Michelin-starred Nordic gem; fresh seafood focus, innovative tasting menus, and a must-try "Arctic Bird's Nest" dessert.
This upscale Scandinavian restaurant, holding two Michelin stars, is celebrated for its innovative cuisine that emphasizes local, sustainable ingredients, particularly seafood. Chef Emma Bengtsson's tasting menus offer a journey through Nordic flavors, with the "Arctic Bird's Nest" dessert being a visually stunning and delicious highlight. While fine dining options abound, including a chef's tasting menu, more accessible lunch menus and an à la carte bar menu provide diverse ways to experience their acclaimed dishes.
This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined Nordic and Scandinavian dining experience with a strong emphasis on fresh, local seafood. Customers frequently rave about the tasting menus and specific dishes like the "Arctic Bird's Nest" dessert, often described as a work of art. The bread course and Swedish meatballs also receive notable mentions. While generally lauded, some feedback suggests the wine/cocktail program could be improved, and the experience may be rich and heavy.
"The "Arctic Bird's Nest" dessert is frequently highlighted as a must-try, unique, and delicious creation. Other popular recommendations include the Swedish meatballs, the bread course, and the lunch pre-fixe menu, especially with the addition of the Bird's Nest dessert."
Overall, customer sentiment is highly positive, with frequent praise for the innovative cuisine, exceptional seafood, and memorable desserts. While some note the price point, many consider it excellent value for the quality and experience.
Important Note
While generally highly regarded, some diners have noted that the beverage program (cocktails and wine) could be stronger, and meals can be rich. Additionally, one user found the food forgettable despite excellent service, and another felt it did not deserve its Michelin stars.
"The commenter recommended Aquavit as a popular spot with relatively easy reservations, also suggesting the bar as a cheaper alternative to a table."
Positive"This commenter also suggested Aquavit but noted it might have too many courses for the original poster's request."
Neutral"Aquavit is suggested as a dining option, with a mention to 'embrace herring.'"
Neutral"This user suggested walking a few blocks west to dine at The Bar Room at Aquavit."
Positive"A whole princess cake from Aquavit is cheaper than Sant Ambroeus' slice."
Neutral"It is cheaper to order a whole princess cake from Aquavit than to buy a slice from Sant Ambroeus."
Neutral"The bar room at Aquavit is suggested as a potential venue."
Neutral"The commenter had an amazing steak at Aquavit's bar a few years ago."
Positive"Aquavit is mentioned as a very good but very expensive restaurant in the area."
Neutral"The user lists Aquavit as a Michelin-starred restaurant that does not have loud music, in response to a question about loud music at such establishments."
Positive"Aquavit is suggested as a restaurant with potentially easier reservations, noted as not difficult to get into."
Positive"This user listed Aquavit as a potential restaurant for the original poster."
Positive"This user found Aquavit to be one of the worst Michelin restaurants they have ever visited, citing terrible food."
Negative"The user asked about the availability of the 'bird's nest' dessert on the tasting menu for lunch, as they previously had to order the pre-fixe menu to get it."
Neutral"The user reported having a pre-fixe lunch at Aquavit for just over $100, including a supplement for the 'Bird's Nest' dessert, which they found to be a great deal for a 2 Michelin star restaurant."
Positive"The user had lunch at Aquavit recently, noting that their courses were slightly modified compared to the original poster's. They enjoyed most dishes, especially the wagyu/caviar soup, and found the service excellent, receiving complimentary Aquavit pours. They considered it a great value for lunch in NYC."
Positive"The user, a former employee, stated that while they made poor money in service, the food at Aquavit was excellent and the room beautiful."
Positive"The user described Aquavit as one of their most memorable restaurant experiences."
Positive"The user praised the princess cake from Aquavit as the best they've had in the city."
Positive"The user expressed strong positive feelings about Aquavit, stating they 'love love love this spot'."
Positive
