Luxurious Journey to New York City: Debunking The Devonshire's Hype
Heading to New York for a gastronomic adventure, I recently visited two esteemed steakhouses from the Evolv Collection - Queensyard and Hawksmoor, each with its own distinctive flavor.
My first stop was Queensyard, one of the two Evolv Collection restaurants in NYC. Kicking things off with a delightful steak tartar, followed by a smoky Bluebird prawn cocktail, and some truffle-infused kimchi grilled octopus. The sheer mastery of the 12-ounce sirloin, grilled to perfection over wood, was a highlight - tender and flavorful, further enhanced by a velvety peppercorn sauce. If you find yourself in Hudson Yards, don't miss out on Queensyard's sumptuous offerings and breathtaking river views.
Next on the list was Hawksmoor, where the American menu caters to local preferences wonderfully. Indulge in starters like spiced pork belly and Louisiana shrimp, both bursting with flavor. The exclusive US-bred steaks retain the classic Hawksmoor charcoal char, ensuring a truly remarkable dining experience. My sirloin, while a tad heavy for my personal taste, was undeniably delicious. For those seeking an extensive wine list that complements the menu, I recommend exploring additional offerings.
Just across the road from Hawksmoor lies the protagonist of New York's thriving steakhouse scene - La Tête d'Or by Daniel Boulud. The stunning atmosphere and decadent decor create an enticing setting for a glamorous dining experience. Meeting Chef Daniel Boulud a few months back, I can attest to his exceptional aura and the remarkable charm he weaves into this city. Drawing on his Lyon heritage and Michelin-starred expertise, La Tête d'Or seamlessly blends the sophistication of a classic New York steakhouse with the tradition and elegance one would expect from the establishment's iconic namesake. A satisfying 'plateau' of seafood, adorned with succulent clams, shrimp, razor clams, and scrumptious lobster, served as the perfect prelude to my final steak in three short days. Like Queensyard, the prime Black Angus strip steak was cooked to perfection over wood, making the long flight from London more than worthwhile.
Flying back to London after an NYC steak marathon, my thoughts lingered on my last visit to "The Devonshire." This pub, notorious for its combination of stout and steak, attracts an array of tourists eager to indulge in the over-hyped phenomenon. While the Guinness is indeed solid, the dining room leaves much to be desired - hot, poorly ventilated, and serving mediocre meat. If you're yearning for an unforgettable steak experience in Piccadilly, take a detour to Goodman instead, or venture to Sartoria for their heavenly Bistecca di Fiorentina.
In search of delightful breakfast options in London, look no further than Dovetale, The Wolseley, Grind, or Smiths Bar & Grill. These distinctive eateries each offer a unique culinary experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you're seeking an exquisite breakfast or an unforgettable steak, OpenTable is your go-to resource for discovering London's finest restaurants. And remember, the perfectly executed steak is an art - a masterpiece worth savoring.
As a "City Guy," these top-rated steakhouses might catch your attention in New York City:
- Cote (Flatiron) - A renowned Korean steakhouse known for its tableside grilling and unique fusion of Korean barbecue techniques and steakhouse precision.
- Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse (Midtown) - Offers a flawlessly prepared dry-aged ribeye, embodying the essence of a well-executed steak.
- The Capital Grille – NY – MetLife (Midtown) - Boasts premium cuts and a refined dining atmosphere, with popular dishes like the porterhouse and filet mignon.
- Wolfgang's Steak House - Park Avenue - Known for its classic American steakhouse experience, featuring top-quality steaks in a sophisticated setting.
- Gallagher's Steakhouse - Manhattan (Midtown West) - A timeless icon of NYC's steakhouse landscape, known for its beloved porterhouse.
- Bowery Meat Company (Lower East Side) - Offers a contemporary twist on the classic steakhouse, highlighting exceptional meats and an upscale ambiance.
These establishments not only boast exceptional culinary experiences but also showcase the culinary diversity that makes NYC a gastronomic haven.
On your travel to New York, don't forget to try Cote in Flatiron, a Korean steakhouse that combines Korean barbecue techniques with precision. If you're in Midtown, Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse offers a flawlessly prepared dry-aged ribeye. The Capital Grille – NY – MetLife, also in Midtown, boasts premium cuts and a refined dining atmosphere. Another iconic option is Wolfgang's Steak House - Park Avenue, known for its classic American steakhouse experience.
In the heart of Midtown West, Gallagher's Steakhouse is a timeless NYC steakhouse landmark, famous for its porterhouse. For a contemporary twist on the classic steakhouse, Bowery Meat Company in the Lower East Side is worth a visit. These top-rated steakhouses in NYC not only offer exceptional culinary experiences but also highlight the city's culinary diversity, making it a gastronomic haven.
As a foodie exploring New York City, don't forget to document your dining adventures on social media, sharing your experiences with fellow epicureans back home. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, books like Epicurious New York: A Guide to the Best Restaurants, Bars, and Markets in the City, or The Food Lover's Guide to New York City can provide even more insights into the city's culinary landscape.
Whether you're a homebody or a globetrotter, a kitchen enthusiast or a steak lover, the culinary experiences waiting for you in New York City are sure to elevate your lifestyle and create lasting memories. As for me, my next adventure will lead me to Heathrow, where I'll enjoy the comfort of home-and-garden shops and the delicious food-and-drink options, before setting off on another gastronomic journey.
In the end, the hunt for the perfect steak isn't just about trying different dishes; it's about the journey, the people you meet, the flavors you taste, and the memories you create. So, whether you're trying new sliders at a food truck, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or sharing a meal with friends at home, always remember that food is more than just sustenance - it's an adventure.
