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Top Restaurants in NYC: Discovering New Dining Experiences
For those seeking fresh and exciting culinary adventures beyond the usual haunts, exploring restaurants with evolving menus is key. Unlike sticking to familiar dining spots, venturing into the new and unknown can lead to delightful discoveries. Here are some top NYC restaurants continually updating their offerings, guaranteeing a unique experience with each visit.
Consistently Excellent NYC Dining
Confidant
Confidant, a fine-dining gem nestled in Industry City, offers a surprising contrast to its surroundings. While Industry City is known for its diverse offerings, it’s far from known for upscale dining. Yet, Confidant defies expectations.
Chefs Daniel Grossman and Brendan Kelley present a seasonal menu, updated regularly, in a sleek, elongated space. Menu standouts include sourdough with trout mousse, trout roe, and dill, chicory salad with wild rice, sweet and salty beets with boquerones, and a visually stunning prawn potpie. Don’t miss the malted mille-feuille from Mariah Neston, a pastry chef alum of Le Rock.
Address: 67 35th Street, Building #5 (Third Avenue)
Borgo
It is no shock that Andrew Tarlow’s Manhattan-based restaurant maintains a frequently updated menu. Known for Roman’s, where the offerings shift daily, Borgo is a similarly unique experience. While securing a dinner reservation remains a challenge, savoring the new lunch service is now an option.
The menu has transformed since its initial review, replacing fried delicata squash rings with spring pea risotto. The citrus salad has evolved into the Insalata Borgo, highlighted by salami, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and olives. However, favorites like the fennel sausage with Umbrian lentils, Sachertorte, and Tarlow’s signature service remain constant.
Address: 124 E 27th Street (Lexington Avenue)
La Mercerie
A favorite category is the restaurant that has become a reliable mainstay. Places like Locanda Verde, Golden Diner, and La Mercerie continue to thrive. Headed by Chef Marie Aude-Rose since its 2017 opening within the Roman and Williams Guild furniture store, La Mercerie delivers an exceptional dining experience.
The cuisine is as elegant as the setting. Aude-Rose crafts a menu that is consistent with subtle yet impactful changes. The current menu offers cold haricots with bergamot zest, Montauk shrimp with grapefruit and orange blossom vinaigrette, and citrus-pickled beets. Other options include the salmon crepe and the chocolate chip-hazelnut cookie with ice cream. This restaurant is well worth repeat visits.
Address: 53 Howard Street (Mercer Street)
Reader Question: Casual Dining Near the High Line
Now that we have warmer weather I’m looking forward to walks on the High Line. What casual sit-down restaurants would you recommend at either end or the middle of the High Line? — Jo Anne G.
Located at the base of the Whitney Museum of American Art, which sits either at the end or the start of the High Line, Frenchette Bakery is an excellent option. Despite the name, this establishment is a full-service restaurant. Opt for the mushroom spaghetti with miso butter and garlic, along with a side of fries. Grab scones and cookies to enjoy later.
Address: 99 Gansevoort Street, First Floor (Washington Street)