|
Reflecting its cultural diversity, New York City boasts a plethora of South Asian fusion restaurants, a trend which began back in 1998 with the opening of Tabla, a part of Danny Meyer’s restaurant empire. Other successful establishments have since joined the fusion wave, bringing a smorgasbord of eastern and western flavors to the discerning New York palate.
Check out these 5 fusion restaurants CitySaheli loves!
PRANNA
79 Madison Avenue
(at 28th St)
New York
212.696.5700
Combining upscale restaurant with a cool event space, Pranna offers the ultimate in Indian fusion cuisine – as well as turning into a lounge bar/club at night. Created by well-known restaurateurs, Rajiv and Payal Sharma, the genius in the kitchen is Payal’s brother Chai. His extensive and expert knowledge of South East Asian cuisine is the driving force behind the restaurant’s success. The meals here are perfect for sharing!
Pranna is offering CitySaheli readers a 20% perks card. Simply hand over your business card at the front desk on arrival, tell your host you are referred by citysaheli.com and you’ll receive your card. There is no time limit for usage.
VERMILION
480 Lexington Ave
New York, 10017
212.871.6600
Just celebrating it’s first birthday, Vermilion is the brainchild of entrepreneur Rohini Dey, who created the first Vermillion in Chicago. Backers include Salman Rushdie, Sonny Mehta and Sabeer Bhatia. CitySaheli loved the Peruvian black ceviche and the duck vindaloo arepa. This is Indian and Latin American fusion at its best. Upscale and cool, the restaurant is also a great lounge destination, serving delightful tapas and a fabulous selection of South East Asian-inspired cocktails.
SPICE FUSION
777 Eighth Ave
(between 47 and 48)
New York, 10036
212.757.8100
Offering Indian classics such as Chicken Tikka Masala to the more signature Chicken Malai Kebab and Lamb Seekh, Chef Walter D’Rozario has created a successful fusion of flavors and textures at this convenient midtown venue. These Indian and Far-Eastern inspired plates will certainly tempt your palate. CitySaheli loved the mouthwatering Fish Rolls in Goan sauce and Grilled Masala Tilapia with roasted eggplant. Great for evening dining, but also a perfect lunch venue (buffet is $10.95). The restaurant also offers a comprehensive delivery menu.
TABLA
11 Madison Ave (at 25th St)
New York 10010
212.889.0667
Talented executive chef/partner Floyd Cardoz leads the way at this iconic Madison Square Park trailblazer. Eat downstairs at the Bread Bar – perfect for casual drop-ins – or glide up the stairway to dining heaven at the main restaurant. We love the Goan-spiced crab cakes. On Wednesday nights the restaurant offers a rotating selection of $10-and-under small plates.
TAMARIND
41-43 East 22nd Street
New York, 10010
212.674.7400
Named after the fruit pod of a tall, tropical tree, Tamarind is ideal for a girls’ night out, as well as a great place to take a date. Perfectly located in the Flatiron district, you can dine in the main restaurant or the delightful tearoom next door, with its additional selection of teas, pastries and sandwiches. Try the delicious Payasam – saffron-flavored Vermicelli pudding served with caramelized almonds, served with Darjeeling tea. Tamarind also delivers in the neighborhood, or farther afield for an extra charge.
| 
