New York sees new restaurants open — and close — with astonishing frequency. However, in the past few years there has been a relative paucity of newcomers likely to appeal to Harper members. The primary causes for this have been economic turbulence and uncertainty, with restaurateurs and chefs hedging their bets. To be sure, new establishments have often offered inventive menus, but in smaller spaces with shock-wave noise levels. This started to change last year when what the restaurant industry calls “fine dining” establishments began to return.

Augustine

Keith McNally has proven to be one of the most prescient dining impresarios in New York. With almost uncanny instinct, he has sensed the potential in previously obscure locations. This, his newest venture, marks two firsts — his first restaurant in the Financial District and his first restaurant in a hotel, in this case The Beekman. Augustine embodies the aesthetic of longtime McNally collaborators Richard Lewis and Ian McPheely, who have given it brown banquettes, art nouveau mirrors, pastel tiles and a coffered ceiling. Look for rustic French dishes such as salt-baked oysters, cheese soufflé, and sea urchin spaghettini.

Augustine
5 Beekman Street. Tel. (212) 375-0010