NYC’s Park South Hotel Is Home To Two Terrific And Completely Different Restaurants: GG Tokyo And Sweetbriar

NoMad has recently become one of New York City’s hotspots for both tourists and locals. This is the place to find luxury hotels, upscale condos and an incredible assortment of terrific dining options. If you find yourself in this enclave north of Madison Square Park, consider stopping by two of my favorite places for a special night out.

GG Tokyo is the perfect place to start (or end) a New York City evening. This stylish cocktail bar and sushi counter was inspired by six tiny alleyways in Shinjuku, Tokyo known as the Golden Gai. In Tokyo, the area is best known for its lively vibe and is a favorite of musicians, artists, writers, academics, and celebrities. In New York, it is the ideal spot for a creative cocktail and several plates of something delicious.

There is an extensive sake selection to enjoy, as well as unusual cocktails, such as a “Truffle Martini” made with truffle-infused vodka and “The Mermaid,” a concoction that features beet-infused rum and yuzu. To supplement your drinks, you can enjoy top-quality sushi or some pork gyoza or Japanese fried chicken. And why not end the evening with a bowl of matcha ice cream?

It may feel like a world away, but a short jaunt through the hotel lobby and you will find yourself at Sweetbriar. This restaurant has a fun, celebratory vibe and is the place to go for American classics with a contemporary twist. Chef Bryce Shuman takes advantage of a large wood-burning oven and local produce to create perfect meals that work for both casual meals and special occasions.

The menu is divided into “Pantry,” “Market,” “Wood Oven,” “Farm” and “Sea.” But beforehand, you should consider one of their signature mixed drinks. My favorite is the Elixir, made of teas-infused gin, lemon, fig preserves and Laphroag. An extensive wine and beer list is also available. Pantry favorites include rosemary crisps and white bean dip and assorted pickles. It is hard to resist the wood-oven pizzas that arrive sizzling and can be topped with fire-roasted mushrooms or spring garlic. Another oven favorite is arguably the best cornbread in the city. If you are feeling virtuous, you can order a salad nicoise or seasonal vegetable crudites from the Market. The Farm offers a terrific hanger steak with brown butter hollandaise and very popular brisket sliders. Fish-lovers will not be disappointed if they order the fire-roasted bouillabaisse or the branzino with mint chutney. The pear tart is a nice way to end the meal.

These two NoMad establishments offer completely different, but equally delicious meals.