February and March are considered by many New Yorkers as the most dreary months on the calendar. If you need some cosy comfort, indulge in some melted cheese deliciousness at one of these restaurants.
Café Select, 212 Lafayette Street, NYC 10012
Served in the secret backroom of this longtime downtown favourite, the Swiss fondue comes in a variety of flavours—we recommend the white truffle iteration. Served with bread, potatoes, cornichons, and other fruit and veg, there is the option to add on meat as well. The backroom is reminiscent of a ski chateau and feels like a private party. Finish the meal with chocolate fondue, served with fruit, marshmallows, and bread pudding to dip.
Ladybird, 111 East 7th Street, NYC 10009
This cute East Village vegan restaurant, owned in part by Moby, dubs itself ‘A Vegetable Bar.’ Their iteration of fondue, albeit untraditional, is delicious nonetheless. Made from a base of tapioca and silky artichoke, expectedly it is served with a wide assortment of fresh veg to dip. Despite not having dairy of any sort, it is remarkably cheesy and has a velvety texture. Their cocktail menu is similarly creative, and the concise wine menu spotlights natural producers.
Le Pif, 2058 Broadway, NYC 10023
The quintessential neighbourhood French restaurant, Le Pif, is a comfortable place to spend an evening. Their fondue, classically made with comté and white wine, is complemented by additional menu items such as foie gras and escargot. The wine list offers several good options—try sitting at the quaint bar counter, a perfect place to enjoy a solo meal—the selection and convivial atmosphere beckon an evening in Paris.
Murray’s Cheese Bar, 264 Bleecker Street, NYC 10014
Expect nothing less than perfection from this cheese-focused restaurant. Offering both classic fondue and raclette, each option is served with various meats, potatoes, and baguette. They have delicious salads on the menu as well, should you wish to counteract the richness of the cheese. Soon, a second location will open in Long Island City.
Taureau, 588 Broome Street, NYC 10013
This restaurant focuses specifically on fondue—the burners are built directly into the tables—and offers seven types of melted cheese to enjoy. They offer more variety, such as cheddar and smoked gouda, as well as hot oil fondue for dipping meat. From the chef of neighbourhood favourite, Le Sirene, who previously helmed a fondue restaurant in Paris, the snug space is romantic and intimate. Save room for milk or dark chocolate fondue for dessert.
Winter Garden at The Standard East Village, 25 Cooper Square, NYC 10003
It doesn’t get much cosier than fondue in a yurt. The garden at The Standard is transformed annually into a winter wonderland, replete with lit evergreens and (heated) alpine yurts. This very well may be the most idyllic place in which to enjoy fondue—their version is made of aged cheddar and gruyere for a strong flavour, and is classically served with endive, cornichons, apple, and sourdough. Order a charcuterie board as well for extra dipping options.
For further recommendations, or help securing a table, contact your luxury lifestyle manager.
