Don’t let the fact that this is the kind of place where trendy white guys think they will impress their Asian dates throw you (big eye roll). Open for dinner five days a week, Xing (pronounced “shing”) stands out in this neighborhood of historic tenements. Filling a culinary void in Hell’s Kitchen is this pan-Asian from owner Michael Lagudis and Executive Chef Lulzim Rexhepi (Kittichai, Spice Market (Thailand)), who offer up really good short ribs and Chinese BBQ ribs - yes, by Chinese standards - and foie gras. Born in Albania and a Culinary Institute of America alum, Rexhepi trained in France and worked with Paul Sale at Fifty-Seven Fifty-Seven and Icon and all these elements are visible in the kitschy details such as miniature spiced dessert donuts served in a miniature take-out box. Decor is interesting, with two rooms, one a kind of modern take on bamboo simplicity, the other luxe and imperial, with a big fish tank and red velvet walls that are soft as a concubine's ottoman. Notable oddity is the slightly offensive drink that is a straw coming out of a buddha’s tummy. Good thing the concoctions are yummy.

$$$

terms of use
© Copyright 1998-2024 Hipguide