Set the scene.
Discerning diners know Lincoln Center is home to New York City’s most talked-about and consistently number-one-rated restaurant. But, this isn’t the sort of stuffy fine dining establishment most might expect.
Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi is reshaping New York City’s culinary scene with its dynamic, convivial, and unpretentious approach.
The restaurant pays tribute to the former San Juan Hill neighborhood, once home to a thriving Black and Puerto Rican community that was displaced in the 1950s to make room for Lincoln Center. Known as the “Harlem of the West,” San Juan Hill was the heartbeat of New York’s jazz, blues, and early hip-hop scenes.
New York-based architecture firm Modellus Novus (MN) was tapped to bring Chef Kwame’s vision to life, incorporating acknowledgments of his upbringing in the South Bronx. Graphite-glazed tiles shimmer like oil-slicked streets in the sun, industrial columns clad in chromate-treated steel evoke summer days playing around fire hydrants, and the open kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary team in action.
Bold elements like velvet banquettes, gold chain-link curtains, and cloud-like lighting pendants foster an atmosphere of warmth and wonder. Reggaeton, rap, and hip-hop music bump from the speakers, giving every meal an uplifting, almost club-like vibe.
Chef Kwame collaborated with Tanya Amini of Lady and Butler to design uniforms that balance style and practicality: aprons resemble oversized belts with side pockets, and chef jackets feature a modern double-breasted crossover design with hidden snaps and a deep-V Mandarin collar.
What can we expect from the food?
The restaurant is named after Chef Kwame’s sister, so it should be no surprise that his dishes are deeply personal. Each is an homage to his childhood, global culinary experience, and the resilient communities that continue to influence him, fusing Afro-Caribbean flavors, New York street food, and expert technique.
Start with savory Cornbread with currier honey butter and Curried Goat Patties with green seasoning aioli and mango chutney–a nod to his African heritage.
Braised Oxtails with rice and peas, Thumbelina carrot, and chayote carrot, are a hearty, comforting reminder of Chef Kwame’s roots, while the Short Rib Pastrami Suya combines wagyu short rib, caraway coco bread, and melted red cabbage for a bold take on a classic.
Other standout plates include Black Bean Hummus with berbere-spiced lamb and sweet pickled sultana, Jerk Lamb Rib with pimento-smoked lamb, house pickles, and milk bread, and Mom Duke’s Shrimp, featuring head-on shrimp bathed in creole butter.
Desserts continue the creative streak, such as Golden Rum Cake drizzled with honey sweet cream and blistered gooseberries. The Bodega Special–Chef Kwame’s playful take on the Cosmic Brownie–is ever the crowd favorite, featuring powdered sugar donut ice cream and sorrel.
Tell us about the drinks.
Tatiana’s beverage program, led by industry veterans Don Lee and Amy Racine, echoes the restaurant’s ethos with a contemporary twist.
Sip on an LC Negroni, a reimagination of a beloved cocktail with the addition of Caribbean Sorel to Ford’s Gin, Campari, Aperol, and Lustau East India Sherry.
The restaurant’s signature drink, the POG Nutcracker, brings together Appleton Reserve rum with passionfruit, orange, and guava, reminiscent of the classic 90s fruit punch often secretly sold by street vendors across the city.
“Boozy Jellys” in partnership with Solid Wiggles are a fun way to do shots during a night out. Choose from options like Spicy Mezcal Passionfruit, Penicillin, and Under the Clouds, featuring tequila, orange, mango, and lime.
Final thoughts?
At Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi, every detail celebrates the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness that define both Chef Kwame and New York City itself.
Top Takeaways
Location: Lincoln Center
Address: 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY
Cuisine: Afro-Caribbean
The vibe: A vibrant blend of raw New York energy and sophisticated flair, Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi serves bold, inventive flavors in a lively setting.
Pricing: $$$
Takes reservations? Yes – Resy
Our favorite dish on the menu: The Braised Oxtails are sensational, and the Bodega Special for dessert is so deliciously nostalgic.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Tatiana is open for Dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
