In a momentous event for both the culinary and arts communities, renowned celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is set to unveil his latest venture, Metropolis, at the opulent $500 million Perelman Performing Arts Center near the iconic World Trade Center. Opening its doors on November 1, this gastronomic haven promises an exquisite dining experience in the heart of Lower Manhattan.
For Samuelsson, this endeavor is not just a new restaurant; it marks a poignant return to a site he holds dear. Having cooked tirelessly for rescue workers in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and throughout the subsequent excavation efforts, being back here over two decades later is a deeply personal and meaningful endeavor.
Metropolis boasts a 135-seat dining room, a stylish bar, and a beautifully landscaped terrace that offers breathtaking views. Executive chef Ed Tinoco, who brings a wealth of experience from his time as the culinary director at the renowned Alinea in Chicago, is in charge of the culinary team, which Samuelsson has meticulously assembled.
The menu at Metropolis is a love letter to New York City, celebrating the diverse flavors and cultural influences that define the city's boroughs. With dishes ranging from a tantalizing seafood tower featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables, priced between $45 and $100, to Flushing-inspired oysters elevated with lemon, shiso, and XO sauce, every plate is a culinary masterpiece.
The main courses are equally impressive, featuring dishes like the succulent lamb trio served with Filipino kare kare sauce and the exquisite Arctic char served with uni beurre blanc and agrodolce cucumbers. Each dish is a testament to the culinary prowess and creativity of the team, showcasing a fusion of flavors that promises to leave diners enthralled.
The interior of Metropolis is a testament to the visionary design of David Rockwell's Rockwell Group, known for their work on some of New York's most iconic establishments. With a sleek mid-century minimalism and an intriguing maze-like ceiling, the restaurant exudes an air of sophistication that complements the grandeur of the Perelman Performing Arts Center itself.
Adjacent to the dining area, Samuelsson's Wine Barre beckons with an enticing selection of wines, local beers, and delectable nibbles, creating an inviting space for guests to unwind before or after their dining experience.
Metropolis, situated within the resplendent Perelman Performing Arts Center, is more than a restaurant; it's a testament to the resilience and creativity of New York City. As the final chapter in the reconstruction of the World Trade Center after 9/11, it stands as a beacon of hope, offering a place for the arts and culinary excellence to flourish once more. Marcus Samuelsson's Metropolis is poised to become an integral part of the city's cultural landscape, a place where art, food, and community converge in a celebration of the human spirit.
