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Place · New York, USA

Essential by Christophe (Christophe Bellanca)

Tracked on 3 lists across 3 authorities, ranked as high as #520.

103 W 77th St, New York, NY 10024, USA Website ↗

Push past the heavy iron doors to this modern restaurant tucked at the base of a classic townhouse. Supple leather, brass touches and various shades of beige comprise the contemporary, elegant space, where a buzzy bar and a welcoming dining room await. Chef Christophe Bellanca's dishes echo a simple elegance, evidenced by plump white asparagus on a fragrant bergamot-flavored crème with a refreshing herb vinaigrette and paper-thin slices of watermelon radish. French technique is married with Asian flavors in a dish of three blue prawns with genmaicha tuille, and braised black sea bass with shiitake chutney, razor clams and a turmeric emulsion is memorable. For a light ending, the orange soufflé is bright and fragrant, especially when served with green cardamom ice cream.

The record

Every list it's on

Essential by Christophe (Christophe Bellanca) appears on 3 of the lists Mouga tracks — ranked or rated on 1, and written up on 2 more. Here's the full trail, dated and linked to each source.

Ranked & rated
oadguides.comTop Restaurants in North America 20262026
#520
Reviewed & mentioned
jamesbeard.orgThe 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists2026
Listed
Michelin Master Restaurants All Categories_July16_2026 USA 2026michelin master restaurants all categories_July16_2026 USA 20262026
Listed