Vermilion

Vermilion is a modern-minimalist Indian-Latin American restaurant. Its name literally translates into sindoor, a core symbol of Indian femininity and celebration of the beauty of women – how’s that for an impressive tidbit to bring-up on a first date?

The menu at Vermilion features an array of Indian-Latin dishes including small plates such as Duck Vindaloo Arepa, Boar Jibarito, Octopus Escabeche, as well as signature entrees such as Tandoori Skirt Steak, Crab Konkani Huitlacoche, Garam Masala Crusted Pork Belly and Brazilian Caldeirada Seafood Stew. An eclectic selection of authentic Indian dishes make an appearance on the menu with the likes of Mangalorean Lamb Shank Gassi, Sri Lankan 16-Spice Whole Fish, Dhaba (Indian truckstop fare), and Indian breads and kebabs. The lunch menu offers tropical salads, wraps, burgers and sandwiches along with a number of dishes from the regular menu. The spirit of Indian and Latin cultures continues in the dessert selection with Mango-Cardamom Flan, Mora Berry Mousse with Chick Pea Brittle, and a Garam Masala Hot Chocolate and Horchata Liquid Dessert Duo.

The spot’s cocktails are a blend of herbs and spices and purposefully steer away from the “mangotini” genre. Some cocktails surprise – the Pani Puri Chaat Margarita and the ‘morespice’ choices such as Fresh Lime Pear and Green Chili cocktail; some soothe – the Cucumber Mint Martini and Herbed White Sangria; and some – like the Blueberry Cardamom Fizz – call for a celebration. The compact wine list is strongly influenced by Latin and Spanish boutique wines, including several from Chile, Argentina and Spain, as well as a globally eclectic selection and a classic French-Californian selection. Over half of the list is offered by the glass.

As for the design, it’s contemporary minimalist, but there’s no shortage of beautiful details. The space is replete with masculine materials and hues, offset by a singular, feminine element – the oversized sensual black-and-white photographs by India’s leading fashion photographer, Farrokh Chothia. The bi-level set-up at Vermilion also features a two-story water curtain, a 22-foot metal mesh chandelier, a metal cable and backlit bar, and a sleek lit white canopy on the façade, along with serene floating ponds.

Vermilion is open for Lunch: 11:30 a.m. -2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday Dinner: 5 to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday 5 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Lounge is open during restaurant hours

Vermilion
480 Lexington Avenue
Midtown East
(212) 871-6600
http://www.thevermilionrestaurant.com/ny/index_ny.htm

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