NYC Bar Shinji's Is The Only Place You'll Find A Foie Gras Infused Sidecar
It's no secret that New York City is considered one of the gastronomic capitals of the world. The city is home to some of the best restaurants flocking foodies can find. Earlier this month, Michelin's 2022 Guide recognized a whopping 465 New York restaurants for their outstanding performances. Folks can dine on a filet mignon at Sparks Steak House blocks away from the Chrysler Building. But, what is a thirsty foodie supposed to do?
In New York City, if you're looking for a top-tier cocktail, you're in good hands. The Lower East Side is home to the flagship location of Death & Co., one of the most renowned cocktail creators in the mixology world. Even the hotel bars are good — hit Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle and see for yourself.
Today, we're focusing on one particular cocktail bar that boasts an avante-garde menu for the ages. Introducing: Shinji's, one of the most unique cocktail bars in the Flatiron District, and the only place in NYC where you'll find a foie gras-infused sidecar. Shinji's comes from the same team behind Noda, the Michelin-starred omakase spot built in an old gambling parlor/speakeasy. (In fact, Shinji's is conveniently located next to Noda, per Thrillist, so folks can grab sushi and drink in one trip). Here's what's on the menu.
Shinji's presents unique cocktails and rockstar flair
Inside, Shinji's is edgy and contemporary with smoked black glass, heavy blue velvet curtains, and subtle octopus-themed decor, via Robb Report. It isn't easy to get a spot (the whole bar has less than 30 seats), but the one-of-a-kind cocktail menu is worth the wait. Take, for instance, the Tropicana, an elevated Screwdriver that takes six hours to make and is served inside a frozen orange. The Jackie Treehorn is a dairy-free White Russian served on a miniature area rug coaster. (Big Lebowski fans, rise up.) Per Thrillist, the Dirtiest Martini gets a playful tongue-in-cheek presentation: it's served on a mirrored tray with a small mound of spiced powder, which guests can stir into the cocktail at their discretion for customizable spiciness. It's a fitting lineup for a bar with such a cool namesake. The bar is named after Shinji Nohara, aka the "Tokyo Fixer," the rockstar concierge of Japan who scouts the hippest spots to eat and drink in the city, per Next Shark. He even appeared on Anthony Bourdain's first television show, "A Cook's Tour," and helped the chef navigate the scene.
But, the star of the show is the Foie Gras Sidecar: a light, citrusy cocktail that requires hours to make, according to beverage director Jonathan Adler via Grub Street. Cognac is infused with foie and accompanied by a foie gras tartlet. Shinji's offers other small bites as well, including a Wagyu sando, Japanese crudo, and Uni Chawanmushi with caviar.