeling particularly hungry, the “Plateau Du Boucher” is a grand tasting of all the favorites. The extensive wine list allows many pairing options, and leave room for the dessert because the crepes suzette and the creme brûlée are a must to try. For reservations visit boucherie.nyc
La Grande Boucherie is a traditional French Bistro and Steakhouse. The newest location in midtown occupies prime real estate taking over an entire block of 6 1/2 avenue of the americas. The outdoor plaza, allows for year round dining with an outdoor piazza ambience yet guests are protected from the elements with a soaring skylight and heated floors. The menu is traditional French with classics like the perfectly prepared French onion soup, escargot and salade nicoise. Specialties include dry-aged steaks like the wagyu bar steak or the 18oz. dry aged strip steak, feeling particularly hungry, the “Plateau Du Boucher” is a grand tasting of all the favorites. The extensive wine list allows many pairing options, and leave room for the dessert because the crepes suzette and the creme brûlée are a must to try. For reservations visit boucherie.nyc
By Maya Litovsky
Restaurants Everyone Should Visit During This Holiday Season in New York City
Bottino NYC is located in the artsy neighborhood of West Chelsea filled with art galleries and art installations. For over 20 years Bottino has been offering contemporary Italian cuisine in a cozy warm environment.
Recently renovated and updated the genuinely friendly staff serves up homemade pastas, creamy burrata, and a massive portion of tender lamb chops. There are wonderful seafood dishes as well along with a diverse wine and cocktail menu.
Bottino is now taking reservations for their New Year’s Eve Celebration with a three course meal, early seating starting at just $75 dollars, with a welcome glass of champagne included. Tax and Gratuity extra. Click here to book: Bottino NYC
Mizu near Union Square has a motto that quality sushi should be available whether you dine in, take out or get your meal delivered at an affordable price. Using the highest quality ingredients the fish is super fresh. Guests can dine ala carte or choose an Omakase dining experience.
We tried and enjoyed the shrimp shumai, tuna tartar, black cod, sirloin steak and of course a sushi platter filled with sushi, sashimi, classic and specialty rolls. The ramen bowls are flavorful and loaded with fresh ingredients.
The vibe at Mizu is lively with families, couples and friends enjoying a night of great food and drink.
TGA NYC is an American Modern cuisine restaurant with lots of seafood, meats, and comfort food options. The salmon Crudo and the jumbo crab cake were delicious as was the Filet & Shrimp and the Fresh Grilled Salmon. There is a sports bar menu with New Orleans wings, nachos, homemade flat bread pizzas, loaded Mac n cheese and lots of other options.
The Back Alley Beer Garden is the perfect space for a private holiday party with a retractable roof for an indoor/outdoor experience any time of year.
During the holidays the bar scene is lively and the location is in the heart of midtown just blocks away from Times Square and Madison Square Garden.
As a lover of Indian Food we found Chola NY quite special because of the elevated coastal Indian menu. The charming upper east side eatery serves up fresh seafood hard to find at a traditional Indian restaurant.
Our favorite dishes were the Lobster Ghee Roast(Lobster Masala) the Crab Butter Pepper Masala and the Jhinga Butter Masala Shrimp. We also loved the Lasoni Gobi (Cauliflower), Onion Bhaji (Crispy Onion Fritters), and Dhabewali Murgh Tikka (Grilled Chicken Bites in a lemon sauce).
Open for lunch and dinner with a daily unlimited lunch buffet, Chola is a yummy experience not to be missed.
Manhattan’s East Village is currently one of the trendiest neighborhood in Manhattan. The Black Ant NYC brings an authentic modern Mexican restaurant with a focus on regional dishes and ingredients uniquely sourced in Mexico.
Adventurous diners must try the Black Ant Guacamole and the Chapulines, Grasshoppers, shishito peppers, avocado with queso fresco. We opted for the grilled mahi-mahi and the juicy roasted chicken. We really enjoyed the mango margaritas. There is a huge tequila and mezcal menu to experience.
