Michelin-starred chef, Justin Bazdarich, and restaurateur, John McDonald, are the experienced heads behind Bar Tulix, a seafood-focussed, coastal Mexican restaurant located in the Downtown Manhattan neighbourhood of SoHo.
Having only opened this month, the menu at Bar Tulix highlights regional dishes from the coasts of Mexico up through California. Influenced by his years of travelling, Bazdarich has devised an offering that begins with Smoked Shrimp Chicharron; Farmers Market Escabeche; Oysters with a mezcal mignonette, chile puya oil, and crunch; and Slivered Hamachi with tequila coco-pina broth, apple jicama jalapeno slaw, and lime. And that’s just the bar snacks. Diners can then move on to starters and larger plates including Octopus with fried potatoes, romesco, celery salsa and verde; or Short Rib Arrachera with salsa negra, black bean and flour tortillas.
As to be expected from a duo who are behind some of the city’s most beloved restaurants, the interiors of this 65-seat venue ooze Manhattan appeal with cosy jewel-toned booths juxtaposed by high gloss black walls displaying an eccentric collection of artwork; the interiors put together by Meyer Davis Studio. Evocative diner-style booths are complemented by additional vibrant yellow and green-patterned mid-century seating, whilst expansive windows are lined with a display of recycled amber wine bottles and overlook Houston Street, allowing for both natural light and the bright nighttime hues of the neighbourhood to filter through into the dining room.
A selection of international wines and Mexican craft beer accompany a beverage programme that highlights tequila, mezcal and sotol, with signature cocktails offering a playful spin on old classics such as Spicy Lady with Milagro blanco, Vida mezcal, cayenne, licor de elote and hibiscus; and Full of Emotions with Sneaky Fox Vodka, Giffard Lychee, watermelon, lemon and Topo Chico.
For fresh crudos, seafood tostadas, whole fish in masa batter and other Baja California specialities all washed down with artisanal cocktails and beers in inspired, NYC-ready surrounds, Bar Tulix is sure to be another winner from the duo behind it.
Bar Tulix Soho New York Photography, Briana Balducci / Alexander Stein.
