L Q   

511 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10017
212-593-7575

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The construction of LQ was an epic undertaking two years in the making: It took four months just to finish the glass-and-mother-of-pearl terrazzo floors. But LQ -- a turbocharged version of the popular uptown dance hall Latin Quarter -- has become one of the highest-profile Latin clubs in New York. The music is overseen by owner and Latin music promoter Ralph Mercado, who helped turn Tito Puente, Celia Cruz and Marc Anthony into superstars. At once a restaurant and a nightclub, LQ serves a fusion of Latin and Asian cuisine, resulting in dishes like paella sushi rolls and ceviche done Nuevo Latino style. And when a group requests traditional paella, it comes to the table on a gong-sized platter carried by four staff members. Despite its scale, this former ballroom housed upstairs in the Radisson Lexington Hotel manages to maintain a warm atmosphere due to its subtle retro design, theatrical lighting, and multiple rooms and levels, each separated by a shimmering curtain of water. Keep an eye out for big names -- and big parties. -- Dan Glass