Recently opened Aqua Boil Cajun Seafood House in Hell’s Kitchen makes us very happy!!! We love authentic cajun seafood and quality ones were hard to find in NYC until now. Focused on seafood boils, the “Get Messy” motto is encouraged at the restaurant. We tried and loved everything.
The King Crab legs were juicy and tender, as were the snow crab legs and the lobster. All the boils come with corn and potatoes and a choice of sauce: garlic butter, lemon pepper, Cajun Mix with a variety of spice levels.
The cocktail menu has a nautical theme with names like Beach Bum, Under The Sea, Poseidon’s rate and more.
Restaurants We Love Now and So Will You
The new Ichiran USA in Times Square serves up Tonkotsu Ramen bowls, considered to be the most authentic and highest quality noodles. Born in Hakata, Japan the epicenter of the tonkotsu movement the eatery created the five original elements of tonkotsu ramen: Original Spicy Red Sauce, Aromatic Tonkotsu Broth, Solo Dining Booth, Order form and the Kae-Dama Ordering System.
The Times Square location has individual booths that can be opened up to dine with a partner. The no tipping and order form system allows an on the go dining experience for work lunches and casual dinners.
The menu is very simple with the classic tonkotsu ramen bowl as the centerpiece. Optional chashu, scallions, mushrooms, soft boiled eggs and white rice can added to the order.
The Ramen Bowls were simple, delicious, and very flavorful.
LEYLA is a new Mediterranean brasserie on the Upper West Side that serves upscale Turkish cuisine infused with mediterranean ingredients and recipes. Lots of seafood is on the menu. We started with the Branzino Crudo, which was light, fresh and full of flavor. The Karides Guvec, Shrimps with bell pepper, cherry tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms was our favorite. For meat lovers the slow cooked Rib-Eye pide was rich and satisfying.
There are many lamb dishes on the menu that we are told are guest favorites with The Leyla Lamb Burger being the most popular. We opted for the Branzino entree with caramelized onion, pickled za’atar. and green olives.
The atmosphere is festive and there was a wait for a table the night we went. Reservations are highly recommended and the visit well worth it for a fun night out, a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Plado Tasting Bar in the East Village is a cozy tapas bar with an international menu. The dishes are meant to be shared, the portions are quite good as far as tapas go. There is a large variety of tapas from the sea, garden and butcher as well as charcuterie options.
The Wagyu Carpaccio, Short Rib and Strip Steak were my meat loving companions favorites. I enjoyed The Tiger Shrimp, Baked Razor Clams, Paella, and creamy burrata salad. The wine menu is expansive and the staff can create a wine pairing experience. The Sangria was light, fruity and delicious!
8SIA NYC is a brand new Asian food hall that opened up in the heart of midtown near Grand Central Terminal. Five Vendors give fast food a new meaning serving Asian street food market cuisine in one comfy location. Rice-On specializes in sushi rolls and bowls. Yaso Noodle Bar showcases Shanghainese street food with with a selection of pan fried baos, noodles, soup dumplings, and much more. Curry 42 offers Southeast-Asian fare particularly from Malaysia and Thailand that centers around curry as the main ingredient. The restaurant will serve three signature curries in the bowls, Classic Thai Green Curry, Pua’s Yellow Curry, and Panang Red Curry.
Pasta Eater is a new Italian eatery near Union Square that features a casual homey decor and the freshest Italian homemade pasta. Owned by Chef Giusto Priola, who started his career as the owner of “Cacio e Pepe”,hence their most popular pasta dish. The menu steers heavily on pasta dishes with a large variety of salads and starters from the sea and land.
We enjoyed the Bruscetta, Tuna Tartare, Pan Seared Meatballs and Quinoa and Shrimp salad to start followed by the Troccoli Pasta with Lobster, Cacio e Pepe, Grilled Branzino and the Rib-Eye Steak. We finished our meal with a creamy cheesecake topped withy Nutella and Pistachio.
The restaurant is currently BYOB as they wait on their liquor license, when they will offer a full wine, beer and cocktail menu.
