innovative cuisine...,midtown like Acquvit (a bit high) or Nougatine in the low to mid range

[ut88keys]

Any additional ideas ..dont really want Italian...just great fresh food...international OK...just want something other than the same old tired recipes....thanks...

[crsin]

Actually, while we're (sort of) on the subject, I'm also looking for a midtown spot--preferably W of 5th ave. (but probably not much further W than 8th), high-40s to low-60s. The two best options I can come up with are Marea or The Modern Bar Room. Problem is, every time I read reviews I'll see several saying how great one is, but there seem to be enough that say "ho-hum" to leave me indecisive. So what are some thoughts on MBR vs. Marea?

I also realize another reason I often have a tough time in this area of town is that most places seem to straddle one of two extremes--the ultra-pricey with bland corporate atmosphere, or the no reservations, long lines and deafening decibel level varieties. Tough to find a middle ground that still serves very good food. Perhaps that's the Bar Room. (for the record, I think Ma Peche does a good job in this middle ground, but am looking for something new).

[Sneakeater]

You should consider Seasonal (if it ever reopens).

[crsin]

Good suggestion, but should have specified--I've done Seasonal, and am looking for something new. Also in this vicinity, have been to Quality Meats, which doesn't really get any play on the boards, but I really enjoyed.

[Scott_C]

The Modern

[arepo]

Instead of Nougatine, which I like but do not find particularly innovative, try across the street at Marea, with upscale seafood and a top reputation.

[Sneakeater]

If Aquavit is a bit high, Marea is going to be VERY expensive.

I'm also not sure it's innovative in the way the OP seems to want.

[arepo]

True but neither is Nougatine.
Perhaps La Silhouette would fill the bill. Frankly, I am not sure what the op means by "innovative".

[Sneakeater]

It would be helpful to know.

[ut88keys]

fennel and squid ice cream hahahaa
do not want upscale...sick of the ordinary...tired recipes...want the stuff of Northern coastal spain...haha on a budget...I know impossible.....its just food not gold...

I hate to bring husband to NY for the first time and have thai,Italian,or couscous.....where are the top chef winners..... possibilities
Sakagura
Vitae
Respite
Ze Cafe
Wilde Edibles
Matisee
got opinions on these? thanks
...

[Nancy S.]

Top Chef winners and innovative may be mutually exclusive.

[crsin]

Heh. None of the contestant-affiliated restaurant are in midtown, anyway. And actually, the Top Chef contestants in NYC that I can think of seem to be doing great things--Kin Shop, Pig & Khao, Talde...although I've never actually eaten at any of them so can't speak to how innovative they are.

This brings up a good question: OP, is there a specific reason you're looking to eat only in midtown? Is this just for convenience for one meal and you already have the rest planned out, or are you trying to stay close to your hotel or what?

[Bkeats]

Of the places on your list, I've only been to Sakagura.I really like it a lot but I would not call it innovative. If you don't have izakayas where you are coming from, then it will definitely be different. I also don't consider it low range. If you are into sakes, it won't be mid range either. The bill can get high quickly. The plates are small and the sake is good.

Perhaps Acme will fit your needs.

Giving a $ price would be helpful to understand what you mean by low to mid. My mid maybe your low or high.

[crsin]

Unfortunately, Acme won't fill their location needs. OP is looking to stick to midtown.

[Bkeats]

What do you find innovative about these 6? I looked on line at the menus I could find. I already said that Sakagura is different but not innovative. The other 5 aren't even in the different camp. Menus look pretty middle of the road to me. Matisse is not even close to innovative. Looks like typical bistro fare. Says cuisine traditionnelle on the website. A clue that its not innovative.

[ut88keys]

I didnt say they were creative...just running out of options...going during christmas week and want to be near the hotel....because of the weather....going to the windows and a two day trip to the city for a person who's never been.....don want to try to mess with the subway...etc..leaning towards Sakagura and wild edibles...

[Bkeats]

Ok - I thought you were looking for innovative. If its just about getting food close to your hotel, I guess your choices could be fine. As to weather, are you worried about it being cold or something else? Christmas is a while away and I have no clue what it will be like other than chilly. If you are afraid of the subways, you can always take a cab. But if you want to stay in midtown and want to try a place which is a different but not too dear on price, may be Ma Peche will work. Much more creative than anything on your list. I think the prices are reasonable but YMMV.

[MrGrumpy]

Seasonal

[Sneakeater]

Ma Peche?

[boredough]

Aquavit is on Savored, so you should go there while you can still get 30% discount. Went there a few weeks ago and had a fabulous dinner.

[ut88keys]

I wish I could be going over christmas..

[boredough]

Then unless Aquavit decides to drop out of Savored completely, they might still offer reservations in December. You need to keep checking the site. I did a random spot-check of 5 other restaurants and none offer dates in December....yet. Good luck.