Nestled in the ground floor of the Benjamin Hotel on Lexington Ave in Midtown sits the elegant, yet unassuming restaurant The National. I recently spoke with Bar Manager Noble Harris and General Manager Matthew Feddock about the pairing of classic dishes and simple ingredients in both the bar program and behind closed doors in the kitchen with acclaimed chef Geoffrey Zakarian. With a menu that changes seasonally, the restaurant stays current on cocktail trends while still harkening back to the old classics. The Sazerac gets a twist using Trinidadian Zaya Rum, and the refreshing and delicious Elixer uses New York's Distilling Company Dorothy Parker Gin and fresh juices. Since diners here can range from the Midtown Power Luncher, to the hotel guest, to the neighborhood regular at the bar, dishes and cocktails are made to excite but also to be approachable and accessible while staying true to the New American/French nature of the place. Expect a great wine list with the same overall aesthetic - classic old world, with some new world excitement thrown in for good measure. Also note, every Sunday The National boasts live jazz from the main dining room.
By Eliza Czander