Estela

- 47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012

In the bustling culinary scene of New York City, certain restaurants manage to rise above the noise to become true destinations. Estela is one of those places. This Michelin-starred restaurant, tucked away on East Houston Street, has garnered widespread acclaim for its inventive menu, exceptional cocktails, and an incredible wine list. It’s the kind of place you book for a special occasion, or when you simply want to treat yourself to an unforgettable meal. Praised for its sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere, Estela offers a unique dining experience that feels both cozy and upscale, making it a favorite for New Yorkers in the know and discerning tourists alike.

The culinary philosophy at Estela is centered around small plates designed for sharing, allowing diners to explore a wide range of flavors in a single sitting. The menu is a testament to the creativity of the chefs, with dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. From unique takes on classics like beef tartare to delightful surprises like ricotta dumplings, every plate tells a story. This focus on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation is what sets Estela apart and keeps it at the forefront of the city's fine dining scene.

Estela is located at 47 E Houston St, 1st floor, New York, NY 10012, USA. Its position on the border of Nolita and the Lower East Side makes it a highly sought-after destination. The area is easily accessible via public transportation, with the Broadway-Lafayette St station (B, D, F, M lines) and the 2nd Avenue station (F line) just a short walk away. This makes it convenient to get to from almost any part of Manhattan or Brooklyn.

While the restaurant's interior is known for being a "bit tight" and can get "loud," which is typical for a popular NYC spot, it contributes to the lively and romantic atmosphere. The seating arrangement is intimate, creating a buzz that enhances the overall experience. Given its popularity and the usual wait times, making reservations, especially for dinner, is highly recommended. The restaurant also accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making the transaction process smooth and easy.

Estela is dedicated to providing a high-end, full-service dining experience, focusing on table service and reservations to manage its high demand. It’s not the type of place for a quick grab-and-go meal, but rather a place to sit, relax, and savor your food and drinks.

• Dine-in: The primary service is dine-in, offering a comfortable and stylish setting for a memorable meal.
• Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, and are often required due to the restaurant's popularity and limited seating. Lunch reservations are also recommended.
• Table Service: The restaurant provides full table service, with an attentive and professional staff ready to guide you through the menu and wine list.
• Onsite Services: Estela offers a full bar onsite, allowing for pre-dinner drinks or a place to sit if you're lucky enough to grab a bar seat as a walk-in.
• Delivery: Delivery service is also available for those who wish to enjoy Estela's cuisine from the comfort of their own home.

Estela's reputation is built on a series of standout features that make it a premier dining spot in New York City.

• Michelin-Starred Excellence: Estela has been recognized with a Michelin star, a testament to its high-quality cooking and dedication to culinary excellence.
• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The beverage program is a major draw. The cocktail list is innovative, with options like the "Celestial Spritz" and "Almost Famous." The wine list is extensive and expertly curated, offering a wide range of selections from around the world.
• Romantic and Trendy Atmosphere: The restaurant has a unique blend of being cozy and intimate while also feeling trendy and upscale. This makes it a popular choice for romantic dates and special occasions.
• Focus on Small Plates: The menu's emphasis on small, shareable plates encourages a communal and exploratory dining experience, allowing you to try a variety of dishes.
• Late-Night Food: Estela serves food until late in the evening, making it a great option for a post-show or late-night meal.
• Accepts Reservations: Given how difficult it can be to get a table, the ability to make reservations is a crucial feature that helps guests plan their visit.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The menu features fresh, often organic ingredients, and dishes are meticulously prepared, from the "perfectly balanced" scallop to the exquisite desserts.

Choosing what to eat at Estela can be a delightful dilemma, as the menu is full of innovative and appealing options. According to many satisfied diners, some dishes are absolute must-tries. The Beef Tartare with elderberries and sunchoke is a highlight, often described as an outstanding and flavorful choice. Another fan favorite is the Ricotta dumplings with mushrooms and pecorino Sardo, which one reviewer called a "surprisingly light delight." These dumplings are a perfect example of the restaurant's ability to take a simple dish and elevate it to something extraordinary.

The seafood options are also highly recommended. The Cod with cabbage and green Meyer lemon and the Raw scallop with green tomatoes and basil have both received rave reviews for their fresh flavors and expert preparation. For those who appreciate classic flavors with a sophisticated twist, the Endive with walnuts, anchovy, and ubriaco rosso is another standout dish that is both complex and delicious. And for dessert, the Chocolate cake with whipped cream is consistently praised for being "exquisite" and perfectly balanced, a fantastic way to end the meal.

Beyond the food, Estela’s beverage program is a reason to visit in itself. The cocktails are unique and creative, and the wine list is a sommelier's dream. Even if you're not a wine connoisseur, the extensive selection offers something for every palate, from sparkling to rosé and red. The a la carte wine options, like the LIC Beer Project Sour Hour from Queens, also provide a great opportunity to explore local craft beverages.

While the atmosphere is "lively" and the space can feel "tight," most patrons agree that it’s all part of the unique New York City charm. The exceptional quality of the food and drinks, combined with the professional service and romantic ambiance, makes Estela a place that is well worth the investment. It’s a restaurant that consistently delivers an "amazing experience" and is sure to have you planning a return visit before you even leave.

• Address: 47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012, USA
• Phone: (212) 219-7693

Estela

47 E Houston St 1st floor, New York, NY 10012, USA