Le Haute Trend ReporT

After a brutally long winter, Spring has sprung and with warmer temps and seasonal blooms, comes what is one of the most fascinating times of the year, spring in the city. And as we step out around town here’s a list of trending dining hot spots where the crowd is part of the show – a true hit list of where to sip and ‘see and be seen’ this season.

For some haute flavor…
Turning one this summer, newcomer Cuerno New York instantly became a hit with diners when its doors opened at the iconic Time-Life Building at Rockefeller Center. Cuerno is a vibrant Mexican steakhouse whose menu is a tribute to the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Northern Mexico, and yes you can expect some hot, spicy flavors served in contemporary presentations. Don’t expect your everyday streetstyle tacos here – you’re in for a reimagined experience that will taste every bit as authentic but in a very elevated setting. That’s in part due also to the restaurant’s décor where the interiors blend rustic charm details emblematic of a North Mexico hacienda such as hand-carved woodwork and custom leather banquettes, paired with chandelier and crown-moldings that ooze sophistication reminding you that you are still afterall, in the heart of Midtown.

Barneys is back…
Well, not quite but for those of us who are fortunate enough to remember the cultural icon that once lived on Madison Ave, there is a newcomer that jut might fill some of the void that Barneys left when it closed its doors. Located down on Wall Street, Printemps, the Parisian department store has a New York HQ that has become a favorite for the city’s most fashionable. Their departmentalization concept where collections are curated by style and trend versus by brand has proven to be a formula to success, making it a shopper’s dream. And what further sets this shopping destination apart is its gourmandise selection of eateries thoughtfully spread throughout its floors, and one in particular is fit for an opening scene on Sex and the City, Maison Passerelle. Located next to its shoe level, Passerelle is a French gastro-experience that includes an amber-mirrored bar with a golden-lit staircase that is exactly the 5 p.m. on a Thursday hotspot where you would find Carrie, Miranda and crew. And past a bistro door is the main dining room lined with brasserie tables and ornate French tilework that reminds you that in New York you can really find anything, even Paris in the city.

Sky-high living… If there’s one thing we have no shortage in New York, it’s skyscrapers with views for days, and in the heart of NoMad on level 50 of the Ritz-Carlton is Nubeluz, a stunning 270-degree view cocktail concept by award-winning Chef José Andrés. Envisioned as a lightbox in the sky, enticing guests with its stylish plush and maximalist interior and modern interpretations of classic cocktails, Nubeluz has become a favorite among guests of the property and New York’s ‘in the know’ crowd. Worth noting this isn’t the place you roll up to, you want to book an advance. Years since it’s opened, this place continues to book up making it a ‘hard to get’ table but the juice is worth the squeeze – the cocktails and small tapas-inspired bites with a side of views is well worth the effort.

A global flavor…
Part of the magic of going out in New York is that you can be transported to any corner of the globe – walk one block and you’ll find a trattoria Napolitana and walk another and you’ll be transported to La Mamounia in Marrakech.

Located in the heart of downtown, and celebrating seven months since it welcomed guests, Ayah brings an authentic Moroccan dining experience to SoHo, blending traditional flavors with modern design .The restaurant’s menu features highlights like slow-cooked Tajines, and classic couscous, paired with creative cocktails that visually pair with ayah’s interiors. As your dinner unfolds, Ayah takes on a whole new life transforming dinner into a lively party with belly dancers and live entertainment, offering guests an immersive, vibrant atmosphere unlike anywhere else in New York City.

A special honorable mention goes to West Village’s Dandelion where you come for their cocktail program but stay for the atmosphere. Their fine attention to mixology and beautiful green and rustic interiors has all the making for a future ’50 Best.’

So, as you plan your Spring gatherings, there is no shortage of offerings on the menu this season. Pack those dark coats and break out some pastel shirts and enjoy your ‘Spring and The City.’