Celestine — Restaurant in New York

If I could give this establishment one star I would. I traveled from out of state to NYC and had only three days to spend here. Before the trip, I specifically picked out each restaurant I would be dining at, since I had limited time and wanted each dining experience to be perfect. The reservation was made for 5:00p.m., the exact time the restaurant opens the doors to the public. I walked up at 4:45p.m. to check in with the host but the doors were locked. A man came outside (who I now know is the host) and said in the most monotone voice "we are closed", before he slipped back off into a side door without another word. We waited by the water on a bench until the establishment was open for business and walked in the front door only to be left standing there ungreeted and uncomfortable. I figured the host must have needed to warm-up, but this was not the case. After the cold, absent greeting we were shown to a two-person table outside. Mind you, we planned this reservation a month prior and were unaware that the temperature would be below 60 degrees. This was entirely unforeseeable. At this particular moment, our party-of-two were the only patrons in the entire building. I kindly asked, "Is it okay if we are seated inside, it is very cold and it will be uncomfortable if we have to sit out here throughout the meal". I prefaced this statement by saying, "please feel free to say no if there are no available tables". The host raised his voice and said in a very rude tone, "so let me get this straight... you made a reservation outside but now you want to sit inside". For a second, I thought his statement was rhetorical because that was quite literally what I just said. It was so jarring, it took me a second to realize he had actually just uttered those words. He came back at a later time during the meal (not sure why he was not manning the host podium instead of walking around aimlessly) and made a back-handed comment about what my friend and I were wearing. It was awkward because there was no compliment anywhere within his statement, so in my opinion, was simply a waste of breath. The entire staff was cold, bland, and uninviting. It is a shame that not even the view could make up for the poor experience I had with almost every member of the wait staff. I am not sure who is in charge of this establishment, but some service training/hiring protocols are in order. The food was not remotely good enough to leave a good taste in my mouth after my experience at Celestine. It is a shame that the view is beautiful but not worth the waste of your time/money/energy especially traveling here from Manhattan. I am sure this review will not change anything and the host and others will receive a slap on the wrist seeing as though almost every review below mine mentions encounters similar to mine.

I would also like to add that this is the first review I have ever left. The wait staff had me so speechless that the most memorable part of the experience...

It was my birthday...We arrived excited hungry--ready to enjoy. The location and the view, sublime, totally gram worthy. This isn't a place to go dine if you understand what fine dining is, or if one is famished. This is a small bits establishment with beautiful views...what we experienced was quite disappointing. The service waiter was friendly, slow (unerstaffed) and very inexperienced (he crossed in front of me to serve) of course I gently reminded him that that was inappropriate. The flatbread was served on a small plate (a large kinda frisbee) served uncut and tasteless. It appeared delicious but because of the plating it was cold and hard in minutes. The cocktail menu is highly ambitious, reminiscent of days gone by where convoluted concoctions were a thing. The gnocchi arrived fried (🤯 calling for any grandma right now) without any sauce on a bed of green stuff. In fact, to make it interesting a cracked egg shell was left in the plate. Really, people, really? It wasn't even an egg dish! Post pandemic--gotta worry about the kitchen staff. Any hoot, the half of branzino (the other half was probably sold to another customer) on a bed of white soufflé (tasteless unseasoned mush) with a scant sprinkle of precious micro greens. My son's order of brunt brussel sprouts hide under a layer of (unrecognizable) cheese along side overcooked french fries. We attempted to finish off the offerings with dessert (what could go wrong?)...everything! There are no prepared cakes, pastries or even a cookie served here. However, sad and oddly enough just fancy combos of sorbet (iced) sweetness with zany toppings. I dared to order the citrus sorbet with a candle (sweet thought) and some type of hardened meringue on top (don't do it). People who love food...eat at home first, or you will leave dissatisfied and hungry. Drink you favorite adult beverage prior to your arrival because just like the overly ambitious menu $$$$$ (a restaurant owner who only wants to make money). This place is useful for a quick bite, quick Instagram photos...and run for your life. There's no soul or real feeling of genuine warmth at this establishment. My hope is that they get trained wait staff, a trained chef and a realistic planned menu. I arrived famished; I left famished after paying a hefty tab.

Snatch your Insta pic! Go over to the other side of the bridge near St. Ann's Warehouse for fun, good food and perhaps, frocklicking ...run...

I am still reeling from the exceptional dining experience at Celestine, Brooklyn, a true gem on the DUMBO waterfront. This Mediterranean-influenced restaurant is a masterclass in elegance, with breathtaking views of the Manhattan Bridge and the downtown city skyline. But what truly sets Celestine apart is its impeccable service, exemplified by our outstanding waitress, Yansis. Her attention to detail, extensive knowledge of the menu, and gracious demeanor made our evening truly unforgettable.

The culinary journey at Celestine is a testament to the chef's creativity and commitment to using only the freshest, seasonal ingredients. We began with the mezze platter, a vibrant and flavorful assortment of dips and spreads. The golden beets and grilled octopus were standout starters, while the trout, pistachio pesto bucatini, and Belle chicken all impressed with their complexity and depth. We basically ordered all the sides – the roasted carrots, creamy sweet potato mash, and caramelized Brussels sprouts – and they did not disappoint. Each dish was expertly prepared and presented, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

After being blown away by the exceptional savory dishes, we couldn't resist the temptation to explore Celestine's dessert offerings. The olive oil cake was a revelation, with its moist texture and subtle flavors. While the tuxedo cake didn't quite reach the same heights, it was still a delightful conclusion to our meal. To accompany our dinner, we opted for a crisp French Sauvignon blanc, which paired beautifully with the various courses. For a unique treat, be sure to try their Oaxacan Hot Chocolate with Mezcal – it's a game-changer for cold winter nights.

In short, Celestine is a restaurant that deserves to be recognized by Michelin. With its stunning views, exceptional service, and inventive, expertly prepared cuisine, it offers a truly world-class dining experience. If you're looking for a special night out in New York City, look no further than Celestine. 10 out of 10, without hesitation – I eagerly anticipate...