Zia Maria Little Italy

We went to Crown Shy on our first night in New York, and the whole experience was amazing. Our table was right in front of the kitchen, and it was so much fun to watch everything happening behind the scenes. If you love food, you’ll definitely enjoy it. The vibe is modern, clean, and elegant. Our server was fantastic, super attentive and made sure to accommodate the allergies in our group, which we really appreciated. There was a little bit of a delay between some of the courses, but the staff was very kind and kept us informed, so it didn’t take away from the night. Since it’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, you can expect higher prices, but overall it’s worth it for the experience. The chicken, pork, and fish were all delicious and beautifully plated. I just wish the flavors had a little more of a “wow” that bold, unforgettable punch you expect at this level. Still, between the great service, the atmosphere, and the overall quality, it made for a really special night. I’d definitely recommend it for a celebration.

I do not want to run away a star because of one comment, but I hope the administration will pay attention to it, everything was good with the service from the first minute to the dessert, there was such an impression that as soon as the dessert was served they forgot about us and stopped coming, not quite pleasant. But otherwise everything was very good, delicious food, perfectly cooked octopus, good serving. Great choice of wines and delicious cocktails!

Located in the heart of NYC’s Financial District, Crown Shy is a hip, bustling 1 Michelin-star restaurant that brings together a lively crowd of young professionals and seasoned foodies. The ambiance is energetic, vibrant, and full of life—but at times, overwhelmingly loud and chaotic, which may not be for everyone. The service was commendable; our waiter was attentive, accommodating my dietary restrictions (no dairy, no shellfish) with care and precision. The evening started on a high note: the white bean hummus and crispy cauliflower were both standout appetizers—flavorful, creative, and among the best I’ve had. The Hamachi was another hit, perfectly balanced with citrus and radish that added refreshing brightness. The charred carrots (sans clams) with curry seasoning were flavorful and unique, a surprising highlight. Unfortunately, the Gemelli with chicken liver ragout was served too cold and had to be sent back—a misstep that felt out of place for a Michelin-starred kitchen. For mains, the grilled citrus chicken lived up to its reputation: juicy, well-spiced, and bursting with flavor. The Bronzino was also beautifully prepared, served with Brussels sprouts that added a lovely texture and depth. One major issue was the pacing of the meal—our third and fourth courses arrived simultaneously, leaving the small table crowded and making it difficult to truly savor each dish. Plate changes between courses were also overlooked, which detracted from the overall polish I expected at this level. Dessert, however, was a saving grace. The satsuma orange and strawberry vacherin were both exceptional—fresh, balanced, and beautifully executed. A sweet note to end on. All in all, Crown Shy delivered some memorable flavors but missed the mark on the refined experience expected from a Michelin-star restaurant. It’s a fun spot with solid food, but if you’re looking for the seamless elegance that typically defines Michelin dining, this might not be it. Still, the rooftop bar at Overstory upstairs is worth a visit—especially on a clear night.