Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, Chef John Fraser explores the cuisine of the Aegean at IRIS.

At IRIS, Fraser draws upon his Greek heritage and deep admiration for Turkish cuisine to create a menu that suggests a sense of place, while leaving room for innovation and imagination in flavor, texture, and presentation. Fraser transports guests from Manhattan to the Eastern Mediterranean through his exploration of the Aegean region.

Pro tip: Head for the selection of hard-to-find Greek and Turkish vintages on the wine list — perfect with Fraser’s Mediterranean-bright food.  The Aegean orientation is carried over to the wine program, curated by Beverage Director Amy Racine, who fields an extensive Greek selection, the largest array of Turkish wine in New York City, as well as New and Old-World classics.

Situated on the corner of Broadway & 55th, IRIS is located at the apex of Central Park South, Times Square, and the Theater District, as well as Carnegie Hall. It welcomes theatergoers, concert attendees, locals, and visitors to the city, and those who just finished a leisurely stroll in the park.

IRIS recently launched a fun Express Lunch menu, perfect for busy New Yorkers on the go who are looking to "power lunch" without losing the chic and delicious offerings of NYC dining. The Express Lunch is $45 per person and includes mouth-watering dishes like the Half Rotisserie Chicken Pita, accompanied by lemon-yogurt marinade, shredded romaine, feta cheese, and hand-cut French fries, or the classic Greek Caesar, with grilled shrimp kebab little gems, jammy egg. and tarama dressing.

If you’re visiting for dinner, don’t miss out on the traditional favorites like spinach and feta filled Spanakopita, the IRIS Moussaka made with grilled eggplant, complete with potato textures and spiced tomato sauce, or the Swordfish Kebab, paired with brussels sprouts, gigante beans, and a hazelnut-brown butter.

Now open at 4pm for happy hour, Tuesday through Saturday, visit their website https://www.irisrestaurant.nyc + follow along on Instagram @irisrestaurantnyc

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