Thanks to a spot-on recommendation from a friend who lives in NYC, I was able to experience dining at Leopard at des Artistes near Central Park West. Not just dining...the evening was what I would call an experience. Accompanied by a long-time friend I had not seen in years, it was a night to remember. Arriving first, I went next door to check out the "hotel" portion of this complex, which was actually never a hotel, but rather an apartment building for artists.
Residents have included Norman Rockwell, Isadora Duncan, Alexander Woollcott, Fannie Hurst, and Noel Coward. Not too shabby. Back at the restaurant, I had a beverage while waiting for my friend to arrive. I was glad I had that extra time, as it afforded me the opportunity to have the Ukrainian bartender fill me in on the hotel and restaurant's history.
The restaurant is probably best known for its murals by artist Howard Chandler Christy titled, "Fantasy Scenes with Naked Beauties,” completed in 1935.
These were created when Christy lived in New York City and had his studio at the Hotel des Artistes.
Oh yes...and the food.
Every course was out of this world.
And dessert...
No, I didn't order two desserts. We shared.
If you are rushed, do not eat here. This is a place to be savored and appreciated.
More New York City photos at my main website.
