Eat, Drink and Be Murray

Dining In and Around Midtown Manhattan’s Murray Hill and Gramercy Park

New York City is a place of boundless culinary cultures, from inexpensive street stands and corner delis to über-hip spaces where the see-and-be-seen crowd can be seen nibbling, sipping and socializing.

As a somewhat laid-back alternative to the trendy Midtown Manhattan restaurants jostling for everyone’s attention, the Murray Hill and Gramercy Park neighborhoods have become known for eateries of a more authentic and intimate sort.

Veteran New York-area Chef Hector Tice, Executive Chef at the Park South Hotel, serves up a few of his favorites below:

Gramercy Tavern: Cozy and warmly lit, Gramercy Tavern is one of the many establishments owned by acclaimed restaurateur Danny Meyers. The emphasis here is on American cuisine using farm-fresh, locally sourced flavors. The Tavern’s main room offers a prix fixe menu, while the front room provides a la carte dishes.

Black Duck Restaurant: Situated in a restored brownstone mansion, this comfy bistro showcases “Pan-Atlantic” fare (think Sesame crusted Wasabi Tuna and Espresso rubbed Filet Mignon). Thursday night is “Date Night,” complete with a special prix fixe menu and black and white film screenings; while a live jazz band usually performs on weekends.

Blue Smoke: Craving tasty barbecue?  Look no further than this down-home diner. Blue Smoke’s authentic pit BBQ specialties (pulled pork, beef brisket) are heavenly; pair your ‘cue with a side of the restaurant’s famous mac n’ cheese and wash it all down with one of over a dozen different hand-crafted cocktails. When you’re finished, head downstairs to the award-winning Jazz Standard club.

Les Halles: Foodie fans, take note: this bustling brassiere is the home base of omni-talented chef, author and television personality Anthony Bourdain. Les Halles provides a taste of Paris in the middle of Manhattan; dishes are created with an unyielding respect for tradition (no trendy fusion here). The Confit de Canard is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, as is the beef tenderloin.

“Curry Hill”: This stretch of Lexington Avenue is named both for its vicinity to Murray Hill and its abundance of authentic Indian restaurants. You’re spoiled for choice here; Haandi and Curry in a Hurry offer delicious tandoori chicken and chaat, whereas Saravanaas is the go-to spot for South Indian vegetarian specialties.

For a one-of-a-kind blend of Indian and Chinese cuisine, duck into Chinese Mirch.

Shake Shack: This upscale hamburger stand in Madison Square Park serves up massive Angus beef burgers, “flat-top” (split and griddled) hot dogs, cheese fries and frozen custard, in addition to the namesake milkshakes.

John Dory Oyster Bar: Three words: Oyster Happy Hour. From 5-7 pm daily, oyster lovers can get their fix for a reduced price.  The menu offers other options, including lobster rolls and lamb burgers, but John Dory’s oysters are what keep folks coming back.

Sushi Yasuda: Echoing its crisp, modern design, this tranquil restaurant excels in simply prepared sushi dishes.  Sushi Yasuda is expensive, but worth it – chef Naomichi Yasuda is a purist, and only the finest, freshest fish meets his standards.  You’ll have an unforgettable meal here.

The Park South Hotel, located in midtown Manhattan on 28th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues, draws discerning New York City visitors of many tastes. With luxury accommodations, the intimate Black Duck Restaurant, and signature amenities, this boutique hotel is a convenient destination for business or leisure stays.