Ariana Restaurant, New York

Reinventing Russian cuisine is a bold move, but Ariana Grinblat—a Russian-Grammy-winning pop star whom the NY Post described as "the Slavic equivalent of Britney Spears"—is up to the task. A foodie at heart, Grinblat collaborated with St. Petersburg–born chef Vitalii Kovalev to create an inventive Russian-inspired menu for her self-titled SoHo restaurant. Kovalev updates classic dishes such as borscht—here, enhanced with braised short rib and oxtail consommé—and stuffed cabbage featuring succulent lobster rather than the traditional beef and rice. The drink menu, too, honors Russian tradition while simultaneously taking it in a creative new direction; guest can sip creative cocktails centered around the quintessential Russian spirit—vodka—including one martini that's garnished with a caviar lollipop.

From the Press

• The New York Times: "Ariana Grinblat. . . has decided it’s time to update Russian cuisine in America."
• Urban Daddy: "the most opulent pickle plates this side of the Volga."