Lunch spread at Bistango, courtesy of Jahleah Santiago
Bistango (145 East 50th Street) at The Kimberly Hotel is a gem offering multi-regional Italian cuisine with an impressive range of gluten-free options (EVERYTHING CAN BE MADE GF). My culinary adventure began as soon as I stepped through the stunning entrance of The Kimberly Hotel, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable lunch. As summertime graced Manhattan, I chose to sit outside, and boy, was that a great decision! The spacious yet cozy seating allowed me to enjoy the fresh air while basking in the elegant ambiance. For those who prefer indoor dining, Bistango doesn’t disappoint either. The interior is adorned with an enormous and beautiful fishtank and captivating artwork like sculptures and paintings, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Lobster Stuffed Avocado, Courtesy of Jahleah Santiago
Let’s talk food, shall we? Kicking off my evening, I dove into the Lobster Stuffed Avocado. Picture this: baby kale, a luscious balsamic reduction, and crispy shallots all coming together in a dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a creamy and delicious starter for more than one diner. Trust me, this is the appetizer dreams are made of, especially for those that are keeping it light. Now, if you're a pizza lover, brace yourself. The gluten-free pizza selection at Bistango is out of this world. I opted for the Fig and Speck pizza, which featured a roasted garlic and herb ricotta spread topped with a drizzle of spicy honey. The combination of sweet and savory flavors was a symphony in my mouth, setting the stage for the rest of the meal.
Squid Ink Lobster Ravioli, Courtesy of Jahleah Santiago
The main courses? Dreamy and savory. I started with the Squid Ink Lobster Ravioli, which came swimming in a sherry wine sauce with heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, the Fusilli Trapanese arrived. This dish, with its tomato pesto, pecorino cheese, and roasted almonds, tied for the top spot in my heart. Both pastas were gluten-free, and I could not tell the difference from traditional pasta – the flavors were that rich and satisfying.
Mascarpone Cheesecake, Courtesy of Jahleah
A notable mention goes to the Roasted Beets salad. Light, warm, and vibrant, with citrus ricotta, watercress, lemon vinaigrette, and roasted pistachios, it felt like plated sunshine. And just when I thought I couldn’t eat another bite, dessert arrived – a heavenly Mascarpone Cheesecake topped with blueberry compote. It was the perfect light and sweet ending to a fantastic meal.But wait, I can’t forget to rave about the service! Our waiter was nothing short of amazing, providing attentive and friendly service that truly elevated the entire dining experience. He was knowledgeable about the menu and eager to accommodate our every need, making us feel right at home.