The self-proclaimed “savior of the Great American Songbook” shares his fave food spots ahead of a new evening of standards at 54 Below.
Though we understand their circumstances may have been a bit different, like Oliver and his clan of orphan boys, we’ve all fallen into a daze dreaming of “food, glorious food” at one point or another.
After all, it’s been said that food is the great equalizer, connecting us and bringing us together, either with family or friends, colleagues or companions, or any others from all walks of life, to dine often at a communal table or gathering space wherein we share stories and reveal the most authentic parts of ourselves.
In our continued effort, however, to find our way into others’ hearts (and stomachs!), sometimes it helps to venture beyond our tables and into the kitchens of others — especially in a city with such a diversified abundance of eateries as New York.
And of course, you can’t spell “theatre” without “eat.”
So, in our food-based series, we continue to poll some of the Great Bright Way’s best to “dish” (get it?) on where they love to eat, drink, and take in the vibes either pre- or post-show, while also answering why they love to sup there, sharing a favorite dish or two, and more.
Today, we turn to burgeoning cabaret crooner Seth Sikes, who returns to Midtown hotspot 54 Below with a brand new solo show, Sing a Song with Me, on May 26th. Paired with legendary pianist Billy Stitch, Sikes presents an evening of timeless standards, swingin’ showtunes and heartfelt ballads, spanning the songbooks of Gershwin, Warren, Strouse, Bernstein, and more — all delivered, of course, with Sikes’ signature style and wit.
Known for his acclaimed tributes to celebrated female vocalists including Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland, Bernadette Peters, and Barbra Streisand — all of which he’s, coincidentally, also performed at the intimate nightclub — Sikes is the recipient of two BroadwayWorld Awards ad two MAC Award nominations. Finally, having recently toured the country in the duo show, The New Belters, alongside fellow crooner Nicolas King, Sikes has also served as the associate director of such Broadway productions as The Band’s Visit, Dead Outlaw, and more.
But where does Sikes like to sup?
(34o W. 46th Street)
Since 1984, Le Rivage on Restaurant Row has established itself as a staple for classic French fare, and “one of the most charming atmospheres in the entire Theater District,” according to Sikes. “It’s an underrated gem full of old-world charm, and incredibly convenient to [theatregoers].”
An “underrated gem full of old-world charm” – and incredibly convenient to theatregoers – “stepping inside feels like traveling back in time and straight into the French countryside,” Sikes continues. “The friendly, and predominantly French, waitstaff only deepens that illusion,” punctuated by the pianist & live jazz combo that plays softly in the corner each night – “enough to create ambiance without overpowering conversation,” the singer denotes, which, of course, only further adds to the restaurant’s authentic warmth and character.
The food certainly meets that standard as well. While they’re famous for their signature French Onion Soup Burger – a two-time winner at the NYC Wine & Food Festival’s Annual Burger Bash – Sikes recommends the French Onion Soup on its own, a succulent beef broth topped with a velvety Gruyère gratinée. 
Other favorites, all courtesy of Chef Paul Denamiel, who has been with the restaurant since its beginnings, and new Chef de Cuisine David Cámara, who joined the venture last year, include the Beef Bourguignon – a tender short rib slowly simmered in a red wine gravy, with mushrooms, lardons, and pearl onions over a pomme purée – and the classic Coq Au Vin, a similarly prepared Amish half-chicken tossed with lardons, potatoes, and carrots in a “deeply savory” Grand Mére sauce. "Every course served at Le Rivage is artistically presented [to make] your meal a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds,” says Cámara. "[Our] goal is to celebrate the restaurant's history while introducing flavors and techniques that speak to modern diners.
Goal achieved indeed! With all that decadent deliciousness, to quote the iconic Sondheim – whose songs Sikes will sing in his concert – what more does he need?
Le Rivage is open on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday from 3:30pm-9pm, Wednesday from 11:30am-9pm, Friday from 3:30pm-10pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 11:30am-10pm.
(852 9th Ave.)
With its upscale wine-bar aesthetic and a cozy neighborhood feel, this lovely Mediterranean-inspired getaway, perfect for small plates and tapas and touted as “Hell’s Kitchen’s hidden gem” since it opened in 2004, has consistently been “my go-to place for….reading a book while sipping a glass of wine,” says Sikes.
“The overall space has an easygoing charm, with low-key vibes, warm lighting, and the kind of ambiance that invites you to linger,” he continues. (“If time allows, of course,” he cautions, with a laugh, warning: “Do not miss your show!”)
Pro tip: Though the bar and front tables are ideal for solo dining, head to the back room (brick walls, large windows, and generally quiet) if you’re with a date or small group.
And then there are the eats. For starters, Sikes recommends the skewers, whether served over salad or on their own alongside their delicious sides. Choose from a variety of options, including chicken, salmon, lamb kofte, and vegetable, in addition to others. Or go with friends – “It’s equally wonderful for a more social evening,” Sikes quips – and get tapas and meze to share; served with warm pita bread and available as any combo of four or six, depending on the size of your party. Sikes is partial to the hummus and baba ganoush, but olive tapenade, tzatziki, and an earthy walnut pepper spread are also among the options.
For a main course, “their cheese fondue is completely irresistible,” Sikes raves, a sentiment echoed by all the regular customers and restaurant critics alike. Choose from one of three enticing options, including the traditional Gruyère and Raclette combo, the Truffle fondue (traditional Gruyère with a hint of truffle oil) or the signature Kashkaval mixture, boasting Bulgarian sheep’s milk. All iterations are served with baguette slices, with the option to add on supplemental dippers, from roasted potatoes to assorted fruit & vegetables to kielbasa & other cured meats.
And finally, conveniently located within walking distance to all Broadway theaters and Lincoln Center, they’re also open late, catering to the post-show crowd who likes to gab or imbibe before heading home. “Take advantage of their happy hour wine specials [available on-site] as well!” Sikes suggests. “And, if you show a ticket stub from that same day’s performance” – whether before or after your meal – “you’ll receive 10% off your bill!”
Suffice it to say, with this meal, it’s not just “that old black magic” that’s got you in its spell!
Kashkaval Garden is open on Sundays from 11am-11pm, Monday-Wednesday from 12pm-11pm, and Thursday-Saturday from 12pm-midnight. A sumptuous weekend brunch is offered 11am-4pm, and Happy Hour lasts from 3pm-6pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, offering $8 wine, beer, and mixed drinks. Happy Hour at the bar lasts all day, every day.
ONE FINAL PICK: He is at 54 Below after all. Off their own varied, world-class menu, “I almost always have their Caesar Salad” — featuring baby gem lettuce, shaved pecorino cheese, white anchovies, and crostini — which he tops with chicken. (Salmon and shrimp also available). “They also have a house Rosé that I’ve become fond of.”
“Oh,” he backtracks, with enthusiasm. “And their dirty [skin-on] mashed potatoes hit the spot!”
In addition to providing meals during shows and events onsite at the venue, 54 Below also offers pre-show theatre dining before a Broadway show or New York night on the town. Should you be intrigued, call or click here to make a reservation.
We’ll continue to present a new performer with new restaurants and new menus, so keep checking back to see who we poll and what’s on their mind at mealtime! Until next time, as always, bon appétit!
