Le Rock, the latest venture from acclaimed chefs Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson of Frenchette fame, has landed in Rockefeller Center. This ambitious brasserie offers a sophisticated menu that balances classic French dishes with modern sensibilities, attracting a diverse crowd from office workers to out-of-town guests. Le Rock seamlessly blends the energy of a bustling Midtown restaurant with the elegance of a traditional French brasserie.
Le Rock’s Menu: A Blend of Classic and Modern
The menu at Le Rock is a testament to Nasr and Hanson’s culinary expertise. It features a compelling selection of dishes ranging from comforting staples like steak au poivre and steak hache to more adventurous offerings like tripe, sweetbreads, and sardine escabeche. Le Rock manages to be both familiar and exciting, offering something for every palate. The beverage program is equally impressive, boasting an extensive list of natural wines and craft beers.
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Standout Dishes at Le Rock
While the entire menu at Le Rock is worth exploring, a few dishes truly stand out.
Shrimp Cocktail with a Twist:
Le Rock elevates the classic shrimp cocktail by serving the plump, sweet shrimp with their fried heads, adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
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Organ Meats Done Right:
For the adventurous diner, Le Rock’s expertly prepared organ meats are a must-try. The tablier de sapeur, a breaded and fried tripe dish, and the pan-seared sweetbreads are both incredibly flavorful and texturally intriguing.
The Steak Hache: A Burger Reimagined:
Le Rock’s steak hache is a sophisticated take on the classic burger. This hand-cut patty, made with dry-aged ribeye, fresh chuck roll, and beef heart, is cooked to perfection and served with bone marrow and a simple yet elegant garnish.
Steak Au Poivre with a Peppercorn Crust:
The steak au poivre at Le Rock is a classic dish executed flawlessly. The generous coating of peppercorns creates a flavorful crust, while the tender meat remains perfectly pink inside.
A Dessert Extravaganza:
Le Rock’s dessert program is a showstopper. The three-tiered tea stand, laden with an array of pastries, cakes, cookies, and confections, is a decadent delight perfect for sharing.
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Le Rock: A Welcome Addition to Midtown
Le Rock is a significant addition to the Midtown dining scene. It’s a place where you can enjoy a classic French meal with a modern twist, in a stylish and vibrant setting. Whether you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak, a unique organ meat dish, or an unforgettable dessert experience, Le Rock delivers. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a dining destination.
