Tabla
New York, NY 10010-3643
Phone: (212) 889-0667
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- 25th Street
- Hours:
- Mon-Wed, Sun 5:30pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 5:30pm-10:30pm
Editorial Review for Tabla – by Paul Adams
The Scene
Occupying a cavernous space in the Met Life Tower, the restaurant's soaring staircase, deeply stained woods and lush, curvilinear details make a striking impression. The second-floor dining room, itself gently bi-level, has a serious but relaxed air; smart, impeccably professional and engaging service creates a very comfortable dining experience.
The Food
This isn't Indian cuisine, but seasonings and techniques from the area lavishly spice up what would otherwise be competent and creative American food. Take roast chicken, to which a cumin jus and anise notes lend uncommon panache; or surreally succulent lamb enlivened by acutely tuned fruity curry flavor. A whole apple filled with roasted egetables and scented with Roquefort makes a striking starter, as does a handsomely composed crab and avocado salad with tamarind chutney in a papadum shell. The menu holds no letdowns: Desserts, like a cone of stiff kulfi with licorice, ot cinnamon souffle, extend dinner's spice into the sweet realm.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe often powerfully spiced food puts up a heck of a fight against even the most full-bodied of wines, but there are several good contenders on the bill. The beer list, however, includes Colorado's hard-to-find Flying Dog, which complements the food with ease. Or try one of several specialty cocktails, such as the tart Tablatini and the posh pomegranate gimlet.
Know Before You GoThe more casual Bread Bar is located just downstairs and offers a more affordable menu. Refreshing drinks and patio seating make it a relaxing retreat during the warm months.
Save MoneyA 3-course prix-fixe menu is available for $54.
User Reviews for Tabla
07/23/2007 Posted by mango_mama
I went there about three weeks ago. It had been some 5 years or so since I last set foot. Unlike most NY restaurants, Tabla had been open all that time, which obviously is no small feat. I understand why. The food is absolutely creative and simply the best practice of fusion cuisine I've ever had. Overall, the vegetarian dishes faired better than the meat dishes, probably because the subtlety of the spices worked better on veggies. I was blown away by the raita-inspired cucumber soup (on the house), which had chia seeds to give it that cucumber-seed texture. That was pure genius. My only beef is the excessive use of salt. It wasn't necessary and only took away from the other spices that were working their magic.
Pros: Food! Food! Food! (wine too)
Cons: A tad too much salt, decor kind of tacky
05/03/2007 Posted by kimibricevic
One dining experience at this place and you will want to keep coming back. Very attentive service right from the start. The food: talk about a mix of spices, all leaving a pleasant aftertaste for the next one. Very good wine selection as well. We were recommended the shiraz and it was maybe the best I ever had. Be it a business or romantic dinner this is the place for you.
Pros: Everything from beginning to end.
Cons: None
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