Usually, hotel restaurants might not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for the Best Italian Food In New York. However, Kimika, nestled in a chic boutique hotel in Nolita, is a delightful exception that’s earning well-deserved recognition, including a mention in the Michelin Guide. This isn’t your typical Italian eatery; Kimika offers an inventive menu that beautifully marries Italian culinary traditions with “meshi,” a Japanese slang term for meal, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Pasta: Where Italian Heritage Meets Japanese Innovation
The pasta dishes at Kimika are truly exceptional and showcase the restaurant’s innovative approach. During our visit, we sampled two pasta creations, each boasting distinct and memorable flavors. The thick spaghetti soy butter bigoli was a revelation. Imagine perfectly al dente pasta, generously coated in a rich butter emulsion infused with soy sauce, and then elevated with a vibrant mix of three types of chives, bright marinated tomatoes, and a crispy fried shallot gremolata. The pasta itself was the star – cooked to that ideal al dente texture that provides a satisfying bite and brimming with umami flavors that left me wanting more, even when I was supposed to share!
The second pasta dish, cavatelli with pork ragu, presented a completely different yet equally delicious flavor profile. The tender cavatelli pasta was perfectly complemented by a rich and savory pork ragu, brightened by the inclusion of fresh fava beans and creamy ricotta. This dish highlighted the versatility of Italian cuisine and Kimika’s ability to create harmonious flavor combinations.
Beyond Pasta: Exploring Kimika’s Unique Offerings
While the pasta dishes are undoubtedly a highlight, Kimika’s menu extends beyond traditional Italian fare, offering a range of inventive options. The fried pizzette, topped with a shiso-sunflower pesto, delicate squash shavings, and a hint of chili oil, sounds particularly enticing and is definitely on my list to try next time.
However, the Crispy Rice Cakes Lasagna was a slightly less successful experiment. While the idea of incorporating an Asian element into lasagna is intriguing, the execution, in this case, resulted in an overload of melted cheese atop a base of crispy rice pasta that felt somewhat unbalanced.
Desserts: The Sweet Superstars of Kimika
Despite a minor misstep with the lasagna, the desserts at Kimika are absolute standouts and deserve to be celebrated as the superstars of the meal. They are so creative and utterly scrumptious that I would gladly return to Kimika solely for the dessert experience. I only regret not capturing better photos to truly showcase their artistry and deliciousness.
Ambiance and Atmosphere: City Views and Female Empowerment
Kimika offers a pleasant dining atmosphere with outdoor seating that provides guests with a lively view of the bustling city streets. Adding to its appeal, Kimika has also recently opened a rooftop space boasting spectacular panoramic city views, accompanied by an equally inventive bar menu. Furthermore, it’s inspiring to note that Kimika is powered by an all-female-led kitchen staff, adding another layer of appreciation to this unique culinary gem in New York City.
For anyone seeking the best Italian food in New York with a creative twist, Kimika is an absolute must-visit. Its innovative Italian-Japanese fusion, exceptional pasta dishes, and unforgettable desserts, combined with a vibrant atmosphere and empowering ethos, make it a truly standout dining destination in the city.
