Best Restaurants for Creative Cuisine in South Street Seaport

The food and service was exceptional as it has been every time we have dined at Beauty and Essex.

The chef and entire team were flawless. We came to celebrate my mother’s retirement. I’m a long time NYer (23 years!) and my mom lives in Miami and is an avid world traveler/diner. Our cocktails were very inventive and delicious. I wanted a seasonal pumpkin coconut cocktail and it was a great way to start the night. Our server surprised us with an amuse bûche and extra dessert to celebrate her retirement. Another complement to our wonderful server is that he was insightful enough the ask about if I ate gelatin before surprising us with the amusement bûche after I told him about my dietary restriction. The ‘sole for two’ and tagliatelle with shaved truffles was to die for. The atmosphere itself with all the botanical elements is a pure joy, it reminded me a lot of the contemporary art gardens I’ve visited in Brazil designed by Burle Marx. My mom and I were so enamored with the sole she asked if we could come and try the lunch tasting menu before her short NYC trip ended. I know Le Jardinier has a Michelin star but I feel like people are sleeping on how excellent this restaurant is. We’re also going to Carbone and Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi while she’s in town and honestly Le Jardinier deserves just as much fanfare.

Simply amazing food and service. Loved. Loved. Loved.

We love this restaurant, the menu is unique and creative while being delicious. There’s something for everyone for meat lovers and those who prefer delicacies from the sea. The crudo selection is varied from octopus to tuna and scallops. Our favorite is the tuna. The appetizers are unique and delicious with a varied selection. The main plates are inventive and all ingredients are fresh and leave you wanting more. I had the short ribs, my husband had the dorado. The dessert selection is also incredible, vegan choices, chocolate lovers, from decadent to light. The service from the hostess to the wait staff all very welcoming, professional and efficient. The ambiance and decor is beautifully done. The tables are large enough for the fancy large plates and romantic table lamps, and assortment of drinking glasses. I have to mention the chairs because I have back problems with pain if I sit too long. They are without a doubt the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat in at a restaurant. They are supper supportive and the perfect height for the table and not too heavy to move in and out from the table. The ladies restroom is beautifully designed and decorated while being very clean. Ladies needs are always available for those who may need any necessities. A very high end restaurant in our little town of Jersey City. 💙

Fantastic creative cuisine served by professionals in a beautiful space- what's not to like? Angie Mar's personal touch made it even better!