A space-saving solution for teeny restaurants and an exciting way to tap into each and every of a hungry guests’ senses, the open-kitchen concept has taken NYC’s resto scene by storm.
Food Network-fiends and fast-paced foodies will admit that there’s no better seat in the house than one that’s near all the action. At these noteworthy eateries, the cookhouse and the dining room become one—offering city dwellers a standout dinner and a show.
Here, where to go to impress your tastebuds with unparalleled flavors and incredible vistas.
ABCV
With an eye for creative plant-based cuisine, Jean-Georges’ acclaimed vegan eatery in Gramercy Park complements the award-winning chef’s sustainable cooking philosophy with a playfully transparent design. Offering wellness enthusiasts a chic and honest sneak peek into the kitchen, the color-blocked glass wall at the back of the airy dining space gives the room a mod and lively feel.
Contact: 38 E. 19th St., 212-475-5829
Hearth
Want to keep a watchful eye on your meal? Get up close and personal at this East Village staple that boasts a cozy, by-the-kitchen nook fitting for famished diners who prefer to see their gnocchi crafted from start to finish. As curious foodies nosh on Chef Marco Canora’s famed Italian-influenced bites at Hearth’s intimate barside retreat, they’ll instantly be reminded why the kitchen is everyone’s favorite room in the house.
Contact: 403 E. 12th St., 646-602-1300
Momofuku Ssäm Bar
If you’re in the mood for a tasty and thrilling dining experience that won’t break the bank, opt for Korean-fusion fare at this East Village spot that’s known for their eclectic attitude, legendary meats (from rotisserie duck to slow roasted pork), and exhilarating atmosphere. For ultimate kitchen views, ditch the bar for a booth in the back where you can talk BBQ favorites with friends while watching Exec Chef Max Ng at work.
Contact: 207 2nd Ave., 212-254-3500
The Breslin
Located in the trendy Ace Hotel, The Breslin defies gastropub stereotypes by putting a contemporary spin on traditional British bites and leaving their UK-meets-NY approach to cooking out in the open. Hoping to impress a large party? The smells of freshly grilled burgers and decadent seafood dishes leaving the kitchen will have their mouths watering before the food arrives.
Contact: 16 W. 29th St., 212-679-1939
Phil & Anne’s Good Time Lounge
While this newly-opened gem’s funky digs and addictive cocktails are giving Brooklyn restaurant connoisseurs something to talk about, the lounge’s kitchen-centric sightlines and brag-worthy Mediterranean dishes are equally impressive. Celeb chef Anne Burrell and renowned bar owner Phil Casaceli invite hungry city dwellers to channel their inner sous chef by grabbing a spot at the kitchen-side bar.
Contact: 196 Smith St., 929-337-7752
