Bar of the Week: DESMOND'S in Midtown Manhattan

Positioned just a few blocks down from the heart of Times Square, Desmond's is a prime example of everything that is best about New York City steakhouses. Desmond's offers the finest service, delicious food, excellent wines and beer selections, and a cocktail menu with a lot of proven classics and a few welcome surprises. Whether you are looking for a classic martini and a small bite after work at the bar or for a full dinner in their spacious dining areas, this many-sided restaurant is a great destination. Elegant, yet accessible, we name Desmond's our "Bar of the Week."

Stop by with colleagues, on date night or with friends. Start with the raw bar: East Coast Oysters, West Coast Oysters, Little Neck Clams or their Collection of Chilled Seafood. The choices are both tender and substantial. And if you stop by during their Happy Hour, you'll be treated to raw bar specials.

Also served at the bar is the renowned Desmond's Carpetbagger Burger, a recipe that can't help succeeding, topped with thick sliced bacon and fried oysters. The accompanying steak fries are a meal in themselves--long, thick, and expertly browned. And the Desmond's house sauce is smooth rather than tart, a steak sauce with welcome subtlety. There's a nice selection of other bar bites that include Beef Empanadas and their Yellow Fin Tuna Tacos with avocado, pine nuts and apple.

Desmond's boasts a deep and extensive wine list and a fine selection of beer. However, cocktail enthusiasts will be won over by their Martinis, Manhattans, and well-chosen handful of "only at Desmond's" recipes. One in-house favorite for gin lovers is the New Fashioned, a crisp and refreshing blend. We also suggest the Mexican Razor Blade with Espolon Tequila Blanco, Lime and Ceyenne or the Gold Rush, a smooth cocktail with Elijah Craig 12 year bourbon, honey and lime.

On a winter night, count on Desmond's to reinvent the Irish coffee: the mix here simply involves a Colombian roast, whiskey, and a crest of whipped cream. The cream lends the rest of the brew enough sweetness, but not too much. Finally, an Irish coffee that is both delicious and undeniably mature.

Holiday shoppers, theatergoers, and friends and family in midtown will find Desmond's to be a welcoming spot. Desmond's Steakhouse is located at 513 7th Avenue, at the corner of 38th Street. For reservations and information call (212) 391-6900 or visit www.desmondssteakhouse.com.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Desmond's