Rouge Tomate

Beauty, Taste and Virtue: Rouge Tomate Proves You Can Have It All

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Imagine a green restaurant that prides itself on using very little cream or butter and the unwelcome images of raw sprouts and imitation meats may start to pop up. Well not so with the new upscale Belgian import, Rouge Tomate.

Sure, it’s elegant but the warmth and vibrancy of the energy here lend a certain comfort that’s as inviting as it is sophisticated.

Situated just off the southeastern corner of Central Park, the first thought that comes to mind might just be wow! Spacious and airy, the grand two-level dining room is stunning with its custom-made sofas, large floral arrangements and hardwood floors amid sexy red-accented walls. Sure, it’s elegant but the warmth and vibrancy of the energy here lend a certain comfort that’s as inviting as it is sophisticated.

But what really sets Rouge Tomate apart from its equally grand Upper East Side counterparts is its genuine dedication to healthful eating. Most of the menu revolves around local produce from upstate New York and New Jersey but that’s only a part of Rouge Tomate’s focus on responsible eating. A full-time culinary nutritionist is also on staff to work closely with the executive chef, Jeremy Bearman, developing optimally balanced meals adjusted for every season. It’s really no wonder that Rouge Tomate is the only Michelin star restaurant that’s also a part of the Green Restaurant Association!

But what’s a restaurant without the food? Here, all points go to Rouge Tomate for creativity and presentation! The whimsically colorful (Alice in Wonderland comes to mind) Satur Farms Beet and Apple Salad was sweet but tart with house made ricotta, pistachio and just the right mix of honey and cider vinegar. Clean and delicate, the Hawaiian Walu Crudo, similar to tuna, is paired beautifully with avocado and topped with radishes. Equally delicate but no less delightful was the Arctic Char Crudo, a sashimi-like salmon topped with horseradish yogurt, trout roe, dill and pumpernickel. The burst of trout roe was like a little slice of our own private heavens.

It’s really no wonder that Rouge Tomate is the only Michelin star restaurant that’s also a part of the Green Restaurant Association!

If you’re looking for a little more decadence, don’t even hesitate to order the Black Winter Truffle Risotto. Deeply black in color from the squid ink, this fragrant rice dish is layered with different kinds of tender mushrooms that are enhanced by truffles and just a small hint of creamy Parmesan. But hurry in if you want to try it because the menu changes with each season. Alas all good things come to an end!

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