Senegalese-American chefs Ali Cisse (Chef Ali) and Elhadji A. Cisse (Chef Cisse) are on a mission to save New Yorkers from the same old food. To do just that, their restaurant, Ponty Bistro, which has two locations in Manhattan, (Gramercy Park & Harlem) offers fresh options to excite the palates of jaded New Yorkers.
To get out of my own “food rut”, I visited Ponty Bistro a couple of weeks ago and I must admit, I was very excited to try a restaurant that specializes in West African and French cuisine.
My first impression upon entering Ponty Bistro was that it was a cute date night restaurant. The quaint and intimate atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening in Manhattan. And, with daily happy hour specials, that includes food specials, Ponty Bistro is also great spot to have after work drinks and appetizers.
The food at Ponty Bistro did not disappoint. Everything was delicious and flavorful. Our meal was highlighted by the Fish Fataya, which is a Senegalese empanadas made with salmon, accompanied with baby greens, north African spices sauce & tartar sauce. The salmon filling was spectacular and the flaky crust was the perfect texture contrast to the delicious filling. My dining partner and I also really enjoyed the Mussels, which was seasoned in a rich creamy broth made with African Spices. Lastly, the tasty Butternut Squash Soup was perfect and an appetizing way to start our meal.
Check out some pictures of our feast below:
Calabash, Butternut Squash Soup
Fish Fataya -Senegalese empanadas, baby greens, north African spices sauce & tartar sauce
Artichoke Salad- Haricot vert, shaved parmesan, truffle vinaigrette
Mussels with African Spices
Le Poulet Yassa – A traditional Senegal Chicken dish, served with rice
Overall, if you’re looking for a unique dining experience to get you out of your own New York City food rut, you should definitely give Ponty Bistro a try.
Ponty Bistro (Garmercy Park)
Cuisine: Upscale French/Senegalese/West African
Where: 218 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Cost: Average $40 Per Person
Perfect for: Date Night, Meeting
What to Order:
Crispy Tuna, Fish Fataya, Truffle Macaroni and Cheese, Le Poulet Yassa, Niokolokoba and Poisson Braise A Le Guet Ndar.
Brunch:
Order the Lobster Benedict, French Toast, Scrambled Bruchetta and much more.
Happy Hour:
Happy Hour Daily @ the Bar & High Top Tables 12:00 PM – 06:00 PM
Happy Hour Every Night! 09:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Dinner Menu here
Follow @PontyBistro on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
Please note: While my meal was complimentary the opinions expressed herein are 100% my own
