Rue 57 – New York, NY: Located on W. 57th St, Rue 57 New York is a nice option if you are looking for a quick bite in the middle of New York’s chaotic afternoons. We went there for a speedily lunch on an early Sunday noon and the place was packed. Luckily the Ritz-Carlton Hotel had called and made reservations earlier, so we were promptly seated without any delay. The lunch soiree started with two chilled glasses of complementary champagne. I have a very strong feeling that isn’t the normal practice here, but an exception was made for us only because we came from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Nevertheless, it was a great way to set the ball rolling.

Rue 57’s menu is essentially a fusionist offering of Franco-American items and you can gorge on anything from Steak au poivre and pan-seared Chilean Bass to Potato Crusted Salmon with leeks and their signature herb-roasted chicken flavored with natural jus.

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We wanted to order something that was fast and simple and after contemplating a bit, we finally settled for good old cheeseburgers and fries. The burgers were hefty and expectedly so for $14.50 each. The service was far from impressive, but the restaurant was busy and I thought maybe they could have done a better job with a lesser crowd. However, it seems that was not the case at all, because I caught sight of a few waiters frolicking and having an animated conversation at the back. It was obvious they were well-staffed and had all the time in the world. Maybe it was just a languid feeling of not wanting to work on a Sunday afternoon.

The ambiance at Rue 57 New York, was casual and relaxed, with soft lighting, large tables and a trendy French bistro style setting. Apart from the main dining area, there is a bar upstairs, which features a nice intimate atmosphere.

The expectations with which we went to Rue 57 were duly fulfilled. We wanted to grab a quick and non-fussy lunch, which was what we got. Even though the food was good, it wasn’t anything extraordinary. A safe bet, but nothing that pushes the envelope and ventures beyond standard fare. There wasn’t anything notable or outstanding that deserves a special mention, just good regular stuff that you stick to if you aren’t very adventurous with your palate. The eatery is strictly for a hurried ‘on the move’ brunch.

This isn’t a place that I would highly recommend to someone and I am not even sure if I would make a trip here again. Rue 57 New York also serves sushi, however I think there are many other sushi restaurants I would try before trying suhi here.

What I liked: The Cheeseburger and the prompt seating arrangement

What I didn’t like: The inattentive and lethargic service

Rating: Between Bombastic and Not

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