Often, prejudging has a negative impact on your choices; this was the case for me. When I was invited to come to 21 Club, the first few thoughts that came to mind were “stuffy, boring and red meat based menu”. Well, let me tell you: I was wrong about all of them! Yes, I had to wear a jacket, and the style there is very slick- but who minds dressing up for the crime?! My night at 21 Club began with a relaxing Grey Goose Vodka Martini with huge olives, and from there I went on to enjoy a fantastic evening in a cozy and bubbling atmosphere.
Both the 21 Bar and the 21 Club were very crowded, for they are located right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at 52nd Street in between 5th and 6th Avenue. This iconic Orient-Express restaurant offers superb cuisine, a Grand Award-winning wine list, and attentive service in a setting that is sophisticated yet fun. I didn’t even miss the opportunity to step down and check out the legendary Prohibition-era wine cellar. There is such a rich history behind 21 Club that goes beyond the gourmet food experience, which makes this restaurant that much more interesting and irresistible.
The cuisine sticks to the tried and true; 21 Classics, including the burger favored by Ari Onassis, provide the best traditional eating experience. A watering hole for celebrities, captains of industry, world leaders and dignitaries of every order, the Bar Room is also renowned for its “toy” collection of colorful sports memorabilia and corporate logo items presented as gifts to the restaurant. My choices for the night that match with Sancere White wine, were: Seared Spanish Octopus for an appetizer (USD 17) and a main course of Flax Seed-Crusted Escolar, blue prawns, baby bok choy, celeriac purée, and orange-ginger reduction by Executive Chef John Greeley. Score for presentation: 100 points.
As for dessert, my choice was an amazing selection of 3 Cheeses: Humbolt Fog Tomme, Sainte-Maure de Touraine and Bleu D’Auvergne. But I must admit that I was not able to control myself or my sweet tooth- I went on to share half of the Valencia Rice Pudding with my host. Yes, I am guilty of being a big foodie! Whether it’s for a special occasion, reunion with friends, business dinner or simply a drink at the 21 Bar, I strongly recommend 21 Club. And leave your prejudice at home, just as I should have done.
Story Via the Carlos Melia Blog
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