Paradox alert! Mischa’s has the most boring-sounding menu in the city….but is serving up some of the most dazzling food in any of the five boroughs. Created by Alex Stupak of Empellon, Mischa’s schtick is American classics—tuna tartare, Caesar salad, cheeseburger—but reimagined in deeply satisfying ways. Fried Chicken, for example, comes with a buttery Puerto Rican dipping gravy, and two hot sauces that dance on the tongue. A hot dog appetizer is big enough for four (they’ll pre-cut if for your group), and is crafted from the finest brisket, which makes it taste like the platonic ideal of this meaty ballpark snack (it comes with 5 fun condiments). And though I inwardly groaned when my daughter ordered the hummus, it turned out to be the finest I’d ever tasted, crafted from black chickpeas, and black sesame, with a flavor profile to match the inky depths of its color. Go with a group: each dish is shareably massive, but they’re so good you’re going to want to try several. And the space, with its cushy oversized booths, long bar, art filled walls and moody lighting, is perfect for groups and special occasions.
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Restaurant
Mischa
157 E. 53rd (off Lexington Ave.)
Pauline Frommer
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Midtown East
Hours
Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm and 5-10pm, Sat 5-10pm
Transportation
Subway: E, M, 6 to 51st/53rd St.
Phone
212/466-6381
Prices
Entrees $22-$45 (less at lunch, more for steak)
Cuisine Type
Gourmet American
Web site
Mischa
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.