Luckily for New Yorkers, Manhattan is one of the greatest mecca’s for international cuisine and dining as well as sophisticated nightlife. So why not take advantage of this and combine the two? Recently I had the opportunity to dine at a variety of trendy Asian Fusion restaurants in the city, and I must admit that I have been hooked on this cuisine since.
Of course, it can be overwhelming with so many inexhaustible options, so I have compiled my own Top 5 NYC Modern Asian Restaurants to experience, as well as a description of my number one favorite, Buddakan. Not only do these restaurants provide savory dishes with unexpected and exotic flavors but also the chic and sophisticated ambiance they provide truly enhances the overall dining experience and makes it a memorable one.
In the past decade there has been a boom in the Asian Fusion cuisine and hopefully after visiting these restaurants you will come to appreciate this cuisine as much as I have.
Top of the List: #1 Buddakan
Buddakan located at 75 9th Ave New York, NY 10011
Working for an NYC PR firm, I have seen some visually stunning restaurant designs but the interior of this massive two-story building located in the Meat Packing District is truly eye candy. With impressively high ceilings, and sleek contemporary architectural designs, Buddakan makes you feel like you are in a modern museum instead of a restaurant. The dishes served at Buddakan are just as carefully thought out and executed as their interior decorations.
The cuisine takes a creative approach by pairing non conventional combinations that are a true delight for the pallet, like their chilled udon noodles served in a peanut sauce with lime sorbet. Words from the wise: this place is always booked solid weeks in advanced so plan ahead to make a reservation! Also, while you are waiting for your table go to their bar and try one of their amazing specialty cocktails, like the Longevity or Benevolence.
Rest of the List:
#2 Spice Market
#3 KOI
#4: Tao
#5: Ruby Foo’s