New York is a mecca for nightlife, art and culture and tourists from all over the world flock to the city to experience its excitement and fast-paced vibe. Tourists spend days visiting trendy shops in the Meatpacking District, getting lost in Times Square and exploring Broadway and then relaxing at a local restaurant in the evening. A number of hot and hip restaurants are located in the city and many create quite a buzz with the press and their patrons.
Balthazar is located in the artistically-influenced and trendy SoHo neighborhood and has been serving locals and tourists since 1997. Celebrity chef Keith McNally has been featured on the Travel Channel and the Food Network and written up in a positive manner by the Zagat Guide and the New York Times, among other publications. The vibe at Balthazar is upscale and classy and a celebrity sighting is not uncommon. The cuisine features dishes such as roasted chicken with creamy morels, roasted fingerling potatoes and Swiss chard; braised pork cheeks with orange, rosemary, soft polenta and baby carrots; and a full line of French-inspired baked goods made on-site.
Balthazar
80 Spring St.
New York, NY 10012
212-965-1414
balthazarny.com
Pastis is located in the heart of the Meatpacking District in the midst of some of the hottest nightclubs and shopping areas in the world. Travelers flock to the area for long nights of fun and high-end shopping. This restaurant is French in design and offers an on-site full bar that serves a menu of custom cocktails, an outdoor cafe and communal dining table. According to Citysearch.com, "Pastis crackles with energy, particularly from the groups who gather to share a bite in the bar." Dishes include seared monkfish with saffron rice and olive tapenade and steak frites. Reservations are recommended.
Pastis
9 Ninth Ave.
New York, NY 10014
212-929-4844
pastisny.com
123 Burger Shot Beer is located in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood and attracts a trendy crowd of locals and tourists. The vibe of the restaurant is fast and wild and the focus is on a small menu of items with a simple pricing policy. Guests can order $3 draft beer, $2 shots and $1 burgers (as of September 2010). Other items on the menu include hot wings, sweet potato fries, thick sandwiches and ribs soaked in secret-recipe sauces. This hot spot has been featured on the Food Network and has been visited by celebrity chef Bobbie Flay. It has also been featured on NBC's Today show as a hot place to go while you visit New York City.
123 Burger Shot Beer
38 10th Ave.
New York, NY 10019
212-315-0123
123burgershotbeer.com
