Despite its proximity to Jean Georges–it abuts that temple of gastronomy and shares the same kitchen–Nougatine, a moderate, casual eatery within Jean-Georges Vongrichten’s constellation of restaurants, fails to measure up.

We weren’t expecting Jean Georges quality food. But what we were expecting, based on the reports of several friends, was high quality food. Instead, what we were served was pretty mediocre. I ordered salmon baked with tarragon, roasted cremini mushrooms, and apple celeriac puree. It was over-cooked (I asked for it pink) and completely bland. A pork chop appeared on the plate thick and succulent but turned out to be tough and flavorless. Even the vaunted warm chocolate cake was undistinguished.

Several people I know have enthused about outstanding meals at Nougatine. Maybe we hit it on a bad night.

The service was attentive but it didn’t make up for the sub-par meal. If you must eat near Lincoln Center, you’re better off heading for the Time Warner Center and ordering a burger at Landmarc.

Jean Georges
1 Central Park West
New York, NY
212 299 3900

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