Set the Scene.
Spectacular wouldn’t be strong enough to describe the thoughts whirling in my mind when walking into the freshly debuted Aqua in Flatiron. Born from Aqua Restaurant Group, the team behind New York’s acclaimed Hutong, the restaurant comfortably seats 432 guests in a 24,000-square-foot space. The main room is centered by the bar where the main focal point lies, an installation crafted in hemp mussel rope adds drama to the space soaring up to the 25-foot-high vaulted ceiling.
What’s to expect from the menu?
To clear the air, fusion isn’t the word to describe Aqua. Guests are presented with one a-la-carte menu, Aqua Roma going front-to-back, and Aqua Kyoto reading back-to-front. The idea of the two cuisines in one restaurant stems from the same culinary philosophy—sourcing the best, freshest produce and preparing it simply so the natural flavors shine through—making them perfectly matched partners. Guests are encouraged to order from both menus, so we followed suit.
As a table, we shared our appetizers. The soft, creamy Burrata was served with roasted pumpkin, hazelnut pesto, and radicchio salad. The Salmon & Scallop Maki Roll was a hit for those of us who love raw seafood. For those with elevated taste buds, a Tartare di Manzo–a beef tartare with porcini mushrooms– and a Gambero Rosso Red Prawn Carpaccio are signatures to try as well.
From the Kyoto menu, the Miso Black Cod was a light yet umami dish fit for a sophisticated palette. Maki rolls, sashimi, and omakase courses are offered to hone in on Japanese cuisine. But the visual show-stoppers are the Crystal Sushi rolls offered. Rolls are topped with a delicate slice of crystal-clear jelly meticulously infused with eye-catching ingredients and explosive flavors such as sake and rose.
Shifting to the Roma menu, classics like a Linguine alle Vongole capture the essence of Italian flavors. A hearty Malfalde made with an oxtail ragu and white truffle was perfect, especially when the weather was colder.
Your second stomach takes a win with the dessert menu. A fresh classic Tiramisu is assembled tableside with strong coffee straight from the Moka pot. The Limone wraps a ricotta filling subtly infused with Amalfi lemon zest in a delicate white chocolate shell perfect for closing the night.
What about drinks?
The menu and vibes are supported by Aqua Spirit, a 44-seat expansive bar serving a cocktail lounge experience. The cocktail menu features classics made with a twist. The Founder’s Negroni introduces a rich twist on the classic, blending gin, Campari, and house-infused vermouth, fat-washed for added depth. From Japanese Sake to Italian wines, there’s a drink to accompany all your taste preferences.
Final thoughts?
If you’re looking to impress you’re more chicest friends at dinner, get a table at Aqua. The music is great, the food is absolutely mouthwatering, and the drinks are bountiful.
Top Takeaways
Location: Flatiron, New York
Address: 902 Broadway, New York, NY 10010
Cuisine: Italian & Japanese
The vibe: A swanky vibe restaurant you’ll want to bring all your coolest friends to.
Pricing: $$$
Takes reservations? Yes– Resy
Our favorite dish on the menu: The Malfalde–a hearty oxtail ragu topped with white truffle– has me dreaming about ordering it once more. Share the Tiramisu, where guests can order the classic flavor or Matcha, assembled tableside for a quick spectacle.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Open Monday – Friday 11:30 A.M.– 2:30 P.M. for Lunch. Open Sunday – Wednesday 5:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. and Thursday – Saturday 5:00 P.M. – 10:30 P.M. for Dinner.
