To say my first visit to Clocktower was disappointing, is an understatement — I had cold, unattractive food with poor service. So when a friend invited me to lunch there, I hesitate a moment then decided to go as I like most other Stephen Starr restaurants. I figured my last visit was an anomaly.

I started with the lobster, shaved fennel and apple salad with a side of a mussel flavored sauce ($25) served over ice on a fish platter so humongous that it filled the table. The pre-cut lobster that had been carefully returned to the shell was tender and moist. My dining partner enjoyed the raw tuna tataki, served with green apple wasabi and a charred scallion miso ($19.)

We shared the usual starter from the prix fixe lunch menu of pan-seared potato gnocchi filled with capers and served with wild mushrooms, shaved zucchini and a side of parmesan cream. Interesting, yet the gnocchi were too dense for my liking.

I’d order either of our entrees again, as they were perfectly cooked and attractively presented. The pan-roasted dorade came with mushroom duxelles, topped with asparagus and crispy-crunchy fried wakame seaweed. The roasted salmon came with baby leeks, potatoes and oyster mushrooms in a cucumber and chive emulsion ($35).

For dessert, we shared unusual take on baked Alaska with espresso vanilla and passion fruit on a graham cracker crust ($15).

I’m glad I gave Clocktower another chance.

– bonnie
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Clocktower
Flatiron District
5 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10010
(212) 413-4300

Clocktower Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato