By Isiah Christie
Manhattan is a melting pot for culinary riches, given its record-breaking density and hosting of several cultures in one locale. The city is largely well-known for its bodega sandwich, pizzerias and franchise locations, but it’s easy to forget the various gems that inhabit the city – and among them is NoMad’s Oscar Wilde.
A Victorian-style bistro that has caught vast attention for its stunning visual presentation, the 27th Street eatery serves as one of the neighborhood’s finest dining options.
Opened on August 16, 2017, it occupies a space that has been in the city for ages – its building was designed in 1909 and opened in 1919. It formerly served as a Prohibition Enforcement Headquarters before taking in a variety of novelty and apparel firms. The restaurant looks to enjoy its eighth anniversary this summer with more prestige and popularity than ever – and its road to this success was certainly clear.
It is named after Irish playwright, Oscar Wilde, aiming to serve as an architectural homage to his legacy. Wilde was well-known for his groundbreaking playwriting in the Victorian era of the late-19th century, and the restaurant certainly mirrors his significance with its decorative choices. Before being an eatery, it is an experience that you favor when longing for the uniqueness of Manhattan and what it has to offer stylistically. The art littering the walls, beautiful floral displays, and various references to the magical worlds of Disney and Alice in Wonderland are just a few of its aesthetic offerings in the present day. They are also known to completely revamp their decor depending on seasonal events and ongoing trends, having utilized intricate Christmas lights, Lunar New Year decorations, and more.
The bistro leans expensive in its menu, rendering it a fully fancy getaway that, in a sense, feels exclusive. However, its selections are certainly vast and justify their price, embracing a proper attention to detail that reflects in its keen visual assortments and flavorful palette. Oscar Wilde’s menu variety is crushing, including menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner, a late night menu, happy hour menu, and various sections devoted to drinks such as cocktails, beer, wine, afternoon teas, and more. This solidifies it as one of New York City’s most versatile options for eating, especially in group settings.
It is certainly geared towards tourism with its prices and desire to stand out in the city’s oversaturated culinary atmosphere, but it remains an enticing selection for New York and North Jersey residents as well. After all, a trip to Manhattan is typically an extended experience, so choosing a diner that reflects that is ideal – and Oscar Wilde has, and will continue to, provide such.
