New York, USA
From Michelin Guide
Push past the heavy iron doors to this modern restaurant tucked at the base of a classic townhouse. Supple leather, brass touches and various shades of beige comprise the contemporary, elegant space, where a buzzy bar and a welcoming dining room await. Chef Christophe Bellanca's dishes echo a simple elegance, evidenced by plump white asparagus on a fragrant bergamot-flavored crème with a refreshing herb vinaigrette and paper-thin slices of watermelon radish. French technique is married with Asian flavors in a dish of three blue prawns with genmaicha tuille, and braised black sea bass with shiitake chutney, razor clams and a turmeric emulsion is memorable. For a light ending, the orange soufflé is bright and fragrant, especially when served with green cardamom ice cream.
From Visitor Experiences
Private dining designed by a Parisian designer: Essential by Christophe offers an exclusive 18-seat private dining room designed by Parisian designer Caroline Egasse, creating an intimate and stylish setting for special occasions.
Refined modern French cuisine that balances richness and lightness: The restaurant is noted for using traditional French ingredients like butter and cream with great refinement, resulting in dishes that feel modern and light rather than heavy or overly rich, making it a place you could return to regularly.
Genuine, team-oriented service without pretense: The staff at Essential by Christophe is praised for being passionate, coordinated, and approachable, delivering polished fine dining service that feels human and welcoming rather than stiff or pretentious.
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Essential by Christophe in New York include:
Scallops: Featured in the signature dish "Seared Scallop with Cauliflower Purée," scallops are cooked to a tender, succulent texture and paired with creamy, earthy cauliflower purée and a drizzle of truffle oil, highlighting the luxury and refinement of the dish.
Duck Breast: Used in a signature preparation where the duck breast is tender and infused with herbs and spices, with perfectly crispy skin, showcasing Chef Christophe's mastery of French technique and flavor balance.
Mushrooms: Incorporated in a "Mushroom Cappuccino" appetizer, where mushroom mousse is combined with Madeira gel and sweet potato purée, delivering a rich yet light flavor profile.
Foie Gras: Featured in a warm royale with Maury reduction and parmesan foam, emphasizing rich, luxurious French ingredients and sophisticated sauce work.
Truffle Oil: Used as a finishing touch in dishes like the scallop, adding aromatic depth and a luxurious element to the plate.
These ingredients reflect Chef Christophe's philosophy of using beautiful, high-quality ingredients combined with vibrant sauces and French technique to create refined yet simple dishes that allow the core flavors to shine.
Jul 27, 2024 ... French Restaurant Review: Essential by Christophe, New York City ... Having lived in France for 40 years, I'm always curious to sample Gallic ...
francetoday.com
Dec 6, 2022 ... Essential by Christophe. Christophe Bellanca, the French chef who rose to prominence in New York at Le Cirque and L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, is ...
nytimes.com
Dec 27, 2023 ... 103 West 77th Street, New York, NY 10024 ... Essential by Christophe may sound like a 1990s eau de cologne, but it is by far the best restaurant ...
ft.com