As we watch more and more restaurants and bars debut, we can totally agree that it’s the Upper “Best” Side.

Located in the 100s, The Fat Monk is a new two-level gastropub by the celebrated James Beard Chef Rob McCue. Chef McCue is transforming comfort classics into present-day dishes with part- molecular gastronomy and part- kitchen alchemy. Oysters escargot finished with Pernod parsley crust, foie gras bratwurst, miso monkfish with braised leeks and signature Monk burger highlight the laid-back, London-style spot in this part of the Upper West Side.

“This restaurant concept has been in the works for 15 years,” says Chef McCue. “I love this neighborhood and I think high end, yet approachable comfort food would be a great fit for the area.”

To pair with plates, The Fat Monk offers a helluva cocktail experience for guests. Curated by Beverage Director Cody Goldstein, founder of Muddling Memories, the short list of craft cocktails (with names like Emma Stone’s A Ginger) include funky infused spirits and memory-boosting garnishes – #TBT.

“I want the diner to experience a sensory memory,” states Goldstein. “The cocktails will ‘wow’ you with the attention to detail.”

Selections include: the Beet Box, beet-infused gin, Aperol, white vermouth, crème de cacao and candied music note; Monk-Ey Around, 24-year aged rum, coconut, banana, lime, walnut bitters and edible flower; and lastly, My Lisa Frank Notebook, vodka, Serrano-infused mezcal, vanilla, mango shrub, Angostura bitters and pink unicorn dust.

Note: There are two bars to drink at – the main (entry) bar seats five with solid people-watching, while the main dining room and large bar downstairs seats 46 altogether. Just follow the neon “EAT” sign pointing to the lower level.

The Fat Monk details

949 Columbus Ave. (between 106th & 107th Sts), 212-837-2334, thefatmonknyc.com
Connect Socially: @thefatmonknyc

Hours of Operation

Monday – Thursday: 5:00PM – 11:00PM
Friday – Sunday: 5:00PM – 12:00AM

Lunch & Brunch coming soon; as well as, a Chef’s Table seating for two.