J D
Google
New York City is full of great restaurants and each neighborhood seems to have one or two that will grab your attention. While visiting the city recently, I was walking near Bryant Park and this bistro caught my eye and I decided to try it. It turned out to be a great choice.
Being part of the Refinery Hotel (in the old garment district), you can access it through the hotel main lobby. Or, you can use another entrance on 39th Street, which is fairly non-descript and almost makes you pause. However, upon entering you immediately get immersed in the very warm space, and the ambiance is well suited for a casual and cozy meet, or a business sojourn . The menu is classic American, with a wide and appetizing selection. Accompanied by some focaccia bread, I started with an outstanding Beet root Carpaccio salad with goat cheese, orange and arugula. The main course was a Branzino filet that absolutely melted in your mouth; the accompanying roasted vine tomatoes made the dish just perfect. The dessert was a delicious Churro cake with Cinnamon and vanilla ice cream and a dash of salted caramel. It was a very satisfying meal.
To top it off, my server Cory was just fantastic; very courteous and embodied great customer service in every sense of the word. I am glad I gave this place a shot, and would not hesitate coming back on a future trip to the area. The food and the ambiance, especially with the old World charm of the adjacent hotel, makes it a great value; well worth a visit.