Five beautifully designed venues to visit during NYC Restaurant Week
New York's food scene comes alive this month as NYC Restaurant Week returns to the city. The event actually runs for just under a month from 24 July to 18 August offering New Yorkers and visitors discounts at some of the best restaurants in town.
Tourism platform NYC and Company is responsible for running the event and has enlisted 390 restaurants to take part.
Not only do the restaurants boast incredible menus, some of them are stunning to look at.
We have picked out some of our favourite venues, where the interiors are just as delicious as the food.
There is an air of mystery and glamour surrounding Beauty and Essex. Hidden behind a functioning pawn shop it possesses a 1920s speakeasy vibe. Designed by Hecho Inc and AvroKO, Beauty and Essex is often described as one of New York's most beautiful restaurants. It is easy to see why, the whole place has an air of luxury, chandeliers dangle from the ceiling and velvet curtains separate different areas of the restaurant. Hecho’s contribution of a ceiling made of strings of pearls is the pièce de résistance in this joint.
Obao Hell’s Kitchen transports guests to Vietnam. Glowing lanterns hang from the ceiling while Buddha statues oversee diners enjoying traditional Asian street food with a twist. The Wooden floors and furniture are in keeping with the Asian themed décor. Guests would be forgiven for believing they had accidentally stumbled upon an Asian market.
The Wayfarer’s interior successfully pulls off blending the old with the new. Designed by the award-winning Meyer Davis Studio Inc, the décor incorporates elements of classic New York from the 1800s with groovier elements taken from the 70s. The restaurant's huge windows provide the perfect spot for people watching.
In 2014, architect Thierry Despont renovated The Plaza Hotel’s iconic restaurant. The stain-glass dome and high ceiling give a nod to old New York but the modern décor reminds guests that this is 2017. Mirrored walls reflect the elegant interior which includes marble walls and fresh flowers. This restaurant's gorgeous design is well matched by the beautiful food.
Park Avenue Summer changes its name and interior design with the season. At the start of spring, summer, fall and winter, design firm AvroKO oversee the restaurant's transformation. This summer the interior is bright and refreshing. Guests can bask in the light that pours into the restaurant from the large windows whilst enjoying their meal under chandeliers made of foliage.
