Adventures in PR: The 'Awe-Inspiring' Gilt

It sounds like things aren't going so well over at Gilt in the New York Palace Hotel, even in spite of that kick it got from featuring the Gossip Girl grilled cheese sandwich on its menu. Yesterday we received a goldmine of a press release that we can only categorize as high comedy. It begins: "The bar at Gilt is more than just the place to be seen – it’s a sexy dining and imbibing experience unto itself...the bar at Gilt is architecturally stunning, with dramatic lighting meant to set the mood." Oh but that is just the beginning. Key words and phrases used to describe the cocktails and the space: "decadent", "innovative", "futuristic" "awe-inspiring", and "envy-worthy". And then there's this line: "Your sweet tooth will be crying out for more once it gets a taste of David Carmichael's desserts." But let's just take a look at the release in full:

"The bar at Gilt is more than just the place to be seen – it’s a sexy dining and imbibing experience unto itself. Situated in the historic New York Palace Hotel, the bar at Gilt is architecturally stunning, with dramatic lighting meant to set the mood.

It is a decadent treat that doesn’t totally break the bank. The bar at Gilt is a must-see destination with over 40 wines by the glass and a grand selection of innovative cocktails.

The cocktails at Gilt mimic the feel of the New York Palace Hotel. Those wishing to evoke the old-world glamour of the opulent 1882 Villard Mansion can enjoy classic cocktails such as the Sidecar with Courvoisier VSOP, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice and a sugar rim and the Kir Royale with Edmond Briottet Crème de Cassis de Dijon and Brut Champagne.

Others who desire a more futuristic experience, like the design of the bar at Gilt itself, can enjoy modern cocktails like the Muse Vert with Hendrick’s Gin, Junmai Ginjo Sake, cucumber juice and Tarragon and Chef Lee’s Bourbon Smash with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, fresh mint, lemon and a sugar rim.

Now open seven nights a week, the bar serves as a perfect complement to Chef Christopher Lee’s avant-garde, yet still accessible cuisine.
The fare offered at the bar is whimsical and delicious. The famed Gossip Grill – “You Know You Love It” featuring black truffles and fontina cheese is a critic’s choice and the Thin Crusted Pizza with lamb merguez, olives, feta cheese and roasted tomato sauce will satisfy any palate.

Your sweet tooth will be crying out for more once it gets a taste of David Carmichael’s desserts. The Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble with vanilla puff chips and chantilly takes advantage of in-season ingredients. The Sicilian Pistachio Mille Feuille with Orange Scented Crème is a refreshing end (or beginning) to wonderful night out.

It is awe-inspiring, it is envy-worthy, it is Gilt."