Located on the west side of Manhattan, New York’s Meatpacking District is currently experiencing a revival, cemented by famed restaurant Pastis. Having lived many lives, the area suffered a significant loss when the downtown hotspot - whose appearance on Sex and the City solidified its illustrious nature - closed in 2014. Now reopened around the corner from its original location by founder and restaurateur Keith McNally newly in partnership with Stephen Starr, the buzzy establishment is leading the charge in the returning the Meatpacking to its former glory days. Alongside new neighbours Hermès and Loro Piana, as well as the Whitney Museum, the official reimagination of the once nightlife-driven area has taken full effect. Read below for ordering tips as you enjoy your coveted seat at one of New York’s most storied restaurants.
The Power Lunch
Schedule your business lunches around the Plat du Jour. The daily specials (available Monday thru Friday) include summer favourite Soft Shell Crab on Thursday and signature Shrimp au Pastis on Monday. Enjoy alongside an Aperol Spritz to beat the Monday blues.
Dinner with Friends
The comprehensive menu is full of French favourites. Go traditional with an appetiser of Escargots with Garlic-Parsley Butter and Oysters with Mignonette, followed by the famed Steak Frites - now available in three different cuts of beef, with three different sauces. Several great wines are available by the carafe, so start with a Sancerre to drink alongside the appetisers and switch to a Cabernet Franc to complement the steak.
Boozy Sunday Brunch
You’re stopping to shop at Hermès, and you’ll probably meet your friends later at Soho House… in between, have brunch at Pastis. Order the Heirloom Tomato Tartine, perfect for August and September while tomatoes are at their peak, and a Mon Amer - a refreshing champagne cocktail inspired by a French 75.
Midnight Snacks
Grab a seat at the bar before last call around midnight, while the restaurant is still buzzing. Pair an expertly mixed Martini with an order of perfectly crisp Pomme Frites and an indulgent order of Profiteroles. You deserve it.
