Mar
31
2012
Out with the old (Acme) and in with the new (Acme)! Danish chef, Mads Refslund, who comes to us by way of Copenhagen (Noma- #1 restaurant in the world), constructed an amazing menu of unique and palate pleasing dishes dubbed new Nordic cuisine.
The candlelit, sexy Noho resto filled with good vibes and beauties delivers on all fronts. I loved the rare ingredients and unexpected pairings.

CHOW FAVES:
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Nov
27
2011
The UES just got a bit hipper now that Chef and Restauranteur John DeLucie is in the hood. Crown is housed in a plush townhouse that exudes sexy. As soon as you arrive, you’re drawn in by the long zinc-topped bar, perfectly dim lighting, and well mixed cocktails. And this is just the beginning! The elegant and well dressed dining room has a clubby-lounge feel where distinct, stylish accents like crown molding, leather banquettes and wood-paneled walls really round things out. There’s a level of sophistication that’s apparent and it goes beyond the mature crowd. It’s definitely worth the schlep uptown especially to catch a glimpse of the private dining room tucked away behind a swinging bookcase on the lower level.

Chef John DeLucie delivers a well balanced menu of American classics- oysters, caviar, seafood, pasta dishes and meat favorites. We sampled a broad selection of items and were quite satisfied.
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Nov
06
2011
The Lower East Side has a new resident “hot spot” and it goes by the name of Sons of Essex. Don’t be confused when you approach the resto and a doorman in a fully functional deli greets you. Once you enter, all roads lead to a swanky, rustic, saloon-like speakeasy resto, lounge and bar. The decor is very reminiscent of a scene from HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire”. The wooden pillars, old photos, and bookshelves stocked with knick-knacks, books and canisters generates a retro-den feel.

The vibe is amazing, and much of that can be attributed to the dope soundtrack. Hip Hop classics keeps the crowd grooving while noshing and sipping. They kick things up a notch Thursday through Saturday with a live DJ rocking from the pit (sunken lounge area).

The menu is filled with American comfort food classics such as grilled cheese, ribs, lobster pot pie and mac & cheese laced with global seasonings and a creative twist.
CHOW FAVES:
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Oct
22
2011
Scenesters, celebs, suits and hipsters have descended upon the Mepa newcomer- Catch….and for good reason. The fellas from EMM Group deliver a tri-level spot for the ultimate seafood soiree with Top Chef Champ, Hung Huyn at the helm. The Meatpacking District was in need of a seafood scene, so I welcome the rustic yet chic resto with an open mind and palate.

The Mediterranean and Asian inspired menu with a bevy of shared plates comprised of fish, sushi and a complete raw bar is focused on interesting blends and preparations. And this approach transfers to their well conceived libations too. Service was on point, and the vibrant vibe was present throughout all floors!
CHOW FAVES:
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Sep
24
2011
Gabrielle Union has lots on the docket but still makes time to hang with friends and loved ones at some of her favorite spots in LA and Miami! She’s teaming up with Tyler Perry again to star in his upcoming film “Good Deeds”, out in February. And that’s all… “Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man” hits theaters in April while Indie film “A Family Tree” is set to be released in the Spring. Seems like we’ll be seeing a lot of Gabby in 2012!

Check out Gabrielle Union’s Sip, Chat, Chow:
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