Chef Laurent Tourondel has long been a luminary in the global culinary scene, but it’s at L’Amico New York, nestled in the bustling heart of Midtown at the Kimpton Hotel Eventi, where his artistry has most vividly flourished. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the restaurant continues to captivate both devoted locals and discerning visitors, not merely through its rich gastronomic offerings, but through the ever-evolving vision of its visionary chef.
The Evolution of Excellence at L’Amico New York
“The restaurant evolves with what we provide,” Chef Tourondel reflects on the enduring success of L’Amico New York. “The idea of newness, a new food menu, keeping the wine list and cocktails exciting—this is how we stay beloved.” Indeed, the spirit of innovation pervades every corner of L’Amico, where traditional Italian hospitality seamlessly merges with contemporary New York flair.
Chef Tourondel’s commitment to excellence without pretension is palpable. “Keeping it simple, we’re not trying to do fine dining,” he emphasizes, underscoring his philosophy of approachable luxury. This ethos resonates powerfully with patrons who return for the warmth of familiarity enlivened by exciting seasonal variations.
L’Amico honors the rich traditions of Italian cuisine while embracing New York City’s innovative spirit. The restaurant’s welcoming ambiance, characterized by rustic charm and modern elegance, sets the stage for memorable dining experiences. Whether visiting for a casual meal or special celebration, L’Amico’s open kitchen and attentive service provide an interactive and thoroughly enjoyable dining atmosphere.
A Culinary Voyage
Having honed his craft in esteemed kitchens from France to Hong Kong and Miami’s South Beach, Chef Tourondel’s culinary sensibilities are global yet deeply personal. “My travels to Europe, especially what I’ve learned in Italy, have definitely impacted how I cook,” he shares, articulating how his global experiences shape the ever-evolving menus at L’Amico New York.
Yet, at the heart of his culinary journey remains the indelible influence of family. Tourondel’s fondest culinary memories, particularly of his Italian grandmother’s Sunday dinners, anchor his creations in authenticity and nostalgia. “My grandmother’s lasagna with ricotta and spinach was really good,” he reminisces, “you always remember those flavors from when you were young—it gives you a point of reference.”
These cherished memories of family meals inform the restaurant’s soul, where dishes like freshly made Seafood Agnolotti and the acclaimed Mozzarella Di Bufala Pizza echo the spirit of traditional Italian cooking infused with modern elegance. Each dish is carefully crafted using seasonal ingredients, celebrating the essence of Italian culinary traditions.
Beyond the renowned Seafood Agnolotti, patrons savor dishes such as the Peekytoe Crab Crostini and Spiced Long Island Duck, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The menu emphasizes freshly extruded, house-made pastas, underscoring Chef Tourondel’s dedication to authenticity and culinary excellence.
Dining Experience at L’Amico
Stepping into L’Amico, you immediately sense the warm, welcoming ambiance crafted by Chef Tourondel. The restaurant’s thoughtfully designed space invites guests to relax and savor each moment. Diners are treated to an interactive dining experience, observing the chefs meticulously crafting dishes in the open kitchen. This transparency not only fosters connection but highlights the skill and artistry at the heart of L’Amico New York.
The decor seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance, creating an atmosphere that is both cozy and stylish. Attention to detail in every element, from the lighting to the seating arrangements, ensures that each visit is uniquely enjoyable.
Group Dining and Private Events
L’Amico offers versatile group dining options, ideal for social gatherings or corporate events. The large communal bar table comfortably accommodates up to fourteen guests, fostering a friendly atmosphere perfect for casual meetups or intimate celebrations.
For larger, more formal occasions, customizable event packages are available, allowing hosts to personalize menus and decor according to their tastes and preferences. Whether it’s a wedding reception, business dinner, or milestone birthday, L’Amico New York ensures every event is memorable through its attentive service, exquisite cuisine, and adaptable spaces that can host from 5 to 800 guests.
Mastering the Flame
One of the defining features of L’Amico New York is its embrace of wood-fired cooking, a technique that has become a Tourondel signature. “What drew me to fire was curiosity—it was a challenge,” the chef explains. His fascination with fire’s transformative power is evident in dishes that carry a distinctive, smoky depth. “Sometimes you limit yourself in some of the dishes you can provide, but you also get the joy of cooking different things in a different way,” he adds thoughtfully.
The twin copper-clad ovens, visible to diners in the open kitchen, enhance this immersive dining experience, offering a theatrical glimpse into Tourondel’s mastery. Whether it’s the crackling perfection of a pizza crust or the subtle char enhancing fresh vegetables, the wood-fired approach amplifies the storytelling inherent in each dish.
