Meli Melo
 If you savor the exotic flavor of fine fare from France infused with Mediterranean, Italian and Vietnamese flavors, then you should definitely reserve a table at Meli Melo, aptly named in Latin for a blend of flavor and cuisine. Owned and created by world renowned chef Bernard Ros, this restaurant is nestled in the now famous Murray Hill section of Madison Avenue between 28th and 29th streets. Known as the unofficial mayor of the New York French scene, Bernard Ros has decided to bring the flavor of France to New York, with a twist.
After years of creating successful restaurants around the world and in New York City, Bernard Ros decided to invent an eatery that didn’t solely cater to one type of cuisine. This cultural blend is not only evident in the cuisine but in the atmosphere. Meli Melo is reminiscent of a typical French café with an intimate setting highlighted by rich woodwork and a beautiful full length mural that represents a blending of cultures. Whereas the rest of New York is a blur of activity, Meli Melo makes time stand still as you only want to savor your meal and company.
The atmosphere only helped to increase my dinner party’s anticipation of the meal we had ordered. Every patron’s meal begins with a Gorgonzola with Sun Dried Tomato Reduction which is served in a pastry puff and has a light and flaky consistency paralleled against the tangy flavors of the gorgonzola and tomatoes. Our appetizers included Tomato, Fresh Mozzarella and Basil, Smoked Malourd Duck with Root Vegetables and Calamari Stuffed with Shrimp & Crab on Tomato Sambai, each served with a portion of Foie Gras. All of this was proof that Meli Melo not only caters to those who prefer traditional fare such as the tomato and mozzarella, but to those who prefer exotic tastes as well.
Between our appetizers and the main course, we were treated to a sample of the Lobster Ravioli in a Rich Tomato Sauce, which was absolutely amazing. For the main course, we dined on Lamb Tagine with Desert Spices and Mediterranean Vegetables, Organic Chicken Breast Filled with Proscuitto and Fresh Mozzarella and Atlantic Salmon Steak Coated with Lemon Rind. Everything was beyond compare with freshly prepared vegetables, meats and seafood. The seafood was fresh, the meats tender and the vegetables expertly seasoned.
 After an excellent meal, dessert consisted of a plate of Fruit and Cheese and of course, being a chocolate lover, I couldn’t resist their signature dessert Chocolate Temptation, which is made personally by Chef Bernard Ros. And just incase you might have a little room left over, each meal is complimented with a salver of Petit Fours. Needless to say, I was completely stuffed and couldn’t possibly think of eating another thing!
So, how can you add your name to the list of patrons who sing the praise of Meli Melo? Well, Meli Melo is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday from 11:30am to 11:30pm with only dinner being served on the weekends from 5pm to 12am. If it’s price fixed meals that you seek, Meli Melo offers two options for your culinary pleasure.
A complete lunch includes an appetizer, entree, dessert and coffee or tea. If you would rather dine at night, a complete dinner includes an appetizer, soup or salad, entree, dessert, petit fours and coffee or tea. Both complete meals are offered at low prices, which affords you the opportunity to sample from Meli Melo’s wine and top shelf spirits. So, if you can’t spoil your sweetie and escape to a romantic back drop like France, don’t fret! Take your honey to Meli Melo and let the intimate setting and rich cuisine whisk you away to France…if only for one night!
For more information about Meli Melo visit www.melimelorestaurant.com. Or visit them at 110 Madison Ave between 29th & 30th St.
Ph: (212) 686-5551
Big Apple Style Rates Meli Melo:
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