Nestled amongst the towering skyscrapers and bustling hubbub of New York's Chelsea neighborhood, you will find Buddakan, a spectacle of culinary delights that has firmly established itself as a jewel in the city's gourmet crown. This iconic restaurant, known as much for its opulent atmosphere as its exquisite Asian-fusion cuisine, is an unmissable experience for any food and culture enthusiast passing through the Big Apple.
Buddakan's doors first opened to acclaim in March 2006. A glittering testament to the vision of restaurateur Stephen Starr, the Buddakan quickly rose to fame, not only for its tantalizing dishes and cocktails but also for its unforgettable grandeur. Embracing a vast 16,000 square feet, every inch of this eatery has been meticulously crafted to take diners on a sensory journey to the Far East while sitting on the edge of the West.
With two ornately decorated dining areas, speckled with traditional Chinese motifs and backlit by warm, seductive lighting, setting foot into Buddakan is akin to entering an ancient Chinese palace. But it's the breathtaking Chinoiserie multi-story grand dining room, home to a 30-foot long communal table surrounded by dreamy twilight blue walls, that truly steals the show in this magnificent culinary theater. This exquisite setting has made it the backdrop to many silver screen scenes, including the unforgettable rehearsal dinner in the 'Sex and the City' movie.
The culinary marvels crafted in Buddakan's kitchens are as diverse and enchanting as its ambiance. The innovative menu presents a modern interpretation of traditional Asian dishes, ensuring that food lovers will rejoice in each morsel they sample, whether it's the famous edamame dumplings or the tantalizing Kung Pao Monkfish. Even the drinks reflect the utmost care for quality and tradition, with Asian beers and a thorough sake selection available alongside Western wines and innovative cocktails.
In conclusion, Buddakan is much more than just a restaurant—it's a sensory playground that ensnares sight, taste, and spirit alike. Whether you come to savor the mouth-watering offerings of the East, to indulge in an unforgettable evening in an other-worldly ambiance or merely to see why it's a beloved film and television backdrop, Buddakan encompasses an essential New York experience that shouldn't be missed. So, why wait? Your adventure in the East, nestled in the heart of the West, awaits you.
