New York Fashion Week is here, and while the front rows and the streets surrounding them are the best places to catch top notch street style, the light bites, lunches, and dinners in between are likely where you'll catch the best dressed at some of the city's best restaurants. From newly opened hotspots to New York staples, here are the best places to dine, drink, and stylishly decompress during NYFW.
1 Carbone
What: We may have claimed Maialino was the best Italian food in the city–and we weren't wrong–but Carbone is undoubtedly a rival for that title, and boasts a much more exclusive guest list.
Where: 181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012. (close enough to the downtown shows, and well worth the trip). Don't call, click here.
Why: Because you'll likely catch Gigi and Bella, or Kendall and family splurging on pasta here late-night.
What to Order: Any and everything you wish your Italian grandmother made (and if you don't have one, imagine your dream version of her and run with it). Pastas here are a must—particularly their classic Pomodoro.
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2 Le Coucou
What: Refined French fare in a super-chic setting.
Where: 11 Howard Hotel, 138 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10013; (212) 271-4252 (close enough to Skylight Clarkson Square).
Why: Because martinis, champagne and well-conceived dishes from superstar chef Daniel Rose of La Bourse et La Vie in Paris are best enjoyed in the chicest of settings, designed by Roman and Williams. One step into this perfectly decorated hotel restaurant and you're bound to spot designers celebrating with their teams, models galore, and in-the-know New York diners.
What to Order: Fleurs de courgettes farcies: lobster stuffed squash blossoms with yogurt, mint, dill, and cucumber.
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3 EN Japanese Brasserie
What: Authentic and unbelievably delicious Japanese food in an incredibly modern atmosphere.
Where: 435 Hudson Street (at Leroy) New York, NY 10014, 212-647-9196 (near Skylight Clarkson Square).
Why: Because this foodie hub is a favorite of Naeem Khan, Martha Stewart and more–all for good reason.
What to Order: Anything with tofu–it's made in-house, six times a night for ultimate freshness.
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4 Barbuto
What: Refined Italian cooking in an industrial environment.
Where: 775 Washington St, New York, NY 10014; (212) 924-9700 (near Milk Studios and right next door to Industria Studios).
Why: Because Chef Jonathan Waxman will never steer you wrong; the food is delicious and this hotspot has been a fashion industry favorite for seasons.
What to Order: The kale salad, the goat (yes, the goat–trust) or any of the homemade pastas on the menu.
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5 The Polo Bar
What: A posh bar setting serving up all-American classics.
Where: 1 E 55th St, New York, NY 10022; (212) 207-8562 (near the Plaza Hotel, host to the annual BAZAAR Icons Party).
Why: Because you're on the hunt for a quintessential New York meal–and nobody does it like Ralph Lauren.
What to Order: Classics like shrimp cocktail and the Polo Burger won't disappoint. Wash it down with a dirty martini or a bold glass of red wine.
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6 Temple Court & Augustine
What: Situated in the Beekman Hotel amongst plush velvet couches, gilded chandeliers and a fireplace, these cozy spots are the perfect places to kick up your heels and sip on a glass of Pinot Noir after a tireless day of shows.
Where: 5 Beekman Street, New York, NY 10038, (212) 658-1848 (right in the heart of the Financial District and an easy commute to any downtown spot).
Why: With a chic, cozy atmosphere and fanciful takes on classic dishes, it's the perfect place to enjoy everything from a light snack to a full meal.
What to Order: At Temple Court, the ricotta tart with prosciutto, pickled figs, pistachios and thyme is a no-brainer. At Augustine, go big or go home: start with oysters, and then indulge in their not-to-miss burger, or their grilled fish of the day for a lighter bite, served up with lemon and a petite salad, topped with aged sherry vinaigrette.
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7 The Nomad
What: A relaxed yet polished menu peppered with nostalgic bites like scotch olives and lasagna–served in an uber-elegant setting.
Where: 1170 Broadway at 28th Street, New York, NY 10001, 212-796-1500 (slightly uptown from the NYFW hustle and bustle).
Why: Because you'll have two choices for dinner–the refined Parlour restaurant and the more laid-back Nomad Bar. Both are equally delicious and after a long day, you deserve a high-end take on comfort food.
