Kanyakumari NYC

- 20 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003

Kanyakumari NYC offers an experience that goes beyond a simple meal; it's a journey into the rich and diverse culinary landscape of Southern India. This restaurant, named after the southernmost tip of India, is an exciting addition to New York City's dining scene, specializing in regional coastal cuisine. Unlike many Indian restaurants that offer a broad menu, Kanyakumari focuses on a more specific, authentic, and "unapologetic" exploration of coastal flavors, with dishes and influences from places like Goa, Kerala, and Maharashtra. The result is a menu that is both unique and deeply flavorful, with a focus on bold spices, fresh seafood, and traditional preparations that are rarely seen in the city.

The atmosphere at Kanyakumari is as captivating as its food. Described as "trendy" and "romantic," the space is designed to transport you to another world. The ambiance is warm and intimate, making it an ideal destination for a date night or a special occasion. As one customer noted, the food is so good it can "totally blow you away," with each dish showcasing an impressive level of skill and care. The blend of traditional South Indian fare with an upscale, contemporary dining environment makes Kanyakumari a standout, promising not just a delicious meal but a memorable and immersive experience.

Kanyakumari NYC is conveniently located at 20 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA, just a short walk from the bustling Union Square. Its prime location in this highly accessible neighborhood makes it easy for both locals and tourists to visit. The restaurant is situated in a vibrant area known for its unique shops, dining, and easy access to multiple subway lines, including the L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, and 6 trains at the 14th Street - Union Square station.

The restaurant is also thoughtfully designed for accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. For those who drive, paid street parking and nearby parking lots are available. The location is an easy-to-find spot on a well-known street, making it a convenient choice for dinner reservations. The elegant, yet intimate setting is a nice escape from the city's fast pace, offering a chance to slow down and savor the food. However, as some diners have noted, the cozy atmosphere can sometimes lead to a tight squeeze between tables, a small trade-off for the restaurant's popularity.

Kanyakumari NYC provides a range of services designed to enhance the dining experience.

• Dine-in: This is the primary service, with a focus on providing an immersive and romantic dining experience with full table service.
• Reservations: Given the restaurant's popularity and intimate setting, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner. You can make reservations to ensure you get a table.
• Bar Onsite: The restaurant features a full bar with a great selection of cocktails, beer, hard liquor, and wine, allowing for a unique and comprehensive beverage pairing with your meal. As one reviewer mentioned, the bartenders are very friendly and can even introduce you to different spirits, such as Indian whiskey.
• Catering: While not explicitly listed on the provided menu, the restaurant's capacity to serve groups and its sophisticated menu suggest it could be a fantastic option for catering or special events.

Kanyakumari NYC is defined by several key highlights that make it a compelling choice for an Indian meal in the city.

• Unique Coastal Cuisine: The menu is a journey in itself, with dishes categorized by the Indian states and cities from which they originate, such as "From Malabar" and "From Goa." This approach offers a rare and authentic taste of specific regional cuisines, setting it apart from more generalized Indian restaurants.
• Exceptional Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Options: The menu is a delight for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. A vegetarian customer praised the abundance of options, from the "spicy flavors" of the Gunter Idli to the "flaky and buttery" Malabar Porotta. Meat dishes are equally celebrated, with a customer raving about the "so tender" beef that "was practically falling off the bone."
• Outstanding Cocktails and Wine: The bar is a highlight, with a "great cocktails" list and a solid wine selection. Bartenders are praised for their friendly service and knowledge, making the drink experience as memorable as the food.
• Atmosphere: The romantic, trendy, and bustling ambiance is a major draw. The space has a buzzy vibe that is perfect for a special date or a night out with friends.
• Top-Notch Service: The staff is frequently praised for providing "excellent customer service" and making diners feel "at home," with one customer giving a "huge shout out" to a manager named Ramson for a truly exceptional experience.

Address: 20 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 707-3688

So, why should you choose Kanyakumari NYC for your next dining experience? The answer lies in its unique and high-quality offerings. While a few reviews noted the noise level and close seating arrangements, these are common traits of many popular, in-demand New York restaurants. The overwhelming positive feedback centers on the truly "top notch food" and "top notch service." Diners repeatedly express how the food, from the crispy dosas to the flavorful beef and goat biryani, is "out of this world" and "super authentic."

For those seeking a genuine, regional Indian culinary adventure, Kanyakumari is an exceptional choice. The menu's focus on coastal cuisine and dishes with a "depth of flavor" that are "bold and complex" provides a refreshing departure from typical Indian restaurant fare. The balance of classic dishes like Dosa and Malabar Parotha with more unique and innovative options makes it a place worth returning to, as one couple who visited twice for date night can attest.

Ultimately, Kanyakumari NYC is a destination for those who appreciate high-quality ingredients, masterful cooking, and a vibrant, engaging atmosphere. It's a place to celebrate, to discover new flavors, and to enjoy a meal that feels both authentic and refined. Its combination of a unique menu, excellent service, and a beautiful setting makes it a standout choice for an Indian dining experience in the heart of New York.

Kanyakumari NYC

20 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA