There’s much to look forward to in the months ahead including a crop of new and exciting restaurants from Korean fusion to comebacks and revivals from industry giants such as Stephen Starr and Keith McNally. Here are the restaurants we can’t wait to try this summer in New York:
ZUSIK
This recent addition to the West Village showcases an array of traditional and Korean fusion dishes, from owner and Chef Yurum Nam. Inspired by his homeland of South Korea, Nam brings with him over a decade of restaurant experience and a fascination with fusion spins, including nods to France, Italy, and America to Zusik. Diners can expect to delight their tastebuds with bugolgi, bibimbap, and a Korean brunch menu complete with eggs benedict. The cocktail menu features Korean-influenced sips with their mixers made in-house. Be sure to try the summer sky, a sparkling blue libation with soju and yuzu extract. Diners will enjoy an open and inviting space with wooden and black tables, chairs and banquettes, with traditional Korean dinnerware.
Reservations can be made via Zusik.
PASTIS
The French bistro that once helped transform the social landscape of the Meatpacking District upon opening in 1999 reopens its doors once again. The revival is driven by two James Beard Award-winning restauranteurs, Keith McNally, and Stephen Starr. Located just steps away from the original address, at 52 Gansevoort Street, the new location features elements of the original location, such as the classic curved zinc bar outfitted with signature white subway tiles, vintage mirror and a mosaic-tiled floor. While the menu is newly invigorated, it also includes the classics that made Pastis one of the city’s most sought-after dining destinations. Dishes include tuna crudo, escargot a la bourguignonne, herring and steak sandwich with onions and gruyère. The restaurant just opened its doors on June 7th.
Reservations can be made via resy.
Llama San
Llama San, from the Llama Inn team, will open in the West Village later this year. This will be New York City’s second Nikkei restaurant featuring the lesser known fusion cuisine created by Japanese immigrants in Peru. Llama San represents the immense and invaluable influence that Japanese culture and cuisine has historically had and continues to have in Peruvian cuisine. Japanese citizens migrated to Peru at the beginning of the 20th-century pursuing work in coastal farms before turning to urban areas to flourish in commercial activities. Japanese born outside of Japan are referred to as Nikkei, thus the term Nikkei cuisine, which is used to describe the fusion. Although not much is known about Llama San, its location is set in the former Tertulia space at 359 Sixth Avenue and beverage director Lynnette Marrero will design a menu of both Japanese and Peruvian spirits as well as a selection of coastal wines.
BAR PISELLINO
The West Village is a popular spot this year for new haunts. Just off Christopher Park, is Bar Pisellino from award-winning chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams. The swanky space features dark wood set against a mosaic tiled floor. The bar is the focal point, with its marble top and mahogany wood, but it’s the artisanal ice branded with the letter P that keeps us interested. This stunning Italian inspired hang out is looking to be a new favorite in the area. Indulge in anything from a morning espresso run to a nightcap; paired with bomboloni and paninis. You can even enjoy your apertivo al fresco on the sidewalk, perfect for those lazy summer afternoons. There’s no need to reserve, just drop by and be welcomed with classic Italian hospitality.
