2024 was a big year for New York’s hospitality industry. There were more buzz-worthy openings than we have seen in the last ten years, satisfying hungry restaurant goers with creative menus and aesthetic cocktails. While some went as far as playing all types of angles for publicity (think Instagram-worthy drinks that taste and smell like food,) with the industry suffering during the pandemic years, we can hardly blame them. Polo Bar and Le Veau d’Or continue to have a hold on us, but there are a few additions to the must-try list.
Photography courtesy of bridges-nyc.com.
Bridges is among the new trendy openings happening in Chinatown, which is quickly becoming the place to be on any given night. As far as popular restaurants go, this one is at the top of our list of must-try places. With dishes like their viral Comté tart with chanterelles, Sardines with anchovies and peppers and Roast duck with grape leaf and XO, the menu is anything but boring. The Bridges chef, Sam Lawrence, formerly comes from Mattos Hospitality and he deserves all the praise for this fun and innovative menu. While the focus here is on the food, we have a slight obsession with the interior. Designed by Billy Cotton, Bridges has been described to resemble a french bistro, but with their dark leather details and glass block walls, all we see is a classic 80s aesthetic from our childhood. The chairs remind us of school in Central Europe, and the glass tiles are an 80s staple. We put them at the top of our list for their interior design alone. Come here with a foodie or anyone who is willing to be adventurous.
Bridges, 9 Chatham Square (Near Doyers St) Chinatown
There is no doubt that The Corner Store created quite the buzz, making it impossible to book a reservation. Hailed as one of the hottest restaurants of 2024, they consistently have an orderly line of people waiting outside. We believe the secret to their success is marketing. We also feel obliged to tell you that Taylor Swift has been here. Getting a reservation alone does not guarantee entry (unless you are Taylor,) you will need to dress according to dress code, which puts emphasis on smart and elegant. Once you are in, you will get to bask yourself in the ambiance, which is decidedly American. The nostalgic food menu options are quite boring-sounding, but The Corner Store does put their own twist on famous dishes, creating a fun dining experience. Their Wagyu sandwiches come with a dipping sauce and it is quite delicious – use it with abandon.
Photography via https://www.instagram.com/thecornerstore.
Then there are the viral “90s” style options, such as Five Cheese Pizza Rolls. We also recommend ordering the Caesar Salad with everything bagel croutons. The Corner Store was opened with the joint forces of Catch Hospitality (and businessman Tilman Fertitta,) a group famous for their steakhouses and seafood restaurants. Coming here means you are looking to have a good time and would like to be where “the cool kids” are. While we do appreciate a cold martini paired with a good Caesar salad or Filet Mignon, we would never personally wait in line for it. If you feel nostalgic for American-style foods or enjoy a continental cuisine in a see-and-be-seen setting, try your luck at a reservation on Resy. We also hear you can try walking in and snagging a bar seat.
The Corner Store, 475 W Broadway, (betw Houston and Prince St) Soho
Photography courtesy of clementebar.com.
While some were initially upset at Eleven Madison Park’s plant-based menu change, it did not take away from their success. In fact, proving their power of longevity they opened one of the most popular bars in 2024 right above the restaurant. The Clemente Bar can be found above the dining room and includes two types of seating. The lounge area is for those who prefer ordering food and drinks à la carte, and the nine-seat tasting counter is for those who look to indulge in a five-course menu with cocktail pairings.
Named after Francesco Celemente, the bar’s artsy and elegant atmosphere feature murals from the Italian artist himself. Chef Daniel Humm is among the few that prides themselves on excellent service and presentation. From the entertaining way the cocktails are made to the beautiful plating, you will not be disappointed. We find the cocktail menu offers interesting and complex options, like a Negroni Colada, which seems to change flavors with every sip. Bring someone who will appreciate the ambiance and is a fan of fine-dining.
Clemente Bar, 11 Madison Ave (betw 24 and 25th St) Flatiron
Photography by Adrian-Gaut, courtesy of Lincoln Center.
Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi is exactly what the Lincoln Center area needed. We all found ourselves desperate for an excellent spot to eat before heading to see ballet or an opera, but because Tatiana has one of the most delicious menus in the city, it has become so popular that reservations are sparse. There is a certain specialness about this restaurant, and people flock from all over in order to try it. The stately restaurant has it all and is reflective of what opera-goers demand. The gorgeous space is filled with stylish wall tiles, velvet banquettes, and lavish details. Then there is the food itself. Chef Kwame Onwuachi has created a memorable menu, infusing his Nigerian and Creole roots with New York City classics. Diners rave about the Curried Goat Patties, served with a mango chutney, and the Wagyu short rib with caraway coco bread. While vegetarian options here are rare, our favorite order has to be the Chinese-inspired mushrooms with scallion pancakes. To make the night interesting try their Boozy Jellies, which should come with a warning and are really strong jello shots. Come here with someone who enjoys fine-dining, comfort food and is willing to try new cuisines. Any restaurant that pays tribute to New Yorkers is a winner in our book.
Tatiana, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, (inside David Geffen Hall) Upper West Side