What to Order: At the Bar: The Nomad Burger is divine and the scotch olives are addictive. You should order dessert–ask for the Cookies and Cream, where quenelles of ice cream are encapsulated in an Oreo cookie shell. At the restaurant: The tomato salad with peaches and ricotta salata is fresh and light, while the whole roasted chicken for two accompanied with foie gras and black truffle is an undoubtedly decadent way to cap off the night.
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8 Via Carota
What: Rustic Italian small plates that are ideal for sharing and good conversation.
Where: 51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014; (212) 255-1962 (close enough to Milk Studios and Skylight Clarkson Square).
Why: Because you want a more casual place to gossip about the new collections, model sightings and the best in street style, but don't want to sacrifice on food quality.
What to Order: Trust us when we tell you–everything here is delicious. For those who love a good burger or a beef tartare, try the hamburger tartare (you can thank us later). Vegetable share plates abound here, try the carrots and the artichokes. And wine, lots of wine.
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9 Sugarfish
What: This LA favorite made its way to the east coast last year, and should definitely be on your NYFW eats shortlist.
Where: 33 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, (347) 705-8100 (close enough to NYFW's downtown hubs, and well worth the pop over to the East side).
Why: Serving only traditional sushi that focuses on the most pure and basic ingredients, there's a reason this sushi spot has hit such a high note across the country.
What to Order: Pop in for lunch in between shows (you most likely won't endure their long waits in the evening) and keep it simple. Try their 'Trust Me' or 'Trust Me Lite' chef's choice menus, which offer an array of their best, including a sashimi, sushi and hand roll course that won't leave you too full for an afternoon of shows.
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10 Esther & Carol
What: American comfort classics with a healthy twist, in a sleek bistro setting.
Where: 341 Broome St, New York, NY, 10013; (646) 355-1840 (in the heart of Soho, and near all the downtown shows).
Why: Named after the owner's mothers, Esther and Carol, this elevated take on comfort food brings health into the mix, showcasing dishes that feel decadent without the guilt. Sidle up against the elegant wood bar for a round of drinks, or kick your heels up post-shows at one of the plush table settings.
What to Order: Looking to indulge? Try the buttermilk fried chicken with jalapeño syrup, bourbon watermelon salad and a side of mac and cheese. Or, opt for ,the seared salmon with asparagus puree and a dill cucumber salad that’s nothing short of refreshing
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11 DuckedUp
What: Located in Soho House's members-only Ludlow House, this retractable rooftop garden is a fresh take on Asian cuisine serving vegetarian dishes with flair and of course, delectable crispy duck.
Where: 139 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 253-6100 (close enough to Skylight Clarkson Square).
Why: With windows, light-paneled wood ceilings and lots of greenery, this is the perfect place to escape from fashion week madness and avoid the crowds.
What to Order: Their riff on fried rice with spicy kimchi, mushrooms, bok choy, tamari, and cilantro is an absolute hit, and pairs perfectly with the crispy or peking duck.
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12 Sant Ambroeus
What: A contemporary and chic take on the Italian bistro setting.
Where: 265 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012; (212) 966-2770; Or 259 West 4th St, New York, NY 10014; (212) 604-9254. (not far from the shows scattered across downtown).
Why: Combining a downtown vitality with an uptown sophistication, Sant Ambroeus is the ideal setting to unwind amongst the cool crowd. Whether you hit their Soho or West Village location for a pitstop, the elegant Italian spot offers everything from handcrafted cappuccinos to decadent pastas and light bites in between.
What to Order: Snack on burrata over roasted zucchini, basil pesto and baked salty granola, or mouthwatering tuna tartare with chives, chervil and lemon.
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13 The Rose Bar & Maialino
What: An intimate, sexy bar scene the style set flocks to for a low-key cocktail.
Where: The Gramercy Park Hotel; 2 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010; (212) 475-4320. (not far from NYFW's downtown locations in Soho).
Why: The Rose Bar is an intimate setting that features high, wood ceilings, plush, velvet seating and bold artwork. They’re often seen celebrating designer moments and fashion fêtes throughout the week, and mix up the best of craft cocktails. Hungry? Head across the hotel lobby to Maialino for a wider selection of the best Italian food in the city.