Restaurant Roundup: August Favorites from Across The Boroughs
Amylos Taverna is not your typical greek restaurant in a neighborhood known for greek eateries. The creative menu aims to elevate the dining experience and the decor is more Flatiron or Chelsea than Astoria, not that there is anything wrong with Astoria. The fresh fish display is artfully done and the bar is modern and chic. The service was very friendly and attentive. We loved the watermelon salad, which is perfect for summer. The whole fish, deboned, and the King Prawns were as fresh as can be. The typical greek spreads and the greek salad were delicious. The specialty cocktails were light and flavorful as were the desserts.
Located at 33-19 Broadway Astoria, NY amylos.com (718) 215-0228
Senso Unico in Sunnyside Queens is a quick 15 minute ride from midtown Manhattan. Chef Vincenzo and wife Laura opened this charming Italian trattoria about a year and a half ago. The neighborhood is growing quickly and the foodie scene is making a mark in the area. We loved the flatbread menu, the rib-eye carpaccio, the cuoppo, and the traditional calamaratta al frutti di mare.
Located 43-04 47th avenue Sunnyside, Queens 11104 (347) 662-6101 sensounicorestaurant.com
Roasted Masala is less than a year old and is already gaining steam for offering high end Indian Cuisine on the Upper West Side. Offering sit down service as well as takeout, the prices are affordable and the portions are large and can be shared. The location is perfect for Columbia University students, staff, and visiting family. Our favorites were the lasooni gobi (crispy cauliflower), the butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, and the saffron shrimp. The staff was extremely attentive and accommodating.
Located at 914 Columbus ave. between 104th and 105th street. New York, NY (917) 388-3586
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- Ceviche
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- citrus and passionfruit margaritas
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- Ice Cream Trio
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- Mexican Corn
Citrico Brooklyn in Brooklyn Heights offers truly authentic Mexican fare from the Central and Southern States of Mexico, not the typical Northern Tex-Mex New Yorkers are used to. Yes, even grasshoppers, appear on the menu! The dishes are infused with citrus, as the name suggests. The citrus and passionfruit margaritas are delicious. The ceviche with added citrus is very different and tasty as is the guacamole topped with fresh pomegranate. The “Elote” Mexican corn is served fresh with cotija cheese, chipotle mayo and chili powder. The Pollo en Mole must be tried, served in their homemade sauce with rice & beans.
Located at 681 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11238 (347) 955-4519 citricobrooklyn.com
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- Whole Red Snapper
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- Beef with noodles
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- Duck with Vegetables
Ayada Thai- Chelsea Market is the newest outpost of the Elmhurst, Queens based restaurant opened over 11 years ago. The new location is inside the very robust and popular Chelsea Market in the meatpacking district. The menu ranges from chive dumplings, noodles of every kind, spicy tom yum soup to fried Whole Red Snapper. The fried chicken wings in a sweet chili sauce were fantastic.
Located at 75 Ninth Avenue, Inside Chelsea Market New York, NY ayadathai.com
Coarse NYC is a very different and interesting dining experience. Chef Vincent Chirico does all the thinking for the guests with a spontaneous 7 course menu, paired with wines chosen by him and his staff for $99. Heavily seafood based but can be adjusted for dietary restrictions or preferences. We really enjoyed the hamachi and avocado, the seared sea scallops and the burrata ravioli.
Located at 306 west 13th street New York, NY (646) 896-1404
Taste Of The Upper West Side 2019 @TasteUWS #TasteofTheUpperWestSide
The Taste of The Upper West Side is a 2 night affair starting with “Summer In The City” on Friday night. Several restaurants made their Taste of UWS debut with tastings from Fish on The Fly, Friedman’s Restaurant, Melba’s Restaurant, Big Gay Ice Cream, Miznon, Mokum, Mojo Desserts, Solomon & Kuff and Tacombi Upper West Side. Event favorites such as 5 Napkin Burger, Shake Shack, Bodrum, Gabriela’s Restaurant & Kitchen, Playa Betty’s, Olma Restaurant & Bar, Sarabeth’s and much more offered their popular dishes and guests were treated to signature cocktails, beers, wines, and desserts.
