The Red Cat: Perfect Pedigree

September 26, 9:12 PMNY Restaurant ExaminerSara Vigrass

Previous Next

1 comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the NY Restaurant Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

At the end of the highline, tucked away on tenth avenue, The Red Cat is a popular restaurant choice for New York natives and tourists alike.  The Food Network recently featured it for having Ted Allen's favorite fried appetizer (tempura fried bacon).  While there is the occasional heart healthy item on the menu, the majority of the food will add a few inches to the waistline.  Even lean meats are slathered in buttery sauces or "naughty" toppings.  For instance, a normally healthy organic chicken is topped with a triple onion-bacon vinaigrette, and a grilled cut of pork tenderloin is covered in blue cheese.  The selections can be a bit daunting for anyone on a diet.  The food however, is very good.  The duck is a stand out dish with its warm anchovies and oranges.  The pork is cooked perfectly, however the blue cheese is a bit overpowering, but can be reduced if specified.  The tempura bacon and sweet pea risotto are recommended appetizers.

The restaurant is often very crowded, and the wait to get a table without a reservation is grueling.  The clientele includes the artistic types (coming from the neighboring galleries), to the fashion conscience (arriving from the meatpacking).  Surprisingly, there are an abundance of older diners who frequent The Red Cat.  However, they are the older diners who eat after 7pm, and most likely order a cognac after their meal ends.  They are also the older diners who wear a bit of arm candy.  The arm candy usually sticks to the dandelion salad (which she picks at).  There are, however, plenty of young couples and many first dates. The decor is homey and welcoming, however the deep reds and low lighting give The Red Cat a touch of sexiness, making it perfect to create a bit of romance without being too overtly romantic.

The staff is a highlight of The Red Cat's good nature.  From the maitre 'd (who kindly informs you that your wait will be an hour and a half), to the bus boys (who fold your napkins and switch out your silverware), everyone greets you with a smile.  The waiters are extremely knowledgeable and friendly and are quick to remedy any issues or problems you have with the food or the service.

The Red Cat is a great option for highline visitors or gallery go-ers.  Its creative and intriguing dishes reflect the art of the neighborhood, while its warmth revolts against anything too chic or haughty.  Diners hoping for a low-calorie count should look elsewhere.

The Red Cat ($$$)
227 10th Ave (between 23rd and 24th St)
New York, NY
212-242-1122