I had a work dinner at Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson and let me say: what an underrated restaurant. The setting (it's literally in Perelman Performing Arts Center, adjacent to World Trade Center) is a little strange at first, but they've done a great job of making the space feel independent despite the setting.
Everything from drinks to service to food was on point. I felt like it was a very successful example of what I think Tatiana (just so-so, in my opinion) is trying to accomplish: some New York soul with global influences. I love that a few dishes — the oyster and banana pudding — are cart service and found the staff convivial and at ease, which always nice. The somm/floor manager, Isaiah, poured some incredible wines by the glass for us, ranging from a standout chablis to a truly unexpected Ethiopian honey wine.
Beyond that, I think it's best to let the photos speak for themselves, but my favorite dishes were the cornbread, coconut shrimp, Sugar Hill Nights (fried chicken), and the banana pudding. Don't skip the Sesame Manhattan either!
by loratliff