insideKENT Magazine Issue 50 - May 2016 | Page 126

GETAWAYS A WEEKEND IN new york city con t. TAKE A BITE OUT OF THE BIG APPLE With a rumoured 24,000 places to eat in New York, even if you ate out somewhere new for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, it would still take you over 20 years to attempt to sample them all, so just where should you go if like many you are only in town for a few days? Here are our top picks for taking a bite out of the Big Apple… Asiate at The Mandarin Oriental The Garden, Four Seasons Hotel This beautifully conceived restaurant is as stylish as it is comfortable, with its glorious ‘wall of wine’ and impressive tree branch light sculpture influenced, of course, by the panoramic views of Central Park (and the city beyond), afforded by the stunning floor to ceiling windows of this 35th floor dining space. With a humble, gracious and attentive service by a dedicated team and a sublime Asian-inspired American fine dining offering from chef de cuisine Garrison Price, it’s easy to see why this gem is so popular. Not to be missed are the Maine lobster; the smooth, delicate fois gras terrine with its divine huckleberry jam; and the 7X wagyu beef tenderloin, all of which can be enjoyed on the 7-course taster menu with optional wine pairing. 80 Columbus Circle at 60th Street www.mandarinoriental.com/newyork/fine-dining/asiate/ Nothing quite says New York weekend than brunch, and where better to while away a few hours than at The Garden Restaurant in the Four Seasons? With its twisted branches from the towering Acacia trees, heaps of outdoor-inspired decor and the flooding of natural light from floor to ceiling windows, this enchanting almost magical setting is great for couples, groups and families. The menu offers tempting treats such as garden bloody Mary’s, hanger steak and eggs, the Gotham burger and fresh bakery delights. And this well conceived and perfectly executed menu is made even better by the easy, friendly and faultless service offered by the impeccable staff. 57 E 57th St www.fourseasons.com/newyork/dining/restaurants/the_garden/ 21 Club Burger Joint With its quirky jockeylined entrance and toys suspended from the ceilings, 21 Club is a true American icon. Opened in 1930, this notorious speakeasy with its disappearing bar and hidden wine cellar has attracted celebrities and dignitaries for over 80 years. Taking a seat in the cosy bar room your eye is drawn to the sporting memorabilia, toys and trophies that have been donated by TV personalities, sports stars and presidents, adding their own mark to the unique ambience and history. Service is thorough and efficient with some great menu recommendations including the crab cake, the legendary ‘21’ Caesar salad, the ‘21’ burger and the filet steak, and of course there is a much-revered wine menu and exclusive spirit selection. Quirky and fun, yet exclusive and select, be sure to check out the Celebrity Table Interactive Map online to see just who has graced your table in the past! No trip to New York would be complete without a burger, and there are no better than those classic juicy ‘heaven-in-a-bun’ offerings delivered by Burger Joint. From its hidden beginnings behind the red velvet curtain in Le Parker Meridien, identified mainly by the queue of hungry diners waiting patiently for the quirky small dining room beyond the rope, Burger Joint has added another hip venue, this time in Greenwich Village. Marked by its fluorescent logo sign, there are no reservations at this laidback eatery – turn up, grab a booth and order from the brilliantly simple burger, cheeseburger or double burger menu and kick back with your paper-wrapped treat, crisp fries and milkshake combo. Be sure to grab a sharpie and add your name or whatever else takes your fancy to the walls (or ceilings) to preserve your visit to this fabulous find. 33 West 8th Street www.burgerjointny.com 21 West 52nd Street www.21club.com 126