Harvest in the Square is an annual event featuring the most popular restaurants in Union Square where they present signature dishes utilizing produce from Union Square’s Greenmarket. This year, “the new kid on the block,” as so eloquently coined by Executive Chef Brandi McHan, joined in on the festivities. Centrally located on the corner of Park Avenue South and East 19th street in Union Square, Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse is a force to be reckoned with. From sourcing their executive chef from Houston, Texas, to specializing in proteins other than steak and showing their love of neighborhood camaraderie, this gang knows what they’re doing. That’s why when I was given the opportunity to learn more about this new venture, I made sure to brush up on my culinary knowledge – or at least attempt to.
Upon arrival I was swarmed by booths serving a variety of dishes, but I was on a mission and couldn’t be swayed, even if they were shoving mini pies in my face. Mini Beef Wellington was on the menu that evening and it was better than imagined. It was moist, flavorful and something you’d probably enjoy at “an artisanal steakhouse,” as described by Eric Ostrow, Sales Manager at Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse. “We have chefs that are real chefs. They’re not just a kitchen manager,” he continues; which is surprisingly a commonality in the restaurant industry. They offer different daily specials, accommodate clientele with food allergies and with on-site sommeliers to help you pair the proper vintage to your Szechuan Pepper Crusted Tuna or Pear & Saga Blue Cheese Salad, you’ll always know that every meal at Vic & Anthony’s will be better than the last.
With locations in Houston, Las Vegas and Atlantic City, Vic & Anthony’s – NYC, was a well thought out step for CEO of Landry’s Restaurants, Tilman Fertitta, “I think it’s going in forward motion,” McHan said. “Opening in the summer time in New York probably wasn’t the best idea, but in the last month, with the cold weather, business has been picking up, so I see a bright future for Vic & Anthony’s.” And from the taste of it, I would have to agree.
Photos courtesy of Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse