While New York is used to the world’s
best food, the word “Russian Cuisine” still sounds mysterious and foreign
to most New Yorkers. A good place to start is Firebird – perhaps the most upscale and beautiful Russian dining spot in the city.

Centrally located in midtown’s Restaurant Row, Firebird has become a favorite eatery among Russian transplants. However, according to owner Joe Valentine, the majority of the restaurant’s guests are young Americans
and European tourists.

Firebird has done a superior job with its decor. Designed in a Russian pre-revolutionary style, the entire restaurant’s style epitomizes the meaning of honor and sophistication of the
Russian way.

To satisfy your palate, the bar offers over 200 different types of vodka – a must in
a Russian restaurant. Apart from the favorite Russian Standard and Beluga, you can explore different vodka fusions; a honey vodka infused liqueur is one of the most popular.

All three floors are filled with classic Russian artifacts. The first floor is divided into the China Room and the
Library. Dozens of black and white
photos of the most memorable Russian icons (Peter Tchaikovsky, Anna
Pavlova, Gregory Rasputin and many others) decorate the green walls which combine with red chairs, keeping the tradition of the typical colors in Russia many decades ago. You may
also find plenty of traditional Russian symbols such as a Russian
samovar, a variety of Matreshkas, Faberge-eggs and rows of legendary Russian literature on the shelves.

In the middle of the
Library is a decorative apple tree which honors the restaurant’s name. According to Russian mythology a ‘firebird’ could only be caught by enticing it with an apple. The room is surrounded by mirrors, a
chandelier with multiple candles and chairs and sofas covered in luxurious, rich fabrics.

The second and third floors are
available for special events only. The Blue Room and The Ballroom seem more like a museum than a restaurant’s private room. On the walls you will find the original 1910 Firebird ballet costumes, as well as crystal
chandeliers and masterful paintings of Russian characters. Musical types are welcome to use the baby grand piano in
the Parlor.

For private parties, the third floor is guaranteed to impress. The Jewel of Russia seats 16 guests,
perfect for a private dinner. Red colors, the presence of a large Samovar on a cabinet and a classic book collection create the unique
atmosphere of dining in a Tzar’s manor; yet still maintaining the air of warmth and coziness. LV – the other room on the third floor- feels chic and magnificent
from every angle.

The room seats 30 and
is the largest private room at Firebird. Especially ideal in the summertime with its comfortable outdoor terrace.

Of course, Firebird serves the typical Russian dishes including Venigret, Chicken Kiev,
Borscht and many others. However it should be said that the traditional cuisine has been slightly altered
by executive Chef Paul Joseph. As Valentine says, “What we want to offer
is cuisine in a Russian tradition but with a unique twist.”

Firebird is perfect for caviar lovers. A special caviar menu provides up to seven
different types of the unforgettable Russian delicacy.

Every Thursday
from 5-7pm, for $100 per person, guests can indulge at whim on:

-Caviars, including the rare
Grinnel with a black aubergine color and a lemony citrus flavor, served with
traditional accoutrements: blinis or toast points, red onion, egg white, egg
yolk and crème fraîche.  (Caviars will be
served in 1oz portions at a time.)

-Champagne cocktails like
Bellinis with peach nectar or Kir Royals.

-Vodka served in ice-cold flutes,
or vodka cocktails like the Moscow Mule.

Truth be told, Firebird not only
celebrates Russian cuisine but it’s also a work of art. Those missing an authentic Russian environment or eager to be introduced to Russian culture and dining should visit Firebird. It’s open seven days a week to satisfy cravings.

365 W 46th St, New York NY 10036;
tel (212) 586-0244
www.firebirdrestaurant.com/