Review: THE ROYAL MUNKEY in Kips Bay NYC is a True Gem

There are so many reasons why you will love the new Indian restaurant, The Royal Munkey conveniently located in the heart of the Kips Bay neighborhood. They are quickly becoming recognized for their stylish and unique atmosphere, approachable, gourmet cuisine and attentive, gracious service. This new spot already has a following and we're a part of it.

The Royal Munkey has a truly exotic appeal with a refined, yet comfortable speakeasy décor that is reminiscent of Old Bombay with a touch of the old Raj. Decorative elements include a variety of Anglo-Indian items like bicycle sculptures, a vintage electric toy train, and their flying monkey chandelier. Seating options can accommodate parties of all sizes. Guests in the front lounge can also enjoy old-school Bollywood films on their flat screen television or relax at the spacious full-service bar.

We visited early on a Monday evening and enjoyed a delightful dinner. Executive Chef Derik Alfaro and Chef de Cuisine Chetan Patil have created a menu that works wonderfully for people of many tastes. We spoke with Arun Mirchandani of Munkey Operations, who made us feel right at home from the moment we walked in the door.

We started our culinary journey with one of their artisanal cocktails, the East India Cocktail with D'usse VSOP Cognac, Combier, pineapple syrup, Luxardo and Peychaud's bitters. The Royal Munkey has an excellent beverage program that is easily paired with their food selections. Choose from classic cocktails, specialty drinks, fine wine and beers.

The Royal Munkey recreates and pays homage to the legendary flavors of the east while maintaining the, style and the ambience of supper clubs in Old Bombay. The starters are distinctively delicious like their Paneer Tikka served with fresh herbs, turmeric, onions and bell peppers or the Mutton Seekh Kababs, grilled hand-ground spiced mutton skewers.

The main courses are elegantly plated in a European-style bistro format. We like the Anglo-Indian offerings that blend European cooking techniques with Asian ingredients and methods like their Railway Chicken Curry in a savory sauce of tomato, onion, mustard seed and curry leaf. And there are delightful traditional favorites like their Garden Fresh Vegetable Korma with a creamy almond sauce and Sindhi Fish Curry, fresh monk fish with fenugreek sauce. While portions are generous, tempting sides like their Crispy Okra and Chana Masala partner wonderfully with entrees. Speak to your server about vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

Be sure to save room for dessert and take the time to relax over a cup of coffee or an aperitif. Tempting sweets include their Banoffee Cake, Cricket Rum Ball or fresh Cubed Mango with vanilla ice cream.

The Royal Munkey has both a convenient Happy Hour and serves late night. Their Happy Hour specials are available throughout the restaurant so drinks can also be enjoyed for table service.

The Royal Munkey is a true gem of a restaurant by talented team behind The Drunken Munkey and Le Bateau Ivre in New York City and Bar And Books in New York City, Prague and Warsaw.

The Royal Munkey is located at 438 Second Avenue between 24th and 25th streets, (646) 863-2249, www.royalmunkey.com. The bar and kitchen are open for lunch and until late, 7 days a week, non-stop from 11am-2am, and brunch is served on weekends. For more information about private events and catering, please contact Arun Mirchandani @ 917-362-8927.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Royal Munkey

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