When you get right down to it, there are woefully too few days in a New York City summer where the planets align to create weather that’s both seductively warm and miraculously free from precipitation, making for the perfect scenario for a rooftop dining experience. We enjoyed just such a cosmic occurrence one evening last week, when we were fortunate enough to snag a prime table at Upstairs, the luxurious rooftop restaurant and bar located on the Penthouse level of the Kimberly Suites Hotel.
Unlike similar venues that may flaunt coveted Rooftop views of our fair Metropolis while phoning it in when it comes to service and consumables, Upstairs backs up its bragging rights with an impressive menu of gourmet eats and signature summer cocktails that will add significant value to your evening of memorable views. Continue reading Upstairs at the Kimberly Hotel: Much More than Just Rooftop Cocktails→
Fine Dining in Manhattan isn’t always all about molecular gastronomy and tiny portions served on over-sized plates. While “Fine Dining Bargain” is not a phrase you are likely to hear at any time other than during restaurant week, there are upscale restaurants in town where you can get an exceptional value for your hard earned cash while also indulging your inner Foodie. One such destination is Philippe on East 60th Street, which has become a favorite of celebrity clientele from Lady Gaga to President Obama, and we think we know why: the location is discreet and food is off the hook.
When dining out in NYC with a group of more than, say, two people, it can be challenging to find a venue that meets the expectations of both those seeking delicious food and those more interested in experiencing a hot, “night life” scene. Lair Restaurant and Lounge, which opened in Nolita last October, aims to bring together the best of both worlds. Featuring Asian-Fusion cuisine billed as ‘Modern Dimsum’ and potent, eclectic cocktails, all served amid a cozy-yet-cutting edge décor that’s part urban safari and part goth, Lair is a glittering jewel nestled in this up-and-coming trendy neighborhood.
UPDATE: Social Eatz Has Closed For Business as of March 2013
I’m a big fan of Top Chef since I got hip to the show in its second season. I am especially enjoying this season’s “All Stars” competition, featuring favorite Cheftestants from past seasons, and am excited for the finale beginning tonight, and then wrapping up in next Wednesday’s episode (Richard Blais for the win)!
One of my New Year’s Resolutions for 2011 is to enjoy the company of good friends while dining in fine restaurants as often as possible. No one can accuse me of not sticking to my resolutions, because last night I had an amazing meal at chef Jonathan Waxman’sBarbuto Restaurant on Washington Street near the Meatpacking District. My dining companions were my longtime friend Ivy, her charming husband Rick and their adorable daughter Violet, who is the best kid you could ever hope to have, let me tell you. Continue reading Gail Meets Chef Jonathan Waxman!→
