New York City: Luxe Eats List

ABC Kitchen [Farm To Table $$$]

In my opinion, you have at least dine in one of Jean-Georges Vongerichten's restaurants while in NYC. Beyond being a world famous chef, he is also a savvy restauranteur and marketeer. His signature cuisine combines classic French techniques with Asian flavours, fruit and vegetable sauces, lighter broths and vinaigrettes; in place of the traditional meat stocks and creams. To date, he has more than 30 restaurants around the world to his name. ABC Kitchen, situated in ABC Carpet & Home (an upscale home and decor store where you WILL go broke in) is one of his latest casual ventures and specialises in farm to table cuisine, featuring local, sustainable and organic seasonal produce. Come for the market fresh vegetables, the unmissable crab toast with aioli and finish off with a sinful salted caramel and popcorn sundae. Fresh, light and tasty - I could eat this everyday. A three course set lunch available at 32USD. Otherwise, there is always his more formal flagship restaurant, Jean Georges.

ABC Kitchen
35 East 18th street 
(between Broadway & Park Avenue)
+1 (212) 475-5829
Opening hours vary, please check website
http://www.abckitchennyc.com/ 

The Bar Room at The Modern [Modern French $$$]

I had one of my most memorable dinners ever at The Modern, where everything from food, service and atmosphere was flawless. Located at the Museum of Modern Art, The Modern specialises in Modern French small plates in a casual yet classy setting. There are no "appetisers" and "mains" sections on the menu,  instead only sections "one", "two", "three" which allows you flexibility in building your meal, which I love (since I much prefer appetisers to mains in general). The Long Island duck breast and grilled diver scallops are good choices, or you could go for more classic Alsatian dishes (Exec Chef Gabriel Kreuther is Alsatian) like tarte flambée. For a more formal option, The Dining Room upstairs serves only prix fixe menus and overlooks the Rockefeller Sculpture Square garden. Come before sunset (after touring MoMa, of course) to see the restaurant at its prettiest, when filled with daylight. 

The Bar Room At The Modern
9 West 53rd Street
(between Ave Of The Americas & 5th Ave)
+1 (212) 333-1220
Mon to Sat: 1130am to 1030pm
Sun: 1130am to 930pm (limited menu 3 to 5pm)
http://www.themodernnyc.com

Takashi [Japanese-Korean BBQ/Beef and Offal $$$]

I love the concept of Takashi, an intimate (34 seats only) and one of a kind Japanese-Korean Yakiniku BBQ restaurant that specialises in all parts of the cow, including off cuts. If you can't decide, the horumon moriawase (chef's selection) comprising of different stomachs, sweetbreads etc. is a good start. For the more familiar cuts, my favourites are always the kalbi (short rib) and rosu (ribeye). There are two types of marinades that you can choose from - the first a blend of salt, garlic and sesame oil, and the second a sweeter Takashi's sauce - both are equally delicious. For the adventurous, the menu here has an interesting list of appetisers you won't find anywhere else. The niku-uni (chuck flap topped with uni and wasabi) is a popular appetiser featured on Anthony Bourdain's The Layover. There is even a testicargot (cow balls escargot style with garlic shiso butter) dish but I didn't have the...balls to try it (pun fully intended). A small selection of complimentary banchan is served at the start of the menu, similar to Korean restaurants. Takashi can get pricey as portions are small, but it's definitely a place for beef/offal lovers, or jaded diners looking for something new. Reservations for four pax or more only.

Takashi
456 Hudson Street
(between Morton and Barrow)
+1 (212) 414-2929
[Dinner only] Mon to Thur: 6pm to 11pm, Fri & Sat: 530pm to 12am, Sun: 5pm to 1030pm 
http://takashinyc.com
 

Marea [Italian Seafood $$$$]

