FIND New York recently ducked into Chef Alain Allegretti’s La Promenade des Anglais restaurant in Chelsea’s London Terrace Gardens (461 W. 23rd St., tel. 212-255-7400) on an icy, wind-blown Saturday morning, and couldn’t have wished for a more welcoming sanctuary.
We felt immediately transported to the French Riviera, courtesy of the Deco-inspired decor: brass fixtures and railings, antique mirrors, and blue velour banquettes. The Southern French-inspired menu, with Italian influences, and the warm, cordial staff underscored the sunny theme and ambience.
Perhaps you’ll want to start with whipped Ricotta with thyme, honey and grilled country bread for the table. Dinner entrees on the pitch-perfect menu range from veal medallions with cauliflower puree, roasted Brussels sprouts, tomato marmalade and lemon caper veal jus to monk fish in fig leaf with potatoes, onions and bacon, roasted fig with bone marrow and balsamic reduction.
Among the many stellar desserts: a warm chocolate fondant with stracciatella gelato, a lavender panna cotta, and baba au rhum with fresh orange and whipped cream.
The carefully selected wine list features standouts from both the Old and New Worlds, and cocktails, such as the Kentucky Redhead: a blend of Bulleit bourbon, Canton Ginger liqueur, Grand Marnier and ginger beer, show imagination and variety.
La Promenade des Anglais
We left feeling as though 23rd Street had been graced with a delightfully delicious and civilized getaway, with all the hallmarks of an instant classic. And it’s smack in the middle of the gallery district, to boot, just a block from the High Line.
www.lapromenadenyc.com/