The main event is Saturday Night’s “Best of The West”. The event began with an hour long VIP hour for guests to sample the elevated cuisine in a quieter more exclusive environment. Some of the restaurants present were Elea, Tavern on The Green, Lincoln Center Kitchen, RedFarm, Calle Ocho, The Mermaid Inn, Shake Shack, Boulevard Seafood Company, Burke & Wills, Carmine’s, Magnolia Bakery, Orwashers Bakery, and Insomnia Cookies. There was a dedicated mixology section sponsored by Park West Village Apartments, where one of a kind craft cocktails were created by 67 Orange Street, Da Capo, Manhattan Cricket Club, Maison Pickle, Nobody Told Me Cocktail Club, Tiki Chick, and Tito’s Vodka.
Project Orange Music provided the musical entertainment and had guests dancing to their tunes, much needed to burn off all that yummy
Shun Lee West: Authentic High End Chinese Fare on the Upper West Side @ShunLeeNYC #ShunLeeNYC
Shun Lee West is the sister restaurant to the original and very popular Shun Lee Palace on the upper east side. Across the street from Lincoln Center the pre-theatre crowd can get their food and drink on with authentic chinese cuisine in an elegant setting.
We dined on some classic favorites and specialties including their famous general Tso’s chicken, Crispy Whole Sea Bass, Grand Marnier Prawns, Fried Rice and Bok Choy. We paired our meal with a classic Mai- Tai, made with premium rums.
Shun Lee West is very family friendly and a go to for a special dining experience on the upper west side. The eatery is pricey but the portions are large and can be shared.
Shun Lee West 43 west 65th street New York, NY 10023 (212) 595-8895
Sushi Sushi, West Villages freshest Sushi @sushisushnyc #sushisushinyc
Sushi Sushi is located in the heart of the village near Washington Square Park and NYU. A casual eatery with a focus on delivering the freshest seafood, hand selecting premium cuts of Salmon, Tuna, Yellowtail, Eel, Unagi, Striped Bass and much more.
The menu focuses heavily on its sushi roll choices. There are the traditional salmon avocados and spicy tuna rolls, but the signature rolls is what it is all about.
A couple of our favorites and highly recommended are the aptly named Sushi Sushi Roll, spicy crab, avocado topped with salmon, fluke/striped bass, with mango miso sauce and The Spicy Delight Roll, spicy tuna, avocado topped with spicy salmon and tobiko, served with spicy sushi sushi sauce
Dessert sushi is normally not a thing but Sushi Sushi has created some of the most unique and delicious sushi desserts possible. The PB& J roll, peanut butter and jelly on white bread, crust cut off rolled up into a roll. The Banana Nutella with strawberries is also a must try.
Sushi Sushi: 126 Macdougal Street New York, NY 10012 (212) 477-4000
Elysian Fields Cafe, New Mediterranean Eatery in the heart of Columbia University
Elysian Fields Cafe is perfectly situated in the heart of Columbia University at 1207 Amsterdam Avenue, between 119th and 120th street. The decor is reminiscent of a comfy country home that will certainly be a warm welcome for students, university staff, visiting parents and locals alike.
Owned by Georgia Dumas and Stavros Aktipis, who have a rich history of owning and running restaurants both in Greece and in the try-state area, they are bringing high quality fresh greek cuisine to the upper west side.
The menu focuses strongly on mezedes, sharing plates. This is a perfect way try several options both hot and cold with your dining partners.
We went for the traditional Tzatziki with pita, followed by the classic greek salad, large portion and can easily be shared with a few. The Salmon Tartare was very fresh and the grilled gulf shrimp “Garides Psites” were buttery and perfect.
For the main course we chose the Faroe Island Salmon served with lemon potatoes, my favorite greek side dish. My dining partner chose the chicken souvlaki platter served with veggies, pita bread and tzatziki.
We paired our meal with greek beers and wines, large choice of alcoholic beverages available as well as a lovely tea selection.
Elysian Fields Cafe 1207 Amsterdam Avenue New York, NY
Tuscany Steakhouse: Midtown’s Newest Steakhouse delivers Prime Aged Steaks & Italian Cuisine @TuscanySteakhouse #TuscanySteakhouse
Opened just over a year ago, Tuscany Steakhouse, formerly known as Nino’s Tuscany Steakhouse, has redecorated and rebranded itself. Arched brick walls, elegant tables and a cozy bar provide a premium dining experience.
