Deep in the heart of Arlo Midtown (351 West 38th St), Altair twinkles like its namesake star, inviting seekers of sensory pleasures to step out of the city’s grind and into its lush, romantic cocoon.
This Renwick Hospitality Group masterpiece (the minds behind hotspots like Foxtail, Lindens, ART Rooftop, and The Alderman) isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience inspired by Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. It’s a culinary alchemy that feels equal parts celestial and indulgent.
The ambiance channels botanical opulence mixed with Gotham glamour, creating a sultry energy that begs for whispered secrets over candlelight. This is where couples on their third date test the waters of exclusivity, power diners conspire over octopus, and Dry January warriors toast victories with mocktails so good they forget they’re not buzzed.
Altair’s menu is a love letter to the elements, presented with an artful edge that will leave your Instagram followers green with envy. The vegetable-driven dishes—Squash Blossom Tempura dripping in chili oil or Heirloom Tomatoes lounging with Herb Stracciatella—are so fresh they might as well still be sunbathing in their garden beds. The Smoked Yukon Potatoes with charred leek chili crisp deliver a smoky seduction that lingers longer than a stolen kiss.
For those craving land-and-sea romance, the Octopus a la Plancha is a symphony of crushed potatoes and olive tapenade that could bring Neptune to tears. The Herb Crusted Colorado Lamb Rack dazzles alongside King Oyster Mushrooms, while the Nduja Bucatini sings with Calabrian chili and fennel, delivering a fiery harmony of flavors.
Altair’s cocktail menu mirrors the natural elements with herbaceous, boozy creations that are perfect for any spirit lover. The Yuzu-Spiked cocktail deserves its own fan club, with its bright, citrusy kick that complements every bite of the menu. Guests avoiding alcohol this season will find joy in their masterfully crafted zero-proof options, proving that indulgence doesn’t require a buzz. The non-alcoholic creations are every bit as sophisticated and refreshing as their spirited counterparts.
Dessert is the grand finale that elevates the experience to celestial heights. The chocolate brownie is to die for, a decadent masterpiece that melts on the tongue and leaves an echo of pure bliss. Pair it with a perfectly balanced cocktail or a rich cup of coffee, and it becomes a moment worth savoring.
Service at Altair is impeccable, with a team that balances warmth and professionalism effortlessly. The staff remembers names, offers wine pairings that will change your life, and delivers each dish with a reverence that elevates the dining experience to something extraordinary.
Breakfast is served daily, delivering the perfect excuse for a decadent start to the day. Weekend brunch tempts with luxurious plates and a dreamy vibe, while dinner, offered Tuesday through Saturday, rounds out the week with unforgettable indulgence.
Slip into something fabulous, leave your troubles at the door, and surrender to the cosmic magic of Altair. Whether you come for the food, the cocktails, or the ambiance, one thing is certain: you’ll leave feeling as though you’ve dined among the stars.
