Many people have been hearing for a long time that Long Island City will be the next best thing. For those who have recently been to the waterfront, they know that it already is. A sure neighborhood favorite, SHI Restaurant now joins other new community anchors.
Looking to move into the community myself, I found SHI in Rockrose Developments luxury high-rise at 4720 Center Boulevard. Those who believe in good first impressions will be greeted at SHI by two large beautiful wooden doors imported from China. No detail in decor or food has been spared in the 4,000-square-foot restaurant, lounge and bar.
I was immediately greeted by owner Shih Lee. Shih was a gracious host, not only to us, but many other guests he greeted by first name. He was seen dancing with patrons to the Live DJ at the magnificent bar/lounge later in the evening, which plays every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The lounge area consists of a fireplace, couches, chandelier, bar and an 80-inch TV.
Shih and his brother have taken over 18 years of experience, owning a Manhattan restaurant as well - to a new level with SHI. Since their Manhattan restaurant is extremely successful in their take out business, they have incorporated a separate entrance for take out service at SHI.
We were seated at a window table looking directly at the lit up Manhattan skyline. The view alone is a draw, as the entire back wall is floor to ceiling windows, but the food is the main attraction. Outdoor seating is also available with the same beautiful views.
My girlfriend and I started the night with hot sake and she opted for a perfectly mixed Lychee Martini. The subtle-sweet flavor of the Lychee fruit was a delicious compliment to vodka amongst additional ingredients.
For appetizers, we started with the Mixed Ceviche - tuna, salmon and yellowtail with a ponzu sauce and jalapeno. The fish was extremely fresh and delicate while the ponzu sauce and jalapeno was quite flavorful. Additionally, we had the Lychee Calamari, generally traditional with an Asian flair in the dipping sauce.
Next, we had mixed seafood Tom Yum soup, which was definitely a favorite for us and will be for all lovers of Thai inspired foods. The soup encompassed robust flavors from the spicy chili oil, and a fresh coolness of Thai cilantro. The fish included was also extremely fresh and went well with the whole ensemble.
The restaurant has a large selection of sushi and sashimi. We opted for one of the special rolls - which included some creative versions of your sushi favorites. The wasabi roll was comprised of white tuna, salmon and avocado with green tobiko. This roll was yet another example of the high standards at SHI. The fish was extraordinarily fresh and delicious.
When looking over the menu, we decided that we had to go for one of the “Top Selections” for an entree - choosing the Steak Cubes. Named with simplicity, this dish was anything but. The meat was soft, tender and marinated perfectly. The dipping sauce was also a nice accompaniment to the steak.
Next entree was a Spicy Basil Chicken with a gentle, light sauce and mouth watering Thai basil.
At this point of the experience, we thought we were at capacity, but when the Molten Chocolate was placed in front of us, we HAD to indulge! It was worth it! Cutting into this chocolate cake exposed hot chocolate goodness oozing out to our delight.
SHI offered great drinks and food with an unmatched view of the Manhattan skyline in a fun and beautiful atmosphere.
SHI
4720 Center Boulevard
Long Island City, NY 11109
Phone: 347-242-2448
