This famous seafood restaurant will make you feel special. Le Bernardin does have two Michelin stars, but why not feel special during the season of love? :).
The service skews north of impeccable—swap plates with a dining companion, and a server will appear out of nowhere to help smooth the landing and make sure you have the proper utensils to match your respective new dishes.
the main reason why it's still an amazing place to eat after some three decades—comes from the seafood. Geoduck chawanmushi with uni and soft-crunchy sea beans in pork dashi, langoustine, and buttery leeks in uni sauce americaine that tastes like New Orleans, slightly smoked sea trout tartare.
I can only assume Le Bernardin takes a tiny microphone, points it in the direction of various fish, and asks them to speak their truths. Everything tastes clean and simple–even though it’s obvious a ton of technical work went into each component. No dish shows this (often French) style more than their famous barely-cooked salmon. It’s heated unilaterally in a half-cup of water, so the bottom fattens up and the top eats like sushi.
Flor De Mayo
Where: 484 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 | UWS
Flor De Mayo is a hidden gem on Amsterdam Avenue that I highly recommend. The ambiance is cozy and comfortable, and the friendly staff creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu is full of mouth-watering Peruvian dishes that are bursting with flavor and color.
One of my favorite dishes at Flor De Mayo is the Lomo Saltado, a classic Peruvian stir-fry made with juicy beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries. The flavors are rich and bold, with just the right amount of seasoning. Another standout dish is the ceviche, which is made with fresh fish, lime juice, onions, and cilantro. It's light and refreshing, with a tangy kick that's perfect on a hot summer day.
The drinks menu is also impressive, with a wide selection of wines, beers, and cocktails. I highly recommend the Pisco Sour, which is a traditional Peruvian cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white. It's frothy, tart, and a little bit sweet - a perfect complement to any of the savory dishes on the menu.
Overall, I highly recommend Flor De Mayo to anyone looking for delicious, authentic Peruvian cuisine in the Upper West Side of New York City.