There are three types of people in this world: people who go to restaurants for the food, people who go to restaurants for the atmosphere, and people who go to restaurants for both the food and the atmosphere!

For the experience to be truly memorable, all of the senses need to be engaged: taste, sight, touch, smell, and hearing.

That’s not to say that a hole-in-the-wall burrito stand won’t have the most authentic burritos you’ve ever tasted, but for some people a well-designed restaurant space is the finishing touch to the perfect dining experience.

The patron’s experience in the restaurant is impacted by the flavors of the food, the restaurant’s aesthetic, the variety of textures at the table, the aroma seeping from the plates of food, and the ambient music that muffles neighboring conversations.

Living in New York City for the summer has given me a taste of the divine food selection and engaging atmospheres that NYC offers. Out of the dozens of restaurants I dined in, there are two that were extraordinary.  

 Aunt Jake’s

Make your way to Little Italy, and you will find a hidden gem, Aunt Jake’s. Don’t let the restaurant name fool you, it is most definitely an Italian restaurant. On top of a beautiful, herringbone wood countertop you’ll see fresh pasta prepared in a variety of shapes. Out through the sliding barn doors is the atrium dining area where natural sunlight pours in and illuminates the entire restaurant. 

Vandal

If you are a fan of street art, then you are going to love the ambience of Vandal. Located on Bowery in Nolita, the restaurant has installations that use different mediums and techniques that explore the possibilities of street art. Stop in for a full dinner or order a variety of tapas to engage your palate. 

Restaurant photos: http://www.vandalnewyork.com/decor/ , Food: me

So, what are you waiting for? Book your reservations and head down to lower Manhattan to fill your senses with delicious, local tastes and the beautiful dining ambience of New York City.

Written by Kayla Robilio