On Sunday, June 15th, this journalist had the opportunity to dine at Hortus NYC for dinner as part of its summer menu.
Hortus is situated in the Koreatown enclave in Midtown Manhattan. In the Latin language, Hortus translates to “garden.”
Its ambiance is warm, pleasant, moody, and romantic, coupled with an elegant decor to it.
Appetizers
As an appetizer, their “Wagyu Gui” was exceptional… it consists of A5 Miyazaki wagyu, fried shallot, and Chili oil. Watching them cook it in front of you was quite the fiery spectacle.
Of course, fans of seafood simply cannot go wrong with Hortus’ “Oyster & Shrimp Cocktail.”
Pasta
Fans of pasta and macaroni should try their “Korean Smoked Pasta,” which features N’duja pork sausage, Grana padano cheese, Gochujang butter, and Gemelli pasta.
In many ways, it is reminiscent of the Italian Bolognese, and it is the quintessential comfort food.
Their “Clam Chowder Pasta” is just as impressive and comprised of Sujebi hand-torn noodles with Manila clams and zucchini, finished with chives and red chili.
Entrée
As a main dish, their “Sautéed Duck” was quite crispy and tender. It featured Sautéed duck breast, Sweet potato puree, arugula (topped with grated cheese) and fennel salad.
Sides
The sides at Hortus NYC are just as noteworthy. These include their healthy “Smashed Peewee Potato,” which are served with Myungran mayo, as well as their “Tempura-style Asparagus,” which is accompanied with Lemon Aioli.
Desserts
From the desserts portion of their menu, two that stand out by a mile include their “Thai Tea Monaka,” which is made up of Red Bean, Thai tea Caramel, and French Vanilla Ice Cream, as well as their scrumptious “Sweet Potato Cheese Cake” which features Maple cream, whipped cream and candied pecans.
Patron Gabby Gabriel remarked, “The dishes at Hortus were melt-in-your-mouth. It has a great vibe, and it is the ideal place to enjoy a good conversation and drinks. I will definitely be coming back to Hortus.”
The Verdict
Overall, Hortus NYC is a memorable modern Asian restaurant in Midtown Manhattan’s Koreatown. Every dish that they cook has a homemade feel to it, and the spices and ingredients that they use in their cooking are rich and resonant.
Dining at this restaurant is a neat way to explore Korean-inspired and Asian fusion cuisine.
There is always something new and different to try each visit and each season (as its menu constantly evolves). Hortus garners two giant thumbs up. Bravo.
For more information on Hortus NYC, visit its official homepage, and follow the eatery on Instagram.
