Beauty & Essex

- 146 Essex St, New York, NY 10002

In the bustling, ever-changing landscape of New York City’s Lower East Side, some places stand out for their sheer uniqueness. Beauty & Essex is one such destination, a restaurant that promises not just a meal, but a full-sensory experience. What begins as a step into a vintage pawn shop—complete with a fascinating array of guitars, collectibles, and jewelry—opens up into a glamorous, multi-level dining and lounge space. This "speakeasy" style entrance sets the stage for a memorable night, blending old-world charm with a modern, upscale flair. It’s a concept that’s both intriguing and playful, making it a perfect spot for locals and tourists alike who are looking for a dining adventure that’s different from the norm.

The atmosphere at Beauty & Essex is a key part of its appeal. It’s described as a combination of cozy, trendy, and romantic, with an upscale vibe that’s perfect for a date night, a special occasion with a group, or a night out with friends. The interior is stunning, with a two-story chandelier, plush seating, and four distinct dining rooms. This attention to detail creates a vibrant and sophisticated setting. A past visitor praised the ambiance, saying it was "lovely and exactly as portrayed in the photos—cozy yet vibrant, creating the perfect setting for a date night, a night out with friends, or simply enjoying good food and great vibes." It's a place where you can dress up and feel like you're part of an exclusive, hidden-away world.

The culinary offerings at Beauty & Essex are designed for sharing, encouraging a communal and interactive dining experience. Executive Chef Chris Santos, a pioneer of the small-plate trend, has crafted a menu that is globally inspired and full of inventive dishes. The "Jewels On Toast" section features unique bites like the Roasted Bone Marrow and Rhode Island Lobster Roll, while the extensive list of appetizers includes popular items such as the Kale & Apple Salad and Korean Style Fish Tacos. The menu is a testament to the kitchen's creativity, offering a diverse selection that caters to various tastes.

Beyond the appetizers, the main courses and prime meats are equally impressive. For a truly luxurious experience, you can choose from dishes like the Classic Beef Wellington, a 14 Oz. Dry Aged NY Strip Steak, or the 24 Oz. Bone-In Ribeye. Vegetarian and vegan options are also thoughtfully included, with flavorful entrées such as Thai BBQ Portobello and Bucatini. And don't forget the accessories, which are far from standard sides. The Truffle Mac And Cheese and Miso Glazed Crispy Eggplant are popular choices that elevate any meal. The restaurant is also praised for its great cocktails and wine list, ensuring a perfect pairing for every dish.

Location and Accessibility

Beauty & Essex is located at 146 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, USA, situated in the heart of the Lower East Side. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub of culture, dining, and nightlife, making it a dynamic and exciting location for the restaurant. The surrounding area offers a variety of transportation options, and while street parking is available (both free and paid), it can be limited. However, its central location makes it easy to access via subway or ride-sharing services from anywhere in the city.

For guests with mobility needs, the restaurant is prepared to provide a comfortable experience. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the unique ambiance and delicious food without any issues. While the building's aesthetic is vintage-inspired, its modern amenities are designed to be inclusive and accommodating for all visitors.

Services Offered

Beauty & Essex offers a range of services tailored to provide a seamless and memorable dining experience. The focus is on exceptional hospitality and convenience for all guests. The services include:

• Dine-in and Table Service: Enjoy a full, sit-down meal in one of the restaurant's stunning dining rooms. Reservations are highly recommended and often required, especially for dinner, to secure a table and avoid a wait.

• Curbside Pickup and Takeout: For those who want to enjoy the delicious menu from the comfort of their home, the restaurant offers convenient takeout and curbside pickup services. This allows you to bring the flavors of Beauty & Essex to any occasion.

• No-Contact Delivery: In addition to takeout, the restaurant provides a no-contact delivery option, ensuring your food arrives safely and efficiently. This service is perfect for those who prefer to dine in but want to avoid the hassle of cooking.

• Onsite Bar: The onsite bar is a major highlight, offering a great selection of cocktails, beer, and wine. It’s a popular spot for a drink before or after dinner, and the atmosphere is perfect for socializing.

• Late-Night Food: The restaurant serves late-night food, making it a perfect destination for a post-show bite or a late-evening outing with friends. The kitchen stays open to serve the night owls of the city.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts and strongly recommends reservations, which are essential for securing a spot during popular lunch and dinner times. This is a crucial service for planning your visit and ensuring a smooth experience.

Features / Highlights

What makes Beauty & Essex a must-visit destination in New York City? It's a combination of unique elements that set it apart from the competition. Here are some of its key features and highlights:

• Unique "Pawn Shop" Entrance: The restaurant is famously disguised as a pawn shop. This unique entrance creates a sense of mystery and exclusivity, making the reveal of the glamorous dining space all the more impressive. It’s a fun and memorable way to begin your night.

• Globally-Inspired Small Plates: The menu, designed by a renowned chef, focuses on small, shareable plates with a global influence. This allows diners to try a variety of different dishes and flavors, making the meal a collaborative and exciting experience.

• Fantastic Cocktails and Wine: Beauty & Essex is known for its inventive and delicious cocktails, as well as an extensive wine list. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a wine enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect drink to complement your meal. Past visitors have praised the staff for their knowledge of the drink menu.

• Stunning and Trendy Atmosphere: The interior design is a major draw. The space is both romantic and trendy, with a luxurious feel that still manages to be cozy. It’s an ideal setting for a variety of occasions, from a romantic date to a lively group dinner.

• Exceptional Service: The staff at Beauty & Essex is consistently praised for being kind, attentive, and knowledgeable. The service is fast and friendly, and waiters like Randy have been specifically mentioned by customers for providing great suggestions and enhancing the dining experience. This level of service ensures that every visit is a pleasant one.

• Popular for Special Occasions: The combination of its romantic, upscale atmosphere and its delicious, high-quality food makes it a popular choice for celebrations and special events. The restaurant is well-suited for groups and for making any night feel like a special occasion.

Contact Information

For reservations or to learn more, you can contact Beauty & Essex at the following address and phone numbers:

Address: 146 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (212) 614-0146

Mobile Phone: +1 212-614-0146

What is Worth Choosing

What makes Beauty & Essex a truly exceptional choice among New York City's dining scene is its ability to blend a unique, theatrical experience with genuinely high-quality food and service. Unlike many places that rely solely on a gimmick, this restaurant excels in every aspect. The "pawn shop" entrance is a clever and fun start to the night, but what follows is a serious commitment to great cuisine and hospitality. The focus on shareable, globally-inspired plates makes dining here a collaborative adventure, perfect for groups who love to sample and discover new flavors together. This approach to the menu ensures that every member of your party will find something they love, from the "Jewels On Toast" to the Classic Beef Wellington.

Furthermore, the ambiance is unparalleled. It manages to be both trendy and upscale without feeling pretentious, creating a warm and vibrant environment that’s perfect for everything from a date night to a celebration. The kind and knowledgeable staff, as noted in many reviews, are the final ingredient in this perfect recipe. They are not just there to take your order; they are there to guide you through the experience, offering spot-on recommendations and making you feel like a valued guest. One review perfectly captured this sentiment: “Beauty & Essex is hands down worth every cent. The staff was amazing and knowledgeable. Their recommendations were spot on and nothing less than perfect.” This combination of a unique setting, delicious food, and impeccable service makes Beauty & Essex a must-visit destination for any New Yorker looking for a truly memorable night out.

Beauty & Essex

146 Essex St, New York, NY 10002, USA