Commerce – New York
After the 3,000 calories I happily devoured for dinner on Sunday with little discomfort and lots of regret, I feel obliged to put Commerce (50 Commerce St.) as one of the most delicious menus in New York. Located on one of the nicest and quietest West Village streets of the city, Commerce looks like a clumsy neighborhood bar/eatery from outside. Given its history as a speakeasy and tavern, the restaurant never really embraced a sophisticated look. Diner-style seating blended with ear-scratching rock music and somber figurine paintings overlooking the room, the place certainly does not do justice to whats being cooked in the kitchen. But when you are in New York, you have to know that looks are as deceiving as they get and surprises are a part of the daily routine. So, it is no wonder that I wasn’t aware of what was coming next while with a glass of Gaffel on the bar, I kept asking myself the question “why my friends insisted on this place so much”.
The dinner started with a big bottle of Barolo and a selection of warm breads served with a creamy white butter spread. The rest was just too good to just stare at. Here are my musts from the menu:
- Sliced rare beef tataki with ginger, soy and shiso
- Mushroom and fontina ravioli with fall vegetables and red wine
- Marinated Hamachi ceviche with yuzu, tomato & chili
- Porterhouse for two with cippolini onions, creamy spinach and red wine shallot steak sauce
In my opinion, one of the most important aspects of cooking a steak is preserving its tenderness. Chef Moore at Commerce does an impeccable job at that. If after all this food, you have room for dessert, try the warm apple crumble served with vanilla ice cream or the dark chocolate souffle.
I say go to Commerce with a small group. If you are more than 4 people, there will be a considerable wait even if there is a reservation (especially fridays).