Cathedrale is the showstopper you didn’t know you needed in the East Village. Tucked inside the Moxy Hotel, this restaurant feels like a theatrical experience from the moment you walk in. The soaring ceilings with that stunning mesh sculpture overhead create an atmosphere that’s both intimate and grandiose – like dining inside a modern cathedral that happens to serve incredible food.

The Mediterranean-influenced French cuisine here is what keeps locals coming back. Chef Jason Hall has crafted a menu that balances comforting and innovative – the roasted chicken is deceptively simple but criminally delicious, while the seafood options showcase the kitchen’s finesse. The ricotta with honey and black truffle might be the best thing you’ll eat this month.

What makes Cathedrale special is how it transforms throughout the evening. Early dinner has a relaxed elegance, but as the night progresses, the energy shifts and the space takes on a sultry, buzzing vibe. The bar scene is vibrant without feeling overwhelming, and the cocktail program complements the food perfectly.

Despite its dramatic design and scene-worthy atmosphere, there’s substance behind the style. Come for the ‘gram-worthy space, stay for food that genuinely impresses and service that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you should be in New York.