The first rule of Cardinal Club is: you do not talk about Cardinal Club. Just kidding, but it is pretty exclusive. Here’s how this covert form of dining works:
You must gain admittance from a friend, or a friend of a friend who has been to this private east village dinner garden. This clandestine outdoor area belongs to the gardens of couple and NYU graduates Simon and Paula (no, not from American Idol). Both are 27, and had the entrepreneurial concept of using their gourmet cooking skills and beautiful ambiance outside their bohemian flat towards a small and very intimate business. Once they approve of you and your guest(s), you will receive a text message telling you a time and address of which to show up at their humble abode. Upon arrival you will be greeted with your own personal chef and server - A real perfect place to take your date without screaming over the loud music/other public conversation.
In order to keep the Cardinal Club as private as it is, Simon and Paula only serve one party per evening (up to 6 guests fit comfortably). Diners can choose to have three to six course menus. The cost per person is: $50 for three courses, $60 for four courses, $75 for five courses and $90 for six courses. As a whole, their menu seems to mimic that of French cooking. The dinners are always BYOB, so feel free to bring your own bottle of vino (provided that you even get an actual invite). Insiders have nothing but the best to say of this secret dinner spot, and have described the atmosphere as warm and romantic, with compliments of Christmas lights and candles surrounding the outdoor garden. You’ll also find a plethora of plants, trees and flowers, to add to the natural ambiance, but also fresh grown herbs for use in Cardinal Club meals.
I can’t think of a more ideal escape from the fast paced chaos of New York, than this leisurely and relaxing (have I mentioned secret?) dining spot; located in quite possibly the most serene and romantic setting you can think of.
