Aquavit

i never write reviews, but feel compelled to write after the fantastic experience i had at aquavit. everything was fantastic. the lobster roll was wrapped in a subtle apple wrapping and served with a gingerale cleanser. i have never liked herring, but the herring tasting appetizer my mother had was amazing. the fois gras genache was nothing short of melt in your mouth spectacular. finally, the favorite dessert of the evening was the unlikely goat cheese ganache with blueberry sorbet and passion fruit curd creme. it was the perfect blend of sweet and creamy. the humbolt fog was also an amazing creamy delicious cheese. all together amazing... highly recommended!

We went as a party of four to aquavit which is a bit hidden away on 55th street behind its purple awning. Greeting was good, and we went through what looked like an empty restaurant (saturday 7.30pm) until we got to what must have been the main dining area which was busy and bustling. We had the tasting menu all round, with the wine pairing for two of us. The food was beautifully presented, not at all what I had expected (meatballs and herring being the stereotypical expression of Swedish food). The wines got better as we got through the meal. (or so it seemed). Generally the food went down very well. Interesting flavours. On the downside, Beef tartare was over salted for me, and the desserts were not that exciting (though the goat cheese parfait disappeared quickly). Two of our party had special requests for the staff (food intolerances) and the waiter who served us was very accommodating in fixing it so we could all still have the seven courses. I would recommend this place.

Provided you have the cash, just an relaxed, elegant place for a celebration or business meeting.

Went to Aquavit for restaurant week (RW) a few months ago, and usually, for RW, the food is not that impressive, but good enough. I was BLOWN but the quality and taste of the food here. From the simple squash soup, to the dessert (goat cheese something), I was in complete awe. The other people I was with loved the food also. I hope you'll have the same experience that I had, and happy dining. Service was pleasant, place is clean and simple and didn't find it too noisy at all.

The food was unique, and interesting. We had the Sunday brunch, one of the best I have ever had. The atmosphere was simple, clean and tasteful. service was very good, but could have been a bit better. Bottom line you won't be disappointed with your meal. We will definately make this a regular stop. Thanks for the great experience

The hot smoked salmon with celeriac puree & apple horseradish broth was quite a memorable experience that I still fantasize about months after eating it. For that reason alone, despite bland atmostphere and average service, I have to heartily recommend this place.

Went for Lunch...Aquavit is very simple in its decor with a very cool sleek understated elegance...Lighting is almost melancholy i guess somewhat indicative of its nordic pedigree... The main dining room is very intimate but a bit claustrophobic due to its small size and muted tones... you feel almost as if the other diners and you are invited guests...The acoustics are very good considering its relative sparseness...We started with the herring sampler and Bibb Lettuce salad...The herring was excellent...4 types give a very good example of the subtle differences...None of the usual saltiness or bite associated with this fish..A testament to the talent of its creator....accompanied with 2 warm new potatoes it was a sublime appetizer...The salad comes with a delicious creamy sheepsmilk cheese dressing..very clean and freshtasting...We both had the beef rydberg which was very hearty for a cold november day...Very tender beef, rich gravy with great fried or sauteed potatoes The 3 dressings that accompany the beef make this delicious comfort food... desert was the delicious hazelnut cream..all presentations are beautiful...service was impeccable, attentive but not intrusive.. Bread was delicios...Oh yes, lest I forget...As we we waiting by the entrance, on his way out we were greeted by the great master Marcus Samuelsson who asked us if we enjoyed everything...It doesnt get any better than that !