Exciting Cities and Location Series TBR’s Top 5 Restaurants in NYC 2020
The atmosphere in a restaurant can turn exquisite food into an experience. Stimulating the taste buds, the eyes, and the intellect all at once is a challenge. Some restaurateurs accept this task in a unique way that celebrates their culture, their favorite flavors, or the uplifting power of a well-prepared meal in an elegant space.
New York City has thousands of restaurants to choose from. Finding something exceptional that delivers exciting flavor combinations, lifts classic dishes to a new level, and does it all in a tantalizing atmosphere isn’t difficult in the rich tapestry that is NYC.
These are five of the top-rated restaurants in New York City that have created unique and upscale experiences. Many of them book up weeks in advance, so if you’re heading to the big apple any time soon, make a reservation as early as you can.
Sushi Noz
Chef Nozomu Abe has created a Michelin-starred dining experience meant to please every one of the five senses. His sushi bar transports guests to Japan with its cedar structures built with traditional woodwork joinery. Once guests enter and experience the beauty of the space, Chef Noz presents the preparation of dinner in an intimate performance for six to eight guests. His tasting menu delivers a wide range of ngiri and Edomae-style sushi. There are two seatings on weekday evenings, and three on weekends; reservations often book up a month in advance.
Best for: Dinner
Where: 181 E 78th St. (between Lexington and 3rd Avenue)
Verōnika
The romantic elegance of Eastern Europe at the turn of the twentieth century oozes from every corner of this new restaurant at the Fotografiska Museum. The 20-foot ceilings are bejeweled with multi-tiered chandeliers and illuminate the extravagance of the leather chairs and blue velvet banquettes. Restaurateur Stephen Starr and Executive Chef Robert Aikens have created a menu worthy of such an opulent space by playing with the flavors of dishes from France, Austria, and Eastern Europe. Indulge in refreshed versions of classic dishes like pierogies, borscht, schnitzel, and lamb goulash that are as upscale as the space they are served in.
Best for: Dinner (Lunch and Brunch coming soon)
Where: 281 Park Ave. South (At 22nd Street and Park Avenue)
Le Bernardin
French seafood takes center stage in the elegant, Parisian atmosphere of Le Bernardin. With three Michelin stars, you know there’s a reason this restaurant has been in NYC since 1986. The focus of each dish on the pre-fixe menu is the fish, with everything else, including the wine, meant to complement its flavors. Chef Eric Ripert creates dishes that evoke feelings and memories. All the fish, from the red snapper to the sea trout, and the lobster, are sustainably sourced. Wine Director Aldo Sohm, who has won the title “Best Sommelier in the World,” has curated a 15,000 bottle wine collection to partner with the menu.
Best for: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Where: 155 W 51st St (Between 6th and 7th)
Atomix
With two Michelin stars, the 10-course tasting menu in an elegant and minimalist space is designed to stimulate both the palate and the intellect. Chef Junghyn Park and Manager Ella Park have created a unique experience for their guests that includes beautifully designed cards delivered with each dish to share information about the ingredients and their significance in Korean traditions and techniques. Dishes include caviar, dried sea cucumber, and tart shells made out of mussel juices. Reservations are required, and the meal must be paid for in advance. While the tasting menu isn’t available in the lounge, there is an abundance of classic and contemporary cocktails inspired by Korean flavors and an a la carte snack menu.
Best for: Dinner, Drinks
Where: 104 E. 30th St. (Between Park and Lexington)
Contra
With one Michelin star, Contra’s seven-course set menu features local and seasonal ingredients combined in unique ways to develop interesting flavors. The French-inspired neo-bistro by chefs Fabian von Hauske and Jeremiah Stone has a relaxed atmosphere. Each dish is artfully plated with a minimalist aesthetic. An abbreviated three-course menu, wine pairings, and a dessert tasting are available at the bar for those unable to secure a reservation for the full tasting.
Best for: Dinner, Drinks, Dessert
Where: 138 Orchard St. (Between Delancey and Rivington)
Finding the right restaurant for dinner with a client can be difficult; there’s a lot to consider. Selecting a venue that provides not only delicious, high-end food, but also a memorable experience in a beautiful space will impress even the toughest of critics.
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4 年Very interested to check out some of these next time I'm out in the area!