What to Order: The Capricci pasta with eggplant, sweet pepper, mint, and basil will refuel you after a long day buzzing about the city. And, at Maialino, you can't go wrong: order just about anything for a meal you'll be raving about the next day
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14 Santina
What: Italian dishes inspired by the Amalfi coast region that are fresher, lighter, and more refreshing than you'd expect.
Where: 820 Washington St, New York, NY 10014;(212) 254-3000 (near Milk Studios).
Why: Those stopping by for just a drink, appetizers at the bar, or a full meal will be equally pleased with what this hotspot has on offer. It's proximity to The Standard, The High Line, Soho House and The Jane Hotel make it an easy trek for any editor, model, designer or buyer whose in from out of town.
What to Order: Squash Carpaccio in honey agrodolce, Branzino Crudo with chili oil and the house special, Cecina, or chickpea pancakes, topped with Avocado Trapanese.
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15 the blond at 11 Howard
What: A sensual space for a stylish cap off or night cap to any evening.
Where: 11 Howard St, New York, NY 10013; (212) 235-1111 (not far from the shows scattered across downtown).
Why: the blond at 11 Howard continues to boast it’s ‘cool kid’ status among New York’s nightlife scene. With its dark wood accents, low lighting, and gilded touches, the seductive space is a fashion crowd mainstay, especially during NYFW.
What to Order: Hit the bar for crispy coconut shrimp in thai chili, or elevate your taste buds with eggplant caviar on grilled country bread.
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16 Dante
What: A century old Italian caffe in Greenwich Village.
Where: 79-81 Macdougal Street, New York, NY 10012; (212) 982-5275 (walking distance from Spring Studios).
Why: Serving up impeccable Negronis and Italian cuisine with a modern twist, the relaxed environment is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of fashion.
What to Order: A round of Negronis (or two) and an array of light bites, like the Burrata with crushed spring peas or the beet carpaccio with goat cheese and pine nuts.
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17 The Library Bar & Nomo Kitchen
What: Located in the Nomo Soho Hotel, this chic, contemporary space perfectly intersects art and fashion.
Where: 9 Crosby St, New York, NY, 10013; (646) 218-6400 (located in the heart of SoHo).
Why: This trendy spot is right in the mix of all the Fashion Week bustle, and is the ultimate place to see and be seen.
What to Order: Cool down with a 'Blue Field' cocktail made up of gin, sparkling wine, and lavender bitters. For eats, dine on house made focaccia and fresh scallops.
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18 Jacques Bar
What: Located in The Lowell hotel, this artfully designed bar serves up perfectly executed cocktails and light French fare.
Where: 28 East 63rd St, NY, New York, 10065; (212) 838-1400 (a simple trip uptown from the Eastside shows, and sure way to beat the downtown crowds).
Why: During New York Fashion Week, the bar is serving up specialty cocktails that give an ode to classic designers. From 'The Crimson Kiss' in honor of Valentino, to 'The Black Orchid' for Tom Ford, these sips epitomize style.
What to Order: Pair your little black dress with a little black treat, and order 'The Coco' and caviar.
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19 The 18th Room
What: A glamorous speakeasy where the fashion set flocks.
Where: 134 9th Ave, NY, New York, 10011; (646) 559-1671 (right in the mix of the downtown shows).
Why: Sister bar to Bathtub Gin, this lavish space takes you right back to the Prohibition era with Art Deco-inspired décor and expertly crafted cocktails.
What to Order: The 'Villar Perosa,' a pink-hued take on the French 75 made with organic cava.
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20 Existing Conditions
What: A no-frills neighborhood bar that blends science with classic cocktails.
Where: 35 West 8th St, New York, NY 10011; (212) 203-8935 (slightly uptown from the major NYFW spots).
Why: Shaking up libations that employ advanced techniques and a fresh spin on classic ingredients, this is one cocktail experience you need to sip for yourself.
What to Order: Try one of their bottled versions of a Martini, Manhattan and a Rum & Coke dispensed from a vintage vending machine, and snack on some of their elevated bar snacks, like crispy chicken with lemon and salted butter, or Peekytoe crab dip with wonton chips.
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