I admit - I am not the biggest fan of Italian food - it's a great cuisine for sure, but just not my favourite (it's Japanese btw, like 90% of SG). But an Italian seafood restaurant? That's an entirely different story. Uni, crudos (raw fish), seafood pastas, fish and shellfish entrees - I could eat this everyday (I'm not a pescatarian but somewhat leaning towards that diet). While the a la carte menu is available during dinner, the 99USD four course prix fixe seemed reasonable and comes with a lot of options for each category. For a two starred restaurant in NYC, extremely fresh seafood produce, and enough food that I was full midway, I thought it was a fair deal. Highlights of that night included the ricci (uni and lardo on toast), a mouthwatering selection of crudos (ten types to choose from), seared scallops, and the legendary red wine braised octopus and bone marrow fusilli (a must order). Even the Italian desserts here are well executed (gelato and sorbet flavours like lemon basil and blood orange, bomboloni doughnuts). Pair Chef Michael White's stellar food with a glass of white or two, and this ode to Italian coastal cuisine is a great alternative to a Sicilian holiday. A two course set lunch available at 45USD.

Marea
240 Central Park S
+1 (212) 582-5100
Opening hours vary, please check website
http://www.marea-nyc.com 

Sushi Yasuda [Sushi $$$$]

My first taste of haute sushi was at Sushi Yasuda, so it will always have a special place in my heart. I arrived a sushi noob, and left a changed woman. At Sushi Yasuda, you are encouraged to eat sushi with your hands (traditional style), and discouraged to dip sushi in soya sauce and wasabi (since the sushi chefs would have already done the flavouring for you - let's not insult their craft). The fish here is extremely fresh, and until today I can still remember that transformational uni I had (two types - one from the Atlantic and one from the Pacific - and you could really taste the difference though both were still amazing). Omakase starts at 100USD, but you can come for the more affordable prix fixe combinations/sushi sets, add on premium pieces, and still have a very nice experience. Though Chef Yasuda has left since my visit, recent reviews seem to show that it has managed to maintain its high standards. Book a seat at the bar, and come here for an education in traditional Edomae sushi. You will never look at sushi the same again. 

Sushi Yasuda
204 East 43rd Street 
(between 2nd and 3rd Ave)
+1 (212) 972-1001
[Lunch] Mon to Fri: 12pm to 215pm
[Dinner] Mon to Sat: 6pm to 1015pm
Closed on Sunday
http://sushiyasuda.com

Le Bernardin [Seafood $$$$]

If you are a seafood lover, Chef Eric Ripert's Le Bernardin is considered the temple of seafood in New York City. It's a staple on many best of restaurant lists and holds an unshakable three Michelin stars. Hence I was uber stoked to score a reservation after much clock-monitoring and Skyping, even if I were going to be the only solo diner in the resty (true story). Despite the hefty price tag, I went all out for the tasting menu (150USD for seven courses) since it would be the best way to try Le Bernardin's signature dishes. I was off to a good start with the super sublime salmon rilette spread on crispy toasts, elevating the oft-afterthought amuse bouche course to something else. That was succeeded by dish after dish of well-executed striped bass tartare, lobster carpaccio, scallop carpaccio, black bass and skate, before two dessert courses, of which the deconstructed "black forest" was particularly memorable (dark chocolate cremeux, Kirsch Bavaroise, Belgian Kriek beer sorbet). Needless to say, it is a lot of food, so perhaps I should have just got for the less ambitious three course set lunch (75USD) instead since I was full by the second course (despite me trying my hardest to not eat the really good bread). My only grouse with the menu was that both carpaccios on the menu were warm carpaccios (perhaps a seasonal thing since it was Autumn?), while personally I prefer cold carparccios and more variety. Service however, was flawless, and they very willingly accomodated my request to change the monkfish course (just not a fan of the texture) to something else, and printed a copy of my menu/threw in a Zagat guide for a little something extra. Jacket required for guys (it's that kind of formal business-ish venue).

Le Bernardin
155 West 51st
+1 (212) 554-1515
[Lunch] Mon to Fri: 12pm to 230pm
[Dinner] Mon to Thurs: 515pm to 1030pm, Fri & Sat: 515pm to 11pm
Closed on Sunday
http://le-bernardin.com
 

Buddakan [Lounge/Asian Fusion $$]

Buddakan in Chelsea is probably one of the most jaw dropping restaurants cum lounges I've been to. There's a reason why Carrie Bradshaw held her wedding rehearsal dinner here (nevermind that wedding didn't work out). Remember that long table with the ornate chandeliers set in the dark "den" like room? This is it. If you're not into Asian Fusion fine dining, come late for post-dinner dessert and drinks to experience it, which is what I did. It's an extremely sexy and glamorous location, so dress to impress or be prepared to stick out like a sore thumb. While I can't vouch for the food since I didn't dine here, you won't go wrong with the crying chocolate dessert and cocktails. Great for a girls' night our or celebrations.

