Restaurant recommendations: New York City, NY – Part 1

For two years I worked as an event-planner-of-sorts in New York City. I would plan a month’s worth of activities for visiting business people who wanted to experience all that the city had to offer. Though many of my activities included trapeze classes, broadway shows, and dinner cruises, by far and away the events that my clients looked forward to the most were those that involved a heavy dose of wining and dining. After a few years of restaurant-hopping and scouring the city for the best eats, I have compiled a list of Manhattan restaurants that are definitely worth their dish. (Though a few of these restaurants fall on the pricey side, those on a budget will be thrilled with these selections as well).

1. DAVID BURKE AND DONATELLA

Modern American

133 E. 61st Street

Owned by internationally-renowned chef, David Burke, and hot-on-the-scene restaurateur, Donatella Arpaia. The colorful, posh interior complements the delectable yet playful entrees. I recommend ordering the tasting menu du jour to make the most of this heavenly dining experience. Their wine selection is wonderful, and if you’re ordering dessert, just try to pass on David Burke’s delightful Cheesecake Lollipop Tree. Though this gem is on the pricier side, it’s worth every penny. A must dining experience for that evening when you’re feeling especially indulgent.

2. ISABELLA’S

American Nouveau, Mediterranean

359 Columbus Avenue

If you and your friends are in a mood for brunch, I completely recommend Isabella’s. However, get there early or make reservations, as there is sure to be a wait – especially on weekends.

Side note: Isabella’s is owned by B.R. Guest Restaurants, a company that has a lot of great, resonably priced eateries sprinkled all over the city. A notable few:

Ocean Grill, a short walk from Isabella’s at 384 Columbus

Blue Fin, for trendy dining in Times Square

Ruby Foos, fun pan-Asian fare, Uptown and Times Square locations

3. HARU

Sushi

Locations all over New York – though my favorite is the one at 433 Amsterdam Avenue

Though a chain that’s rapidly growing, Haru offers one of my favorite sushi experiences. Serving melt-in-your-mouth fresh fish in unique ways, Haru caters to the minimalist and the experimentalist alike. My favorite thing about Haru is the price: even on nights when I gorge myself on sushi, I’m always surprised at how small the tab is at the end of the night.

4. JACQUES-IMO’S

366 Columbus Avenue

Creole, Cajun

For something different and fun, Jacques-Imo’s serves up atypical New Orleans fare. A must-try: the Alligator Cheesecake – think more quiche than dessert – it’s abosutely delicious and surprisingly addictive. For added fun, check out Jacques-Imo’s not-necessarily-suitable-for-g randma Bingo nights during the week.

5. CIPRIANI DOWNTOWN

376 W. Broadway Avenue

Italian

I love this SoHo hotspot. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Though it’s a little rough on the wallet, it’s definitely worth checking out. The veal ragout is simply AMAZING, and though Bellini’s don’t necessarily pair naturally with Italian fare, I usually end up ordering about four over the course of the meal. Another great perk: during the warmer months, dining on the outdoor, cobblestone patio is a pleasure that even the most seasoned New Yorker can’t resist.