The Ultimate Luxury Experience.   Yes, I’ve found my oasis in New York and I’m anticipating the return as this is where I shall seek refuge and solace, as uncompromising elegance, style and impeccable taste are the hallmarks of this gem.  I so wish I could take all the credit for this discovery, unfortunately I cannot.  A dear friend’s friend suggested a visit to Baccarat’s bar as we sat at the Algonquin’s Blue Bar over cocktails.  Upon meeting Liz, she exuded elegance, style, sophistication and an assured demeanor of refinement – – so any recommendation of her’s received my full attention.  After we said our good-byes, a quick walk to 28 West 53rd Street ensued and we landed in Baccarat’s Bar.

 

After we made ourselves comfortable, two of my favorite things appeared……

Baccarat Crystal & Ruinart:

 

 

 

And of course,  I had to eat, as eating is one of my favorite past times.  The Duck Pastrami “Sliders” and Lobster Rolls were delicious.  “V,” our server, was amazing. Her timing was impeccable as our glasses were never empty, nor were we ever rushed.  So with a little more desiring, we ordered glasses of 2012 Philippe Colin “Chassagne-Montrachet” & 2008 La Parde De Haut-Bailly as we made room for several more rounds of sliders and rolls!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

After several glasses of Ruinart and several rounds of small bites we found ourselves enthralled in the timeless beauty and elegance of Baccarat.  Being surrounded by exquisite and refined crystal is mesmerizing as it changes your energy.  The fragile and delicate appearance of each individual piece creates a collective brilliance unlike any other experience – – the visual is simply stunning.  Feeling the need to explore, I politely inquired about “Chevalier” the Parisian brasserie at Baccarat – – sold,  as the idea of experiencing French inspired cuisine lurked on the horizon.  We made a reservation for lunch and here’s what turned out to be another reason why Baccarat is now my “Must” in New York!!!

 

 

 

What an incredible experience.  After this sublime encounter, I did my homework and discovered a coveted review that I’m sharing as our experience fit the review perfectly – – it was if it were written while we gazed into gastronomic space………

 

MICHELIN Guide – – “Bearded hipsters are not the target market for every new opening. This glamorous brasserie within the Baccarat Hotel is unashamedly geared to the more grown-up members of the city’s social scene-those for whom 53rd Street is downtown. The space exudes old-school charm as the dapper waitstaff coddles those Manhattan powerbrokers and their mink-trimmed cohorts. The menu offers a modern re-working of classic French dishes. The clientele are not the sort to be too concerned by prices but at least one can see where the money goes. The scallops, served with comté and morels, are huge and the veal loin with sweetbreads is not for the fainthearted. And as you would expect from a hotel called Baccarat, the glassware is pretty impressive too.”

 –MICHELIN guide inspectors

 

 

 

And now what I live for……

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our initial encounter created instant loyalty.  We truly experienced the essences of what it means to be the finest artisan.  Now that I’ve found my oasis, I will be sure to keep you posted on my returns – – and yes there shall be many!!!!!!!

Chef Gallante, we look forward to the next gastronomic adventure.  See you soon!!!!

 

 Baccarat

 

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