FNYCRR Award: Best View of Low Flying Planes

Plane (Battery Park)

The decision to put a trendy eatery on the top floor of a high rise in the middle of Battery Park was controversial in itself. The decision to have passenger jets circle dangerously close to the open air dining room was… downright scary. That is, until we tried the balsamic walnut encrusted pear appetizer ($14). That, plus the acceptance of the fact that the New York Department of Air Traffic Control deemed the restaurant “safe,” we settled in and enjoyed the view from the 48th floor. American Airlines flight 565 passengers seemed slightly concerned as they watched us devour Nouveau delicacies like langoustines doused with curried ginger ($36) and elderly favorites like Kaffir lime gorgonzola venison chops ($48). But by their third lap, it was clear this unforgettable experience would be a pleasant one for all involved, not just the diners. Dining while being physically moved by a jet engine was clearly good enough for the President and First Lady. During a week long visit to the United Nations, Barack and Michelle stopped by Plane for dinner and described the experience as, “monumental.”