New York, Paris, London, Los Angeles and Milan: the world’s top five fashion capitals. Style and glamorous luxury reign in these cities. And they reign not only on the catwalks. They also reign where you least expect them: in the world of gastronomy. Can you imagine a restaurant that not only impresses with its cuisine but also presents a catwalk for the latest trends? The fashion crowd definitely gravitates toward a few restaurants that are the center of gravity for the fashion world,
Baccarat Hotel, New York
The luxurious space, with 35-foot ceilings, is decorated with chandeliers (by Baccarat, of course), rich velvet armchairs and red roses. Customers can sample champagne – the list of namesake sparkling wines is the largest in the country – and enjoy food from two Michelin-starred chef Gabriel Kreuther. Valentino, Moncler and Ermenegildo Zegna hold their events here.
Casa Lever, New York
Casa Lever, also located in midtown Manhattan, is another fashion destination. Open since 2009 and renovated by architect William T. Georgis, this sophisticated establishment serves excellent Milanese cuisine. The restaurant is decorated with striking artwork by Damien Hirst.
American Bar, New York
Once again, the Big Apple and true New York style and chic reign at American Bar, which serves continental cuisine that seems familiar to any cosmopolitan. This newcomer to the fashion scene resembles a cozy club. There’s a defiantly bright yellow dining room and a gleaming brass bar. The peanut and chicken salad and lobster pasta are dishes worth trying, and Thursday through Saturday are the best nights for people-watching and a chance to see a celebrity – or two.
Saga, New York
Saga is a newcomer to the fashion world, but an ambitious newcomer ready to become a true style center. Located on the 63rd floor of the Art Deco tower, the upscale restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu and features outdoor terraces overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. Saga’s interiors are as elegant and luxurious as its clientele and include green marble, wicker cane and brass.
Nobu Malibu, Los Angeles
As for Los Angeles, fashionistas have been flocking to the Nobu Malibu waterfront for nearly a decade. Watching the crowd dressed in unthinkable outfits never disappoints, nor does the amazing ocean view, along with sushi rolls, sashimi and other seafood dishes from the legendary Nobu Matsuhisa.
Balagan, Paris
In the City of Lights, fashion insiders are always vying for the best places to dine at Balagan. Located near St. Honoré, the Israeli restaurant has a special downtown Manhattan vibe and is decorated with blue banquettes, gold mirrors and bright tiles. Try the lamb with pistachios and harissa and be sure to order a cocktail before your meal – from a long and very creative list.
Mandarin, Milan
In Milan, the Mandarin bar and bistro at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel is rightly considered a mecca for those who adore modernity and fashion. The walls of the Mandarin are covered in black and white geometric mosaic patterns and when the weather is fine the courtyard is the center of attention.
The hotel’s chicly chic bistro bar regularly hosts fashion events. For example, Salvatore Ferragamo once had an exhibition in the courtyard where he demonstrated the process of creating a pair of custom-made shoes. Also read how to apply GetInkPreferred.com here.
The Connaught, London
Finally, in London, three Michelin-starred Hélène Darroze proves that fashion and fine dining can go hand in hand at her restaurant The Connaught. Paris-based interior architect Pierre Jovanovic is responsible for the design, which includes a custom hand-blown glass chandelier, oak tables with metal bases covered in red ceramics, and curved banquettes in soft pink, brown and green tones.
What’s more exquisite here, the interior or the food, is hard to say. Darroz’s dishes change frequently and include seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared and served on plates that look like works of art. You can’t go wrong if you choose a table for lunch or dinner, because fashion industry icons like to come to Ellen’s for both.
Conclusion
These eight restaurants are the crème de la crème of Old World glamour, with effortless style and over-the-top service. But it’s not just about looks – these restaurants are also meant to be enjoyed through their exquisite cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a place to wine and dine or somewhere to see and be seen, these iconic establishments will never fail to impress.