By Nathalie Sousa-
I’ve been getting lots of requests lately for my recommendations in NYC and I confess that I am loving these experiences!
Remember when Van Muller wrote about Gemma for the first time here? Well it has become one of my favorites in the City ever since. Located in the popular The Bowery Hotel, the very charming restaurant has all the elements I adore: beautifully designed room, young crowd, impeccable service (but not stiff) and great food. Candles and rustic chandeliers are the prime lighting here, but fortunately, it works and the atmosphere still feels young and new.
I was there again last week for FNO and as always it was great. There were five of us and we didn’t have reservations, but the hostess was very accommodating and sat us at a premium booth. Thom Yorke from Radiohead walked by us on the way to his table and we instantly knew the night was set to be great. We ordered a fine bottle of white wine…after all, we walked all day. It was a great night for people watching being the beginning of fashion week, and the place was packed with the who’s who in the fashion world.
For starters I chose a beet and goat cheese salad, which was superb. Fresh with just the right amount of dressing. I’ve tried the artichoke and truffle vinaigrette before, and I highly recommend it.
Lobster and burrata ravioli for my main course, whoever made that dough put lots of love into it; I could taste the freshness. The light and delicious cherry tomato sauce was definitely not from the can! I’ve also tried the Pappardelle with short rib ragu and it was delightful.
I’ve tried other desserts at this place and nothing has ever let me down, but the classic tiramisu is without a doubt a piece of heaven!
Gemma is on the top of my list for many reasons: affordable, fun and delicious. It is a must try in NYC!
P.S. If you are wondering I did say hi to Thom Yorke, and he was super cool! Ha!
