The Venue
Pando Park is a graciously simple yet elevated New York restaurant nestled between Nomad and the bustling high society streets of Park Ave. A sensual dance between elegance and modesty, this bar-restaurant-social lounge has mastered the art of simple sophistication. Alluring corporate and casual passersby alike who revel in charming venues with ingenuity. The moody ambiance invites you to get lost in the night with breathtaking chandeliers, pulsing hit tunes, first-rate mixologist and paralyzing aromas that romance the air from the kitchen. Coupled with a sister location, Pando 39, the passion for experience isn’t lost on this delicious venue.
The Meal
From first sip to last bite, the dim-lit space carries a Manhattan vibration that is sure to level up your evening. Sans the pretentious expectations for a Park Ave venue, Pando Park delivers all the luxe of the upper echelon in decor and eats but with a twist.
As we embarked on our dining experience, we were taken on a tour of the senses from the moment we stepped through the door. Edison light bulbs dripped from the ceiling while illumination from the bar highlighted the sleek modern leather bar stools. To the right, a breathtaking chandelier cascaded over an enticing front lounge area already accompanied by a riveting after-work crowd. As we walked past the bustling bar to the main dining room, we transcended into a different sophistication. Our host allowed us to choose our place to dine, from the floral gold-toned, candlelit dining room to a charming enclave better known as “Tony’s Table.”
We chose Tony’s Table. Partially enclosed with wooden partitions, the seductive section was adorned with an avant-garde chandelier, blue-velvet couch and an enlarged golden-framed photo of the late great American celebrity chef, Anthony Bourdain. A tribute to culinary excellence and eclectic style, hinting at a noteworthy evening to come.
Signature cocktails such as the Bryant Park Sour featuring Redemption Bourbon and the Blossom with organic cucumber Vodka, St. Germain, and lemon made it challenging to choose our first drink. Alas, their signature Pando Espresso Martini with infused Black Strap, cold espresso, Montenegro, and cinnamon gained our favor. Refreshed and invigorated we moved onto the food menu. Offering seasonality and depth, the menu included an array of classic table-side bar food like jumbo wings, buffalo cauliflower bites and mac & cheese. Nonetheless, we decided to take it up a notch, seated at Tony’s Table and all. We chose the Wagyu Beef and Bone Marrow Bruschetta as our signature starter. Far from your typical bruschetta, our server arrived with a tray displaying hot stone a5 wagyu, seasoned bone marrow, pickled beech mushrooms, toasted baguette slices and a shot of whiskey. This swoon-worthy plate kicked our palettes into high gear as we seared our wagyu and later savored the whiskey from the bone marrow. Literally.
The Magician
As we anticipated the arrival of our main courses. An unexpected visitor with a curious nature came by our table. Pando Park’s mentalist and magician enchanted us with a table-side magic show. Captivated from beginning to end, we were taken on a magical adventure from card tricks to mind-blowing illusions.
Perfectly timed, our server, Connor, arrived with our dinner. Again, choosing to indulge in seasonal entrees we were not disappointed. The whole grilled Dorade with salsa verde, charred lemon and saffron butter over crispy tricolored potatoes looked more like artwork than a meal. The perfectly hued skin, grilled to perfection glistened against the green salsa and saffron butter sauce. Across the table, a medium-well 10 oz dry aged ribeye served with whole roasted garlic, au poivre sauce and asparagus. Both dishes boast color and mouth-watering flavor. Each bite commanded attention, as conversation was replaced with adulatory gestures. Accompanied with Chilean Cabernet, there was not a morsel left on our plates in the end.
The Masterminds
Locally owned and operated, the Pando Group has changed the game. Delivering timeless decadence with luscious eats, divine atmosphere and creative entertainment. Thoughtful elegance is put into every detail of the venue with a conscious mind for artisan cocktails, to entertainment. From all day $1.50 oyster happy hour to $7.50 jumbo wings to $24 house-made short-rib tortellini pasta to $3 off beer, wine and well drinks. Pando Park is more of an entertainment destination than a pub. From trivia night, to live music, to an acoustic brunch and a back room to rent for private events. Pando Park delivers simple sophistication at its finest.
Pando Park Ave
450 Park Ave South
New York, NY 10016
Contact: (646) 850-0044
Instagram: @PandoParkAve