Balancing Precision and Comfort
Chef Tourondel has cultivated a remarkable skill in striking the delicate balance between refined precision and relaxed hospitality. His diverse ventures, from upscale concepts like BLT Fish to approachable eateries such as Skirt Steak, reflect a unifying philosophy: “You have to provide the best experiences, whether casual or fine dining,” Tourondel asserts. “It can be a simple environment with friendly service but can be elevated by what you provide.”
At L’Amico New York, this ethos translates into impeccable yet unfussy service, complemented by an extensive beverage program boasting over 850 wines and innovative craft cocktails. This thoughtful pairing further enhances the convivial, inviting atmosphere that defines the restaurant’s enduring charm.
Wine and Cocktail Program
Complementing its culinary offerings, L’Amico boasts an impressive beverage program that perfectly aligns with Chef Tourondel’s menu. Featuring over 850 wine selections predominantly from Italy, France, and California, the extensive wine list has been consistently recognized by Wine Spectator for its exceptional quality and diversity.
The cocktail menu at L’Amico is equally distinguished, with inventive drinks highlighting house-made syrups, fresh seasonal ingredients, and classic Italian spirits such as amaro. Each cocktail is designed to enhance the flavors of the dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience that captivates both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Legacy Lessons and Culinary Discipline
Training under legendary French chefs, including the Troisgros family and Jacques Maximin, Tourondel acquired invaluable lessons that continue to inform his culinary philosophy. “It’s about the quality of ingredients and the different ways of preparing them,” he emphasizes. “You learn techniques, recipes, and most importantly, you learn your taste. Discipline—you have to be rigid with yourself.”
This disciplined approach is unmistakable in the meticulous preparation behind each dish at L’Amico New York, reflecting the profound respect he holds for ingredients and tradition, paired with an unwavering commitment to innovation.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
Beyond his culinary prowess, Chef Tourondel is a seasoned entrepreneur who understands the intricate dynamics between culinary creativity and business acumen. His advice to aspiring chefs and restaurateurs is practical yet profound: “Open your eyes to the public and see what they want. Do not cook for yourself,” he counsels. “Be in hospitality. Special requests are always approved for the customer as much as possible.”
His philosophy underlines the success of L’Amico New York, where customer satisfaction is paramount, demonstrated by the tailored dining experiences and meticulously personalized event offerings.
Creative Pursuits and Ongoing Inspiration
Outside the kitchen, Chef Tourondel engages in painting, photography, and avidly reads classics by culinary intellectuals like Brillat-Savarin. These pursuits not only refresh his creative energies but also deepen his gastronomic insight. “Painting is a way to escape all of that and be creative in another way,” he muses, explaining how these endeavors indirectly inform his culinary innovations.
Moreover, travel and cultural exploration remain critical to Tourondel’s evolving inspiration. “Creating something new excites me the most,” he reveals, signaling an ongoing desire to blend culinary artistry with innovative hospitality concepts.
Looking Ahead
As Chef Tourondel contemplates the future, he articulates a clear, ambitious vision: “Innovation,” he says succinctly. His excitement revolves around developing holistic concepts that combine thoughtful design, culinary excellence, and financial viability—hallmarks evident in L’Amico New York.
Indeed, Tourondel’s next chapter promises further adventures in gastronomy, propelled by his endless creativity and strategic entrepreneurial instincts. Diners can anticipate new, exciting experiences, but the core of his culinary philosophy will remain unchanged: simple authenticity, rigorous quality, and inviting warmth.
Reflecting on a decade of success, Chef Laurent Tourondel remains committed to this dynamic synthesis of tradition and innovation. At L’Amico New York, his artistry continues to redefine culinary excellence, offering guests not merely meals, but memorable stories crafted from fire, family, and the timeless joy of exceptional dining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is L’Amico located?
L’Amico is situated in the Kimpton Hotel Eventi at 849 Avenue of the Americas in New York City.
What is the inspiration behind L’Amico’s menu?
L’Amico draws inspiration from Sunday dinners and beloved Italian grandmother recipes, blending American and Italian culinary traditions.
What are some signature dishes at L’Amico?
Signature dishes include Mozzarella Di Bufala Pizza, Seafood Agnolotti, and Peekytoe Crab Crostini.
What makes L’Amico’s wine list special?
L’Amico features over 850 wine selections from Italy, France, and California, earning consecutive awards for excellence from Wine Spectator.
Does L’Amico offer options for private events?
Yes, L’Amico provides customizable event packages, accommodating from 5 to 800 guests, perfect for any special occasion.
