
For the many millions of AKC.org readers plus those visiting New York City to attend the 149th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, the excitement of judging returning to Madison Square Garden (MSG), the world’s most famous arena, will build up a mighty appetite. We will make finding a memorable dining experience very easy for you. While so many excellent options exist, I’ve narrowed it down to the magnificent “8” plus a dessert bonus.
Best Steakhouse: Benjamin Steakhouse
The establishment continues to be a must see as one of the ultimate NYC experiences and certainly the #1 steakhouse throughout the borough of Manhattan. The skills of Benjamin Prelvukaj, Ben Sinanaj and Victor Dedushaj provide the finest steak – or magnificent seafood. The atmosphere within the recently refurbished Dylan Hotel provides top level service and first-class dining in a celebrity hangout. The best table is #54. Famed maître d’s Mario Buqaj and Johnny Martinaj keep everything working with welcoming precision. Open Monday through Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner; within walking distance from MSG.
52 East 41st Street, between Madison and Park Avenues
Reservations: 212.297.9177
benjaminsteakhouse.com/
Best “2” Italian: Il Postino and Scalinatella
Truly No.1 and 2 for amazing Italian cuisine. Il Postino in a sophisticated and beautiful setting. This delightful oasis is 2 blocks from famed Bloomingdale’s. The must try specials are above and beyond with something for every taste. From southern to northern upscale favorites with the finest service imaginable, a destination of many celebrities. At Il Postino ask for a table in the main room. Luigi and Maria Russo own this extraordinary successful restaurant and also the wonderful Scalinatella (only 1 block away), nestled in an enjoyable grotto-like setting that is inspiring and offers many over the top specials. Both locations have an extensive wine list.
Il Postino is at 133 East 61st Street (corner of Lexington)
Lunch 12-3pm and dinner 5-10:30pm Monday to Friday; Saturday 12-10:30pm and Sunday 5-10 pm.
Reservations: 212.688.0033
ilpostinonyc.com/
Scalinatella is at 201 East 61st Street at 3rd Avenue
Reservations: 212.207.8280
Best Chinese: Hwa Yuan
By far the absolute finest Chinatown restaurant that everyone enjoys over and over again. Known as “A modern experience with traditional Chinese and a twist.” You must enjoy the sesame noodle which this restaurant made famous when they brought the dish to America in 1968. Then delight with the finest Peking Duck in North America. Seafood dishes are superior. The very talented chef/owner Lieh Tang is the son of legendary Chef Shorty Tang. Eat here and you will become a regular. Sit on the main floor at table 1, 4, 7 or 9. Open 7 days a week 12-9:30pm.
42 East Broadway, between Catherine and Market Streets
Reservations: 212.966.6002
hwayuannyc.com/
Best Seafood: The Sea Fire Grill
This is a beautiful location with classic service and superior seafood choices (also available are super tasting steaks). Features a limitless wine list. The friendly ambiance makes you feel part of the family as soon as you arrive. Rated in the top NYC restaurants, your maître d’s Alex Bogolli and Jay Dozza are the most caring professionals. Table 28 is perfect for people-watching and a large group will enjoy a table by the fireplace. Open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner 11:30-10:30pm and Saturday 4-10:30pm.
158 East 48th Street, between Lexington and Third Avenues
Reservations: 212.935.3785
theseafiregrill.com/
Best New Restaurant in New York: Four Twenty Five
New, breathtaking, and delicious. 425 by Jean-Georges is exquisitely decorated with impressive dishes and first-class service. The menu changes and shockingly gets better if that is even possible. Walk in and stop by the bar to see Matt and treat yourself to one of his espresso martinis served in a special glass. 425 is open for breakfast Monday through Friday 7-10:30am, lunch 11:45-2:45pm and dinner Sunday–Wednesday 5–10pm; Thursday–Saturday 5–10:30pm.
425 Park Avenue between 55th and 56th Streets
Reservations: 212.751.6921
425parkrestaurant.com/
Best Spanish: Toledo
Opened in 1975 and offering great Spanish food in a quiet atmosphere, walking distance from MSG. Called by Zagat “classic, old world and handsome.” Owner Mauel Lorenzo offers the best Spanish fare in a very sophisticated setting. Their paella dishes are by far superb, and the flan is a wow. Open Tuesday–Friday 12–10pm for lunch and dinner, and Saturday 1-10pm.
6 East 36th Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenues
Reservations: 212.696.5036
toledonyc.com/
Best Japanese: Nobu 57
The best Japanese cuisine is unquestionably the trend-setting Nobu 57. This is Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s top international venue. You will take pleasure in the chic atmosphere with modern Japanese dishes that delight. Another place visited regularly by celebrities; you will appreciate every dish.
40 West 57th Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
Lunch 7 days 11:45am-2:15pm; dinner Sunday-Thursday 5:30-10:15pm, Friday and Saturday 5:30-11:15pm
Reservations: 212.757.3000
noburestaurants.com/fifty-seven/
Best Special Dessert: Chocolat Moderne
The finest handmade chocolate this side of Switzerland. This magnificent firm founded by Joan Coukos and managed with talented husband Jim Todd offer “Art to Eat” dark, vegan and milk chocolates that are artistic and beautiful. Take some home or have them shipped. Since my reviews of the last two years, dog people love them. Great gifts throughout the year.
27 West 20th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues on the 9th floor of the building.
212.229.4797
chocolatmoderne.com