Water's Edge Restaurant - Dive In
By Doug Singer
Nestled alongside the East River in the Long Island City section of Queens, stands Water’s Edge Restaurant. With a rich history spanning three decades, it has held its own as a time-tested New York City establishment. During the warm weather, the Water’s Edge dining experience begins with a cruise across the East River. Departing from Manhattan’s East 23rd Street Pier, guests glide across the East River aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry. However, on the night of my attendance, I was whisked across the Queensboro Bridge in a yellow checkered chariot.
Upon entering the restaurant, I was overwhelmed by the panoramic display of everything Manhattan. Front and center are breathtaking views of the crown jewels of the New York skyline, the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. A great start for what was to be a wonderful evening.
With an extremely tasteful décor, the air filled with the sounds of a talented pianist and renowned cuisine, we were ready to dive in. Water’s Edge offers refreshing twists on traditional fare. From Maryland Jumbo Lump Crab Cake w/Truffled Corn Spuma and Meyer Lemon Relish ($16) to Citrus Scented Tuna Tartar with Blood Oranges and Focaccia Crostini ($18) to the Terrine of Foie Gras with Mesclun, Aged Balsamic Vinegar and White Truffle Oil ($22), the appetizers set the stage for a memorable performance.
Seafood seems to be the name of the game here and it does not disappoint. The Scallops “Saltimbocca” with Braised Escarole, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Marsala Wine ($29) was an interesting twist on the original and the Baby Artichoke Crusted Salmon with Spaghetti Squash, Baby Turnips and Saffron Brodo ($27) was simply sublime. However, don’t be fooled, their well endowed steak menu is worthy of serious consideration. With available additions like Bleu Cheese Crust and Pinot Noir Demisides, as well as sides such as Truffled Creamed Corn, Caramelized Cipollini Onions, Herb Roasted Wild Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Potato Au Gratina, a return trip seems to be a foregone conclusion.
But wait… there’s more! Let’s not forget the wine list. Ranging from $30 - $1500 the selection is kept at the perfect storage temperature amidst the 30 foot long climate controlled wine case. In addition to the elegant main dining room and bar, the restaurant offers riverside outdoor seating, a plush lounge with a fireplace and a selection of luxury yachts available for private parties and an assortment of events. The private event space located above the restaurant is awash with floor to ceiling glass, pristine, white walls and is accented by beautifully detailed woodwork. Glittering crystal chandeliers add the finishing touch, casting a soft glow that seems perfect for a fantasy wedding.
All in all, Water’s Edge Restaurant seems to have something for everyone. Definitely a good incentive to leave the island of Manhattan and brave the crossing of the river.
401 44th Drive at the East River
Long Island City, N.Y. 11101
Ph: 718.482.0033
www.watersedgenyc.com
Nestled alongside the East River in the Long Island City section of Queens, stands Water’s Edge Restaurant. With a rich history spanning three decades, it has held its own as a time-tested New York City establishment. During the warm weather, the Water’s Edge dining experience begins with a cruise across the East River. Departing from Manhattan’s East 23rd Street Pier, guests glide across the East River aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry. However, on the night of my attendance, I was whisked across the Queensboro Bridge in a yellow checkered chariot.
Upon entering the restaurant, I was overwhelmed by the panoramic display of everything Manhattan. Front and center are breathtaking views of the crown jewels of the New York skyline, the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. A great start for what was to be a wonderful evening.
With an extremely tasteful décor, the air filled with the sounds of a talented pianist and renowned cuisine, we were ready to dive in. Water’s Edge offers refreshing twists on traditional fare. From Maryland Jumbo Lump Crab Cake w/Truffled Corn Spuma and Meyer Lemon Relish ($16) to Citrus Scented Tuna Tartar with Blood Oranges and Focaccia Crostini ($18) to the Terrine of Foie Gras with Mesclun, Aged Balsamic Vinegar and White Truffle Oil ($22), the appetizers set the stage for a memorable performance.
Seafood seems to be the name of the game here and it does not disappoint. The Scallops “Saltimbocca” with Braised Escarole, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Marsala Wine ($29) was an interesting twist on the original and the Baby Artichoke Crusted Salmon with Spaghetti Squash, Baby Turnips and Saffron Brodo ($27) was simply sublime. However, don’t be fooled, their well endowed steak menu is worthy of serious consideration. With available additions like Bleu Cheese Crust and Pinot Noir Demisides, as well as sides such as Truffled Creamed Corn, Caramelized Cipollini Onions, Herb Roasted Wild Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Potato Au Gratina, a return trip seems to be a foregone conclusion.
But wait… there’s more! Let’s not forget the wine list. Ranging from $30 - $1500 the selection is kept at the perfect storage temperature amidst the 30 foot long climate controlled wine case. In addition to the elegant main dining room and bar, the restaurant offers riverside outdoor seating, a plush lounge with a fireplace and a selection of luxury yachts available for private parties and an assortment of events. The private event space located above the restaurant is awash with floor to ceiling glass, pristine, white walls and is accented by beautifully detailed woodwork. Glittering crystal chandeliers add the finishing touch, casting a soft glow that seems perfect for a fantasy wedding.
All in all, Water’s Edge Restaurant seems to have something for everyone. Definitely a good incentive to leave the island of Manhattan and brave the crossing of the river.
401 44th Drive at the East River
Long Island City, N.Y. 11101
Ph: 718.482.0033
www.watersedgenyc.com
