- NYCBites
- Posts
- 🚕 Comal Ignites Chinatown’s Dining Scene
🚕 Comal Ignites Chinatown’s Dining Scene
and JAPAN Fes Brings Tokyo Vibes to NYC
In partnership with
Good Morning NY!
This week, NYC’s dining scene is bursting with flavor and fresh arrivals. A celebrated chef is shaking up Chinatown with a bold new Mexican concept, while Restaurant Week 2025 returns to tempt us with citywide culinary deals. Serafina is diving into seafood at a sleek Midtown tower, and Time Out has dropped its definitive list of the city’s best restaurants for 2025.
Plus, JAPAN Fes is back, ready to turn four neighborhoods into a delicious celebration of Japanese food and culture. Let’s dig in!
The Secret Weapon for HR
The best HR advice comes from people who’ve been in the trenches.
That’s what this newsletter delivers.
I Hate it Here is your insider’s guide to surviving and thriving in HR, from someone who’s been there. It’s not about theory or buzzwords — it’s about practical, real-world advice for navigating everything from tricky managers to messy policies.
Every newsletter is written by Hebba Youssef — a Chief People Officer who’s seen it all and is here to share what actually works (and what doesn’t). We’re talking real talk, real strategies, and real support — all with a side of humor to keep you sane.
Because HR shouldn’t feel like a thankless job. And you shouldn’t feel alone in it.
Global Flavors Land in NYC: Comal Heats Up Chinatown
Comal, the latest venture from chef Gaz Herbert, reimagines Mexican cuisine with the vibrant energy of Mexico City’s food scene.
Herbert, who’s honed his skills at River Café, Ikoyi, and Jupiter, is crafting dishes that blend tradition with bold innovation.
The menu promises adventurous bites like beef tongue skewers, sweetbreads paired with pineapple salsa, and mussels nestled in corn custard.
Grasshopper-topped beef crudo and luxurious options like lobster and smoked half-chicken raise the stakes even higher.
An enticing mezcal list is also in the works, pending a liquor license.
As global restaurant buzz grows, Comal stands out as one of July’s most exciting openings.
Summer Restaurant Week 2025: NYC’s Culinary Celebration Returns
Food lovers, mark your calendars because Summer Restaurant Week 2025 is taking over all five boroughs.
Hundreds of restaurants across New York City are rolling out special prix-fixe menus designed to showcase the city’s incredible culinary diversity.
From cozy neighborhood spots to high-end fine dining, there’s something for every palate and budget.
This seasonal event invites diners to indulge in multi-course meals at unbeatable prices, making it the perfect time to explore new flavors.
Restaurant Week is more than just great deals—it’s a celebration of the chefs and eateries that make NYC a world-class food destination.
Whether you’re craving Italian, sushi, modern American, or exotic global dishes, the choices are endless.
Don’t miss this chance to savor the city’s best bites without breaking the bank.
Serafina Unveils Seafood Trattoria at New Anagram Turtle Bay Tower
Beloved Italian restaurant chain Serafina is charting new waters with the launch of Serafina Mare, its first-ever seafood-focused concept.
The new trattoria will span 5,000 square feet on the ground floor of the Anagram Turtle Bay, a luxury rental tower at 300 E. 50th St. in Midtown East.
This marks Serafina’s 13th location in Manhattan and promises a fresh take on their signature Italian fare.
Serafina Mare is set to open in Fall 2026, following the arrival of residents at the 194-unit building in August 2025.
Co-owner Fabio Granato has a personal connection to the neighborhood, having once lived in a building that previously occupied the site.
The deal for the restaurant space was finalized off-market, with support from both the building’s landlord and Serafina’s own investment.
Fans can look forward to a seafood-centric menu in a stylish new setting.
NYC’s Best Restaurants 2025: Time Out’s Top Picks
Time Out has just unveiled its updated list of the best restaurants in New York City for 2025.
Newcomers like NY Kimchi, a hidden steakhouse by Sam Yoo, and Semma, offering rural Southern Indian dishes, have made a splash.
At the same time, beloved favorites like Gramercy Tavern, Via Carota, and Oxomoco continue to hold their place.
From Korean royal-court skewers at Kochi to Ethiopian vegetarian specialties at Bunna Cafe, the list celebrates global flavors.
Seafood enthusiasts will find gems like Eel Bar and Elias Corner among the top selections.
This carefully curated list is a must-check for anyone eager to explore NYC’s vibrant and evolving food scene.
JAPAN Fes Returns to NYC with a Taste of Japan in Four Neighborhoods
Get ready, NYC! JAPAN Fes is making a grand return this July.
The festival celebrates the best of Japanese food and culture across Midtown East, Chelsea, Times Square, and Astoria.
Over 2,000 vendors will bring authentic Japanese flavors, crafts, and cultural experiences to the city’s streets.
From traditional dishes to modern culinary trends, there’s something for every Japanophile and foodie to enjoy.
Visitors can explore artisan stalls, enjoy cultural programming, and immerse themselves in Japan’s rich heritage.
JAPAN Fes offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Japan without leaving New York City.
Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration happening across four bustling neighborhoods this summer.
Thanks
Thanks for reading NYC Bites today! If you found something useful, please share it with someone who loves food and NYC.
Want to advertise in our newsletter? Fill out this form here and we will be in touch shortly!
Was this email forwarded to you? Sign-up to get it.
Have a question or need support? Contact us.