Introduction to Blu Ember
Blu Ember is a multicultural restaurant in Flushing. Photos by Avalon Ashley Bellos
I did the unthinkable: fled Manhattan on a Friday. I know—reckless. Curiosity lured me to Flushing, long rumored to be a wonderland of flavor and diaspora. I met a girlfriend, and within three steps we were spellbound by Blu Ember—a ravishing oasis where verdure drapes a lantern-lit terrace and ushers you toward a gleaming lounge and a jewel-box omakase counter. We tucked into a sage-toned alcove, the kind of corner that lowers voices and elevates secrets.
Dining Experience
Our server Colin—yes, a gorgeous aspiring model and perfectly cast—floated in with timing that felt choreographed. My Belvedere martini arrived glacial and glass-bright, a bracing prelude that reset the evening’s metronome. The beef tartare was silk with structure—burnt pepper, gherkin snap, a cured yolk that whispered decadence—while the sea bass tom kha delivered full-body persuasion: coconut velvet, charred lime, nam pla depth, galangal and lemongrass threading the steam. Utter rapture.
Behind the Scenes
Behind the curtain, Balance Hospitality Group—co-owners K Dong and Steven Chen (MOLI, HINOKI, MIKU Sushi, Blu on the Hudson)—has engineered a destination for milestones that actually feel momentous. The main room spans 6,000 square feet with soaring ceilings and cocooned lighting. Round tables in white leather converse with forest-green banquettes as the open kitchen performs—culinary theater without tantrum. Outside, a landscaped veranda frames a teasing glimpse of the skyline, a reminder that crossing the river can be a promotion, not a compromise.
Occasion and Celebrations
Occasion scales beautifully here. A refined private salon seats 30 for intimate toasts, while the MOLI EVENT hall hosts up to 350 with ease—nuptials, mitzvahs, corporate fêtes, New Year’s exuberance—all supported by bespoke menus tailored by a formidable brigade. The architecture says “celebrate,” the acoustics say “linger.”
Culinary Program
The culinary program reads like a passport stamped in confidence. Chefs de Cuisine Alberto Reyes (La Mercerie, Catch Steak) and Luis Parreira (Vila Joya, Paris Café) marshal land and fire; Omakase Chef Charles Ni (Masa, Sushi Nakazawa) conducts the tide. Seasonal product, global instinct, disciplined technique—plus a cocktail program that refuses to be background music—create a menu designed for convivial sharing without sacrificing polish.
Must-Try Dishes
Order with intent
- Seasonal Omakase by Chef Charles Ni — pristine flights from Toyosu Market; purity as narrative.
- Toro Caviar Monaka — sweet rice wafer, toro tartare, caviar; a three-note aria.
- Beef Tartare — burnt pepper, gherkins, cured yolk, douban aioli, sourdough; tempo and texture in duet.
- Korean Lettuce Wraps — wagyu bacon, gochujang heat, kimchi bite, Asian pear brightness.
- 40-oz Prime Tomahawk — choose black-pepper jus, chimichurri, or classic reductions; tableside theater.
- Seabass Tom Kha — coconut silk, citrus ember, savory tide; the dish that converts cynics.
- Acquerello Risotto — wild mushrooms, black truffle, onsen egg; velvet with a spine.
Conclusion
Blu Ember triumphs because proportion governs every choice: flora against marble, hush against laughter, sashimi whisper beside charcoal roar. It is photogenic without being frivolous, luxurious yet warmly human. Request the sage corner if you collect confidences; ask for Colin if you appreciate beautiful service executed with grace. I went chasing rumor and found a rendezvous. Flushing delivered breadth; Blu Ember supplied the romance—foliage, polish, exemplary craft, and a menu that moves like music. Go. Toast something worth remembering. Keep the martini crystalline, the tartare bright, the sea bass non-negotiable. Then linger until the terrace lights turn the evening into a story you can taste. Check out bluember.us.
FAQs
Q: What type of cuisine does Blu Ember serve?
A: Blu Ember serves multicultural cuisine with a focus on seasonal products and global instincts.
Q: What is the ambiance like at Blu Ember?
A: The ambiance at Blu Ember is luxurious and warmly human, with a landscaped veranda, soaring ceilings, and cocooned lighting.
Q: Can I host events at Blu Ember?
A: Yes, Blu Ember has a refined private salon that seats 30 for intimate toasts, and the MOLI EVENT hall hosts up to 350 with ease.
Q: What are some must-try dishes at Blu Ember?
A: Some must-try dishes at Blu Ember include the Seasonal Omakase, Toro Caviar Monaka, Beef Tartare, Korean Lettuce Wraps, 40-oz Prime Tomahawk, Seabass Tom Kha, and Acquerello Risotto.
Q: How can I make a reservation at Blu Ember?
A: You can check out bluember.us for more information and to make a reservation.
