Like Staying In A Presidential Suite
Restaurant 144
Hilton New York JFK Airport
144-02 135th Ave., Jamaica
(718) 659-0200
CUISINE: American
HOURS: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
The new Hilton New York JFK Airport hotel offers a lot for the guests of Queens. For us residents who want to feel like we’re on vacation without leaving the borough, there’s Restaurant 144.
Immediately after I sat down, Dana, who has been working at the hotel for 16 years, greeted me with a glass of water. I was impressed with her knowledge of everything on the new menu. The lunch menu ranges from buffalo wings to freshly made soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers.
After being tempted by everything on the menu, I decided to start with the Pork Pot Stickers. While I waited for my appetizer, Dana brought me a freshly made glass of fruit punch – a blend of pineapple, orange, cranberry and cherry juices with a splash of club soda. She said she learned the recipe on a trip to the island of Jamaica.
Maybe it was the unseasonably warm weather, but I sure felt like I was sitting on a beach the second I took a sip. I resisted the urge to gulp the glass’s contents before my appetizer arrive.
Luckily, I didn’t have to wait long. The pot stickers, perfectly garnished, looked delicious. They were flavorful and crispy without being too greasy. The sweet chile sauce had just the right amount of heat and the combination almost made me wish I’d ordered a second plate. That is, until my lunch arrived.
I ordered The Wall Street, a hearty burger topped with cheddar, bacon and egg. Yes, egg. The egg is usually cooked sunny side up, so be prepared to get a little messy. I was apprehensive about seeing breakfast on top of my lunch, but – as Dana assured – it did not disappoint. The fusion of protein and iron danced in my mouth and almost distracted me from the gathering of crispy, piping hot fries that accompanied my burger.
Just when I thought I couldn’t eat another bite, a plate of mango mousse arrived at my table. The mousse was light and fluffy and complemented the final sips of my fruit punch. I happily cleaned the plate.
Though dining at a hotel without being a guest can feel out of the ordinary at first, the staff at Restaurant 144 makes you feel like you’re staying in the Presidential Suite. Whether you have family or friends coming to the Big Apple or just want to try something new in Queens, Restaurant 144 is definitely worth a visit. I’ll be sure to come back to experience the dinner menu.
–Veronica Lewin