New York City & Hamptons Restaurant Roundup
Here’s a look at recent dining experiences across New York City and the Hamptons, featuring standout dishes and vibrant atmospheres.
Bong Restaurant (Crown Heights, Brooklyn)
Bong Restaurant in Crown Heights offers a deeply satisfying lobster experience. The reviewer enjoyed the challenge of extracting the meat, preferring to use hands over tools for a truly “earned pleasure.” The flavorful, chewy lobster paired beautifully with rice. The recipe originates from chef Chakriya Un’s mother, Kim Eng Mann, known as Mama Kim. A recommended side dish was the n’gom ($20), a vibrant mix of cabbage, peppers, cucumbers, radishes, fried peanuts, and crispy shallots in a vinegary fish sauce.The meal was completed with a Paris-Brest with corn and peaches ($16) and light wine. The restaurant’s early 2000s soundtrack, featuring artists like beyoncé and Destiny’s Child, and blacklight-lit muraled bathroom contributed to the ”impeccable vibes.” The reviewer plans a return visit, with the squid high on the list to try. Located at 724 Sterling Place, between bedford and Franklin, Crown Heights. – Nadia Chaudhury,deputy dining editor,Northeast.
Daniel Boulud’s Steakhouse (Flatiron)
While steak is the focus at Daniel Boulud’s steakhouse, the appetizers are equally noteworthy. A party of four began with a tableside Caesar salad and a seafood tower ($130), which was generously portioned for four despite being listed as serving two. The seafood was praised for its freshness and flavor, including briny oysters, mussels and razor clams, and meaty lobsters. The maitake mushrooms and potato gratin were also recommended. Located at 318 Park Avenue South, at East 24th Street, Flatiron. – Stephanie Wu, editor-in-chief.
Maurizio’s (Bridgehampton, Hamptons)
Maurizio’s in Bridgehampton is described as one of the most stylish spots in the hamptons, offering a lively atmosphere alongside Maurizio Marfoglia’s cuisine. The reviewer and a friend put Maurizio’s meatballs to the test against homemade versions, and were impressed.The meatballs, dressed with garlic, onions, basil, eggs, Parmigiano, and a touch of breadcrumbs, are smaller and lighter than many, braised in tomato sauce and served with ricotta and croutons. They were enjoyed with spaghetti pomodoro and broccoli rabe. The restaurant’s cozy banquettes and wood-burning fireplace create an inviting fall ambiance. Located at 2402 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton. – Beth Landman, contributor, Northeast.