The seafood possibilities are endless at Tuscany with the freshest seafood served. We opted for the lobster cocktail, jumbo shrimp cocktail, crab meat cocktail and baked clams oreganata.
Steaks at Tuscany are aged in-house to deliver maximum flavor. We chose to try the Sirloin and the Rib-eye, both simply seasoned and perfectly prepared. A favorite amongst diners is the Porterhouse, which is prepared for 2 people. There are also quite a few Italian specialties including chicken and veal parmesan. The lamb chops, as witnessed by our dining neighbors were a good portion size and juicy. We chose the creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach as our side dishes.
Linguini Seafood
Another guest favorite and ours is the linguine seafood. Filled with shrimp, lobster, clams and calamari served on a bed of linguini in a spicy marinara sauce.
Dessert was a light creamy tiramisu with homemade whip cream and a very indulgent hot fudge sundae. The meal was paired with a lovely and varied wine menu and friendly warm service.
Tuscany Steakhouse 117 west 58th street New York, NY (212) 757-8630 tuscanysteakhouse.com
Russian Samovar: Authentic Russian Cuisine in the heart of The Theatre District #RussianSamovar @RussianSamovar
For over 30 years Russian Samovar has been a celebrity hangout for drinks, authentic russian food, and music in the theatre district. Founded in 1986 by Roman Kaplan and later joined by ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and nobel award winning poet Joseph Brodsky.
The decor has remained the same as when it was Jilly’s Canteen, owned by a pal of Frank Sinatra Jilly Rizzo. The red banquettes remain as well as the bar and Baryshnikov’s own baby grand piano which is used daily by performers and guests.
The cuisine is authentic Russian with lots of caviar options. We started with the fish platter served with blini or potatoes, followed by Siberian Pelmeni (Dumplings) served with sour cream on the side.
For the main course I chose the favorite dish of the house, Chicken Kiev. The chicken was tender and buttery served with creamy mashed potatoes. My guest chose the most classic dish of all Beef Stroganoff, lean tenderloin, sautéed mushrooms in a mushroom cream sauce, served with egg noodles.
Napolean
One of my favorite Russian desserts, me being of Russian decent is the Napolean. A light and flaky pastry cake with bavarian vanilla cream filling. We recommend this dessert to top of the meal!
There is a wide selection of specialty cocktails, lots of them are vodka based, as expected as well as a large selection of infused vodkas to sample.
Every monday evening there is a live show, performances vary, ours was in Russian so check ahead of time to choose a performance you prefer. There is a three course pre-fix menu ($45), tax and tip not included as well as an a la carte menu.
Russian Samovar is located at 256 west 52nd street New York, NY 10019 (212) 757- 0168 russiansamovar.com
Forlinis in Little Italy is a Historic Italian Eatery with rich history and authentic cuisine
Little Italy used to be one of our favorite parts of NYC to find classic Italian food ranging from casual to fancy. These days Chinatown has slowly taken over the neighborhood with only a sliver of eateries left. Thankfully, Forlini’s on Baxter street remains as a holdout with old school decor, vibe, and authenticity. Run by the Forlini family for over 75 years Forlini’s got a jolt in popularity thanks to a NY times article and a pre-met Gala soiree attended by A-list guests with fashionistas, models and influencer types.
These days the crowd is a mixed one with loyal customers who have been coming since the beginning, with their kids and grand kids in tow. During the day the proximity to the courthouse brings in judges, lawyers and other legal types. A demand for private parties means a young trendy crowd looking forward to seeing and documenting a piece of old New York that is fleeting.
The food is fresh and largely homemade. The pastas are made in-house as is the ricotta cheescake. We had the Forlini’s salad, which is large enough for a few people followed by a pasta combo of Gnocchi al Pesto and Panserolli Piacentina. The main course was the Stuffed Filet of Sole filled with shrimp and crab. The dessert was a creamy homemade ricotta cheesecake.
