There is clearly enough demand for high-end Chinese cuisine to keep New York’s restaurants constantly busy. However, very few venues enjoy the ‘place to be’ status and are a ‘must’ in the calendar of the rich and famous. Philippe New York is ‘the place,’ and one of the best restaurants in the city. Our intrepid ‘girl about town’ Maryna Dar discovers what makes Philippe a favorite for Anna Wintour, Jay Z and Robert DeNiro.

Philippe New York remains as popular as ever since opening in December 2005, earning an enormous number of positive reviews, including “Best in Chinese” award by Zagat last year. Being both a rebellious skeptic and big fan of classic Chinese cuisine, I decided to visit Philippe New York and discover the truth for myself.

The first thing that impressed me as we walked in was the chic modern design. A combination of blacks, whites and reds create a cozy, intimate setting. Candlelight, plush banquettes, and large booths all add to the atmosphere. Each part of the interior speaks elegance through-through.

I couldn’t help noticing that music playing in the main dining area was slightly louder than in most restaurants, but not so loud; which is ideal for someone who prefers a lounge-like and conversation-stimulating atmosphere to a place where you can hear every bite at the neighboring table. Many people come here with a group of friends or bring family. And for those who crave privacy or a more intimate setting Philippe offers a cellar and two private rooms – all perfectly suited for the ultimate exclusive dining experience.

We were seated in the main dining area, with a very trendy ambiance. Patrons of the restaurant were well-dressed, yet not in an over-the-top formal way, and celebrity culture was still in the air as Beyoncé and Jay Z just visited the restaurant with a group of 20 guests the night before our team did.

The most remarkable experience at Philippe was far beyond just being seen there. The food was simply excellent and the service – impeccable. Even if you think that you have already tried every dish created by the art of Asian-fusion cuisine, executive chef Philippe Chow still can surprise you with his exotic menu. In fact, Chef Chow has been noted as one of the most prominent Asian culinary artisans of our time. He started in Hong Kong and later brought his expertise & worldly experience to New York’s famed Mr. Chow on 57th Street, where he worked for 25 years before he introduced his very own Philippe restaurant in 2005.

Chef Chow’s signature-preparations on the menu include equally unique and popular delights like Crispy Beef, Peking Chicken, Chicken Satay, Maine Lobster Spring Rolls and Green Prawns. All entrées are served for two-three persons, so that a couple, a family or a group can share the experience; of course you can choose a half order on most items. Many of the dishes are prepared with heavy sauces, yet you can find a lighter equivalent of every special dish, usually steamed.

Of course we had to start with the special Maine Lobster Spring Rolls for an appetizer, followed by a sampler of 6 assorted dumplings delicately steamed to perfection. The Sampler is a great option for those who are willing to try a little bit of everything. Vegetable Dumplings are made with assorted Chinese vegetables and mushrooms, Chicken Sieu Mai – with chicken and black mushrooms. Jade Dumplings with shrimp and bamboo shoots are my newfound favorite starter. Shrimp Toast is another good one for seafood-lovers to try. Additionally, and to my surprise, we were served a Chicken Toast in bright orange spicy sauce which was an off-the menu- secret.

Chef Chow’s signature Peking Duck was a tempting option for the main course for it’s often considered to be the best in the city and New York Magazine named it the ‘Best of the Best’ (2007). However, I was in the mood for something else.

I enjoyed an enormous (2.5 – 3 lbs!) yet tender Live Maine Lobster steamed and delicately sprinkled with cracked black pepper, wreathed in a crown of refreshing ginger and scallions.

As for the drinks, the night started with a delicious, sweet and refreshing cocktail, the Philipptini, made with Absolut vodka, lychee and fresh squeezed pineapple juice, triple sec, and a splash of Chambord. There is a good reason why it is on a specials menu. Later I switched to dry white California Chardonnay with its creamy texture and a hint of baked apple and spice to go well with my seafood. And finally, black espresso was the perfect complement to my decadent dessert.

The most memorable part of dessert was an amazing 100% Fruit Sorbet selection with mango, watermelon, and grape flavors, hand-made by the Chef in the morning. I was highly recommended to give it a try even though I had just finished an excellent Red Velvet Cake, as well as a Molten Chocolate Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream complemented by chocolate sauce. And I’m so glad that I couldn’t resist!

That was the best sorbet I’ve ever had. Mango sorbet has a very smooth texture, not crystallized, like your average sorbet. Watermelon one is juicy and fresh. And grape sorbet is my favorite because tiny pieces of grape skin frozen inside gave it a unique feel.

Finally, a great dinner at a Chinese restaurant would not be complete without a great fortune cookie. Surprisingly, chocolate-flavored fortune cookies were served. The message inside was yet even more surprising “Kinky is using a feather – Perverted is using the whole chicken.”

My final verdict: excellent experience! So, if you are a fan of classic Chinese cuisine, like me, or feeling hungry for familiar pleasures of old-fashioned home cooking with a new special flair, there’s no better place in New York than Philippe.

Conveniently located on Madison Avenue & 60th Street, it’s just a few blocks away from the Fifth Ave shops and Central Park. While dinner reservations are highly recommended during the week, Sunday is currently the least busy day. Another great option is to try the famed lunch special. In case you miss your favorite dish while traveling, visit Philippe at one of the great locations outside of New York City, which include Los Angeles, Miami, Mexico City, and Jericho, NY.

Philippe New York
33 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10065; 212-644-8885
www.philippechow.com

Maryna Dar is HOMBRE‘s ‘Girl About Town’ and a correspondent for HOMBRE TV.