VIBE

The Momofuku group has broken out of the East Village with this posh Midtown eatery in the Chambers Hotel. True to form, the design is muted (think simple wooden communal tables, white walls, and glossy concrete floors) but surprisingly comfortable. Chef Paul Carmichael whips up dreamy French-Vietnamese treats ranging from crisp, light banh mi (at lunch only) to dinner fare like scallops, striped bass, and pork chops (among other specialties) and the absolutely decadent seven-course Vietnamese feast “beef 7 ways.” There’s also a bar menu and an outlet of the ever-delightful Momofuku bakery Milk Bar.

CROWD

A relatively young, savvy crowd of Midtown professionals, Momofuku fans, and guests from the Chambers Hotel.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s upscale casual. We’d try to match the surrounds by going for an understated look like a simple sheath dress and black heels.

GO HERE WITH

Foodies; colleagues - for a trendy Midtown lunch; a group - for gorging on beef 7 ways

WHY WE LIKE IT

The food is divine. Plus, the venue is surprisingly versatile (it would work for everything from a casual business lunch to a pre-theater bite) and also has a bit more flair than typical, clubby Midtown joints. Don’t miss the chamomile daiquiri.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Having the Milk Bar right next to the entrance is downright dangerous…we end up having dessert twice (at least!).

GOOD TO KNOW

If you’re on the go, grab the “Midtown Lunch” for USD 10–it’s one of the best lunch deals in this part of town. (Lunches must be ordered by 11:00am and picked up at the time specified.) The bar is open Monday-Saturday, 11:00am-12:00am and Sunday, 11:00am-10:00pm; it offers a light snack menu after the restaurant closes. Beef 7 ways is USD 450 total for a party of 4-8 (excluding tax, tip, and drinks), and must be booked in advance (there is a USD 150 cancellation fee if you cancel with less than 24 hours notice). Momofuku’s other ventures in NYC include momofuku noodle bar, momofuku ssäm bar, momofuku ko, and Milk Bar.

CLOSEST COMPS

momofuku ko (New York)

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