Copacabana

Drawing inspiration from New York’s original supper clubs, as well as the storied history of the Copacabana, this newly opened Times Square location delivers nostalgia, exotic ambiance, and an exquisite menu by renowned chef Alex Garcia.

The original Copa opened its doors on November 10, 1940 at 10 East 60th Street.  Since then, there have been several locations, many iconic shows, and even a hit song by Barry Manilow.  The Copa has also been used as a setting in films such as Goodfellas, Raging Bull, Carlito’s Way, and The French Connection.  It is nothing short of a true New York City Icon.

The Copacabana Supper Club is a retro-glamorous restaurant setting the tone for the ultimate dining experience.  The funky retro carpet and original Copa palm trees set the mood and bring the customers on a journey filled with authentic Latin cuisine and live music nightly from the Copacabana All-Stars led by Richie Gonzalez.

The recommended way to start the evening is at the bar in the dining hall, where bartender Tommy will create a masterful Mambo Mojito (Bacardi, mint, Lime juice, palm sugar syrup) or a Sevillana (Sangria, Tempranillo, Brandy, fresh fruit).

Chef Alex Garcia’s menu showcases Latin American regional specialties; from Mexico to Argentina.   For appetizers we opted for the Palmito (10$); a fresh heart of palm salad with asparagus, red and green beets, topped with a delightful yet delicate passion fruit dressing.  The Chicharron de Calamares (11$); a fried calamari plate topped with Dominican honey, organic sprout salad, and cashews were an interesting take on a classic appetizer dish.  And finally the cuajito con huevo (10$) which were recommended by Chef Garcia did not disappoint.  The spicy dish features fried pig ears, topped with a fried egg, and vegetables.

Then came time for the main dish.  The Dominican Republic dish; rabo encendido (24$) is served in one of the most interesting manners I have seen – in a can of GOYA black beans.  One the waiter lifts the can, we are presented with a tower of fiery braised oxtail, GOYA rice and beans, and sweet plantains.  I choose the Asaso (27$) for my main course, a Columbian adobo rubbed sirloin.  The friendly and hospitable Maitre D Jose is happy to suggest a wine pairing with my dish; a Malbec Amalaya 2009 from the Salta region in Argentina (10$/glass).  Jose is also happy to share some fun facts about the history of the world famous Copacabana.  The Asado is topped with manchego cheese, caramelized onions, and Aji; a spicy tomato sauce with cilantro, hot peppers, and onions.  The meat is cooked perfectly to medium and is the highlight of the meal.

A perfect meal, however, requires a perfect dessert… and the Copa features many excuisite treats.  We start with panqueques (6$); vanilla crepes with dulce de leche filling and caramelized apples.  The Cuban empanadas (8$) a pastry stuffed with dark chocolate ganache and rum raisin sauce.  My favorite dessert was the colada tres leches (7$); a traditional Nicaraguan cake soaked in coconut milk and rum, topped with white chocolate mousse and fresh pineapples.  To finish the night; a glass of dark rum and coffee.

The fun at the Copa doesen’t stop there.  After the meal, guests can climb the stairs to an elegant nightclub featuring the beloved Copa Dancers. The nightclub showcases live Latin entertainment.

At the moment, the Copa is also working on a glass-enclosed rooftop serving after work cocktails and weekend brunch.  Overall, the Copacabana stays true to its storied past, and delivers an all around experience from the moment you step to the moment you leave.  This establishment is all about the highest standard of hospitality from the competent staff, and chef Garcia takes command of not only his kitchen, but the dining room as he can be seen talking to patrons and making sure all is in order.

Reviewed by Joey Franco & Lorenzo Tartamella