Jack Lamb, co-owner, Jewel Bako, Jack’s Luxury Oyster Bar and Degustation
- For a late night meal, Jack recommends checking out Odeon in Tribeca, for “excellent steak-frit and very proper cocktails.”
- For international fare, Jack says one of his favorite restaurants is in Kang Suh in Korea Town which is open 24 hours for great Korean BBQ.
- Jack’s favorite restaurant for a quintessential New York City dining experience is the classic, unique French restaurant, La Grenouille – He says, “the minute you walk in there you’re made to feel special.”
- For interesting atmosphere, Jack likes the Grand Central Oyster Bar – a “classic” where “they cook right in front of you good, bad or ugly.”
Zarela Martinez, owner and chef, Zarela and her son Aaron Sanchez, owner and chef, Centrico and Paladar
- For wine and cocktails, Zarela and Aaron recommend Bemelman’s Bar in The Carlyle; Zarela says they have the “best martini.” They also recommend The Tasting Room, where Aaron says they’re bringing back classic drinks like the Slow Gin Fizz.
- For brunch, Zarela and Aaron recommend Sushi Samba. Aaron notes the fantastic tropical juices and Zarela says the cuisine is great because it’s “more food than eggs.”
- For seafood, Aaron suggests Barbuto. He credits chef Jonathan Waxman for putting a beautiful char on fish and notes the California-style fresh garnishes and simple finishes.
- For large groups, Aaron recommends Tribeca Grill’s back room and loft.
Julie Reiner, owner and bar chef, Flatiron Lounge
- For late night dining, Julie recommends ‘inoteca and its sister restaurant ‘ino for panini and bruchetta. She says to try the “outrageous” truffled egg toast at ‘inoteca.
- Julie’s pick for a great cocktail is Gramercy Tavern.
- As a hidden gem, Julie recommends La Esquina. She says you have to climb some stairs and walk through the kitchen, but the food and cocktails are worth the journey.
- For brunch, Julie recommends Aquagrill. She says they have “the most amazing Crabcake Benedict.”
Jacques Torres, owner, Jacques Torres Chocolate
- For international fare, Jacques recommends Nomad – a Tunisian/Moroccan restaurant. He says the spices and ambiance “transport you to North Africa.”
- For late night dining, Jacques recommends Balthazar in SoHo and the “three tier” seafood platter.
- For wine and cocktails, Jacques suggests Jean Georges and Daniel. He says both restaurants have magnificent sommeliers and that it’s ideal to have them pair the wine with the food.
- Jacques says that L’Ecole, the restaurant associated with the French Culinary Institute is a hidden gem and great pick for a reasonably priced meal.
Patricia Yeo, executive chef, Sapa
- For seafood, Patricia likes BLT Fish and BLT Fish Shack in Chelsea.
- For large groups, Patricia recommends Mario Batali’s restaurants, Lupa or Babbo for modern Italian cuisine and a special evening with loved ones.
- When looking for a quintessential New York City dining experience, Patricia Yeo points to the Sea Grill in Rockefeller Center.
