VIBE

Situated on the Mandarin Oriental hotel’s 35th floor, Asiate welcomes diners as if through heaven's gates. An impressive 1,300-wine-bottle wall serves as the restaurant’s grand entrance, and just beyond lies the million-dollar view: one of the most spectacular scenes of the New York City skyline and Central Park seen through 16 ft. floor-to-ceiling windows. While tranquil, minimalist décor keeps the focus squarely on the vistas, a tree sculpture hanging from the ceiling (made to echo winter trees from Central Park) does draw your eyes. Your taste buds will be equally dazzled by the delicate food served at well-spaced tables or at the more intimate tan leather booths.

CROWD

Expense-accounters, privileged hotel guests, and moneyed tourists.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Smart business attire (chic or blousy top and pencil skirt with heels) for lunch; smart elegant (sleek, sophisticated dress with glittery jewels) for dinner.

GO HERE WITH

Coworkers; significant other; a date

WHY WE LIKE IT

You may have seen New York, but seldom like this. With views this spectacular, a sunset reservation seals the deal for possibly the most romantic evening you may ever encounter. And with two tiers of seating, nearly everyone is ensured a view.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Nothing.

GOOD TO KNOW

Chef de Cuisine Brandon Kida offers a fabulous menu of Asian-New American dishes enhanced by his own background and global travels. Tabs are splurge-worthy; for the budget minded, we suggest opting for the lunch reservation instead of dinner; the midday prix fixe menu for USD 34 is a real find.

CLOSEST COMPS

Eleven Madison Park (New York)

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