Buddakan NYC
75 9th Ave
(between Ave Of The Americas & 5th Ave)
+1 (212) 989-6699
Opening hours vary, please check website
http://www.buddakannyc.com 

Angel's Share [Cocktail Bar $$]

Trying to get into an 'it' speakeasy bar in Manhattan on a Saturday night is pointless unless you have made a reservation in advance, or have an invisibility cloak on. So after realising that our spots on the waitlist at PDT and Death & Co were hopeless, we gave Angel's Share - a Japanese bar hidden in the rather greasy Village Yokocho restaurant - our last shot. Surprisingly, we only had to wait for a table for 5 minutes before they sat us at a table by the bay window overlooking Stuyvesant Square. The inventive cocktails here have an Asian twist, incorporating Japanese flavours and liquors. Order the Japanese whiskey based cocktails on the menu, I found them to be absolutely delish. It's an intimate space with a curious decor best described as a blend of Japanese whiskey bar meets Michelangelo (you'll know what I mean when you see it). No groups bigger than four are allowed in so you'll be guaranteed a quiet, civil time. Bliss.

Angel's Share 
Village Yokocho

8 Stuyvesant Street 
(between 2nd and 3rd Avenue)
+1 (212) 777-5415
Open daily: 7pm to 230am

New York City: Affordable Eats List

Shake Shack [Burger $]
If you only eat in one place in NYC, make it Shake Shack. It's the best burger from a (gourmet) fast food chain I've ever had, trumping In-N-Out on the West Coast. Their burgers contain quality patties made from a blend of 100% all natural Angus sirloin, brisket, and short rib; always cooked to medium. Add in a devilish amount of melted cheese and Shack Sauce, and you have the reason why Shack Shack has its legion of fans, even turning vegetarians into meat eaters for the day (true story). Wash it down with a lemonade or one of their signature frozen custard shakes. The original Madison Square Garden branch makes for a lovely outdoor experience (provided you are not queuing in the snow) or you can also choose to experience this magic on Broadway right before catching a show, since there isn't much to eat in Times Square/Broadway area anyway. Check their website for other branches.

Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
E 23rd St & Madison Ave
+1 (212) 889-6600 
Open daily 11am to 11pm 

http://www.shakeshack.com 

Russ & Daughters [Seafood $]

If you are a seafood lover, particularly of the smoked fish and caviar kind, don't miss this almost a century old Jewish "appetizing" store that serves some seriously delicious smoked salmon and herring. Fun fact: “appetizing” stores are stores that only sell fish and dairy while delicatessens sell cured and pickled meats since Jewish dietary laws dictate that meat and dairy products cannot be eaten or sold together. Order the lox (brined salmon) and cream cheese bagel that comes with capers and pickled onions and devour it on the bench outside for a classic New Yorker experience. Takeaway only.

Russ & Daughters

179 East Houston Street
(between East Houston St & 2nd Ave) 
+1 (212) 475-4880
Open Mon to Fri: 8am to 8pm, Sat: 8am to 7pm, Sun: 8am to 530pm 
http://www.russanddaughters.com 

Fish [Seafood $]
My friend who lives in NYC brought me to this convival seafood restaurant after our first dinner. You know, the kind of dinner when you're only kinda full, and not quite satisfied. At Fish, there's an all day "red white and blue special" where you can enjoy six blue point oysters and a PBR/glass of house wine for a mere 8USD (!!). We are talking really fresh plump oysters here, and no hidden terms or minimum orders required. It's an incredible deal for an expensive city like NYC, and a great place for a pre/post dinner snack, or to get your oyster fix. Apart from the special, Fish also serves up a rather affordable raw bar, and other items like grilled fish, lobster pie and fish and chips. You can thank me now.

