Isola Trattoria and Crudo Bar is located on the ground floor of the Mondrian Hotel, New York. The Italian restaurant is an impressive space - a large open plan room with a glass roof, floor-to-ceiling windows adorned with beautiful chandeliers. Interspersed with greenery, it’s almost an extension of the restaurants natural surroundings. In fact, that was the aim of the restaurant, which is inspired by the Amalfi coast.
With such an impressive space, it’s easy to see why this restaurant is so popular. We were pleased to be welcomed into such a busy and buzzy atmosphere, which really set the tone for the rest of the evening.
“Victor LaPlaca ensures that the interior of the restaurant is second only to the wow factor of his menu.”
Once we’d arrived, we decided to have an aperitif at the bar before sitting down for our meal. The cocktail list was so inviting, we couldn’t resist. We opted to try the Uva Di Uva cocktail – a blend of Kappa Pisco, grapes, lemon and demerara sugar – and the Isola Caprese – a mix of Plymouth gin, basil, grape tomato, lemon, balsamic vinegar, Perrier and black pepper. Both cocktails were simply delicious and expertly made. We were particularly impressed with the use of Plymouth gin, which made the Isola Caprese that little bit more impressive.
After our cocktails, we sat down for dinner, and after surveying the impressive menu, we made out choices. To start, we opted for the Burrata Caprese with arugula pesto and aged balsamic; and the Roasted Baby Beets with ramp pesto and pistachio. The flavours in the starters were outstanding and left us eager for our main courses.
For the main event, we both went for the 16oz sirloin with mushroom polenta and truffled lardo, and were not disappointed. The meat was cooked perfectly and the accompanying elements of the dishes complimented the meat impeccably. We were very impressed with the level of skill involved in the cooking.
The impressive food offering actually comes as little surprise, considering the restaurant is headed up by Sicilian executive chef Victor LaPlaca. His specialities include using on the freshest seasonal ingredients and creating delicious homemade pastas. Victor LaPlaca ensures that the interior of the restaurant is second only to the wow factor of his menu.
The impressive interior, delicious cocktails and even more impressive menu makes Isola Trattoria and Crudo Bar a must visit for us if you’re in New York. Be sure to make the time to experience this special restaurant – you won’t be disappointed.
The Bill: £76 per head
