By now, many of you have probably read Frank Bruni’s review of Spice Market in the New York Times. Even though I’m glad he enjoyed the restaurant’s ambience and some of its dishes, I’m disappointed by the review. Of course, Bruni offered some insightful comments about his visits, and the feedback is always appreciated. There are few things I dislike more than sloppiness, and I’ve already begun to work on improving every aspect of Spice Market. As with all of my restaurants, I want to offer great dining experiences and continually work to uphold the highest standards of food and service.
I’m sorry that Bruni and his guests didn’t have a better time, but I make no apologies for opening Spice Market or any of my other restaurants. Like each one, Spice Market was conceived of and built as a stand-alone restaurant. In fact, it was a deeply personal project: I spent years cooking in Asia and ate at the fantastic open-air markets every night after work. I simply wanted to share those delicious dishes with fellow New Yorkers. When the Starwood Hotel group approached me about opening Spice Markets in their hotels around the world, I was happy to have the opportunity to share those dishes with diners in other cities.
The food at Spice Market is excellent—and I intend to keep making it better and better. Besides, I can personally attest to the fact that there’s no better place to eat well and have a great time. After all, it’s where Marja and I got married!

6 comments:
I can also attest to the wonderful food at Spice Market- having just eaten there 2 weeks ago as well as all the years in between. I can also attest that when you dine at any of Chef Vongerichten's restaurants, if they do make a mistake, or if you don't like something-they make it right-without any guilt trips. The service staff makes it very clear that they want you to be happy. My guests and I always get treated well and enjoy our food and drinks. I think sometimes it is luck/timing that these critical opinions happen. Oh, and I can see how Chef and Mrs V got married at Spice Market for the stairs are set up perfectly for the bride and groom to approach each other. I wonder... is there any history behind the design of the NY Spice Market?
the spice market continues to be one of the most interesting restaurants in the city.
i always recommend it...especially to those looking for delicious, unique food.
I HAVEN'T BEEN THERE IN A WHILE, SO I HOPE THE REVIEW IS WAY OFF. THE SPICE MARKET IS NOT ONLY ONE OF MY FAVORITE RESTAURANTS, IT'S ONE THAT I OFTEN RECOMMEND TO FRIENDS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WANTING SOMETHING UNIQUE.
Dear Chef, I was visiting the highline yesterday, and dropped by Spice Market for those Peekytoe Crab Dumplings again and it has me wondering...are you ever going to bring back some of the dishes from 66 like the Foie Gras Dumplings and such? Those were just insanely sublime and I miss them. I hope you find a way to add them to the SM menu or at the Market restaurant you are opening later this year uptown (NYC).
Spice Market is my absolute favorite restaurant in NYC. I'd go there every week if I could! When areyou going to open a restaurant in Bahrain/
Chef, the food at Spice Market is EXCELLENT. I didn't read the review but I am an Asian food fanatic and I know how they should taste. I had your lunch bento and it was great food. I won't say that they are 100% authentic, but they are very close and true to its roots! The second day, I went back again for a drink because I love the jasmine lemonade!
I am going to write a review on Rasa Malaysia soon. Please stay tuned! :)
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