Fish
280 Bleecker Street 
(between Jones Street & Commerce Street)
+1 (212) 727-2879
Open Sun to Thu: 12pm to 11pm, Fri & Sat: 12pm to 12am
http://www.fishrestaurantnyc.com

Katz's Delicatessen [Jewish Deli $$]
You have to make a pilgrimage to this iconic Jewish delicatessen that has been in operation at the same location since 1888, and queue for its towering pastrami, brisket and corned beef sandwiches. Even though you may break out in meat sweats halfway and it is a little pricey for a sandwich (having said that, they are huge), the legendary combination of pastrami, rye bread and mustard is unmissable. Film buffs please note: this was also where the iconic "I'll have whatever she's having" scene in Harry & Sally was filmed.

Katz's Delicatessen
205 East Houston Street
(corner of Ludlow Street)
+1 (212) 254-2246
Mon to Wed: 8am to 1045pm, Thu: 8am to 245am, Open from Fri 8am to Sun 1045pm

http://katzsdelicatessen.com 

Caracas Arepa Bar [Venezuelan $$]

This is probably the best Venezuelan food I will ever have since I doubt I will make it to Venezuela. Come for the namesake arepas which are flat round cornmeal cakes stuffed generously with fillings such as meat, cheese, vegetables and beans. The de pabellon arepa, with its shredded beef, black beans, white salty cheese and sweet plantains is a crowd pleaser. For sides, the homemade guasacasa (guacamole) and taro chips were also good. Surprisingly one arepa and a bit more filled me up quite bit, although two should do the trick for most. This place makes for such an inexpensive, exotic, gourmet meal. If you don't want to queue, go early or get takeaway two doors down. Due to its small space space, only parties five pax or less can dine in this location. Check their website for other branches.

Caracas Arepa Bar (West Village)
93 1/2 East 7th Street
+1 (212) 529-2314
Open daily 12pm to 11pm

http://www.caracasarepabar.com 

Cafe Gitane [French Moroccan $$]

I first stumbled upon this shabby chic French-Moroccan cafe randomly while exploring Nolita one night, and was surprised when the food turned out pretty good. After some googling I realised it was one of those places where the fashion and 'it' crowd frequent. Well that explained the model-esque European clientele and cute waitresses. I love the Moroccan influences on menu, which makes it refreshing compared to the usual French cafe food. Don't miss the popular avocado on seven grain toast for all you avo lovers, the couscous with Merguez sausages and interestingly, the chocolate bread pudding. A newer outlet now open at Jane Hotel.

Cafe Gitane (Nolita)
242 Mott Street
(between Houston Street & Prince Street)
+1 (212) 334-9552
Open Mon to Thu, Sun: 9am to 12am, Fri & Sat: 9am to 1230am.
http://www.cafegitanenyc.com 

People's Pops [Ice Pops & Shaved Ices $]

There is nothing more refreshing than enjoying a cool, refreshing popsicle on a hot summer's day. Hence, while you're at The High Line - an abandoned elevated railroad line now transformed into an urban park (which you MUST visit) - try People's Pops' all natural, bursting-with-flavour ice pops made from local, seasonal fruits. They come in all sorts of delicious and creative flavours like Concord grape, roasted red plums, cantaloupe ginger, strawberry and basil. Check out their website for other outlets.

People's Pops x The High Line

Chelsea Market Passage

16th Street & 10th Ave

Open daily 11am to 10pm

http://www.peoplespops.com

Doughnut Plant [Doughnuts $] 
There are doughnuts, and then there are doughnuts. The doughuts at Doughnut Plant are not your stale supermarket types that have been churned out en mass. These are handmade every day without preservatives added, and even the jams and fillings are made in house. Popular choices here are the tres leches (Latin American three milks cake), blackout cake and creme brulee; and other interesting flavours on the menu include Valrhona chocolate yeast, rose doughseed and pistachio cake. Yes, essentially, these are artisan doughnuts. While I'm not a fan of dainty macarons and cupcakes, I think artisan doughnuts might just be my thing. Bonus: the ones here aren't too sweet.

Doughnut Plant (Lower East Side)

379 Grand Street
(between Suffolk Street & Norfolk Street)

+1 (212) 505-3700

Open daily 630am to 8pm

http://doughnutplant.com