One of the special perks that goes along with traveling for business is the ability to visit with old friends. I had the pleasure of catching up with folks from college over dinner while in our nation’s capital for meetings a few weeks ago, and last Thursday and Friday I found myself taking appointments in New York. I have been promising a close friend I would make her act as tour guide for a weekend, but in this case one evening would have to do.  

After work hours, we left her home in Murray Hill and made our way to CraftBar, one of many restaurants owned by celebrity chef Tom Colicchio. As a big fan of the Top Chef series on Bravo (Tom acts as head judge on the original), I was very excited for the meal. The style of the Flatiron District is reflected in the décor of the restaurant. An interesting feature was the artwork. Various-sized paintings of animals lined the walls. Each contained one word associated with a preparation of the animal. I’m sure the goose and cow would not have looked so melancholy if they didn’t have “foie gras” and “sirloin” floating in the empty space above their heads. 

We enjoyed a cheese plate and a charcuterie plate before the main course. The highlight was the pastrami wagyu beef tongue accompanied by a spicy beer mustard. I ordered halibut for the main, which was perfectly cooked; however, the side of grilled eggplant definitely stayed on the grill longer than I would’ve preferred. The overall experience was great, and the excellent service deserves a mention as well. I would be happy to return or to try another Colicchio creation in New York or beyond. 

Dessert was gelato at the Eately market a few blocks away, and we ended the evening with a hilarious show at the Gotham Comedy Club. I’m looking forward to taking another bite of the Big Apple sometime soon!

What is your favorite thing about New York? 

— Rob Setzman, digital coordinator & account executive