Forlini’s 93 Baxter Street New York, NY 10013 (212) 349-6779 forlinisnyc.com
Tbar Steak & Lounge on the Upper East Side is a neighborhood classic
Restaurants in NYC come and go, especially in the last few years on the Upper East Side. TBar Steak & Lounge has been around for over a decade and on a frigid monday night in January the crowd was there, a well dressed refined crowd dining on a well curated menu composed of fresh seafood and meat dishes.
The grill menu features a prime age bone in Rib Eye, an Aged Strip Steak and the 40oz Black Angus Porterhouse for 2. The Rib Eye was cooked a perfect medium rare and we paired it with buttery mashed potatoes. The chilean sea bass was light and flaky and is a good choose when looking for a lighter option.
For lunch or a lighter meal the salads are portioned generously and can be topped off with chicken, shrimp or salmon.
Dessert is very special at Tbar. Served in glass bowls they can be shared with up to four people. The strawberry sundae was our favorite, shortcake, meringue, brandy and cream . It is not too heavy and rich yet is satisfies your sweet tooth.
TBar Steak & Lounge 1278 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10021 (212) 772-0404 tbarnyc.com
Zavo, A Chic Mediterranean Restaurant On The Upper East Side is more than just dinner! #ZavoNYC @ZavoNYC
There are a million eateries in NYC so when looking for a memorable evening or special occasion we look for something that stands out. Zavo on the upper east side does just that. Offering fine Mediterranean fare and cocktails with warm friendly service, Saturday night showtime with a pre-fixe dinner menu is what makes Zavo a must visit.
The rotating show schedule includes Venetian Mystery Night and 1000 Nights, however the newest show premiering January 17th, is titled “Middle East meets Venice”, a mixture of both shows. Buy tickets here: Showtime 1/17. The evening includes a three course meal see ( menu ) and the show, beverages, tips, and tax not included. The menu includes classic favorites prepared with attention and detail including Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Tuna Tartare, Crispy Calamari, Black Sea Bass Fillet, Filet Mignon and to top off the meal Creme Brûlée and Apple Pistachio.
The ambience is upscale with well dressed patrons looking to have a good time and celebrate. Zavo is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a just fun night with friends. Come checkout out this new show experience on January 17th.
Zavo is located at 1011 third ave between 60th and 61st street. New York, NY (212) 753-5500 www.zavonyc.com
La Pulperia NYC: Rustic Latin Cuisine on the Upper East Side
On a balmy september monday evening we ventured into La Pulperia on the upper east side of Manhattan. It was quite lively with a band playing and an energetic crowd gathered around the bar and in the dining area.
Owned and operated by chef/owner Carlos Barroz and Victor Medina, The eatery serves latin cuisine from a variety of countries with a European flair. The menu is heavily seafood based with a terrific raw bar and a crudo tasting not to be missed.
We started with a cocktail recommended by the owner himself. We are rum drinkers so we ordered the Coquito Passion, made with Don Q Silver and Coconut Rum, passion fruit puree, agave nectar and fresh mint. It was very refreshing and not too sweet.
We started our tasting with the salmon brûlée, followed by a crudo tasting, and a portion of tender Alaskan King Crab legs. My meat lover dining companion enjoyed the serving of beef and corn empanadas.
For the main course we had to try one of the house specialties, the crab meat black ravioli. The handmade pasta is filled with fresh crab meat accompanied with cherry tomatoes in a saffron clam sauce. We highly recommend this entree!
The hangar steak is organic from uruguay and is accompanied by five cazuelitas (sides), eggplant chambota, celery root gratin, grilled broccoli rabe, spinach mac & cheese and chimichurri sauce. We had it cooked medium rare and it was very tender and perfectly seasoned.
The chef brought out two desserts to try. We loved the crepes, filled with chocolate sauce topped with bananas, powdered sugar and served with a side of ice cream. The chocolate mousse was light and not too rich, served with fresh fruit and vanilla ice cream.
La Pulperia is located at 1626 Second Avenue New York, NY 10028. (212) 960- 3176 pulperianyc.com
FashionsWeek: Beauty, Fashion, Travel, Tech & Dining By Maya Litovsky 