A recent renovation in the lobby, dining room, and bar is completed, We were very Impressed with the new look. The sophisticated and timeless dining room, Harry's Bar, and lounge, capture the essence of New York, while the new restaurant offers excellent cuisine in a sophisticated and stylish ambiance with a playful edge. The adjacent Harry's bar serves a menu of hors d'oeuvres and sandwiches.

Conceived by J/Brice Design, the sophisticated and timeless dining room, Harry's Bar, and lounge, capture the essence of the New York skyline's strong and poetic geometry, embracing the artful blend of neighboring east midtown treasures: the Art Deco Chrysler and Chanin buildings, Grand Central Station and The United Nations.

The new restaurant (aptly named "The Restaurant"), provides three dramatic levels, a recessed ceiling, bathed in blue light and a soothing copper-toned color scheme forming the ideal setting for fine dining. Executive Chef Brian C. Wieler and his team put forth such intriguing appetizers as modern renditions of a mellow Lobster Bisque with Sherry, Crème Fraiche, an intense Duck Consommé with Julienne Vegetables and Duck Wonton and a surprisingly delicate Onion Soup Gratin , which combines Four species of Onions with Gruyere Cheese.

Seared Diver Sea Scallops with Sweet Potatoes and a sauce distinguished by shaved white chocolate may sound daunting, but the scallops are the star, impeccably timed and the sauce a well-schooled supporting player. Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart was light and lovely in its airy Puff Pastry and Balsamic Vinegar Reduction and even the ubiquitous Tuna Tartare was a standout with Ponzou Sauce, Sesame Crisps, Cucumber and a bed of Micro Greens.

While all entrees are excellent, especially a flaky white halibut special, Grilled New York Strip steak with Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Asparagus and a light Cabernet Sauce was the scene stealer. Under no circumstance miss such desserts as a remarkable NY Style Cheese Cake and a dense and deadly Chocolate Ganache concoction.

The Restaurant at The New York Helmsley Hotel | 212 East 42nd Street, 212 490 8900, offers a fine selection of wines (properly stored at cellar temperature), beautifully constructed cocktails and a well trained and professional service staff.

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