Nestled in the far right corner of the restaurant, I found myself with a prime view of the open kitchen, a focal point that showcased the culinary artistry within. Shmoné, which quietly opened two years ago, remained a well-kept secret until the MICHELIN GUIDE took notice, awarding it a star in 2023 within its first year and quickly placing it on every food lover’s radar.
An Unexpected Dinner Invitation
My visit was unexpected. I was in New York City for a conference and had planned to skip dinner, comfortably wrapped up in my pajamas by 8 PM. However, an old friend was insistent. “This is worth it,” he promised, persuading me to step out into the city.
A Michelin-Starred Surprise
I had no idea we were headed to a Michelin-starred restaurant led by an Israeli native that brings a fresh, market-driven approach to New York’s dining scene, with dishes evolving based on seasonal ingredients and local market availability. One evening’s menu might spotlight just-in-season vegetables, while another centers on a bounty from the sea, creating a truly dynamic dining experience. This philosophy is the essence of the restaurant, allowing the chefs to follow their hearts and culinary inspirations. See our full list of dishes ordered below.
Vision and Culinary Journey
The restaurant owes much of its charm and culinary success to the vision of Executive Chef Eyal Shani, brought to life in the kitchen by Head Chef Nadav Greenberg. Shani, a self-taught chef, first made his mark in the Israeli culinary scene back in 1989 with the opening of his fine dining restaurant “Oceanus” Following its closure, he continued to refine his craft as a restaurant consultant before launching his contemporary casual chain, Miznon, in 2011. Miznon quickly gained international fame, known for its standout dishes like whole roasted cauliflower and the unique “run over potato.” The concept’s success led to its expansion, establishing outposts in cities such as Paris, Vienna, Melbourne, Las Vegas, Singapore, London, and New York.
Greenberg, who leads the kitchen with a blend of Jerusalem-inspired influences, grew up as one of four brothers in a household where food was at the heart of family life. From the comforting dishes made by his mother to the flavors of his Moroccan grandmother’s cooking, he was surrounded by rich culinary traditions that fueled his passion for cooking.
His professional journey began with the opening of a late-night bar in Jerusalem alongside friends, a venture that eventually led him to New York in 2018, where he reunited with the Miznon North team. By 2022, the dream of Shmoné came to fruition, with Greenberg taking charge of the kitchen and guiding the team to earn a coveted Michelin star in 2023.
Seamless Synergy in the Kitchen
The synergy in the kitchen is seamless. I spent much of my evening observing the staff’s interactions and was pleasantly surprised by their dynamic and fluidity. The sous-chef rings a bell for each made-to-order dish, alerting the team that it’s ready for pick-up—nothing is pre-cooked here. Each dish is carefully timed, ensuring an effortless flow throughout the meal. The staff moves with the precision of a well-oiled machine, expertly guiding diners through a culinary experience like no other. When an item runs out, they amusingly add it to the “86′ list,” a nod to restaurant lingo that adds a playful touch to the evening.
As a lovely surprise, the chef came by our table to greet us and thank us for dining at the restaurant—a gracious gesture, especially considering the meticulous timing required in the kitchen.
A Nod to HaSalon’s Philosophy
This approach to dining is reminiscent of Shani’s other renowned venture, HaSalon, which he opened in Tel Aviv in 2008. The restaurant, where he is head chef, operates only two nights a week and has been described as offering food that is “simple but epic.” The ever-evolving nature of the menu and the dedication to using the freshest ingredients have made HaSalon one of Israel’s top dining destinations.
A Curated Atmosphere
The atmosphere here is further elevated by a curated playlist crafted by various DJs to suit the mood of the night. During my dinner, the soundtrack featured artists like Johnny Cash, James Brown, The Beatles, and Fleetwood Mac, providing a perfect backdrop for the exquisite dishes.
A Culinary Experience Worth Savoring
This restaurant is a true testament to Shani’s vision and Greenberg’s passion in the kitchen. “This is my baby,” he shared, reflecting the intimate and ever-evolving culinary experience that keeps diners eagerly anticipating each new surprise on their plates.
So, if you’re looking to experience this Michelin-starred gem, I suggest making your reservation as soon as possible. As my colleague insisted—and I can now wholeheartedly attest—”It is worth it!”
Here Is What We Enjoyed Off The Menu
Wheat Creatures:
- Hot Jerusalem bagel, olive oil & Za’atar
Earth Creatures:
- There won’t be even one second of boredom when you eat this green salad.
- White eggplant steak. Aromatic herb sheep yogurt.
- Red Beet Mille-feuille, beet perfume and horseradish cream.
- Figs, Stracciatella, wild arugula, spicy, and hot honey.
Ocean Creatures:
- Japanese chefs would kill us for this Hamachi sashimi.
- 3 Cast iron seared Scallops, tomato seed butter and crispy pea shoots. (we were given 4)
- Charcoal grilled Spanish Mackerel, grilled Little gem lettuce, lemon aioli.
Animal Creatures:
- 76 layers of Wagyu flat iron on a very sharp steel
Sweet Creatures:
- Olive oil Panna cotta, candied pine nuts, & fresh Za’atar
- Peach sorbet with sautéed pear (not on the menu so forgive the description)
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!