With famed attractions such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Madison Square Garden, it’s no secret that Manhattan’s Midtown neighborhood is tourist-packed and lively at every corner. For those seeking something a little more upscale than street-food stands, opt to dine at AperiBar — LUMA Hotel Times Square’s new signature restaurant.
Founded by renowned American chef Charlie Palmer, he envisioned AperiBar to emulate European-esque dining with an Italian menu comprising small bites and cocktails. Walking into the hotel, the lobby/open bar draws people in with white stools lining a sleek countertop; cured meats hang from the ceiling above it. A relaxed European-style atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City, AperiBar’s dark interiors and dim lighting spawn a moody aesthetic.
Serving sharable Italian dishes, guests can start with a selection of antipasti (try the Artichoke Romano, with parmesan, mint, lemon, and pine nuts as a light and delicious starter). When it comes to ordering a classic Italian-style meal, the main course options here are all molto buono — you can’t go wrong with the pizza and pasta (if you ask us, we recommend ordering the Salsiccia, which comprises fennel pork sausage, tomato, onion, and mozzarella); other options include seafood, meat, and plant-based platters with a Mediterranean twist (gluten- and dairy-free options are available, too). To finish off the meal, the restaurant offers an assortment of delicious, sweet treats: unique gelato flavors including hazelnut and olive oil, as well as saffron dessert concoctions such as the Zafferano, which consists of vanilla gelato, saffron, and wildflower honey (we recommend trying the Gianduja which is gelato flavored with chocolate and Italian toasted hazelnut).
The wine menu is “above par” (sorry, we felt compelled to do that). Beyond negronis and spritzes, AperiBar features an expertly crafted wine list with 100% Italian varietals including 23 different sparkling wines.
When it comes to a nightcap, AperiBar’s cocktail lounge is Times Square’s newest imbibe destination (before the evening comes to a close, we suggest ordering their AperiSpritz, which features Aperol, prosecco, grapefruit, and club soda).
Top Takeaways:
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price Point: $
- Takes Reservations: Yes
- Our favorite thing on the menu: The Spaghetti al Limone is mouthwatering from the first to the final bite. It comprises lemon, Romano beans, parmesan cheese, and freshly made pasta. So simple, yet so delicious at the same time.
- The vibe: A relaxed European dining capsule amidst the hustle and bustle of Times Square.
- Casual or Fancy: Casual
- Breakfast, lunch, or dinner: Breakfast: Monday – Friday 7 – 10:30 am / Saturday + Sunday 7 – 11 am; Dinner: Wednesday – Sunday 5 – 11 pm; Bar & Lounge: Sunday – Wednesday 4 – 11 pm / Thursday – Saturday 4 – 12 am
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