Holiday Dining in Style at Columbus Circle
It’s the most glorious time of the year, when New York City comes alive with lights and traditions and great things to eat and drink. Give yourself an early present and head to The Restaurant and Bar Collection at The Shops at Columbus Circle. Here, you’ll find a collection of restaurants and lounges led by trailblazing chefs and cocktail wizards who are pulling out all the stops for the holidays. And with the annual Holiday Under the Stars — which showcases a dozen massive illuminated stars hanging from the ceiling of the Great Room — you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful way to celebrate the season. Here are some of our favorite dishes and drinks.
Bluebird London
Bluebird London is getting into the spirit with its Winter Afternoon Tea, which puts a festive twist on things by serving holiday-inspired sweets like an Egg Nog and Peppermint Cream Puff. On Christmas Day itself, Bluebird is going the traditional route with a classic British supper. Feast on dishes like Pheasant with Smoked Chestnuts and Caramelized Sunchokes. Group Executive Chef Bogdan Danila channels his 15 years of European experience for this quintessential British holiday entrée that he’s reinterpreted to appeal to New Yorkers’ tastes.
Ascent Lounge New York
When you want to feel warm and cozy, find a beverage that evokes the season. Look no further than the swanky Ascent Lounge New York, which is serving a seasonal drink that is sure to become the toast of the town. The Salted Caramel Pop Rocks 21 combines Grey Goose vodka infused with vanilla beans, Bailey’s salted caramel, and a fresh shot of espresso, topped off with a vanilla-caramel gelato cube. Another round? Yes, please.
Momofuku Noodle Bar
At Momofuku Noodle Bar, the featured holiday drinks are all about comfort and joy. The Apple Pie Slushie comes together with apple cider, apple butter, condensed milk, rye bonji, cinnamon, nutmeg, and whipped cream. This is a non-alcoholic beverage as is, but can be spiked with your favorite spirit. (Insider tip: The Momofuku team often adds bourbon.) Looking for a little more oomph? Opt for the Harvest Moon Highball, a cocktail that kicks it up with rosemary Reyka vodka, Bokbunja (Korean raspberry wine), Giffard Creme de Mure, and cranberry.
Center Bar
Just in time for the holidays, Center Bar is serving up the ultimate festive cocktail, the Pomegranate Smash, a winter take on a classic smash using a favorite seasonal fruit — pomegranate — instead of grenadine. Mixologists combine High West Prairie Bourbon, pomegranate, simple syrup, and lemon juice, then drizzle with pomegranate molasses and garnish with pomegranate seeds and mint. Enjoy this seasonal delight in a julep cup over crushed ice. Cheers!